How to Tip in Italian Restaurants (Without Awkwardness)

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Tipping in Italy can be confusing for travelers. It’s not the same as in the US, UK, or other countries. In this guide, we’ll clear the air so you can confidently know how to tip in Italian restaurants (or not!) like a local when dining out.

💶 Do You Need to Tip in Italy?

Short answer: Tipping is not mandatory in Italy. It’s appreciated, but modest and discretionary.

What’s Already Included:

Coperto: A cover charge (usually €1 – €3) per person, automatically added to the bill.
Servizio incluso: If this appears on your bill, a service fee has already been added – no tip required.

💡 How Much to Tip in Italian Restaurants

Type of Place	Tip Amount
Coffee Bar	Round up to nearest euro
Casual Trattoria	€1 – €2 or round up
Mid-Range Restaurant	~5 – 10% if service is exceptional
Fine Dining	5 – 10% max, only if not already included

🔍 Local Etiquette Tips

Leave coins, not big bills. It’s customary to leave small change rather than percentages.
Hand it to the waiter instead of leaving it on the table if you’re at a nicer establishment.
Check your receipt: Look for “servizio incluso” before tipping.

💶 What Is “Coperto” and Is It a Tip?

Before you even think about tipping, you’ll likely see a coperto listed on your bill. This is a cover charge – usually €1 to €3 per person – and it’s totally normal in Italy. It covers things like bread, table settings, and even your seat at the table. It’s not a tip and doesn’t go to your server.

Some places may also include a servizio incluso (service charge), especially in touristy areas or fine dining restaurants. This can be 10 – 15% and often replaces the need for a tip. Always check your bill to know what’s already included.

🍝 Tipping Rules by Restaurant Type

Tipping in Italy depends on where you eat:

At casual trattorias: Just round up the bill or leave a euro or two for great service.
In mid-range restaurants: A 5 -10% tip is polite if no service charge is included.
At fine dining spots: If service was excellent, a 10% tip in cash is a nice gesture.

💡 Quick Tipping Tips

Pay the tip in cash, even if you use a card for the bill.
Leave the tip on the table or hand it directly to your server.
Don’t stress – Italians don’t expect tips, so it’s always appreciated but never awkward.

✅ Final Word on How to Tip in Italian Restaurants

While Italians don’t tip like Americans, a small gratuity is a nice gesture for great service. Just keep it simple, local, and sincere. When in doubt – ask your hotel or guide for advice. We hope you found this blog useful on how to tip in Italian restaurants. You can also check out the official Italian tourist board website, Italia.it.

Also check out our other Italian related blogs, with these two being your most applicable:

Top 15 Italian Words to Order Food at a Restaurant Like a Local

Top 20 Must-Try Italian Dishes You’ve Never Heard Of

🇮🇹 Keep Exploring Italy’s Hidden Gems

Italy has so much more to offer than just great food – though that’s a pretty amazing place to start! Whether you’re planning your next trip or just dreaming of la dolce vita, these posts dive into even more authentic Italian experiences, travel tips, and regional secrets. Scroll through and get inspired for your next Italian adventure.

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Wondering how to tip in Italian restaurants? This guide explains what’s included, how much to tip, and how to handle it like a local - no awkward moments.

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28
May