Fees, Organizational Matters, and Opening Hours in South Tyrol

The local tax has a long history - introduced as a tax to be paid by the guest and directly benefiting the holiday destination. Its purpose is to promote local infrastructure, beautify places, and maintain attractions. A significant portion of the revenue goes towards organizing cultural and sports events.

The fee is staggered according to the category of the accommodation and is due upon arrival after filling out the guest form. It is the responsibility of the accommodation operator to forward the amount to the municipality. At the beginning of 2014, the local tax was also introduced in South Tyrol. It applies to every guest over 14 years old and is to be paid per night and per person.

The staggered rates are as follows:

In simpler accommodations such as 1 or 2-star hotels, as well as campsites, farms, hostels, and private rooms, the tax is 0.70 EUR.

3-star or 3S-rated establishments charge 1 EUR.

4-star, 4S, and 5-star hotels collect 1.30 EUR.

The local tax must be listed separately on the invoice, alongside the accommodation price.

Although the bank opening hours vary from bank to bank, the following guideline can be assumed: Monday to Friday from 08:30-13:00 and 14:30-16:30. In touristically developed areas, banks often have longer opening hours. Larger hotels, shops, and restaurants accept major credit cards (Visa, American Express, Diners Club, Master Card). ATMs are also easy to find.

If the guest is satisfied with the service provided, the staff appreciates tips. In South Tyrol, a guideline of 5 to 10% of the bill amount is recommended. Some restaurants already include a cover charge and service charge - if you encounter this arrangement, it is not necessary to give additional tips. In this case, the service charge will be listed separately on the invoice.

It is difficult to make a general statement about business opening hours. Typically, stores are open during the week (Monday to Friday) from 08:00/09:00-12:00 and 15:00-18:30/19:00. On Saturdays, there is the opportunity to shop from about 08:00/09:00-12:00, and in larger stores and grocery stores, additionally from 15:00-18:30/19:00.

Restaurants and in tourist areas are usually open every day. Lunch is served between 12:00 and 14:00, while dinner - as is customary in the Italian region - is served later: between 19:00 and 21:00.

A concentration of museums makes South Tyrol a culturally interesting holiday destination. However, expect that state museums are closed on Mondays. Private museums have their own regulations regarding opening hours regardless.