First off, tipping in Italy is neither mandatory nor expected, but if you do decide to do so, the gesture is a very clear indicator that you appreciated the service provided.
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What is the rule for tipping in Italy? There is no strict rule about tipping in Italy. Leaving a tip is a courteous gesture that shows the person who provided a service to you, that you appreciated their help. As such, leaving a tip is entirely up to you and, in many cases, it will not be expected, albeit appreciated.
You're supposed to have the liberty (and luxury) of lingering at your table, finishing your wine, water and even ordering a coffee. So once you're ready to go, signal for the waiter and say, “Il conto, per favore.” The universal squiggly-finger-in-the-air hand signal will always work, too.
So, do you tip in Rome? To sum it up in one sentence: it is not expected to leave a tip in Rome but it is much appreciated. Servers and hospitality staff are paid adequately, without the need for tips. Tips do not make up the staff's wages like in the US, they are bonuses on top of this.
If you have availed a private and exclusive airport taxi like a limousine, tipping the driver about ten to fifteen percent of the total fare is considered to be acceptable. This ten to fifteen percent is generally variable depending upon your generosity and your thoughts on the services that you received.
It's better to leave nothing. Tipping a private driver in Italy depends on the quality of the service and the amount of time involved. If it's a short drive to the hotel, than tip like you would a taxi. If it's a full day's tour where you driver is also a guide, then 10% is good.
Tipping the housekeeping staff one euro per night is the custom in Italy. Leaving a tip every day ensures the gratuity gets to the person responsible for making the bed and bringing clean towels that day.
The short answer is yes. Drinking water from the tap in Italy is considered safe. Tap water in the major cities and towns around Italy is safe for consumption, and there are thousands of old-style water fountains dotted around cities, like Rome, where you can fill up water bottles.
For drivers spending the majority of the day with you, as is the case with a limo or moving between airports, hotels, and events, 10 to 15 percent of the total bill is custom. You may find drivers go above and beyond and provide extra service to ensure safety or comfort.
However, it's always kind to offer something to shuttle drivers. They work long hours driving frustrated travelers back and forth from parking to terminals. Rain or shine, heat or cold, they help people get where they need to be. An acceptable tipping standard for these drivers is one dollar per bag.
Remember that tipping is a personal decision and is not mandatory in Venice. Let's look at the local tipping customs. Venetians see tipping as optional. Most people consider good service a standard and leave a tip only if the service is exceptional.
Across the board, tipping is not expected in Italy, but it is appreciated. Tourist destinations like Florence have become accustomed to visitors tipping, so a service provider might ask if you would like to leave a tip before swiping your card. Don't feel pressured though!