The ever present question… When, where and how much? Do you tip in Italy and if so, where and how much? There is currently a lot of discussion, especially in Facebook Groups, if tipping in Italy is “necessary”? I find the question itself already a bit impertinent. Even though, tipping in Italy and Europe in general, is not as elaborate as it is in the US with 15% or 20%, to me personally it goes without a question tipping somebody who provides a service.
In Italy, tipping is not mandatory but at the discretion of the customer. Italian waiters, e.g., are in fact paid (little) from the salary given by the restaurant owner, and table service is included in the receipt. The tip therefore represents an extra appreciation toward the service and the food eaten.
A typical tip in Italy is between 4% and 10% of the bill. The bill always includes a so-called “coperto” (place setting including bread and/or grissini). This covers the cost of the service. If you are very satisfied with the service, you can give an additional one to two euros. If no coperto was charged on the bill, a tip of five to ten percent is customary.
A charge of one euro per night is usually left in the room at the hotel.
If you take a cab, round up the amount.
As a general rule, if you pay by credit card, you should still tip in cash. It is not customary to settle these amounts by card.
And, if you want to impress with your Italian language (and cultural) knowledge, with “Il conto, per favore” you ask for the bill in a restaurant. Yes, you ask for the bill in Italy!
