One of the most asked questions I receive as a Tour Operator is: How much should I tip in Italy?

Here’s what you need to know about tipping in Italy.

Tipping is not expected, nor required in Italy. I am not kidding you. In fact in some places, particularly areas off of the beaten path, it is interpreted as an affront. I’ll never forget a few years ago, offering a 5 euro tip to a taxi driver who refused to take it. We had agreed on a set price for the journey and my tip was an awkward gesture in his mind. That’s what made me start to ask about tipping in Italy. 

Tipping is a practice that is ingrained in North American culture but is not common among the locals in Italy. The closest you will come to tipping, is leaving behind small change: for example, leaving a 20 euro note for a meal that costs 19 euro. Know that in many restaurants, a ‘servizio’ (service) or ‘coperto’ (cover) of 1 or 2 euro is charged per person, which in effect is similar to a gratuity.  

Empty Tables and Chairs in Italian Restaurant by the Street
Image from Canva.com

Tipping can serve to show appreciation for exceptional service. For example, if a tour guide delights you with her outstanding knowledge and attention to detail, or if a hotel concierge manages to obtain tickets for dinner in an exclusive restaurant. For the tour guide, you may offer 5 euro for a half-day tour or 10 euro for a full-day tour. Enclosing it in an envelope with a few words of thanks shows your sincere appreciation. I always travel with a few thank-you cards for this purpose. 

Knowing the local customs is key to answering the tipping question. Rounding up to the nearest euro for restaurant and other services such as hair salons is appreciated, but not required. Leaving cash, as opposed to adding to a credit card total ensures that your appreciation gets to the service provider.

What experiences have you had with tipping in Italy?

Send them to us and we will share them with our readers.