You probably know that there is more to Italian greetings than just “Ciao!”. Your newfound friends in Italy have been with you for some time. In the following list you will find ways to say goodbye (other than Ciao. Which is also appropriate for departures), suitable for any level of emotion, type of relationship, and expectation of return:
Goodbye in Italian: Arrivederci
When parting after a daily conversation, a meeting on the street, or a brief stop in a shop, Arrivederci is a nice way to say goodbye. As the lack of pomp imply that you will meet them again, you can translate it as “to the next time we meet.” This is a routine greeting. Whenever you find yourself alone with a woman or man, maybe elderly, may be outside your normal social circle, with whom you are speaking, you say, Arrivederla! This is indeed just polite etiquette.
In essence, this phrase expresses your intent to see someone the next day when leaving them. A good time to part from a friend (or anyone, really) you will see again. Whether this greeting is warm or not depends on context.
In the same way as A presto, this is a phrase that you use it. When you are hoping for a later or relatively soon encounter with a friend. Ci sentiamo presto is another phrase you may hear, which means that we will hear from each other soon. A risentirci presto is comparable to “Talk soon.”
Whenever you see each other again, this is a good way to let each other know you look forward to seeing them again.
Use it in that term as goodbye in different languages when before you or your friends go to bed is the best time to say goodnight. The people you met during your trip to Italy (if they liked you) will tell you this, either formally or informally.
You can use this phrase to express your gratitude when someone is heading out on a trip or is coming back home. Good luck with your trip! Once you announce that you’re returning home after visiting Italy, you’ll hear it often.
Arslan Hussain, founder of The Different Languages, is an experienced translator passionate about languages and cultures. Through his website, he shares his knowledge and love for different languages, making learning accessible and enjoyable.