Tipping in Italy
Here are some things to remember when it comes to tipping culture in Italy.
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So, if you’re coming to Italy this summer, please, please, PLEASE, don’t forget to tip!
Picture this: warm weather, friendly locals, and the most delicious food you’ll ever taste. Adventure is calling, and it’s all waiting for you!
But hold up—before you start planning your itinerary, let’s clear up one little misconception: you might think you can skip tipping while you're there. Spoiler alert: that’s not quite right!
While Italy is known for its incredible hospitality, tipping is still a part of the culture. So, get ready to enjoy the trip of a lifetime, but don’t forget to show your appreciation for the amazing service you’ll receive!
What is tipping culture like here in Italy?
We’re here to clear some things up when it comes to tipping culture in Italy. Tipping is not required in Italy like it is in the United States. Nor is the tip automatically included within the check. What is included is called, ‘il copertO’. This is a coverage charge for sitting at a table, and normally around € 1-2 a person, but that’s not the tip!
So we should tip, but how much?
Okay, so now that we cleared up that, how much should you be tipping? We personally recommend tipping 10-20% based on the purchase, service, and experience.
Example 1: What do you do if bought an espresso at the bar.
Note: expect the espresso to already be cheaper because there is no ‘il copertO’ when standing ;)
Okay, so let's say you grabbed an espresso from the bar. Your total comes to 90 cents. You hand the cashier € 1. They give you 10 cents back, just leave that 10 cents.
Example 2: You’re sat at a table enjoying a cappuccino and a croissant.
We suggest leaving a € 1-2 tip.
Example 3: You’re on a boat tour along the Amalfi Coast.
Note: tipping is not just for food and drink. It’s more so for the services you experience when you are vacationing here in Italy. You should tip your drivers, boat captains, your boat skippers, those who go out of their way to make your vacation, the best vacation ever!
This means even the bar man, or waiter who makes you laugh, the people going the extra mile, that makes your trip super special, they deserve a tip.
I think we can speak for ALL Italians, they definitely prefer tips in cash!
Although tipping is not part of the Italian culture, we do know that Italians sincerely appreciate it, especially those working within tourism.
A large part of the Italian economy is reliant on tourism, specifically tourism along the Amalfi Coast. With Italians working that are working in the service field along the Amalfi Coast, they have to make their yearly income in only 6 months...working 12 hour days...6 days a week!
So, please, please, PLEASE, leave a tip for the people who help to make your experience the best possible! Anywhere from 10-20% is perfect! Maybe even going up to 30%, if they were like...super awesome!
We hope you found these tips on tipping helpful, and that the next time you come to the Amalfi Coast you have an amazing trip!
If you are still really stressed on planning your next trip to Italy, feel free to reach out to Luxama, we’d be more than happy to help organize your entire trip! But if you just want a second opinion on your itinerary that you already put together, we’d be more than happy to do a consultation with you as well. You can reach out to us today through Luxama Travel!
