When it comes to tipping in Italy, the practice differs significantly from what many tourists, especially Americans, might expect. Italians have a more relaxed approach to gratuities, and in most situations, tipping isn’t a social obligation or expectation. Italians themselves rarely feel compelled to leave extra money for services, considering it more of a gesture of appreciation for truly outstanding experiences rather than a standard practice.
You won’t often encounter tip jars or requests to add a tip to a credit card at cafes or shops, and service staff don’t rely on tips to supplement their income as they might in other countries. However, there are exceptions to this general rule. For instance, it’s customary and polite to tip tour guides, regardless of whether the tour was paid or free.
While leaving a little extra isn’t frowned upon, it’s not necessary to avoid appearing stingy or to ensure good service. That said, there are scenarios where tipping is welcomed and appropriate. Whether you’re enjoying an espresso in Rome, having a sit-down meal in Naples, or taking a cab ride in Turin, understanding local tipping etiquette can enhance your Italian experience.
Do You Tip in Italy?
The short answer is: it’s not mandatory, but appreciated. Unlike the United States where tipping is often a significant part of service industry income, Italian workers have more stable wages. However, a small tip for exceptional service is always welcome.
Tipping at Restaurants
- Casual Dining: For casual eateries like trattorias or pizzerias, a small tip (1-2 euros) is optional, especially if the service was excellent. Rounding up the bill or leaving your change is acceptable. If you’re paying by credit card, you generally won’t have the option to add a tip, and it’s not expected.
- Fine Dining: If you dine at a high-end restaurant, a tip of 10-15% is more customary, especially for exceptional service.
- Drinks at a bar: Tips are not expected unless you receive table service. In this case, you can tip 1-2 Euros.
Carry cash for tips, as there isn’t always the option to add on a gratuity when using a credit card.
Service Charge
Some more upscale Italian restaurants include a service charge (servizio) of around 10% on the bill. In such cases, tipping is not necessary. This is different than a “coperto” (cover) charge, which is a standard fee applied to each diner. The coperto ostensibly covers the cost of table essentials like linens, cutlery, and sometimes bread. This is not a tip and cannot be negotiated or taken off your bill.
This cover charge is only applied if you’re sitting down at a restaurant or cafe. Often, small pastry shops or coffee shops will ask you if you want to eat it here or take it away. This is so they know if they should charge the cover charge or not, so it’s bad form to say you’ll take your pastry away and then eat it at a table there. Likewise, if you’re just drinking an espresso at a counter, you won’t have to pay a cover like you would if you were sitting down and having a waiter bring you your coffee.
Tipping Taxi Drivers in Italy
- Tipping is not mandatory or expected for taxi drivers in Italy.
- However, if you’re satisfied with the service, rounding up the fare to the nearest euro or leaving a small change is a nice gesture.
Tipping in Hotels in Italy
- Hotel Housekeeping: Tip 1-2 Euros per night
- Porters and doormen: Tip 1-2 Euros per bag
When You Should Definitely Tip in Italy
The one time it’s always expected to tip in Italy is when you’re participating in a tour. You should always tip your tour guide at the end of the tour, even if you’re on a free walking tour. Etiquette experts recommend tipping five euros per person for a half-day tour and 10 euros per person for a full-day tour.
On a private group tour, you should tip around 10 percent of the tour’s total cost.
Do You Tip in Rome?
Tipping customs in Rome align with the general Italian practices. While not mandatory, a small tip for exceptional service is always appreciated, especially in touristy areas.
Do You Tip in Sicily?
Tipping in Sicily follows the same guidance as above. However, if you’re paying by credit card, tipping is rarely expected, and you likely won’t have the option to add a gratuity. Instead, you might see a tip jar by the cash register in more casual establishments like bars or cafes.
Key Takeaways
- Tipping in Italy is not as common as in other countries.
- A small tip for exceptional service is always appreciated.
- Check your restaurant bill for a service charge before tipping.
- Rounding up the taxi fare is a common practice.
- Always tip your tour guide in Italy.
- When paying by credit card, you won’t be asked to add a tip like you are in the US.