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Tipping is not as customary in Italy and is not always expected, as it is in the U.S., however it is always a kind gesture and proper etiquette to leave "a little something extra" depending on the level of service you receive.

Here are some tipping guidelines for various services:

Restaurants and trattorias: Tipping varies throughout different parts of Italy. In smaller towns or villages, tips may generally be smaller or in some cases non-existent. For eating establishments in larger cities, tipping is more customary, but again not always expected as service staff are generally paid higher wages than in America. In most cases a service charge of 10-15% is included in your bill. If so, an additional tip is not necessary, however, if you feel as if your service was exceptionally good, an additional gratuity is at your discretion. If there is no service charge included in your bill, a standard gratuity of 10% is sufficient.

Bars: A small tip is a nice gesture and will surely gain you favor with your bartender. A standard tip would be about 1-2 euros for a round of drinks.

Hotels: In most hotels, service charges are already included in your bill but for bell staff, a standard tip of 2 euros per bag carried to your room is more than enough to give. For chambermaids, a standard tip of 1 euro per day is customary for a moderate hotel, 2-3 euros per day for a deluxe hotel. For room service staff, 2-2.50 euros is customary.

Railway and airport porters: Generally charge a fixed rate per bag.

Restroom attendants: Are usually located in more expensive hotels and restaurants and may receive 0.50 euro.

Taxi drivers: 1-2 euros, depending on length of journey.

Sightseeing guides: 2 euros per person for a half-day group tour. More for a longer or private tour.

Barbers and hairdressers: 1-2 euros for a barber. 2 to 4 euros for a stylized hairdresser.

Gondoliers in Venice: Gondola rides in Venice are indeed pricey. A tip, above and beyond the cost of your ride, is entirely at your discretion, depending on the quality of the journey. The knowledge the gondolier exhibits and if he educates you on certain points of interest and/or provides entertainment (singing) during your ride should factor into your decision making. An additional 5-10 euros is more than sufficient.