Tipping in italy – Tipping is a common way of showing appreciation for good service, but it can also be a source of confusion and stress for travelers. Different countries have different customs and expectations when it comes to tipping, and sometimes it can be hard to know how much to leave or whether to tip at all.
The Origins and Importance of Tipping
The word “tip” is said to have originated from the acronym T.I.P., which stands for “To Insure Promptitude” or “To Insure Performance”. It was a practice that started in 17th century England, where guests at coffee houses and taverns would leave some money for the servers in advance to ensure faster and better service. Later, tipping spread to other countries and became a voluntary gesture of gratitude rather than a mandatory payment.
Tipping is important because it shows respect and appreciation for the people who provide you with service, especially in countries where service workers rely on tips as a major part of their income. Tipping can also help you establish rapport and goodwill with the locals, and enhance your travel experience.
However, tipping can also be seen as offensive or patronizing in some cultures, where service is included in the price or where tipping is considered a bribe or a sign of inequality. Therefore, it is important to do some research before you travel and follow the local etiquette.
Tipping in Italy
Italy is a country where tipping is not mandatory but optional and very welcome. This is because service workers are paid a not decent wage and service is usually included in the price by law.
However, it is polite and customary to leave a small tip if you are happy with the service. The usual amount is around 5% to 10% of the bill in restaurants and cafes, or simply round up to the nearest euro. You can also leave some coins on the table or in a tip jar.
Other situations in Italy where you should tip include:
- Taxi drivers: Round up €1 to €2 or tell driver to keep change
- Hotel staff: €1 to €2 per bag for porters, €1 to €2 per night for housekeepers, €5 to €10 for concierge
- Tour guides: €2 to €5 per person per day
- Hairdressers, spa therapists, etc.: 5% to 10% of the service cost
How do you leave a tip in a restaurant in Italy?
The tip is left on the table under a glass or in the bill holder together with the signed receipt of the credit card. The honest waiter will still share it with the rest of the dining room staff, at the end of the evening or at the end of the month.
Food and Pizza delivery
Tips for Food and Pizza delivery in Italy is super welcome!
Rounding up the bill paid in cash is a must. The minimum wage we would say. If the pizza costs €12, the €3 extra is left to the delivery man. Once it will be 50 cents, sometimes €4, if the pizzeria and the delivery guy is always him, he’ll understand and average.
If the order has been paid online, as happens with services such as JustEat, Foodora or Deliveroo, putting your hand in your wallet is actually not a spontaneous gesture, but due at least in one situation: the rain. If the order has arrived on time and it’s bad weather outside, extending €5 is a gentleman’s gesture.
Tipping in Different Countries
Tipping is a complex and evolving topic that can vary depending on the country, the culture, and the situation. As a traveler, it is important to be respectful and informed about the local tipping etiquette and expectations.
In general, tipping is more common and generous in the USA than in Europe, where service is often included in the price or where tipping is seen as a bonus rather than a necessity. However, tipping can also be a way of showing appreciation and gratitude for good service, and can enhance your travel experience.
Tipping in USA
The USA is one of the countries where tipping is expected and customary in most situations. This is because service workers are often paid very low wages and depend on tips to make up for their income. The general rule of thumb is to tip 15% to 20% of the bill in restaurants and bars, unless the service is exceptionally poor or excellent. You can tip more or less depending on the quality of service, but never leave without tipping at all.
Tipping in UK
The UK has a more relaxed attitude towards tipping than the USA, but it is still appreciated and sometimes expected. Most restaurants will add a service charge of 10% to 12.5% to your bill, which you can pay or decline depending on your satisfaction with the service. If there is no service charge, you can leave around 10% of the bill as a tip. However, if you are dining in a pub or a casual eatery, tipping is not necessary.
Tipping in France
France is one of the countries where tipping is not obligatory but optional. This is because service workers are paid a decent wage and service is included in the price by law. However, it is polite and customary to leave a small tip if you are happy with the service. The usual amount is around 5% to 10% of the bill in restaurants and bars, or simply round up to the nearest euro. You can also leave some coins on the table or in a tip jar.
