Italian opening is of course a good opening. It’s played by Super GM´s. But they play it completely different way as beginners do. I saw tons of students who were taught “play 1.e4, 2.Nf3 and 3.Bc4 because it’s Italian game” and they never played in the centre and never ever moved rook from a1.
No opening itself can teach you tactical patterns. They are taught by solving puzzles.
Carokann is also a good opening of course. But like in any opening, you can be crushed in 15 moves if you play badly.
For White: The Italian Game / Giuoco Piano
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Bc5
Why it’s the best practical opening for most players
Builds strong fundamentals (development, control of centre, king safety).
Leads to rich attacking possibilities but also solid positional play.
Easier to learn compared to Ruy Lopez or complex openings like the Catalan.
Teaches tactical patterns (pins, forks, sacrifices) used everywhere.
For Black vs 1.e4: The Caro-Kann
1. e4 c6 2. d4 d5
Why it’s best for practical, stable improvement
Extremely solid; hard to break.
Leads to healthy pawn structures and strong piece development.
Much less theory than the Sicilian.
Reduces risk of being blown off the board early.