A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "Good morning" in Italian
The essential Italian greeting for 'good morning' and 'good day,' used until early afternoon.
Buongiorno
bwon-JOR-nohneutral
Italian TTS · 0:01
Use this from waking up until around 1 or 2 PM. It's appropriate for shopkeepers, hotel staff, and anyone you meet for the first time that day.
Alternatives
- BuondìSlightly more informal, often heard in Northern Italy.
- SalveA versatile greeting that works for both 'hello' and 'good day,' useful when unsure.
Ways to get it wrong
Forgetting the 'n'
It's 'Buon**g**iorno,' not 'Buogiorno.' The 'n' is important for the sound.
Pronouncing 'g' like 'j'
The 'g' in 'giorno' is hard, like the 'g' in 'go,' not soft like the 'j' in 'jam.'
A small cultural note
While technically 'good morning,' it's used throughout the day until early afternoon, so don't switch to 'Buonasera' too early.
Frequently asked
When do I stop saying buongiorno?
Typically, Italians switch to 'Buonasera' (good evening) around 1 or 2 PM. It's a bit flexible, but this is a good general rule.
Is buongiorno formal or informal?
Buongiorno is a neutral greeting, suitable for both formal and casual interactions. It's the safest choice when in doubt.
What's the difference between buongiorno and ciao?
Ciao is very informal and used for both hello and goodbye. Buongiorno is specifically for greeting someone in the morning or afternoon.
How do you greet someone in the morning in Italian?
The most common way to say "good morning" in Italian is "Buongiorno."
What does buongiorno bella mean?
"Buongiorno bella" translates to "good morning beautiful" in English. It's a common and affectionate greeting used towards women.
What is a typical greeting in Italian?
Besides "Buongiorno" for the morning, Italians commonly use "Buonasera" for "good evening" and "Ciao" for informal hellos and goodbyes.
How do you say good morning in Italian to a woman?
You can say "Buongiorno" to a woman, or more affectionately, "Buongiorno bella."
How do you say good morning in Italian to a man?
The standard greeting "Buongiorno" is appropriate for addressing a man in the morning.
