Is tipping required in Italy? The answer is no. The majority of the time, Italy It is not the same as the United States when it comes to tipping. You can visit the Italian peninsula and the vibrant metropolis of MilanThe historic streets of RomeAlternatively, you can visit the romantic canals in. VeniceYou should be aware of a few situations in which tipping is highly appreciated.
Two experts on Italian tipping gave me their expert opinion. Condé Nast Traveler‘s Top Travel Specialists: Marcello GiancoliThe co-founder of the Rome-based firm and its managing partner Benarrivati; Elena Borrero, a travel advisor at SmartFlyer Specializes in Italy. Borrero says that tipping in Italy is not expected, but rather a nice way to show gratitude for a memorable, outstanding service. It is true for most of Europe. But the tides are shifting.
“Tipping was traditionally regarded as ‘un-Italian’ in Italy, where service employees are paid a regular salary and non-service charges (like coperto and servizio) are supposed to cover everything,” Giancoli says. Increased tourism has had a significant impact on the culture of tipping in Italy, largely because Americans have unwittingly imported this behavior and etiquette. He says that even Italians are now tipping a few Euros to show their gratitude, particularly at well-known places. Employees in establishments that host many foreigners expect tips, and they may be surprised if you do not leave one.
It is true that this universal truth also applies to Italy: those who tip will be remembered more by the staff of an establishment, and their expression of gratitude could influence the service they provide on a subsequent visit. Giancoli also adds that “tips are now a modest and welcome addition to wages which in Italy have remained relatively unchanged for the past 20+ years.”
Please see our guide to tips in Italy.
Tipping in Italy: Do you give tips at hotels?
When you stay at hotels in Italy, tipping is not required, but it is appropriate if you wish to express your gratitude to the staff for good service, says Borrero: “For housekeeping, I usually leave around €2–5 per day; for porters, €2–5 per bag.”
Tipping at Italian restaurants
It is not customary to tip in Italy because restaurants add a service fee to the bill. It will be clearly stated at the bottom. Borrero explains that it’s common to leave a tip of 10% if the service charge isn’t included. “If the service charge is already added and you had an amazing meal, rounding up to the nearest €10 is a nice way to show appreciation.” Giancoli says that a tip of €5 to €10 per diner is appreciated in upscale or gourmet restaurants. “Or you can leave 5–10% of the bill in large groups if you really liked the food and the service.”
Do you tip at bars and cafés in Italy?
Tipping in bars and cafés in Italy is not customary but always appreciated. Giancoli breaks down the tipping scenario by situation: “If standing at a counter, you should leave small change. If you’re seated and offered table service, leave €2 or €3.”
