Ways to Say It
A few small variations add warmth or formality depending on the relationship.
Buon compleannoHappy birthday — standard, works for anyone
Tanti auguriBest wishes — extremely common, often used alongside or instead of "buon compleanno"
Tanti auguri di buon compleannoMany happy returns / best birthday wishes — a fuller, warmer version
Cento di questi giorniA hundred more days like this — a traditional, affectionate blessing
Buon compleanno, che tu possa avere un anno fantasticoHappy birthday, may you have a fantastic year
Example Messages
Full example messages you can send as-is or adapt.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between "buon compleanno" and "tanti auguri"?
"Buon compleanno" specifically means "happy birthday," while "tanti auguri" (best wishes) is more general and can also be used for other occasions — but Italians frequently use it for birthdays too, often together.
What does "cento di questi giorni" mean?
It's a traditional Italian birthday blessing meaning "a hundred more days like this," wishing the person many more happy birthdays to come.
Is Italian formal and informal address different for birthday wishes?
The phrases themselves stay largely the same; formality mostly comes through in the surrounding message, using "tu" (informal) or "Lei" (formal) forms of address.