A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "Have a good day" in Italian
Learn how to say 'have a good day' in Italian with this simple guide to sounding like a local when you leave a shop or cafe.
Buona giornata.
bwo-nah jor-NAH-tahneutral
Italian TTS · 0:01
Use this when you are leaving a shop, a cafe, or finishing a conversation during the daytime. It is the standard way to wish someone well for the remainder of their day as you walk out the door.
Alternatives
- Buona serataUse this instead if it is already late afternoon or evening.
- Buon proseguimentoUse this when you are interrupting someone who is working or busy eating.
- ArrivederciUse this as a standard 'goodbye' if you want to keep it simple.
Ways to get it wrong
Don't say 'buon giorno'
That means 'good morning' and is used as a greeting when arriving, not when leaving.
Watch the double consonants
Make sure to hold the 'n' sound in 'giornata' slightly longer to sound natural.
A small cultural note
Italians use this phrase almost exclusively when departing. You will rarely hear it used as a greeting upon entering a store.
Frequently asked
Can I say buona giornata when I walk into a store?
No, it is strictly for departures. Use 'Buongiorno' when you walk in and 'Buona giornata' when you leave.
Is it rude to just say ciao instead?
It is not rude, but 'ciao' is very informal. Using 'Buona giornata' shows a bit more polish and respect for the person serving you.
What do I say if it is already dark outside?
Switch to 'Buona serata,' which translates to 'have a good evening.' It is the exact equivalent for the later hours of the day.
How do you wish someone a good day in Italian?
The most common way to say "have a good day" in Italian is "Buona giornata." This is a versatile phrase suitable for most situations.
How do I say "have a good day"?
To say "have a good day" in Italian, you can use "Buona giornata." This phrase is used when parting ways with someone during the daytime.
Have a good day in Italian informal
For an informal "have a good day" in Italian, you can still use "Buona giornata." The context of your relationship with the person will make it informal.
Have a good day in Italian formal
In formal situations, "Buona giornata" is still appropriate. You might also use more polite phrasing depending on the context.
