Tipping in Rome can often feel confusing and overwhelming, especially for first-time travelers. Although not mandatory or customary, tipping is generally expected in Rome, and it is considered polite to leave a tip in many situations. To make your journey through Rome as enjoyable and stress-free as possible, it is important to know the rules and etiquette surrounding tipping in the city.
When dining out in a restaurant, it is customary to tip 10% or less of the bill. Generally, I round up the total, so if the bill is ā¬46.45, I would leave ā¬50. If you are at a bar, it is common to leave extra change. However, if the term “servizio” appears on the check, this means service has already been included and no additional tip is necessary. Additionally, “coperto” is a fee, usually ranging from one to five euros per person, that covers items such as bread and olive oil at the start of the meal. This payment does not constitute a tip. Before eating in a restaurant, make sure to double-check for these extra charges to avoid surprises later when you get a bill.
If you’re visiting Rome, be aware that the price of a coffee in a bar can vary significantly depending on whether you drink it while standing at the bar, or sitting down at a table. In tourist-heavy areas, like Piazza Navona, the difference could be hundreds of percent. This difference is usually a service charge, which is intended to supplement the barista’s salary. When you’re at a bar or cafe, there could be two different scenarios for tipping. If you’re taking up table space for a period of time or you open a tab for more than one drink, it’s a good idea to leave a tip if a service charge isn’t included in the bill. Otherwise, it’s fine to just leave the change from your purchase. In touristy areas, it’s important to be aware of these differences, and to remember that prices may be different if you take away or drink your coffee at the bar, as opposed to sitting down at a table.
Taxi Drivers: Tipping is not expected for taxi drivers, but it is a nice gesture to round up the fare. For example, if the fare is ā¬23.50, you can round up to ā¬25. So, in general round up policy applies here nicely too but not needed to tip more than ā¬1 or ā¬2.
When visiting Italy, tipping etiquette can be a bit confusing. However, a good rule of thumb to follow is to round up your bill. This is a simple way to show your appreciation for the service you received. If you are able to, feel free to be more generous with your gratuity. Keep in mind that these suggestions are just that, suggestions. You are not obligated to tip if you don’t feel comfortable doing so.
I hope you feel confident about tipping (or not tipping) during your visit to Italy.
