💳 MONEY & PAYMENTS

Cash is essential in Liguria — more so than in most parts of Italy. Sà Pesta, Trattoria da Maria, and many of the best small restaurants and konobas are cash only. Always have some on you

ATMs are widely available in Genoa, Santa Margherita, and La Spezia — less so in smaller villages and practically nonexistent in San Fruttuoso and on the smaller islands

Withdraw cash in the city before heading to the peninsula or the Cinque Terre villages — the ATMs in the villages exist but charge higher fees and run out of cash on busy summer weekends

Tipping in Italy is appreciated but not mandatory in the way it is in some countries — rounding up the bill or leaving a few euros for good service is the norm. 10-15% is generous and warmly received