Learning Italian at the intermediate level can feel like you’re stuck in limbo: you understand the basics, but expressing yourself naturally or holding longer conversations still feels out of reach. This stage is crucial—it’s where the right tools can make the difference between plateauing and progressing toward fluency.
In this guide, I’ve gathered the most effective and accessible resources I recommend to my private students in my online Italian classes: tools designed to consolidate grammar, expand vocabulary, and boost confidence in real-world communication and in a fun way!
Reading & Listening Resources for Intermediate Learners (A2–B1 CEFR)
At this level, pairing reading and listening (especially at the same time) is one of the most effective ways to improve comprehension and memory. Here are my top picks:
1. Piazzetta Italiana
A beautifully designed digital magazine exploring Italian culture, from food and travel to hidden gems and modern Italian life. Each issue includes audio and worksheets. Perfect for learners looking to connect with the authentic rhythm of contemporary Italy.
2. Short Stories by Serena Capilli
These graded readers are written specifically for beginner to intermediate learners, with native English speakers in mind. Each story is set in a different Italian region, allowing you to explore language and culture together. Every reader comes with audio and comprehension question: an all-in-one tool to build vocabulary and fluency.
3. Easy Italian News
A free, slow-paced audio news broadcast with transcripts, updated three times per week. It’s an easy way to integrate real-world Italian into your daily routine, short enough to be consistent without becoming overwhelming.
4. ItalianPod101
A massive audio library with thousands of lessons across all levels. Many lessons come with transcripts, vocab lists, and cultural notes. The mobile app makes learning on the go super convenient.
5. Quattro Stagioni (Podcast)
Created by an Italian teacher for intermediate learners, this podcast dives into Italian culture, daily life, and habits in digestible episodes. The speech is slow and clear—great for boosting listening comprehension.
Grammar & Vocabulary Tools
6. Gramm.it (Intermediate)
One of my go-to workbooks for grammar consolidation. Clear, topic-based units covering pronouns, prepositions, past tenses, and more. The explanations are in Italian, but exercises often come with English prompts and answers in the back. Perfect for self-study.
7. Come e perché
A grammar guide that focuses on how and why Italian grammar works. Ideal for independent learners and visual thinkers who like understanding the “why” behind the rules.
8. Viaggiamo in Italia A2-B1
A culture-rich textbook designed for intermediate learners, with a focus on vocabulary, listening activities, and real-life communication, especially helpful if you’re planning to travel or live in Italy.
9. Volentieri B1
A comprehensive resource that blends engaging readings, audio, and structured exercises for learners moving from lower to upper-intermediate. It works best if used with a teacher but can also guide your solo studies.
Speaking Practice Platforms
Speaking regularly is key to fluency. These platforms help you do just that:
10. Tandem / HelloTalk / ConversationExchange
Tandem and Hello Talk are language exchange platforms connect you with native Italian speakers through text, audio, or video chats. They’re perfect for informal practice and real-time feedback. They both offer free and premium versions with user-friendly apps.
ConversationExchange is a simpler website where you can find language partners for online or face-to-face conversations. It’s especially helpful if you live in a multicultural city or are preparing for a language immersion experience in Italy.
Structured Courses & Immersion-Friendly Tools
11. Rocket Italian (Self-Paced Course)
A structured, interactive course combining audio, grammar, and dialogues. Ideal for learners who prefer a guided, step-by-step path but can commit to live or in-person classes.
12. Michel Thomas Intermediate Italian
An audio course that helps you think in Italian rather than memorize. Guided by a native teacher, you’re walked through real dialogues and grammar without drills or rote learning. Lessons are relaxed, hands-free, and ideal for multitasking, whether you’re commuting, walking, or cooking. Perfect for intermediate learners of Italian looking to consolidate grammar and boost speaking confidence in a stress-free way.
I recommend the Michel Thomas series to anyone who primarily enjoys learning Italian through audio resources. It’s much better than a typical podcast because it includes lots of repetition of the same sentences and features an instructor guiding you, rather than just conversation.
YouTube, Netflix & Native Content
At the intermediate level, it’s tempting to jump straight into native materials, but many shows and videos are still too fast or complex. Instead, look for adapted or semi-authentic content that’s just challenging enough to stretch your skills without overwhelming you.
This “sweet spot” is where real learning happens.
Final Tips for Intermediate Learners
✔️ Create a weekly learning plan that balances reading, listening, speaking, and grammar. Make it a negotiable appointment with yourself—and stick to it.
✔️ Work with a tutor or join a class to add structure and accountability to your learning.
✔️ Immerse yourself in simple Italian: short stories, easy Italian podcasts, or intermediate textbooks. Don’t overdo it: sustainable, joyful progress beats burnout.
