Benvenuta, Benvenuto!

Ciao, I’m Elisa and I’ll be your Learning Mentor & Private Teacher of Italian during your courses of Italian in Lecce, in the heart of Salento, Puglia.

I welcome happy learners from 18 to 80 – yes, you can start learning at every age! – at my home studio in Lecce.

Each of my one-to-one classes and mini-group courses of Italian is conceived as a truly learning experience which is fully tailor-made on your interests, needs and learning style.


I believe that every word is a step towards new horizons and languages are powerful bridges between people and cultures, and every day I play my part to make the world a kinder place to live in.

I use a conversational approach to make Italian learning more natural and effective, as well as games, storytelling and learning strategies tips. The relaxed atmosphere of my home studio will make you feel at ease and really feel at home while exploring the charming Italian language and culture.

I welcome learners from 18 to 80

Each person I’ve had the pleasure of meeting was enthusiastic, smart, kind, and open-minded. They needed not only a holiday, not only a language course: each of them needed time for themselves—and a unique experience to live during that time.

Whether you are an expat in Salento seeking a new charming place to live, a student in her twenties studying in Italy like Sonja and Lynn, or an over-40 or senior solo traveler like Heather, Patrik, Alexandra, Sabine, Kate, and Jennifer – yes, most of my students are women! – you are welcome.

What about your expertise as a teacher?

I gave my first lesson of Italian language in 2007 and I currently work as a Learning Mentor & Language Teacher in Lecce for schools, private students and training centers, and love supporting people like you in their learning path.

I’m enthusiast about language and languages, communication, writing, and learning strategies, and I’m a lifelong learner as well – that’s why I had my latest academic training in 2024. I’ve got a University Master Degree in Modern Languages with a specialization in Psycholinguistics and Italian for foreigners.

With a background also in communication and tourism, I’ve gained a deep understanding of cultures and the power of language as a tool for meaningful expression and connecting people. This experience now enriches my teaching approach.

What you’ll love about learning Italian together

  • I work with kindness and enthusiasm, fully present in the here and now.
  • I listen carefully and guide you toward your next step – my students say it feels good to be understood.
  • You’ll learn to find the simplest and clearest way to communicate in this new language, both in everyday life and while traveling.
  • I love simplifying grammar rulesessere or avere? the subjunctive? – and helping you discover them through real-life situations.
  • The courses are structured but flexible: we always have a clear path to follow, but I adapt it to your pace and learning style.
  • You’ll discover how to use Italian to express who you are, share your opinions, and tell your story.
  • You’ll enjoy the pleasure of learning Italian through engaging conversations, games, readings, role-plays, mind maps, creative cards, a more.

When I’m not teaching – A glimpse into my story

I’m a curious person, a life explorer, a poet, a mom, a sea lover, a traveler.

Originally from Milan, I made the move to Lecce in 2019, an unconventional journey from the north to the south of Italy. This transition has given me a unique perspective on the cultural and linguistic differences within Italy, allowing me to offer my students a more comprehensive view of the country—from the fast-paced urban life of the north to the more laid-back lifestyle of Salento.

When I’m not running courses of Italian in Lecce I love walking by the sea, wandering in the historic town center and in bookshops, reading novels and essays, enjoying my husband’s cuisine, playing with my kids, practicing journaling and mindfulness, exploring personal growth.

I like waking up early in the morning, savoring a healthy and tasty breakfast, sitting next to the library and creating lessons for my next students.

Slow living in Salento