Italian greetings – It’s probably the first Italian word you ever learned — “Ciao!” Simple, cheerful, and friendly. But if you’ve spent some time in Italy or spoken to Italians, you’ll quickly realize that “Ciao” isn’t always the right choice. In fact, depending on who you’re talking to, “Ciao” might sound too casual — even rude.
So how do Italians actually greet each other? And when should you say “Buongiorno”, “Salve”, or “Arrivederci”? Let’s take a cultural and linguistic journey through the beautiful world of Italian greetings. In this guide full of Italian language tips, you’ll not only learn how to say hello in Italian, but also discover how every greeting reflects the country’s warmth and social codes — an essential part of learn Italian culture.
1️⃣ “Ciao”: Friendly, informal, and everywhere
Ciao is undoubtedly Italy’s most famous word. It can mean both “hello” and “goodbye,” and it’s used constantly among friends, relatives, classmates, and peers. But here’s what many learners don’t know: you shouldn’t use “Ciao” with everyone.
In Italy, language reflects relationships. Ciao belongs to the world of tu — the informal form. You can use it with people you know well, or when someone invites you to “give up the formalities” by saying: “Dai, diamoci del tu!” (“Let’s use tu.”)
So when should you avoid “Ciao”? Definitely in professional or academic contexts, when meeting someone older, or when talking to teachers or officials. In those cases, Italians switch to Lei — the formal “you.” Understanding this difference is key to mastering formal and informal Italian.
2️⃣ “Buongiorno”: The elegant daytime greeting
Buongiorno literally means “good day.” It’s the safest and most polite greeting from morning until around 5 p.m. You can say it in shops, offices, restaurants — anywhere. It’s both elegant and kind, and one of those Italian expressions that never goes out of style.
Example:
– “Buongiorno, vorrei un cappuccino, per favore.” ☕
– “Buongiorno! Subito!”
3️⃣ “Buonasera”: When the sun goes down
After late afternoon, Italians switch to Buonasera (“good evening”). It’s ideal for polite encounters, dinners, or professional meetings. Using the right greeting at the right time shows that you’ve started to truly learn Italian culture.
4️⃣ “Salve”: The perfect neutral option
Salve is polite but not overly formal — perfect for colleagues, professors, or acquaintances. It’s one of the best Italian language tips for learners who aren’t sure which register to choose.
5️⃣ “Arrivederci” & “ArrivederLa”: Polite goodbyes
Arrivederci means “see you again” — friendly yet respectful. For very formal contexts, Italians use ArrivederLa. These Italian expressions signal courtesy and professionalism — essential if you want to study Italian in Milan or work in Italy.
6️⃣ “A presto”, “A dopo”, “Ci vediamo”: Friendly farewells
Among friends, Italians prefer casual goodbyes like A presto (“See you soon”), A dopo (“See you later”), or Ci vediamo (“See you”). Mastering these everyday phrases is a fun part of how to say hello in Italian — and goodbye too!
7️⃣ “Come stai?” or “Come sta?”: The art of small talk
In Italy, greetings are gateways to conversation. After “Ciao” or “Buongiorno,” you’ll often hear “Come stai?” (informal) or “Come sta?” (formal). Italians expect a real answer — proof that communication is personal. This habit is one of the most fascinating insights you gain when you learn Italian culture.
8️⃣ Regional touches and gestures
From Milan’s “Uè!” to Naples’ “Guagliò!”, regional greetings are another window into Italian expressions. Add gestures — a handshake, a warm smile, or the famous double cheek kiss — and you’ll understand that communication in Italy is as much visual as verbal.
🎓 Practice and live the language
Want to go beyond theory? Try short role-plays: greet your barista with “Buongiorno,” thank your teacher with “Arrivederci,” or text a friend “A presto!” Practising these Italian language tips in real contexts helps you sound natural and confident.
🇮🇹 Learn Italian culture through greetings
Every Italian greetings tells a story about respect, emotion, and connection. By mastering them, you don’t just speak Italian — you start to learn Italian culture deeply. You’ll notice how warmth, tone, and body language turn a simple “hello” into a moment of human contact.
📚 Study Italian in Milan with Il Centro
At Il Centro – Italian School for Foreigners in Milan, we help students from all over the world not just speak Italian but live it. Our native Italian teachers and interactive lessons immerse you in real situations — greetings included! If you’re planning to study Italian in Milan, discover our group and individual courses designed to make you feel at home from your very first “Buongiorno.”
👉 Learn more about our Italian courses in Milan of any levels and start your journey today.