I am learning Portuguese in my free time.
im-pa-RAN-do: stress on third syllable. 'Portoghese' = por-to-GHE-se.
Use this to share language learning as a hobby. Italians greatly respect the effort to learn languages and will be curious about your methods and motivation. It creates an immediate bond — they are likely to be learning a language themselves.
The present continuous ('stare + gerundio') emphasises an ongoing process: 'sto imparando' = 'I am learning right now/these days'. You can substitute any language: il cinese, l'arabo, il giapponese. Using 'nel tempo libero' frames it clearly as a hobby.
Studio lo spagnolo con un'app.
I study Spanish with an app.
Specifies the method — 'app' is used in Italian
Sono al livello B1 di francese.
I am at B1 level in French.
CEFR levels are well understood by Italians
Mi piace imparare lingue per viaggiare.
I like learning languages for travelling.
Links language learning to the motivation of travel
Italy has a complex linguistic landscape — many Italians grow up speaking both their regional dialect and standard Italian. This experience with multilingualism makes Italians sympathetic and encouraging toward language learners. They will happily help you practice.