Tipping in Italy: A Traveler's Guide

Europeans are generally not big on tipping. This includes Italy, where restaurants often already include gratuity in the final bill. This cultural norm stems from the view that tipping can imply a power imbalance between the giver and the receiver.

In tourist-heavy areas, service workers may have become accustomed to tipping, especially from Americans. Still, it is wise to follow tradition. Tipping is not necessary in most situations in Italy.

Table of Contents

Dining and Drinking

  • Two-thirds of Italians do not tip in restaurants—workers are paid livable wages.
  • Cafés: Rounding up the bill and leaving coins is appreciated but not expected.
  • Bars: Round up each drink to the nearest euro if service is great.
  • Restaurants: Check for a service charge on the bill. Look for “Servizio incluso” (service included).

Transportation

  • Taxi Drivers: Do not expect tips, but rounding up is customary—nearest euro for short trips, nearest €10 for long ones.
  • Airport Shuttle Drivers: Tipping not expected; €1 per bag is appreciated if they help with luggage.
  • No need to tip if fare is prepaid or fixed.

Hotels

  • Housekeeping: €0.50–€1.50 per night, depending on service quality.
  • Doormen: Generally just thanked. Tip €1 if they help with bags or hail a cab.
  • Bellhops: €1–€2 per bag; do not exceed €5 total.
  • Concierges: Tip €1–€2 only for special tasks (e.g., securing reservations or tickets).

Tour Guides

  • Tour guides are well-compensated, but tips are appreciated as a sign of satisfaction, especially from North Americans.

Other Services

  • Salons and Hairdressers: Tipping not common. Round up to the nearest €10 if pleased.
  • Spas: Tipping not expected. For great service, 10% is acceptable.

Helpful Tips and Etiquette

  • Never tip business owners. Tipping them can be seen as rude or demeaning.
  • At small B&Bs or mom-and-pop shops: Be careful not to mistake the owner for staff.
  • Minimum tip amounts: Do not tip less than €5 only in rare cases like extreme effort or inconvenience.
  • Always tip in cash and in euros. Avoid foreign currency to prevent bank charges or exchange issues.
  • Be modest and subtle when tipping. Use discretion and be culturally aware of how you give gratuity.

Summary

  • Tipping is not expected or customary in Italy, but appreciated in specific situations for great service.
  • Always check if a service charge is included before tipping.
  • When unsure, observe locals, ask politely, or follow this guide.
  • Use cash in local currency, and avoid overtipping.

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