Where is the reception?
do-VÈ — two syllables, stress on the second. The grave accent on 'è' indicates stress.
When entering a large hotel or resort and you cannot immediately locate the front desk.
'Dov'è' is a contraction of 'dove è' (where is). This elision is mandatory in spoken Italian. 'Reception' is an anglicism fully integrated into Italian hotel vocabulary and used more than the Italian 'accoglienza'.
Dov'è l'entrata principale?
Where is the main entrance?
Ask when arriving at a large resort with multiple entry points
C'è qualcuno alla reception?
Is there someone at reception?
Ask when the desk appears unstaffed
La reception è aperta tutta la notte?
Is reception open all night?
Important to know if you plan a late arrival
In Italian boutique hotels and B&Bs, the 'reception' may be a single small desk or even a living room in a family home. Do not expect the grand lobbies typical of international chains — the intimacy is part of the charm.