How to Say Cheers in Italian | Italian Toasting Phrases

As of 2026, Italy remains renowned for its deep love of wine, a culture that has been embraced worldwide. If you're wondering how to say cheers in Italian, there are numerous phrases depending on the context.

How to Say Cheers in Italian

In Italy, there are numerous ways to say cheers depending on the context. Here are some of the most common phrases:

Auguri – Best Wishes

You can translate auguri as “Best Wishes.” It is pronounced [au.ˈɡu.ri] in the IPA transcription.

This phrase is used in various celebratory settings such as birthdays, graduations, weddings, and anniversaries. For example, you might say Auguri per il tuo compleanno, meaning "Best wishes for your birthday."

Cin cin – Cheers!

The phrase cin cin is a casual way to toast and is pronounced [tʃiŋ tʃiŋ]. It's commonly used in informal settings.

This phrase is often accompanied by the gesture of clinking glasses, symbolizing unity and shared joy among friends or family members.

Viva – Long Live

The phrase viva is pronounced [ˈviː.va] in IPA. It's a more formal way to toast and can be used for celebrations like weddings, anniversaries, or national holidays.

This phrase is often followed by the name of the person being toasted, such as Viva il matrimonio, meaning "Long live marriage."

Cultural Context of Cheers in Italy

The act of toasting is deeply rooted in Italian culture, reflecting the importance of community and shared joy. When saying cheers in Italy, it's important to make eye contact with everyone present before clinking glasses.

Etiquette for Saying Cheers in Italy

In formal settings, it’s customary to raise your glass slightly above chest level when toasting. It is also polite to wait until the host or a senior member of the group gives the signal to start drinking.

Common Italian Wedding Toasts

Weddings are a special occasion where toasts play an essential role. Here are some common phrases:

1. Congratulazioni agli sposi – Congratulations to the newlyweds

This is used at weddings and can be accompanied by vi auguro il meglio, meaning "I wish you the very best."

2. Possa la vostra gioia durare cento anni – May your joy last a hundred years

This phrase is ideal for wishing newlyweds and birthday celebrants long-lasting happiness.

3. Per cent’anni. – For a hundred years.

The best man often starts the wedding reception with Per cent’anni, which is then echoed by guests.

Regional Variations in Cheers Across Italy

Different regions of Italy have their own unique ways to say cheers. For example, in Tuscany, you might hear viva la vita, meaning "long live life," while in Sicily, the phrase salute, pronounced [saˈluː.te], is commonly used.

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