Customary Tipping Percentages
 

Hello! My daughter and I will be traveling in Italy the first couple of weeks in June. Can you please tell me what the average tipping percentage is for a private hired driver? Also, the percentage for housecleaners (maids) in our Hotel and Servers at restaurants?

Thank you!

Tipping does not follow the same rules as in the US. Depending on who you talk to it can be from nothing to a couple of spare euros - to a regular tip.

We give what we feel is appropriate - based on the service - but starting from about 10% versus the usual 20%. We always tip the hotel maids - since we are usually getting things from them - extra towels, clothes washed pick-up and delivery, etc.

google tipping rules for a given country and go from there.

From the American Church in Rome, Santa Susanna:

Il Conto, Per Favore. Getting the bill sometimes requires asking for it two or three times (Faccia il conto, per favore). Don't get upset -- remember you're on vacation. Breath deeply three times. Waiters can be very nice, but if they're busy, they can also be forgetful. If something's missing, ask for it. Most restaurants take credit cards, but check the door to make sure. A few only take cash. There's a small cover charge (for the bread, etc) and a tax. Tip LESS than you do in the states. About 5% to 10% unless you're in a real fancy place and the service is extraordinary, but even then, don't overdo it. However, please note that Fr. Greg tips 10 to 15% because he feels guilty and that the waiters have come to expect it from Americans! Also, please always Take Your Bill of Fare with you. Always.

http://www.santasusanna.org/visitorInfo/howDine.html

We usually tip 10% anywhere in Europe, including here in the UK. It's the accepted norm and unless you've had something or had service that was above and beyond (like getting the Heimlich maneouvre for that stuck olive), it's about right.