When visiting Rome, it’s essential to be aware of the local tipping customs. Tipping, known as “la mancia” in Italian, is not as common or expected in Italy as it is in some other countries. However, if you receive excellent service or want to show your appreciation, leaving a tip is still appreciated.
Tipping in Restaurants
When dining at a restaurant in Rome, the bill usually includes a service charge called “coperto” or “pane e coperto,” which covers the cost of bread and table service. This charge typically ranges from 1 to 3 euros per person. It’s important to note that this service charge is not considered a tip for the waitstaff.
If you are satisfied with the service provided by your waiter/waitress, it’s customary to leave an additional tip on top of the coperto. This extra tip can be around 5% to 10% of the total bill. However, tipping is not obligatory and entirely depends on your satisfaction with the service.
Tipping at Cafes and Bars
In cafes and bars in Rome, tipping is less common compared to restaurants. If you order a simple coffee or a quick snack at the counter, there’s no need to leave a tip. However, if you sit at a table and receive table service, it’s polite to round up the bill or leave a small amount as a gesture of appreciation.
Tipping Tour Guides and Drivers
When taking guided tours or using transportation services like taxis or private drivers, tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. For tour guides who provide an excellent experience, giving them around 10% of their fee as a gratuity is customary.
If you use a taxi or have hired a private driver during your stay in Rome, rounding up the fare is generally sufficient. For example, if the fare is 18 euros, you can round up to 20 euros. However, if the driver goes above and beyond or provides additional assistance with your luggage, a slightly larger tip would be appropriate.
Tipping Hotel Staff
When staying at a hotel in Rome, it’s customary to leave a small tip for the hotel staff who provide exceptional service. This includes the concierge, bellhop, and housekeeping staff.
- For the concierge who assists with reservations, recommendations, and other services, a tip of 5 to 10 euros is appropriate.
- For the bellhop who helps with your luggage, a tip of 1 to 2 euros per bag is customary.
- For housekeeping staff who clean your room daily, leaving a small amount of around 1 to 2 euros per day is appreciated. You can leave the tip on the bedside table or in an envelope with a note expressing your gratitude.
Remember that tipping in Italy is not compulsory but rather a way to show appreciation for good service. It’s always best to consider the level of service you received and tip accordingly.
In summary:
- Tipping in restaurants: Leave an additional 5% to 10% on top of the coperto/service charge if satisfied with the service.
- Tipping at cafes and bars: Rounding up or leaving a small amount is appreciated when receiving table service.
- Tipping tour guides and drivers: Give around 10% of their fee for excellent service.
- Tipping hotel staff: Tip concierge (5-10 euros), bellhop (1-2 euros per bag), and housekeeping staff (1-2 euros per day).
By following these tipping guidelines in Rome, you can show your appreciation for exceptional service while respecting the local customs.