Tipping tour guides

If it is a single individual working for himself (or herself) and, therefore, collecting the whole fee, I am included not to tip. BUT, depending on the situation, have offered to buy lunch, coffee, beer, etc. If the guide is working for a company and assume that they are getting less than the fee, I would tip depending on the quality of the tour.

Thanks Frank, that was my initial inclination but I know tipping is cultural in many respects and wasn't sure of the European or Italian expectations.

See "Graffiti Wall > Money/Communication > Tipping Tips" for other good information

Thanks Charlie.

Checked out that section and it's sort of a mishmash of conflicting information. We've been told by locals that Italians don't tip and that the tips we left were "touristy". At a restaurant in Florence the waiter held up his hand at the proffered ten euro note saying in Italian that service was included. At a restaurant in Rome the waiter specifically asked for a tip since there was not spot on the Visa receipt for a tip. I've always left money or the dresser for hotel maids, and something for the breakfast room server though we haven't stayed in hotels in Italy the past few trips. At another Rome restaurant the waiter attempted to overcharge us and we didn't feel inclined to tip. In some places it says service included on the menu, but some people in the tipping thread claim that the owner gets that not the server. When you're being charged a premium for "table service" should you leave a tip?

We have hired Mr Monetti for a tour around the Amalfi coast. He's taking my family in his van. I was wondering, do we tip him at the end of our day?
Thanks, Julie

On a private tour tip at least 10-15%, or up to 25% depending on the knowledge of the tour guide, enjoyability, and extent of the tour. If you are part of a much larger group, your choice.

We certainly gave a tip to our guide Simon who took us for the 'Slow day in Tuscany', but that was only because of the exceptional service and care he put in to the day. For me it depends whether the person is really making an effort, and ensuring that you are not overlooked or forgotten.

Am considering a tour where there would be both a driver picking us up at train station, keeping luggage & taking us to Pompeii where we'd meet tour guide. Would we need to tip both? If so, what is the standard for the driver? Along the same line, what's the norm for taxis?

Thank you for your advice ;)