Tipping in Italy: All You Need to Know Before Traveling

This handy guide to tipping in Italy will help you understand local etiquette and know what to expect when traveling. How much should you tip in different situations? Should you use cash or cards? What are the dos and don'ts? In this article, you can even learn some useful phrases for leaving a tip.

Is Tipping Expected in Italy

Is tipping a must in Italy? Many tourists find themselves in awkward situations when using local services. Tipping in Italy is less expected than in the U.S., as bills often include a service charge or workers are paid a fair wage. However, in certain cases, leaving a small tip is a nice way to show appreciation for exceptional service.

When You Don't Need to Tip

In many situations, tipping isn't expected unless you're especially satisfied with the service. For example, it's usually unnecessary when:

• A service charge ("coperto" or "servizio") is already included in the bill at restaurants.
• You're in self-service settings or quick-service places like gelato shops or takeaways.
• The service is government-regulated, such as public transportation or postal services.

How Much Should I Tip in Italy

Rounding up is more common than calculating a percentage. Tipping in different situations is generally modest and based on the level of service you receive. Here's a quick overview:

The Dos and Don'ts of Tipping in Italy

Dos of Tipping in Italy

• Do tip for exceptional service

If a server, guide, or driver provides outstanding service, a modest amount of tip is a great way to show appreciation.

• Do carry small change

It's very smart to keep some small bills and coins handy, especially for tipping in cafés, taxis, and casual restaurants.

Don'ts of Tipping in Italy

• Don't tip too heavily

While tipping is common in some European countries, Italian locals generally don't tip heavily. Tipping in Italy is quite casual and entirely up to you. There's no need to feel pressured, even a tip of around 10% or less is more than generous.

• Don't pay twice

If "coperto" (cover charge) or "servizio incluso" (service included) is already listed on the bill, no additional tip is necessary.

• Don't tip smaller than one Euro

For high-end or formal services like private tour, it is recommended to leave a tip of at least €1 or more to show proper respect.

Small Tip in Italy

Do I Tip in Euros or US Dollars

The currency in Italy is the Euro, so when tipping, using Euros is the better choice. Tipping in Euros makes it easy to round up your bill and allows the recipient to keep the full amount without facing exchange losses. Additionally, exchanging small amounts of foreign currency can be difficult in Italy.

(Exchange rate: 1 USD ≈ 0.88 EUR, as of April 27, 2025.)

Cash or Card? The Best Way to Tip in Italy

For small amounts, cash is usually more convenient than a card. Although credit cards are widely accepted, tipping in Italy is typically done with cash. Some card machines in Italy do not offer the option to add a tip, so if you prefer to tip by card, check whether it's possible before completing your payment.

Tipping by Cash

Useful Sentences When Giving a Tip

Learning a few simple phrases about tipping can help you communicate more smoothly with locals and show your appreciation. Here are some useful expressions for your reference:

"Tenga il resto." - Keep the change.

"È per te." - It's for you.

"Grazie per il servizio." - Thank you for the service.

"Ottimo servizio, grazie!" - Excellent service, thank you!

"È stato un piacere." - It was a pleasure.

"Questo è per lei." - This is for you.

If it is too complicated for you to remember, just use "grazie" (thank you) is enough.

Additional Tips for Tipping

1. Tipping practices can vary slightly between major tourist cities and smaller towns in Italy. In places like Rome, Venice, and Milan, tipping is more common and often expected. In smaller destinations, however, A warm "grazie" (thank you) often matters more than the tip itself.

2. Carrying a small change purse can be very helpful for collecting coins and small bills when you pay, making it easier to leave a tip when needed.

3. In Italy, it's polite to leave the tip subtly. You can leave coins on the table or hand them directly in a small note, instead of making a big show of it.

When in Rome... Ask Your Guide!

Traveling to Italy should be a relaxed and enjoyable experience. Just focus on having a great time with Odynovo! If you're ever unsure about whether to tip or how much to tip, simply ask your tour guide - they'll be happy to give you advice. And, by the way, don't forget to tip your guide too~