Dating in Italy as an English speaker
Italy attracts many expats, students and remote workers, and dating apps are the easiest way to meet people. International apps like Tinder, Bumble and Badoo work in English and are active in Milan, Rome, Florence, Bologna and Turin. Italian dating sites like Meetic and Ourtime are where many locals look for a serious relationship, and they are in Italian.
Our tip: English is more common in Milan and Rome than in smaller towns. Learning a few Italian phrases goes a long way, on your profile and on a first date.
What is free on Italian dating sites?
Meetic and Ourtime are free to join: you create a profile, browse members and send likes. To exchange messages, you need a subscription. On Tinder, Bumble and Badoo, chatting with your matches is free, and paid plans only add extras.
The best dating apps in Italy, by profile
- For a serious relationship: Meetic, the best-known dating site in Italy.
- If you are over 50: Ourtime, made for singles in their fifties and beyond.
- If you want English and free chat: Tinder, Bumble or Badoo. Badoo is especially popular in Italy.
Tips for dating in Italy
- A first date is often an aperitivo in the early evening.
- Italians tend to be expressive and warm: do not mistake friendliness for a lack of interest.
- Keep chatting on the app until you trust the person, and never send money to someone you met online.
Dating in Italy: FAQ
What is the best dating app in Italy for English speakers?
Tinder, Bumble and Badoo work in English and let you chat with matches for free. For a serious relationship with Italian singles, Meetic is our top pick, but its site is in Italian.
What is the most popular dating app in Italy?
Tinder and Badoo are the most used dating apps in Italy. Among dating sites, Meetic is the best known.
Are there free dating apps in Italy?
Yes. Tinder, Bumble and Badoo let you chat with matches for free. Meetic and Ourtime are free to join, but messaging needs a subscription.
Do I need to speak Italian to date in Italy?
In Milan, Rome and other big cities you can manage in English. Elsewhere, and on Italian dating sites, Italian helps a lot.

