What a lovely coincidence to run into each other here!
'Coincidenza' = co-in-ci-DEN-za, stress on fourth syllable. 'Incontrarci' = in-con-TRAR-ci.
Use this when you unexpectedly meet someone you know — or when chance encounters feel meaningful. Italians love the concept of 'destino' (destiny) in social meetings and enjoy celebrating happy coincidences.
'Che + adjective + noun' is the Italian exclamation structure: 'Che bella coincidenza!' (what a lovely coincidence!), 'Che bella giornata!' (what a lovely day!). The infinitive 'incontrarci' follows, adding precision about what the coincidence involves.
Non ci credo! Proprio tu qui!
I can't believe it! You of all people here!
More exclamatory surprise
Queste cose succedono solo in Italia.
These things only happen in Italy.
Playful cultural commentary on Italian serendipity
Il destino ha voluto che ci ritrovassimo.
Destiny wanted us to find each other again.
Romantic/destiny framing — common in Italian thought
Italians have a deep cultural belief in 'il fato' (fate) and 'il destino' (destiny). Chance encounters, especially in cities far from home, are seen as meaningful and worth celebrating. The Italian tradition of celebrating a reunion with a meal or aperitivo — even a spontaneous one — reflects this embrace of the unexpected.