I cannot wait! How many days are left?
'Mancano' = MAN-ca-no. 'Vedo' = VE-do.
Use this to express excited anticipation for an upcoming plan. 'Non vedo l'ora' (I cannot wait / I am so looking forward to it) is one of Italian's most vivid expressions. Asking 'how many days are left?' signals that you are counting down to the event.
'Non vedo l'ora' literally means 'I don't see the hour' — suggesting you are so eager that time seems to stop. It is equivalent to 'I can't wait' in English. 'Quanti giorni mancano?' = 'How many days are lacking/remaining?' — 'mancare' (to lack/be missing) is used for time remaining.
Sto già facendo le valigie mentalmente!
I am already packing my bags mentally!
Humorous expression of eager anticipation
Segno il giorno sul calendario.
I am marking the day on the calendar.
Literally counting down — marking the calendar
Questo mese andrà lentissimo.
This month is going to go very slowly.
The paradox of time dragging when you are looking forward to something
Italian holiday anticipation is a cultural event in itself. The weeks before a major holiday ('ferie estive') are filled with preparation, research, and excited conversation about the upcoming trip. Italians research restaurants, beaches, and local festivals with the same intensity they apply to the journey itself. 'Il piacere dell'attesa' (the pleasure of anticipation) is a genuine Italian value.