A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "Have a nice evening" in Italian
Say 'Buona serata' to wish someone a pleasant evening in Italy. Perfect for farewells after sunset.
Buona serata
bwOH-nah seh-RAH-tahneutral
Italian TTS · 0:01
Use this when parting ways with someone in the late afternoon or evening. It's a polite way to end an interaction, like leaving a restaurant or saying goodbye to friends after dinner.
Alternatives
- Buona serata a teMore personal when speaking to one person you know.
- Buona serata a tuttiUse when addressing a group of people.
Ways to get it wrong
Don't say 'Buona notte'
'Buona notte' is only for when someone is going to bed.
Pronounce 'sera' correctly
Make sure the 'e' in 'sera' is open, like in 'bed', not closed like in 'see'.
A small cultural note
While 'buona serata' is standard, some older Italians might still prefer 'buona sera' as a greeting when meeting someone in the evening, though it's less common for farewells.
Frequently asked
When do Italians say 'buona serata'?
Italians say 'buona serata' when they are leaving someone in the late afternoon or evening. It's a polite way to say goodbye and wish them well for the rest of their evening.
Is 'buona serata' formal or informal?
'Buona serata' is considered neutral and can be used in most situations. It's polite enough for formal settings but not so stiff that you can't use it with friends.
What's the difference between 'buona serata' and 'buona notte'?
'Buona serata' is for the evening hours, like when you're leaving a restaurant or saying goodbye after a social event. 'Buona notte' is specifically for when someone is going to sleep.
