Do you flag down waiters in Italy?

They're not being rude. They're simply waiting for you to tell them you're ready to pay. How do you ask for the restaurant bill in Italy? You simply flag down your server and politely say: “Il conto per favore!” (the check please).



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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.

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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.

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If you ask locals “Do you tip in Italy?”, they'll explain that while they sometimes leave a small tip, it's generally not necessary. In Italy, gratuity (or una mancia, pronounced oo-nah MAN-chah) is considered a bonus for exceptional service. And it's not often that you'll find a tip jar at a register.

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Yes, you do also have to pay for bread. This is the “pane e coperto” charge — more on what that is in a moment. Yes, you do have to pay for that antipasto or foccacia, even if the waiter offered it rather than you ordering it outright. And yes, you have to pay for that digestivo of limoncello or amaro or grappa.

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Basic Etiquette
  1. It is common for Italian friends and families to kiss on the cheek when they meet, irrespective of their gender.
  2. Stand up out of respect when an older person enters the room.
  3. It is important to dress neatly and respectfully.
  4. Cover your mouth when yawning or sneezing.
  5. Hats should be removed indoors.


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Also: Italian waiters won't bring you the check until you ask for it. That's because meals are seen as social activities and it would be rude to rush you out while you're enjoying the company of family or friends.

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It's not at all customary in Italy. I often hear people say that it should be, that it's such a waste to leave things on your plate, but somehow it never passes from talk to action.

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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.

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This is especially true when it's time for the bill since it's considered disrespectful to bring up payment (and hint at the fact that you should free up the table). When you're ready to go, just wave at the waiter the universally recognized squiggly line of a signature – they'll be with you in moments!

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Basic Etiquette It is important to dress neatly and respectfully. Cover your mouth when yawning or sneezing. Hats should be removed indoors. It is impolite to remove one's shoes in front of others.

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What To Not Wear in Italy
  • Socks + Sandals. Socks and sandals are very common in the US to the point it's almost a fashion statement. ...
  • Shorts. Shorts are thought of us as too casual and not classy in the Italian eye. ...
  • Sweatpants. Sweatpants are an obvious one. ...
  • Tank Tops. ...
  • Flip Flops. ...
  • Athleisure. ...
  • Giant Hats.


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– The best shoes for Italy are the ones you can comfortably walk in. Sneakers are fine also in Italy, but again, maybe not in a fancy restaurant. So consider taking also some nice pair of shoes with you.

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