Ask About the Cost of a Table When Visiting Cafes Abroad
When you travel, there are a lot of fees to be aware of. If you are traveling in Italy or France, take a look at the table fees charged at many cafes if you want to sit down and relax a little. You can save on them by having a drink at the bar or choosing an indoor table instead of standing on the patio.
Compared to being at a bar, you usually get paid for a drink equal to the price of a seat. If you only order coffee or another drink, you can choose to stand up to save money and you will likely meet other visitors in the same way. Rick Steves notes that most cafes publish these prices when you enter, but if you’re not sure, ask the waiter if there is a fee to sit at the cafe tables before you sit down.
Enjoying European cafes and bars | Rick Steves