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How much to tip in europe | guide to tipping in europe by country.

A country-by-country guide to tipping and gratuity customs in Europe

Money & Budgeting

Tipping in Europe is confusing since each country has its unique tipping customs and culture. This guide to tipping in Europe will cover everything travelers need to know about gratuity and tipping in restaurants and bars throughout Europe to ensure you’re not paying too much (or too little) when dining out.

General Advice For Tipping In Europe

Contrary to popular belief, tipping is a thing in Europe but it’s rarely “expected” and the tipping amount is much less than in America. Even in countries where tipping is culturally common, there is very little consensus about what’s a “normal tip” and many Europeans never leave any tips.

Restaurants in Europe often include a “service fee” in the final bill so any additional tip would be for service that went above and beyond.

Remember, waitstaff doesn’t rely on their tips for their wage like they do in the US since they’re paid a living wage and everyone gets benefits like healthcare, paid vacation time, etc.

Don’t Be “Pressured” To Tip (Especially For Americans)

As Americans, we’re expected to tip 18%-22% basically every place we get food or drink (and the percentage seems to be inching up every year).

And we’ve brought this tipping culture with us as we travel to Europe so the waitstaff in many European restaurants see Americans as walking ATMs. Some waiters might even go out of their way to mention that the tip isn’t included in the bill—however, they’d never say this to a local because they’d get laughed at.

Here’s my rule: If I’m asked to tip, then I don’t tip.

So don’t ever feel pressured to tip.

Quick Tips On Tipping

A 10% tip in much of Europe is considered generous at most restaurants so anything more than that is excessive. It’s also very common to simply round up to the nearest whole number—like leaving €30 for a €27 meal or €25 for a €24 bill.

However, the tip percentage typically decreases on large restaurant bills. For example, if your final bill is €200 then you might only tip €10-€15 but if you loved everything then feel free to do the full 10%.

Cash tips are always preferred —even when you pay with a credit card (the restaurant owners sometimes don’t give out tips that are paid via card).

But if you don’t have cash for a tip then you can always tip with your card.

If you want to tip with your card then you have to tell the waiter the amount you want him/her to charge you and they’ll key that amount into their credit card machine. Most restaurants in Europe don’t give you a receipt to sign—you simply get your card charged so you have to tell them the full amount upfront.

For example, if the bill is €23 you would tell the waiter to charge you €25 if you wanted to leave a €2 tip. Sometimes you’ll be handed the credit card machine to input your own tip amount but that’s still not widely done.

Restaurant Tipping Customs In Europe By Country

Each country in Europe has its own tipping culture so keep reading below for country-specific advice.

Tipping In Austria

Assuming there isn’t a service charge already added to your bill, most Austrians tip around 5%-15% with 10% being perfectly acceptable. On cheaper meals, you should just round up to the next euro amount (or just add an extra euro).

For example, a common tip for small bills (less than €100) is around 5-10% with a focus on rounding to the next “flat” amount. It’s standard to tip 10%+ in higher-end restaurants where the service is expected to be better or if you’re dining with a larger group.

Tipping In Belgium

There isn’t a huge tipping culture in Belgium but it’s fairly common to round up to the next even amount when paying the bill with cash. Some people might add 5-10% if they liked the service or throw an extra €1-€2 to the bartender at the end of the night (not per drink).

Tipping In The Czech Republic

Many restaurants in tourist-heavy parts of town will include an 8%-10% service fee to the bill so an extra tip isn’t expected but many people still round up to the next even amount.

If there isn’t a service fee, then a 5%-10% tip is fairly standard if you thought the service was good. It’s also common to simply round up to the next logical whole number—so rounding your 55czk coffee to 60czk or a 275czk lunch would be rounded up to 300czk.

Tipping In England

Many restaurants in England automatically add around a 12%-15% service charge to the bill so tipping isn’t necessary or expected in those cases. Otherwise, a 10% is always appreciated.

Tipping bartenders isn’t expected but it’s common for locals to “buy” their bartender a drink if they’re having multiple rounds. Again, this isn’t a tip for every drink kind of thing.

Tipping In France

Waitstaff in France are paid a living wage so virtually every restaurant in France will include a 15% service fee into the final bill. If you had great service, you can round up to the next full euro amount but it is completely optional.

Don’t be surprised if you’re asked or prompted for a tip at touristy restaurants but there is zero obligation to pay extra since waitstaff only asks tourists for tips.

Tipping In Germany

In Germany, the service charge is included in the final restaurant bill but a 5%-10% tip or rounding up is customary.

Fun fact, tipping is called Trinkgeld in Germany—which translates to “drinking money“. So again, it shows that waitstaff in Germany doesn’t rely on tips as part of their wage… it’s just a nice little extra.

Tipping in Greece

The service fee is built into the price so tipping at restaurants isn’t expected in Greece. But many people still either round up or leave €1-€2 (maybe a little more if it’s a large meal).

Tipping in Hungry

Restaurants in Hungry often include a 10-15% service fee in the final bill so you’re not expected to tip extra. However, it’s customary to either round up or do a max tip of 10%.

Tipping In Ireland

Many restaurants in Ireland add the service fee into the final bill so there is no need to add anything extra. But if you had excellent service then a 10% tip is plenty. You typically don’t tip a bartender unless they’re bringing drinks to your table but a euro or two at the end of the night is appreciated.

Tipping in Italy

Expect to see a service charge of 10%-15% automatically added to your final bill so don’t feel like you need to add anything extra. Rounding up a couple of euros is always appreciated (never more than 10%) but it’s never expected.

Tipping In The Netherlands

Restaurants usually add ~10% to the bill as a service but it’s fairly common to tip 5%-10% for good service. Rounding up the bill in bars is fairly common but again none of this is expected.

Tipping In Poland

There isn’t a big tipping culture in Poland but leaving a little extra for the waiter (in cash) is always appreciated.

Tipping In The Portugal

Some restaurants might automatically add a small service fee but there isn’t a normal “percentage” people typically tip. It’s most common to round up the bill or leave €1-€3 for your meal.

Tipping In Scandinavian Countries (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden)

Tipping isn’t expected in Scandinavian countries but many locals will round up to the nearest whole banknote if they’re paying cash. Some might tip if they’re very happy with the service but 10% would be considered very generous.

Tipping In Scotland

Many restaurants in Scotland add a 10%-12% service charge so an extra tip isn’t expected. Many locals tip around 10% in a restaurant with table service but by no means is it required—especially if there’s a service fee automatically added.

Tipping In Spain

There isn’t much of a tipping culture in Spain so there is no expectation of a tip. It’s common to round up to the nearest whole Euro (i.e. tip €2 on a €48 bill) or leave €1-€2 in coins but many locals don’t tip anything.

Tipping In Switzerland

Most restaurant bills have a small service charge included but leaving a small tip of 5-10% is fairly common in restaurants.

More Ways To Save Money While Visiting Europe

I’m all about finding ways to save money while traveling around Europe so here are a few articles I’ve written to help you save some cash:

• How Much It Costs To Backpack Europe
• How Much It Costs To Travel Europe
• Estimating Your Daily Costs for European Travel
• Using Money In Europe: ATMs, Credit Cards, Debit Cards, Exchange Rates
• Money Savings Tips for Budget Travel in Europe
• How to Eat and Drink on a Budget While Traveling in Europe
• How To Buy A Cheap Data Plan For Europe
• Guide To Cheap eSIM Data Plans in Europe
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The Ultimate Guide to Tipping in Europe

Leaving a tip in europe is, of course, a whole different ballgame than in the united states. here’s what you need to know about how to show your appreciation for good service in restaurants and hotels across the continent..

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In Europe, knowing when (and where) tipping is customary can be a perennial conundrum for visitors.

Photo by charnsitr/Shutterstock

In Europe , leaving a tip is still considered a bonus for great service, as opposed to an integral part of someone’s livelihood, as it is in the United States. For the most part, people working in Europe’s hospitality industry are either salaried or paid minimum wage (or more) and don’t depend directly on customers’ tips for a large part of their income. That said, tips are certainly widespread and widely appreciated by staff.

While tipping etiquette in restaurants and hotels varies somewhat by country, these are a few simple rules that will serve you well almost anywhere in Europe. Here’s when, and how much, to tip in Europe.

Make sure the tip isn’t already included

In countries around Europe, you’ll often find that a 10 to 15 percent service charge is included in your bill. If this is the case, you’re not expected to pay an additional 10 percent, although you should tip at least a few extra euros on top of the bill.

Always tip in cash

Even if you pay your bill with a credit card, you should always have some smaller bills in the local currency to leave a tip in cash. If you’re out of euros and dollars are your only option, at least give bills, not coins.

Try to hand the tip directly to the person who served you

In restaurants , it’s preferred that you give your tip to the server when you pay the bill instead of leaving it on the table (when possible). In hotels, you should hand cash to porters, concierges, and cleaning staff when they help you, not at the end of your stay. The same goes for local tour guides—give a cash tip at the end of your excursion instead of adding an increase to the overall price that the company charges.

Skip the tip if service is bad

Unlike in the United States, where leaving a small tip for bad service can feel mean, skipping the tip when you’re unhappy is perfectly acceptable in Europe. This is because, again, hotel and restaurant employees make at least minimum wage and are often salaried, so you aren’t causing them undue financial hardship by shorting them a tip.

When in doubt, tip 10 percent

If you’re not sure how much or how little to tip, go with the 10 percent rule. In most places across Europe, a 10 percent tip is considered fair or even generous and won’t offend.

How to tip in European restaurants and bars

At restaurants in Europe, check the menu to see if service is included. If it isn’t, a 5 to 10 percent tip is normal.

Photo by Shutterstock

Round up for drinks

If you’re not eating, and just buying a beverage, a formal 10 percent tip isn’t generally necessary. If the service is good and you’re pleased with what you ordered, rounding up to the nearest euro or adding a euro on top of the bill is pretty standard.

Don’t tip for self-service

Anywhere you go to the counter, the buffet, or serve yourself, no tip is expected.

Leave a couple of euros for informal fare

In fast-casual restaurants where your food or drink is brought to the table, tip a few euros per person in addition to the bill.

Add 5 to 10 percent for formal dining

This applies at restaurants where a service fee is already included in the bill. If there’s no set charge and you’re pleased with the service, add 15 percent to your total for an appropriate tip.

Tipping in hotels

It’s common to leave a small tip in some circumstances.

Follow the one-euro rule

A good rule of thumb for tipping in Europe is to give at least one euro (or the equivalent in local currency) per service. For example, pay one euro per bag carried up to your room by a bellhop or porter, one euro per day for housekeeping, and one euro per day for breakfast staff. If you’re staying in a five-star hotel, you may want to bump your base rate up to at least two euros, but it’s up to you.

Reward your concierge accordingly

Sometimes these folks are lifesavers, particularly when it comes to wrangling hard to get reservations and tickets. So if a concierge helps you a lot, tip the equivalent of $5, $10, and up—depending on what you feel the service was worth.

Do you tip taxis in Europe?

It is customary to round up to the nearest euro when tipping taxi drivers in Europe.

Photo by Wesley Guijt/Shutterstock

Cab drivers in Europe don’t expect much in the way of a tip, although many will take their time handing back change to encourage one. Perhaps in part because of this (and the hassle of carting around so many coins), most locals will round up to the nearest euro on top of the metered fare for short jaunts. For longer hauls and airport runs, round up to the nearest five to 10 euros. Feel free to add a few extra euros for any exceptional service or heavy bag handling. Just remember: If the service is poor or the driver took the long way round on purpose, you’re well within your rights to skip the tip.

Country-specific rules to consider

Make sure you stick to the one-euro rule in hotels. Whole euros only, please!

Courtesy of Pexels

Beyond the general rules about tipping in Europe, there are also a few destination-specific rules travelers should watch out for.

Read our country-specific tipping guides:

No tips, please: Scandinavia and Iceland

In Denmark, Norway , Sweden , Finland, and Iceland, service charges are typically built into prices and employee wages. Round up to the nearest euro when you pay for services if you’d like, but beyond that, you don’t need to tip anything in restaurants or hotels. It’s not customary or necessary. In fact, in Iceland, no professions are tipped as a matter of course (or at least not in the sense of a separate quantity on top of the agreed-upon price for a service).

Spend more, tip less: Greece

In Greece, it’s typical to leave a larger tip (percentage wise) on a smaller bill, and a smaller tip on a more expensive meal.

Name your total: Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and the Czech Republic

In these countries, locals don’t wait for change from the bill to leave a tip. Instead, they tell the server the total they’d like to be charged, including the tip, when handing them the money. For example, if the bill is 22 and some change, handing a server 30 euros, and telling them 25 euros ( please ) will mean your server brings you back five euros in change and pockets the difference. Travelers should also note that in Switzerland, all service charges are already included in the listed price by law, so anything more than rounding up slightly is unnecessary.

Pay for your bags with a smile: Ireland and Scotland

At most hotels in Ireland and Scotland, the porter will cart your bag up to your room for you, but won’t take cash or coins. If this is the case, just accept the free luggage transfer with big thanks and a smile.

No cash for housekeeping: England

English friends have told us repeatedly not to tip cleaning staff at hotels —it’s not expected and they’d like to keep it that way. Brits would also like us to stop tipping in pubs, too.

This article originally appeared online in 2018; it was updated on March 7, 2019, to include current information.

>>Next: How to Order Coffee Correctly in Europe (and Get What You Actually Want)

Our Guide to Tipping in Europe

By: Author Terri Fogarty

Tipping in Europe – What You Need to Know

Traveling to Europe should be an adventure, but trying to figure out the tipping rules for each country can be a headache. Here is our quick guide to the ins and outs of tipping in Europe.

Tipping in Austria

At restaurants in Austria you should round up the bill, or tip 5-10%. Tip in cash, handing the tip directly to the server, or tell the server how much the bill should be (including tip) before he or she makes change. For instance, if the bill is 52 Euros and you give the server 60 euros, tell the server “8 euros”

Hotels: Tip porters € 1 per bag and leave a similar amount for the chambermaid each day. Taxis: Tip 10%, or round up to a higher amount on short trips. Lavatory attendants : € .50. Gas-station attendants : € 1 if the attendant fills your tank, washes the windshield, etc. Railroad and airport porters : Tip € .50 per bag in addition to the official fee. Sightseeing-tour guides : €1 at the end of the tour, or more for a longer tour or if you were especially pleased with the guide’s services.

Tipping in France

Tipping in France is not compulsory but is recommended. The bill in restaurants and cafés usually includes a 15 percent tip. It is referred to “service compris .” However, it is customary to leave some small change unless you are dissatisfied. If the service is not included in the price, “ service non compris, ” a 15 percent tip is customary. However, in chic restaurants, leave a generous tip.

Hotels : €1.50 for room service and €1-€1.50 per bag to porters. Taxi drivers : About 10 percent of the metered charge.

Tipping in Germany

In Germany , tipping is not compulsory, but it is typical to “round up” the amount to an even figure. A rule of thumb is to add 3-5%, generally ending with a full Euro amount. German waiters and waitresses are paid a salary and do not live off of tips as do their American counterparts but it never hurts to be generous.

Be sure to ask for your check; they will not present a bill until asked. And, do not leave the tip on the table; give it to your waiter when you pay.

Hotels: Tip porters € 1 per bag. Taxis: Tip 10%, or round up to a higher amount on short trips. Lavatory attendants : € 1 to 0.50. Gas-station attendants : € 1 if the attendant fills your tank, washes the windshield, etc. Railroad and airport porters : Tip € .50 per bag in addition to the official fee. Sightseeing-tour guides : €1 at the end of the tour, or more for a longer tour or if you were especially pleased with the guide’s services.

Tipping in Italy

In most restaurants in Italy , you may find both “ il coperto ” and “ servizio incluso ” written on the menu. “Il coperto” is the cover charge, which is generally one or two Euro, and which takes care of things like bread before the meal and a glass of tap water. “ Servizio incluso ” means that service is included, meaning they’ve already figured in a tip for you – it’s usually around 15% – so the total due on your final bill is all you’ll owe. If the service has been particularly outstanding or you’ve had a great experience, you can compliment the waiter by rounding up or leaving a couple Euro on the table.

Tipping after a meal is only done if you don’t see “ servizio incluso ” on the menu, or you specifically see “ servizio non incluso ” (service not included). In those situations, a 10% tip is fine, left in cash on the table or handed right to your waiter.

Tipping in the Netherlands

In The Netherlands , Value Added Tax and service charges are included in your check-in hotels, shops, and taxis. Unlike in the US, this is even the case for your restaurant check. Tips for extra service are always appreciated but not necessary.

It is customary to give taxi drivers and waiters a tip of about 10 percent. Many public restrooms have an attendant who is usually tipped EUR 0.50.

Tipping in Spain

In every single establishment in Spain, service is included with the price of the meal or drink. However, tipping is a common practice at bars and restaurants, hotels , and taxis, depending on the total price for the service, and on the generosity of the client. It is usually around five to ten percent of the total price.

Tipping in Switzerland

At Restaurants, a service charge is built into menu prices. However, it is customary to round up amounts when paying the waiter or waitress if you’re happy with the service. This means that you might hand the server CHF 50 for a CHF 47 meal. If you’re paying by credit card, hand the server a cash tip of up to 5%.

Hotels : Tip CHF 1-2 for each bag carried or service rendered, depending on the class of your hotel. Consider leaving CHF 1 per day for the hotel maid. In a resort hotel, you might want to leave a tip with the manager for dividing among the staff. (The amount will vary according to the length of your stay, the price of the accommodations, and your own generosity.)

Taxis: A service charge is included in Zürich cab fares; it may not be in other parts of the country. And as in restaurants, round up or add 5% when you’re happy with the service.

Tipping in the United Kingdom

Tipping is generally un-necessary in the UK, but if you feel the service was good and you want to show your appreciation, you certainly may.

Hotels : Most hotel bills include a service charge, usually 10-12%. For rooms, you can leave an optional amount to room staff. Restaurants : Many restaurant bills include a service charge; make sure you check the bill to avoid tipping twice. Where a service charge is not included, it is customary to leave a tip of 10-15% of the bill. Some restaurants now include a suggested tip in the bill total. Taxis : 10-15% of the fare Porterage : discretionary

Bottom Line – Tipping in Europe

The rule of thumb of tipping in Europe is to simply round up. If you are happy with the service, a tip of 5% is good and a tip of 10% is generous.

Tipping in Europe – What you need to know was Written by Terri Fogarty for EuropeUpClose.com

Wednesday 8th of June 2016

This is perfect. I traveled across Europe when I was younger and this would have been really helpful to understand. Thanks so much fro sharing this!

Monday 10th of August 2015

It's important to know how to tip and get around in Europe. You don't want to be ignorant of what you are supposed to be tipping, and it's important to know how the taxi system may differ. That way you can be prepared for whatever happens.

Tips on Tipping in England

Tuesday 25th of November 2014

[…] Click here for practical information on tipping in Europe […]

Sunday 17th of June 2012

This article contains a lot mistakes. In all of the EU there is almost certainly no extra charge for tipping. It is almost always included in the total bill. Europe is not America. No waiter or waitress lives on tips. So don't give them any. Only of you really want to but there is no obligation whenever it comes to tipping.

europeupclose

Thursday 21st of June 2012

Hi Navros, I think you will see that I said that in most cases the tip is included in the payment. But, most people round off the bill to include a small extra tip. There is never an obligation to tip, it is just a way to reward good service. 

Monday 14th of May 2012

I remember that in Italy it was very similar to the U.S. in terms of what we tipped for good service. 

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Matador Original Series

The ultimate guide to tipping in every european country.

T ipping in Europe is nothing like tipping in the US. While it may be hard for regular American tippers to leave a table or bar without tacking on an additional 15 to 20 percent for the waitstaff, restaurants and hotels generally already include a 10 to 15 percent service fee in Europe.

Most countries in Europe pay the staff minimum wage at the least. Don’t feel guilted into tipping on bad service, and don’t tip if the place is self-service. However, different countries have different customs when it comes to restaurants, bars, taxis, and hotels. This tipping guide to every country in the European Union will help you out wherever you are.

Quick tip: Tip in cash, and give the tip directly to the person you intend it for. Well, you should probably do this everywhere in the whole world.

Restaurants and bars: A standard service charge is usually listed on the bill, so check for that first and leave 10 to 15 percent. Round up and leave the change when paying cash.

Taxis: 10 percent

Hotels: one euro per bag for porters

Restaurants and bars: Service charge included in your bill, no need to tip.

Taxis: Not required, but you can round up to the nearest euro and let the driver keep the change.

Hotels: Service charge included in your bill, no need to tip.

Restaurants and bars: Tip 10 percent or less in restaurants and a couple Bulgarian levs per order of drinks.

Taxis: Round up and let the driver keep the change.

Hotels: Tip porters one to two Bulgarian levs per bag and leave the same for housekeeping.

Restaurants and bars: Service charge usually included in your bill at restaurants, so no need to tip. If the service is good, tip up to 10 percent. In bars, rounding up and letting the bartender keep the change is sufficient.

Taxis: Service charge included in your bill, no need to tip.

Hotels: Tip porters up to 10 Croatian kunas per bag.

Restaurants and bars: Service is usually included, but it’s customary to round up or leave 10 percent for exceptional service. Don’t tip at bars.

Taxis: Round up and leave change as a tip.

Hotels: Tip porters €1 to €2 per bag, and leave the same for housekeeping.

Czech Republic

Restaurants and bars: Leave a 10 to 15 percent tip at restaurants. Round up after a round of drinks at the bar, and let the bartender keep the change.

Hotels: Tip around 40 Czech korunas per bag the porter carries for you.

Restaurants and bars: Restaurants include service charge, so no need to tip. It’s fine to tip up to 10 percent at nicer restaurants for exceptional service. Round up and leave the change as a tip at bars.

Hotels: Porters receive around five Kroners per bag they carry for you.

Restaurants and bars: Not required and a tip usually isn’t included on the bill. For nicer places and good service, leave five to 10 percent. No need to tip in bars or self-service places.

Taxis: Tip up to 10 percent.

Hotels: Tip €1 per bag the porter carries.

Restaurants and bars: Service is included in restaurant bills, but it’s not unheard of to tip five to 10 percent for good service at restaurants. Round up and leave change for bartenders.

Taxis: No need to tip.

Hotels: No need to tip.

Restaurants and bars: Round up for smaller meals at restaurants, and five to 10 percent at nicer restaurants (check for a service charge that’s normally included on the bill). Tip €1 to €5 per round of drinks at the bar, depending on the drink ordered and how many drinks ordered.

Taxis: Tip 10 percent.

Hotels: Tip room service and porters €1 to €2, and leave the same for housekeeping.

Restaurants and bars: Service charge included in restaurant bills, but an additional five to 10 percent is normally added (just keep things to the nearest euro). Rather than bringing back change, the wait staff will tell you your total and you tell them how much you want to pay including tip. They’ll bring back the correct change based on how much you stated as your total.

Taxis: Typical to tip five to 10 percent.

Hotels: Porters get around €1 a bag and leave €1 to €2 for housekeeping.

Restaurants and bars: Service included in your bill and is often listed on the menu, but leave the change as an additional tip when paying with cash. The included service charge can be higher during the holiday season.

Taxis: No tip necessary.

Hotels: Tip porters €1 per bag.

Restaurants and bars: Tip 10 to 15 percent of the bill at both restaurants and bars.

Taxis: Tip around 10 percent on the price of the ride.

Hotels: Tip around 500 Hungarian forints if a porter carries your bag.

Restaurants and bars: Service charge is generally listed on restaurant bills, but add on 10 to 15 percent if not. Tip €1 to €2 if you order more than a single drink at bars.

Taxis: Round up and leave the change as a tip, or up to 10 percent if the driver provided extra service.

Hotels: Tip porters €1 a bag they carry for you and leave €2 a night for housekeeping.

Restaurants and bars: Service charge included at restaurants and bars. If not, leave 10 to 15 percent tip. Round up and leave the change as a tip at bars.

Hotels: Tip porters and doormen a couple euros per bag, and leave €1 for housekeeping a night.

Restaurants and bars: Service is usually included in the bill. If not, tip around 10 percent. Tip the same at bars for table service but not if you ordered a drink at the bar.

Taxis: Not obligatory, but can add up to 10 percent.

Hotels: Tip €1 euro per bag the porter carries for you.

Restaurants and bars: Tip up to 10 percent at nicer restaurants. Don’t tip at bars.

Hotels: No tip necessary, but fine to give a small amount to porters if they’re especially helpful.

Restaurants and bars: Service charge included on the bill. Add up to an additional 10 percent for good service. Round up and leave the change as a tip at bars.

Restaurants and bars: Service usually included on the bill. If not, tip five to 10 percent. Don’t tip at bars unless it’s table service, in which case tip five percent.

Hotels: Tip porters and housekeepers €2 to €3.

Netherlands

Restaurants and bars: Service charge included in the meal, but you can leave up to 10 percent if you were especially pleased. Round up to the nearest euro at bars.

Taxis: Round up to the nearest euro and leave the change as a tip.

Hotels: Tip porters €1 to €2 per bag.

Restaurants and bars: Tip around 10 to 15 percent at restaurants.

Hotels: No tip necessary.

Restaurants and bars: Service is generally included in the bill at restaurants, but add 10 percent if not. At bars, leave €1 or €2 for good service.

Taxis: Round to the nearest €5.

Hotels: Tip €1 to €2 per bag the porter carries.

Restaurants and bars: Tip 5]five to 15 percent at restaurants depending on the service, and five to 15 percent at bars depending on the quality of the bar and drinks.

Hotels: Tip two to four Romanian leu for porters and housekeepers.

Restaurants and bars: Leave 10 to 15 percent tip at restaurants and bars if it’s not already included on the bill.

Hotels: Tip €1 euro to porters and housekeeping.

Restaurants and bars: A service charge is generally included in the bill, but leave 10 to 15 percent tip if not. Don’t tip at bars.

Hotels: Tip porters and housekeeping €1.

Restaurants and bars: Tip five to 10 percent at restaurants and round up. Leave the change as a tip after a round at bars for drinks and tapas.

Taxis: Tip 10 percent of the total fare. Rides from the airport may automatically include the tip as a fee.

Hotels: Tip porters, room service, and doormen around €1.

Restaurants and bars: Service charge included in the bill at restaurants, so no need to tip. Can leave up to 10 percent if service was exceptional. At bars, round up and leave the change as a tip.

Taxis: Round up and leave the change as a tip.

Hotels: No tip required.

Switzerland

Restaurants and bars: No need to tip, all service charges are included.

Taxis: Add up to five percent.

Hotels: Add one to two Swiss francs per bag a porter carries for you.

United Kingdom

Restaurants and bars: Don’t tip when you order your food at the counter. Service charge is automatically added at some sit-down restaurants, but leave 10 to 15 percent if not. Don’t tip at bars.

Taxis: Round up to the nearest pound and leave the change.

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Tipping etiquette in Europe

There are big differences in tipping etiquette between European countries. Tipping in Italy is different than it is Belgium , Czech Republic and so on.

The list below contains tipping guides for (at the moment) 48 European countries and is based on over 120 sources, including TripAdvisor forums, Business Insider, Conde Nast Traveler and the websites of the official tourism boards. If you do feel something is off for a certain country, let me know and I'll make a note of it for a future update.

Countries that are on the border of Europe and Asia can be found both here and on the tipping in Asia page.

For what concerns tipping hotel staff, the tips mostly apply top mid-range to higher end hotels. No need to tip a bellboy if there isn't one :-)  

Pick a country or simply scroll down to see them all.

Cyprus (Republic)

Czech republic, liechtenstein, netherlands, switzerland, united kingdom, vatican city.

(Not tipping etiquette in Europe you're looking for? Check out tipping etiquette around the world for the continent of your choice.)  

As with most European countries, tipping is not obligatory in Albania, although it is gratefully received. Giving a tip for good service will make the staff happy but it is perfectly fine not to leave anything.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: It’s a common practice to round up the bill at restaurants. You may tip 5 to 10% of the bill if you are particularly impressed. At bars, tipping is not necessary but if someone takes your order, you may give them a tip of 5 to 10%. Tipping tour guides: For guides, the normal tip amount is 10% of the price of the tour. Tipping taxi drivers: Tipping taxi drivers is even less common, unless they assist you with your luggage or give useful information on how to get around the place. Rounding up the fare is already generous. Tipping hotel staff: Giving tips to hotel cleaning and concierge staff is appreciated, especially if they made your stay more pleasant. Around 100-200 lek is enough. Good to know: Albanians want to treat their guests special, so they may tell you that it’s not necessary to tip.  

Andorrans generally love a good tip, but giving one is entirely optional.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: A service charge is usually added to restaurant bills, but you may tip an additional 10%. At pubs, you may leave some loose change for the barman. Tipping tour guides: For guides, a few Euros at the end of the tour will be appreciated. Tipping taxi drivers: Taxi drivers expect a tip of around 10% of the total fare. Tipping hotel staff: Doormen and bellhops may be given €1.25 to €2.50, while washroom staff may be given €.50 to €1.50. Good to know: It's a general rule to tip in cash and not with a credit card, otherwise the staff may not receive it.  

Tipping customs are relatively new in Armenia since it was unusual to give tips during the Soviet era. Now, tipping is becoming increasingly common especially in the capital city of Yerevan, although people may still think you forgot your money when you leave a tip on the table.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: Anything from 5 to 20 percent tip may be given to cafes and restaurants in Yerevan. Sometimes, a service charge is already added on top of the bill. Outside of the capital, tipping is less common especially in small establishments. Tipping tour guides: If you're with a group, a reasonable tip is around $50 to $60, split between your driver and tour guide. A slightly larger amount may be given if you're on a private tour. Tipping taxi drivers: If you are satisfied with your taxi drivers or if they drove you for a long distance, it’s only appropriate to give a tip. Normally, the fare is round up to the nearest whole amount. Tipping hotel staff: Hotel bellhops and doormen may also be tipped. Good to know: Many service personnel in Armenia are underpaid and rely on tips for their income.  

Tipping at restaurants and bars: Often there is a service fee of around 12.5% added to restaurant bills, but it's normal to round up the total amount. You can also give a gratuity of 5 to 10% for good service. Bartenders expect a rounded-up tip, particularly if they serve at your table. Tipping tour guides: You can give €1 to €2 at the end of the tour, or more if you are satisfied with the guide's services. Tipping taxi drivers: While drivers won’t mind if you don’t tip them, you may give an extra 10% or round up the fare. Tipping hotel staff: Hotels in Austria typically have a service charge, so tips are not necessary. However, you may give porters €1 to €2 per bag and the same amount to the hotel maid each day. Good to know: The tipping practice at Austria can be confusing for tourists. Customers typically pay for their orders and tip the waiter individually. Do not leave the tip on the table; instead give it to the waiter as you pay the bill. Tell the waiter the exact amount you’ll pay including the tip. For instance, if it is €32, you can say “35” and hand €40. An easier way is to simply give a rounded up amount and say “danke” (thank you) which means you don't need the change.  

Commodities and services are relatively expensive in Azerbaijan, particularly in Boku. Tipping is an unusual practice. However if you find the service above average, tipping is acceptable.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: For many restaurants, a service charge is already included in the bill. If there's no charge included, you may tip 10% of the total amount. Tipping tour guides: You may tip the tour guide an amount of AZN 5 or whatever you’re comfortable giving. Tipping taxi drivers: For London-style cabs with counters, it's a polite gesture to round up the fare. For taxis where you negotiate the fare with the driver, that amount should be enough. Tipping hotel staff: Depending on the luggage, hotel porters can be tipped 5 to 10 manats.  

Tipping at restaurants and bars: Tipping at restaurants is not common since a 10 to 15% service charge is normally added to the bill. You are free to leave tips, but do not overdo it. A couple of Euros should suffice. In cafes, you may leave some change on the table or counter. As for bars, you may forgo the tip, or just round up the bill. Tipping tour guides: Tours in Belgium already include the service fee. If you feel like tipping, a few Euros at the end of the tour should suffice. Tipping taxi drivers: Taxis do not expect tips. If the driver helped you with your bags or gave recommendations, you may tip up to 5% or simply round up the fare. Tipping hotel staff: As with any other service, hotel accommodations already include a service charge. You may tip the bellman with a few Euros if you like. Tipping the housekeeping staff, however, is not customary. Good to know: It is said that tipping is more common in Wallonia, the French-speaking southern part of Belgium compared to Flanders, the Dutch-speaking northern region.  

Tipping is very welcome in Bulgaria . It has become a custom particularly in large cities like Varna and Bourgas.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: Service staff in Bulgaria highly depend on tips to make up for their low salary. A tip amount of 10% is appropriate and never let the amount fall below 5%. If you receive excellent service, you should tip even more. For bartenders, give a tip of 1 to 2 lev. You may also just round up the bill or not wait for your change. Tipping tour guides: In the tourism industry, tipping is very common. Guides are usually given a tip of 5 to 10% the price of the tour. Do not give them coins though, as this may insult them. Tipping taxi drivers: To tip taxi drivers, you can simply round up the fare to the nearest 50 stotinki or 1 lev. If you particularly liked the service, you can add an extra lev. Tipping hotel staff: Hotels do not have a service fee, so tipping is expected. Tip porters and bellhops 2 lev per bag. For housekeeping staff, you may give 1.5 lev per day. Tipping doormen and concierge staff is optional. Good to know: Many Bulgarian drivers do not fill their own fuel at gas stations, so it is customary to give loose change to the station attendants.  

Tipping etiquette is not a big deal among locals in Croatia , but that doesn’t mean that tips are not appreciated. The amount of your tip reflects your satisfaction from the quality of service. However, no one obliges you to leave a tip if the service is subpar.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: Around 10 to 15% is the norm, but you can always tip more if you enjoyed your meal. Croatian service staff generally have low wages, and every additional kuna counts. Locals do not tip at bars, so it's okay to skip it. If you're in a big group or at a luxury bar where table service is usual, you may round up the bill or add a few kunas. Tipping tour guides: Tips comprise a large amount of a tour guide's income. Around 10 to 15 kunas per person is appropriate. There is no standard amount and it still depends on the caliber of service. Tipping taxi drivers: Croatian taxis typically have a meter, and drivers don’t expect you to tip. You can, however, round the fare a couple of kunas up and tell the driver to keep the change. Tipping hotel staff: For porters, 10 to 20 kuna per bag is appropriate. The same amount may be given to the hotel cleaning staff each day. Good to know: Croatian tipping culture is entirely arbitrary. Tips are often seen as tokens of appreciation and are welcomed with grace.  

The tipping culture in Cyprus is not very prevalent, but there are some exceptions.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: Tipping in restaurants is entirely up to you. The most common tipping custom is to simply round up the bill, but you can leave a larger amount of around 10% for excellent service. No tip is expected in pubs and bars. Tipping tour guides: Tipping guides is optional, although an additional 10% of the tour price will be appreciated. Tipping taxi drivers: No need to tip taxi drivers. However, feel free to round up the fare. Tipping hotel staff: For porters, 1 to 2 euros per suitcase should suffice. Hotel housekeeping will not expect tips, but you may give any amount between 2 to 4 euros. Good to know: It may be uncommon for Cypriots to tip taxi drivers, but they are known to give delivery guys an extra 1 to 2 euros. It's out of sympathy for those who have to ride a scooter under the rain or on a hot day to deliver food.  

Tipping at restaurants and bars: Like in many other places in the world, the usual deal is a 5 to 10% tip for good service. Don't feel obliged to tip if you didn’t like the service. Tipping tour guides: You may give a tip of $15 to $20 per person per day if you’re satisfied. Tipping taxi drivers: If you agreed on a fixed fare beforehand, do not tip anymore. Otherwise, you can round up the bill. Tipping hotel staff: The acceptable tip for hotel porters is around 40 CZK. Good to know: Some Prague restaurants put up signs stating “service is not included”, but that does not mean you are required to tip. By Czech Law, service is always included in the bill, only tips are not. It's a way to persuade customers to always leave tips.  

Locals in Denmark are not used to tipping. Under the Danish law, service charge (including gratuities) is already included in the bill.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: No need to tip. The bill already includes a service charge, and the staff are compensated well. This applies to both bars and restaurants. However, it is not frowned upon if you want to reward exemplary service. Tipping tour guides: No need to tip because the cost of your tour already includes it. Tipping taxi drivers: Cab drivers do not expect tip. You're welcome to round up the fare by a few kroner if you like. Tipping hotel staff: The no-tipping tradition also applies to hotel staff. The cost of your accommodation already includes service. Good to know: Salaries in the service industry of Denmark are generally higher than that of other countries. This may explain why Denmark is also expensive for tourists. It’s perfectly fine not to tip.  

Tipping is uncommon in Estonia until just a few years ago. Tourists who visit Estonia usually have tipping habits from their own culture, which the locals adopted.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: Some restaurants are now including service in their bills, so check it first. Although most locals do not tip during meals, you may leave around 5 to 10% if you dine in a nice hotel or restaurant. Tipping tour guides: Tip the guide €8 for a half-day tour and €16 for a whole-day tour. Tipping taxi drivers: Taxi drivers expect around 10% tip, although you are not obliged to. You may also round up the fare. Tipping hotel staff: Tip porters €1 per luggage. If the concierge staff goes out of his way to serve you, consider giving €5. Good to know: Expat communities, especially in Tallinn, sometimes make a point of not tipping as a form of protest against subpar restaurant services.  

Finland has no straightforward tipping culture. This may have originated from customs in religion encouraging frugality . In the present, tipping is not common because most establishments already include service in the bill.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: Service is always included in restaurant bills, so tipping is not expected. However, it's not really considered offensive if you offer a small tip for good service. The simplest way is to round up the bill, but this is more for convenience than rewarding the server. No one will mind if the amount equates to 10% or more. When dining with a host, tipping is at their discretion. Tipping tour guides: It’s not common to tip tour guides. They may accept it awkwardly or refuse it politely. Also, it's illegal to tip the staff of government-owned institutions like museums and galleries. Tipping taxi drivers: Even in taxis, service fee is already included in the fare. Tipping is not necessary. You may pay the nearest rounded up amount just for convenience. Tipping hotel staff: Housekeeping staff do not expect a tip, but you may give one if you have caused extra inconvenience. For bellboys and porters, €1 per bag is acceptable. Only long-term customers should tip the receptionists. Good to know: If someone refuses your tip, do not push it.  

In France , tipping is more of a gesture rather than an obligation. Service charges are usually included in the bill.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: You may see the letters ‘stc' or words ‘service compris' on your restaurant bill. This means that service is already included and tipping won't be necessary. Most locals will leave an additional €2 if the service is good, more (around 15%) if it is exemplary. It is not customary to tip in cafes and bars. Tipping tour guides: Around €25 per person per day for tour guides. If the guide is nationally certified, you may give up to €50. Tipping taxi drivers: Taxi drivers expect at least 10% tip. Alternatively, you may simply round up the fare. For private airport transfers, around €10 to €20 is appropriate, depending on the in-car facilities. Tipping hotel staff: Around €1 to €2 per bag for porters; €1 to €2 per night for the chambermaid. Room service personnel will hope for a few euros. You may leave loose change for the cloakroom attendant. Good to know: The cost for hotel barges cruising French waterways includes tips for luggage handling. To further show appreciation of the on-board service, you may tip 5% on top of the cruise cost. This amount is divided among the crew members and captain.  

Tipping is accepted in Georgian culture, but it’s not expected especially if the service is dissatisfactory. Georgians will appreciate a few laris to reward good service.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: At restaurants, the bill often includes a 10% service charge. It's up to your discretion if you will tip extra. Don’t feel obliged to tip if you weren’t satisfied with the service. You may opt not to tip at bars. Tipping tour guides: Around 10-15% tip is the norm for tour guides. If you have a driver during the tour, give him half of that amount. Tipping taxi drivers: A reasonable tip is to round up the fare to the nearest whole amount. Tipping hotel staff: Around 1 to 2 lari per baggage for the bellman; at least 5 lari per day for the hotel maid.  

Tipping at restaurants and bars: Restaurant bills are usually inclusive of service fees. As a rule, you should tip the waiter an additional 5 to 10%. At bars, you may round up the bill to the next euro. The normal practice is you run a tab and pay when you're leaving, and that's also when you give your tip. Tipping tour guides: It’s usual to give a 10% tip by the end of the tour. Tipping taxi drivers: Round up the fare to the next euro or 50 cents. If the driver helped you with your luggage, you may give an additional €1 to €2. Tipping hotel staff: €1-€ per day for the housekeeper; €1 to €3 per bag for the hotel porter; €2 to €5 for room service. If the concierge has been helpful, a suitable tip is €20. Good to know: In Germany, the tip shouldn't be left on the table, instead you hand it to the waiter while paying your bill. Also, bread and water at restaurants are often not free of charge. Servers may turn down your request for tap water.  

Tipping is optional in Greece . As a rule, tip and it will be well-received, but don't feel obliged.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: Before deciding whether to tip, confirm if service is included in the bill. Anywhere from 5 to 10% tip is appropriate. As for bars, you may opt not to, since most locals do not tip. Tipping tour guides: €4 to €6 per person for group tours; €40 to €60 per day for private tours. Tipping taxi drivers: Drivers generally do not expect tips, but it's polite to round up the fare if they offered information or helped with your baggage. For private drivers, €20 per day is appropriate. Tipping hotel staff: €1 per bag for porters; €1 per day for hotel maids. You may also tip helpful concierges and give a few coins to the cloakroom attendants. Good to know: If you’re in a cruise, it's customary to tip the crew and captain 5-15% of the cost of the trip. Place the tip inside an envelope and hand it to the captain at the end of the cruise.  

The practice of tipping is much more common in Hungary than its neighboring countries like Czech Republic and Slovakia. Giving gratuities is never mandatory, but there are some circumstances where it is expected.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: First, check if service is already included in your bill, since most restaurants include a 12.5% service charge. If it’s not, the standard is to tip 10-15% for good service. Also, do not leave change on the table because it is considered rude. Tips should be given directly to the waiter. When buying a drink, leave some change to the bartender. Tipping tour guides: For small groups, tip $15 to $20 per person per day. For bigger groups, tip $10 per person per day. Tipping taxi drivers: Taxis in Budapest are known for overcharging tourists, so it's recommended to order cabs by phone and ask for a fare estimate. Tip taxi drivers 5-10% of the total fare, or just round up the charge. Tipping hotel staff: The usual tips for hotel staff are: 500 forints for bellhops, 200-300 forints per day for housekeepers; and 500-1000 forints for exceptional concierge services. Good to know: Tipping is a common practice in Hungary, so you should tip hair stylists (5-10% of the bill), delivery services (200 forints), massage services (300-500 forints), petrol station attendants (100-200 forints), and public washroom attendants (100-200 forints).  

Tipping is practically unheard of in Iceland because their bills are all-inclusive. You are not discouraged to tip if you want to express satisfaction, but it's not expected either.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: A 15% service charge is automatically added into restaurant bills. Tipping extra is up to your discretion, but don't leave more than 10%. Alternatively, you can round up to the next whole amount. The no-tipping rule is also applicable to bars. However, if the service is impressive, you are welcome to leave the server or bartender a 10% tip. Tipping tour guides: Tour guides do not expect tips, but you may give 10% for great service. An exception is if you take a special tour such as a fishing trip or a trek, wherein a 4000-5000 kr tip is appropriate. Tipping taxi drivers: No need to tip your taxi driver. Tipping hotel staff: There's simply no tipping of hotel staff in Iceland. The cost of your accommodation already includes gratuities.  

Ireland has no formal tipping customs, but giving gratuity is always welcome.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: Service is sometimes added in the bill, and sometimes it's not. This is often indicated in the bill or menu. If there's no added service charge, you may tip 10% for good service. Tipping for bar service is considered impolite. However, in bars where the drinks are brought to your table, a tip of €1 to €2 per round is suitable. Tipping tour guides: For a private tour, consider giving 10% of the tour cost. For a group tour, the guide may pass around a basket or hat to collect gratuities. Tipping taxi drivers: No tip is expected by taxi drivers. If you received good service, you can round up the fare or tip 10%. Tipping hotel staff: You may give €1 to €2 to porters and the same amount per night to the chambermaid. Good to know: Irish people take pride in delivering great service for the sake of it, and not for tips. Some may politely refuse a tip because serving you well is part of their job.  

Tipping at restaurants and bars: In most restaurants, service is built into the bill. You may see a “pane e coperto” listed in the bill. This is a bread and cover charge, which means that it pays for the tablecloth and bread. No further tip is needed. If you want, you may leave a few euros but no more than 10% of the total bill. As for bars, you may skip tipping or just leave a loose change. Tipping tour guides: No further payment is expected aside from the cost of the tour, but a couple of euros won't be refused. For an out-of-town excursion arranged by a travel agency, you may give €2 each for the guide and the driver. Tipping taxi drivers: Drivers don't expect a tip, but you may round up the taxi charge or give about 10% for great service. Tipping hotel staff: Concierge staff, porters, and chambermaids would expect a few euros. Good to know: Snack and coffee bars charge less when you stand at the bar than if you have your order served to a table.  

Tipping in Kazakhstan is rather organized, making it easier for visitors to know when and how much to tip.

Tipping at restaurants and bar: A service charge is included at most restaurants, so it's okay not to tip. If you're particularly impressed with the service, you're free to tip about 5 to 15%. Tipping tour guides: Guides generally don't expect to receive tips, but you may give a small token and it will be appreciated. Tipping taxi drivers: The norm is to bargain and agree on a fixed fare before riding a taxi. Further tipping is not necessary. However, if the driver is especially helpful (assisted with your luggage or gave useful information), 500-1000 tenge is a generous tip. Tipping hotel staff: Porters would appreciate 100-200 tenge. For housekeepers, about 150 tenge is suitable. Good to know: When parking a car on the street, you may encounter people in blue or yellow uniform who will assist you. Give them about 50-100 tenge for their service.  

Latvians are generally casual about tipping. Although not obligatory, a rule of thumb is to leave some tip if you received good service.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: If service is not added to the bill, a standard tip of 10% is recommended. Don't feel obliged to tip extra if there's already a service charge. It's fine not to tip the bartender if you order at the bar, but if you have your drinks served to a table, the same rules in restaurants apply. Tipping tour guides: Guides will appreciate a tip of Ls7 for a half-day tour and Ls15 for a whole-day tour. Tipping taxi drivers: For cab drivers, you may simply round up the fare or add 10% tip. Otherwise, it's okay to pay the exact metered fare. Tipping hotel staff: It's common to give a small gratuity to hotel service staff. For porters who bring your luggage to your room, around Ls50 per bag is appropriate.  

Tipping in Liechtenstein is not very common, but it is not an insulting practice either.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: A service fee is automatically added in most restaurant bills. However, feel free to round up the bill by a few Swiss Francs if you received great service. For a small meal, 1-2 CHF per person should be enough. For top-grade restaurants, make it 5-10 CHF per person. Tipping tour guides: Tipping tour guides is optional. Tipping taxi drivers: To tip taxi drivers, simply round up the fare to the nearest Swiss Franc. Tipping hotel staff: Most hotels include a service charge, but you may give around 1 CHF to the room service staff. Good to know: In a restaurant, the correct way to hand your tip is by telling the waiter the exact amount (including tip) that you will pay. For instance, if the bill is 12 CHF, you may give him 20 CHF and say, “15.”  

Tipping is relatively new in Lithuanian culture, with tourists only introducing it in the late '90s. Most Lithuanians will not expect any tip, but their service will almost always deserve a form of gratuity.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: The normal 10% tip is appropriate at restaurants. There is no fixed rate; even 20 euro cents is enough tip for some. Bar staff don't expect tips and may even politely refuse if you give them. If there's a tip jar, you may leave some small change. For luxury bars, tip as you would in a classy restaurant. Tipping tour guides: For tour guides, roughly 35Lt (half day) or 75Lt (whole day) should suffice. Tipping taxi drivers: Taxi drivers won't expect a tip, but tipping a small amount for good service is up to your discretion. The best way is to round up the total fare. Tipping hotel staff: Tipping is only expected in top-end hotels that have fairly decent service. Porters and chambermaids expect a small tip. Good to know: When in Lithuania, avoid saying ‘thanks’ (ačiū) after handing the bill if you still want to keep your change. It's an indication that you're not waiting for the change.  

Tipping at restaurants and bars: A 15% service charge is included in most restaurant bills. For a modest meal, you may leave some loose change, whereas for more expensive meals, you may tip up to 10%. Not tipping is seen as dissatisfaction of the service you received. Tipping tour guides: If you're in a tour, a few euros for the guide and driver should be enough. Tipping taxi drivers: Taxi drivers usually receive a 10% gratuity. You may also just round up the total fare. Tipping hotel staff: For porters and bellhops, €1.25 to €2.50 is adequate. For housekeepers, leave €1.50 per night or more if extra service is needed.  

Macedonians often have low salaries and thus tipping is uncommon, at least among locals. For tourists who can afford to tip, you may do so, and it will be received with good grace.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: Rounding up the bill is a common practice, but for nicer establishments, around 10-15% tip is the norm. Always check if service charge is already added to the bill. If it is, then tipping won't be necessary. Tipping tour guides: For guides, offer 5-10% gratuity on top of the tour cost. Tipping taxi drivers: Tipping taxi drivers is not very common. If the driver is very helpful, you may give up to 10% tip. Always hire a taxi from a recognized taxi rank, since some drivers are known to target unaware tourists. Make sure to negotiate the fare cost before the ride. Tipping hotel staff: Hotel staff do not really expect tips, but you are free to tip 10 to 20 MKD if you like their service.  

Maltese people love to eat out and they don't think twice to reward good service. Tipping ranges from 5% to 10%, but it is perfectly acceptable to give more if it's deserved.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: Check the menu first if service is already included. If it's not, around 5% to 10% should do the trick. If you are particularly impressed with the service you received, you can always tip extra. Tipping bar staff is not customary unless they come to your table to take orders and serve your drinks there. A few euros should suffice. Tipping tour guides: Tour guides expect around 10% of the total cost of the tour. Give the tour driver half of that amount. Tipping taxi drivers: Taxi drivers won't expect a tip, but they won't refuse either. However, you may round up the total fare for convenience or leave a small tip (not more than 10%). Tipping hotel staff: The suggested tip for porters and hotel housekeepers is €2 to €3. Good to know: Give a few coins to car park attendants, washroom attendants, and doorkeepers.  

The tipping etiquette in Monaco does not vary much with the rest of Europe. Service is included in most establishments, and it is up to your discretion to tip more. Giving gratuity is gladly accepted.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: Restaurant bills typically include a service charge, and further tipping is not expected. However, if the service is exceptional, a 10-15% tip is suitable. In bars, tipping is optional. Tipping tour guides: Tipping guides is not obligatory, but it's a nice gesture. The normal tip amount is 10-15% of the tour price. Tipping taxi drivers: Cab drivers are not usually tipped, as most of them are self-employed and the income goes straight to their pockets. If, however, the driver is especially helpful, feel free to round up the fare or give a small tip. Tipping hotel staff: Give €1 to €2 per bag to valets and porters and €1 per day for the chambermaid.  

Tipping at restaurants and bars: Restaurants often include a 15% service charge in their bills. That being said, you may opt to tip an additional 10%. If this seems too generous, you may simply round up the total bill. Although you can give the tip directly to the server, the common practice is to leave it on the table. At bars, you can just pay the exact amount for your order. An exception is if you're at an expensive bar where it's customary to leave a 10% tip. Tipping tour guides: Tipping your tour guide is not necessary. If you are impressed with the service, you're welcome to tip a few euros. Tipping taxi drivers: Tipping drivers is uncommon since the taxi fares are already expensive. If you received extra service (driver assisted with your luggage, gave you useful information), you may simply round up the fare or leave a few euros. Tipping hotel staff: A considerable tip for porters is €1-2 per bag. For hotel housekeeping, tipping isn’t expected. Good to know: “Going Dutch” has a bit of truth to it, as many Dutch pride themselves for being frugal. Just like with tipping, you can go easy when it comes to splitting the bill in the Netherlands.  

Tipping etiquettes are not common in Norway. You will find that Norway is one of the priciest tourist destinations, so tipping is not customary. Also, the service staff earn decent wages and do not live off tips. Overall, tipping is only suitable if the service deserves extra recognition.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: Aside from the included service charge, no further gratuity is expected when you dine in restaurants. As a rule, don't tip poor and average service. If the service is exceptionally good, then a 5-10% tip is appropriate. In a bar, you may round up the bill or leave 5-10kr for the bartender. Tipping tour guides: The cost of the tour already includes gratuity, so you may skip tipping. Tipping taxi drivers: No need to tip. However, if the ride is quite long or the driver assisted you with your luggage, rounding up the fare is acceptable. Tipping hotel staff: Norwegians do not tip hotel staff in general, so you are not expected to. Good to know: If you’re willing to tip and unsure of how much, stick to the 10% rule. Locals rarely tip more than 10%, so it’s the maximum you can go.  

In Poland , tipping is entirely up to your discretion. The average waiting staff, however, only makes a paltry income so tips are greatly appreciated.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: If the restaurant does not have a service charge (narzut), a customary tip is about 10% of the bill. You are free to tip more if the service is great. Don't feel obligated to tip if it isn't deserved, or if service is already paid for in the bill. Tipping tour guides: If you're in a tour, it is optional to give gratuity to the guide. Around 10% should be enough. Tipping taxi drivers: Taxi drivers would expect about 10% tip and would be slightly disappointed if you don't give one. An easier way is to just round up the fare. Tipping hotel staff: 5zł for the porter and 5zł for the cleaning staff is an acceptable tip. Good to know: When you say the word ‘dziękuje' (thank you) in Poland, it sends a message to the waiter collecting the bill that he can keep the change. It can be quite embarrassing if you have to find the waiter and ask for your change, so it's suggested that you only thank him when you're not expecting any change.  

Tipping at restaurants and bars: Restaurant service staff may expect a 10% tip. In a bistro, a couple of coins under €1 should suffice. At bars, the typical tip is €1-2 if the service is good. Otherwise, you may opt not to tip. Tipping tour guides: For tour guides, €5 per day is a suitable tip. Tipping taxi drivers: For taxi drivers, rounding up or leaving small change is fine. Also, note that the drivers usually don't speak English, German, or French. In this case, ask the doorman to tell your driver the exact destination. Tipping hotel staff: At the hotel, consider giving €1-2 for concierge and porterage services. You may also give €1 daily for the chambermaid. Good to know: Tipping in Portugal , especially in restaurants, should be done discreetly or by just leaving cash on the table. Giving tips with people watching is seen as crude.  

Tipping is fairly commonplace in Romania, with customers leaving tips for bar service, restaurant meals, fast-food delivery, hairstyling services, and cab rides.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: In restaurants, follow the 5-10-15 rule. Tip the waiter 5% if the service is poor, 10% if it is satisfactory, and 15% if it's exemplary. As for bars, around 15-20% tip is expected depending on the complexity and cost of the drink. Tipping tour guides: 10-20 Lei per day is more or less a good tip for tour guides. Tipping taxi drivers: Although cab drivers don’t expect tips, you may round up the fare to a convenient amount. Tipping hotel staff: 4 Lei per day for hotel maids and 2 Lei per item of luggage for bellhops is a suitable tip. For a helpful concierge (assisted in making reservations or booking taxi rides), an appropriate tip is around 10-15 Lei. Good to know: In Romania, coin denominations have very little value. Avoid tipping in coins as it is considered rude.  

During the Soviet rule, tipping in Russia is not acceptable as it is now, especially since the country is becoming more Westernized. Tipping remains discretionary, but in some cases it is rather expected.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: At restaurants, usual tip amounts are lower than that in other countries. In rural areas, tipping does not really exist. A good idea of a generous tip is 10-15% of the total bill, but first check if service charge is included. Hand the tip directly to the server, or else the cash left on the table will go to management. You're not expected to tip in bars with no table service. Tipping tour guides: If you're on a private tour, consider giving the guide $20 for a full-day tour and $10 for a half-day tour. As for the driver, around $5-$8 for 8 hours of service is recommended. Tipping taxi drivers: Agree on a fixed fare before riding. If you want to leave a tip, 10% is a suitable amount. Alternatively, you may just round up the fare. Tipping hotel staff: $3 to $5 per trip for porters; $2 to $3 for chambermaids; $10 to $20 for excellent concierge service. Good to know: It's always best to tip in the local currency (rubles). Also, Russians love a personal touch to any gratuity. If you write a thank-you note accompanying a cash tip, it will be much appreciated.  

There is no formal tipping culture in San Marino. It is only common to tip at nicer hotels and restaurants, although service is often already included.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: In restaurants, tipping is not required if the bill is inclusive of service fees. If there is no service fee or if you were particularly delighted with the service, about 5-10% tip will be appreciated. Tipping tour guides: Tipping tour guides is not customary. Tipping taxi drivers: It's uncommon to tip taxi drivers, but feel free to round up the fare to the nearest whole euro. Tipping hotel staff: In a hotel, you may tip €1 for room service. Good to know: A few euro coins is sometimes required in public washrooms.  

Tipping is known as napojnica in Serbia. It is not very widespread, but as times change, more establishments, especially in Belgrade, are starting to adopt tipping standards.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: In Serbian restaurants, service is rarely included in the bill. Consider tipping 10-15% of the total bill in a nice restaurant. In bars and less expensive eateries, you may just round up. Note that you are not obligated to tip if you're unsatisfied with the service. Tipping tour guides: Tour guides generally don't expect napojnica. Tipping taxi drivers: Taxi drivers don't expect a tip, but rounding up the fare is becoming a common practice. Tipping hotel staff: Tip porters 1,100 dinars per item of luggage, and the same amount for housekeepers per day. Good to know: The musicians at restaurants may want a small tip, especially if they played at your table. Also, give about 20 dinars to public washroom attendants, as they may get angry if you leave nothing.  

Slovakian tipping etiquette is gradually becoming structured over the years, especially in cities like Bratislava, Trnava, Nitra, and Presov. It's useful to learn basic Slovak as it makes ordering and tipping easier.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: When paying in a restaurant, it is customary to tip 10% of the bill. However, if there is an automatic service charge, you may opt not to tip. Cash tips are always preferred even if you pay by credit card. Also, give the tip personally to the waiter instead of leaving it on the table. In bars, table service is still offered even if you're only having drinks. Depending on the total bill, you may round up to the nearest 10Sk (koruna) or leave the bartender a 10% tip. Tipping tour guides: There is no clear standard in tipping guides, but you're safe with a 10% of the tour cost for a particularly good service. Tipping taxi drivers: Taxi drivers will be happy with a 10% tip. You can also round the taxi fare up to the nearest 50Sk. Tipping hotel staff: Give €1 per bag to hotel porters, €1-€2 for a helpful concierge, and €1 per day for the hotel cleaning staff. Good to know: Saying d'akujem (thank you) in Slovakia means you're thanking the server and you don't want any change back.  

A few years back, tipping was not traditionally done in Slovenia, but it is slowly being adopted today in tourist areas. Tipping is welcomed but not at all mandatory.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: When service is not added to the bill, consider tipping an extra 10%. If the service exceeds your expectations, you can go as high as 15%. However, it's also perfectly fine to leave nothing if the service is poor. Bartenders don't expect any tip. Tipping tour guides: Tipping guides is not common, but you're welcome to give gratuity if you feel it's deserved. Tipping taxi drivers: As a rule, simply round up the fare to the nearest euro. If you have the exact fare or prefer not to tip, the driver won't take it as an offense. Tipping hotel staff: Tip the luggage porter and hotel cleaning staff a few euros (about €1-€2).  

Tipping at restaurants and bars: For good service, a substantial tip is anywhere from 7-13% of the total bill. Tip in cash since it's unlikely to tip with a machine. In lower-end restaurants, tipping is not as common and you can just round up the bill. In bars, it's not customary to tip but feel free to round up if there's table service. Tipping tour guides: Tours via coach require a tip. Tips are usually collected in a basket placed on the dashboard. About €1 each for the driver and guide should suffice. For private tours, around €20 per day is suggested. Tipping taxi drivers: Tips aren't expected, but you may round up the fare to the nearest euro. Tipping hotel staff: In medium-grade hotels in Spain , tipping beyond the usual service charge is not necessary. In high-end hotels, expect to tip €1 per bag for the porter and €1 a day for housekeeping. Good to know: The Spanish financial crisis makes it more necessary to give generous tips to the waiting staff, even if they're paid an average salary.  

Tipping is not a local habit in Sweden . In some instances, the service staff may even be bewildered when you offer a tip. Locals normally pay the quoted amount or round up to the nearest 10kr.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: At restaurants, you can safely assume that service is already included unless stated otherwise in the bill. If you’re especially pleased with the service, it's okay to leave 5-10% tip. Most bars include table service, but that doesn't require you to tip. Still, you may hand 60kr for a 58kr beer and it will be appreciated. Tipping tour guides: No need to tip tour guides. Tipping taxi drivers: If traveling with luggage, it's polite to offer the driver a few kronor. Otherwise, it's not expected. Tipping hotel staff: The hotel staff may find it strange if you give them a tip. It's not expected, although some porters and chambermaids may accept 5-10kr for their service. Good to know: The waiting staff in Sweden are not minimum-wage workers, after an agreement with restaurant owners to regulate staff salaries has been signed. This explains why most service personnel do not expect any tip.  

In Switzerland, service is included in the quoted prices, whether in a restaurant, bar, taxi, or hotel. Tipping is completely optional and no one will bat an eye if you don't tip.

Tipping at restaurants and bars The usual deal is to simply round up to the nearest franc or two. For instance, a meal worth 33.50Fr can be paid with 35Fr. On the other hand, if the service is exceptional, around 5-10% is a fair tip. At bars, you may thank the bartender by rounding up the bill. Tipping tour guides: Although it's not necessary to tip guides, around 10% of the tour cost is suitable. Give the tour driver half of that amount. Tipping taxi drivers: Taxi drivers are used to being paid the exact fare, but it's fine to round up. Tipping hotel staff: Tip the bellman 1-2 CHF per bag and the hotel maid 1 CHF per day. Good to know: Tip only in the local currency (Swiss francs).  

Locals generally tip modestly but with foreign visitors in the country, the service staff may expect a substantial tip. While tipping is not obligatory, it's a courteous gesture especially because Turkish waiters rely on tips to supplement their income.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: Tipping is not necessary in cheaper restaurants and cafes, but will be appreciated. In high-end establishments, around 10-15% is the norm. At bars, give your tip directly to the bartender. Tipping tour guides: If you're on a group tour, tipping the guides and drivers is entirely up to you. Only tip if you think the tour guide has done a great job. Give around TL20 to TL30 per day to the guide, and a little less to the driver. Note that this amount is for the entire group. Tipping taxi drivers: No need to tip your taxi driver. You may round up the fare just for convenience. No tip is required for private transfer services, although it's fine to leave 5-10% of the fare. Tipping hotel staff: For porters, TL2 to TL4 per baggage; for chambermaids, TL5 to TL7 per day. You may also put a small tip if you see a tip box in the reception desk. Good to know: Tipping in dollars or euros is accepted, but Turkish liras are still preferred. Only tip with notes or bills because Turkish coins are not easily exchangeable with liras. Always tip in cash as most establishments do not accept tipping by credit card.  

While tipping used to be non-existent in Ukraine, things have changed with the increase of Western tourists in the country. Now, it has become a widespread practice especially in the capital, Kiev.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: Service is rarely included in the bill, but it's always worth checking. If you do wish to tip, around 10% is suggested. You may go higher (up to 15%) if the service is impressive. At a bar, you may skip the tip or round up. Tipping tour guides: If you’re satisfied with the guide's services, UAH 400-500 is a suitable tip. Tipping taxi drivers: Taxi drivers don't usually receive tips. Make sure to agree on a fixed fare beforehand. If the driver is especially helpful, feel free to round up or add up to 10% of the fare. Tipping hotel staff: Most hotels incorporate a service charge in the bill. Should you decide to tip more, it's up to your discretion.To give you an idea, UAH 8-10 is a sufficient tip for porters and chambermaids when you travel in Ukraine.  

Tipping at restaurants and bars: Most restaurants in the UK include a 12.5-15% tip, although it’s not universal. If no service charge policy is stated in the menu, don't be embarrassed to ask the waiter. You're not expected to add further gratuity if service is included. If it's not included, the common tip is 10-15%. In pubs, tipping the barman is not customary. However, if you received exceptional service, consider offering to buy them a drink. Tipping tour guides: If you liked the guide's services, it's appropriate to give a small gratuity. Around £2-£5 is suitable or £1-£2 if you're in a group. For coach tours, it is normal to tip both the guide and the driver. Around £1-£2 for a whole-day tour will be appreciated. Tipping taxi drivers: In metered taxis, tip 10% or round up to the nearest pound. In minicabs and rural taxis, the fare is usually pre-negotiated and no further tip is expected. Tipping hotel staff: Porters are usually tipped £1-£2 per bag. Hotel maids are not usually tipped, but leaving loose change on the bedside table before you depart is acceptable. Good to know: British people prefer to be discrete when tipping, so make sure to leave the tip quietly on the table.  

Just like the rest of Italy, tipping is not requisite in the walled enclave of Vatican City.

Tipping at restaurants and bars: In some restaurants, service is incorporated in the bill. If it's not included, around €1-2 per person is an appropriate amount. Tipping does not depend on the total bill but the number of people dining. At cafes, no table charge is added if you eat or drink at the counter. Tipping tour guides: There are many guided tours around Vatican City. Some guides may collect a small tip by the end of the tour. Although by no means obligatory, it's polite to give a small percentage of the tour cost especially if the guide is particularly good. Tipping taxi drivers: Walking is primarily the way to go around Vatican City. If you wish to ride a taxi, it's not customary to tip. Tipping Tipping hotel staff: There is only one hotel inside the Vatican City. According to reviews, the service staff there are generally helpful and friendly. Follow the usual deal of Italian tipping: leave a few euros to the porter and hotel maid. If the concierge has served you well, feel free to leave a small gratuity.  

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Tipping in Europe: The Europe Tipping Guide

Kate H. Knapp

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Tipping in Europe varies by country, but it isn’t obligatory and should be done at your own discretion. This Europe tipping guide will help you figure how much to tip for great service.

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Tipping in Europe

Tipping in Europe isn’t as common as it is in the U.S., and some countries even consider it excessive and unnecessary. In general, though, a good rule of thumb is to err on the side of a modest tip (5 to 10 percent) as people in service already earn a decent wage. Service is included in the final bill in several countries, and is something to factor in before tipping extra. If you are happy with the service, it’s nice to leave €1 to €2 for each person in your party.

How much to tip varies by country, but a show of gratitude is appreciated wherever you may travel. This Europe tipping guide will help you navigate when/where you can leave a little extra for great service.

Europe Tipping Guide

Cafe Server: Tipping isn’t necessary when ordering food from a counter in most countries.

Restaurant Server : There is no obligation to leave a tip, but when doing so try not to exceed 10 percent of the final bill as more than that is considered excessive. It’s also acceptable to round the bill up to the nearest €5 or €10 when tipping in Europe, if that’s easier. Be aware, however, that service may already be included ( service  in French,  servizio  in Italian,  servicio  in Spanish), so you will want to factor that in before leaving anything extra. Servers may not receive tips when left on a credit card, so always try to tip in cash whenever possible.

Bartender: A tip isn’t expected when ordering drinks, but €1 or €2 for exceptional service is always welcome.

Taxis:  For a smooth and courteous ride, a good rule of thumb is to round up to the nearest €5 for short trips and €10 for longer drives.

Airport Shuttle:  It is not necessary to tip your driver, but feel free to give €1 per bag if they help with your luggage.

Doorman: A simple thank you for great service is sufficient, but feel free to tip €1 or €2 if you’d like.

Bellhop:  It is acceptable to tip €1 or €2 per bag, depending on size, but no more than €5.

Housecleaning:  It’s considerate to leave a small tip (€2) for a well-maintained room during your stay.

Concierge:  It is not common to tip the concierge, but €1 or €2 is appreciated if the service exceeds expectations.

Stylist : It’s thoughtful to tip 10 percent of the final bill if you’re happy with your new hairdo.

Spa Service Provider : Tip up to 10 percent for exceptional service is appreciated.

More from SmarterTravel:

• Tipping: The Ultimate Guide to Tipping for Travelers
• Does the Hotel Maid Look Through Your Stuff?
• Hotel Tipping—Do You or Don’t You?

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The Roaming Boomers

Ultimate european tipping guide.

Posted by David Porter on Friday, April 28, 2023 · 4 Comments  

Our ultimate European tipping guide is designed to give you tipping etiquette for the major European countries.

While many European countries have similar etiquettes, simply scroll down our list to find your destination countries.

Tipping Guidelines for European Countries

In France, tipping is not mandatory, as a service charge is usually included in the price. However, if you receive exceptional service, it is common to leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation.

Here are some tipping guidelines to follow in France:

1. Restaurants: A service charge is often included in the price of the meal, but it is customary to round up the bill to the nearest euro or leave a small amount (5-10%) if the service was exceptional.

2. Cafes and bars: It is not necessary to tip at cafes and bars, but if you do, it is common to round up to the nearest euro.

3. Taxis: It is customary to round up to the nearest euro or add 10% of the fare as a tip.

4. Hairdressers: It is not expected to tip hairdressers in France, but you can round up the bill to the nearest euro or leave a small tip (5-10%) for exceptional service.

5. Hotel staff: It is not necessary to tip hotel staff in France, but you can leave a small amount (1-2 euros) for the maid or the porter if they provide exceptional service.

In England, it is customary to leave a gratuity or tip in certain situations, although it is not mandatory. Here are some general guidelines for tipping in England:

1. Restaurants: It is common to leave a tip of around 10-15% of the total bill in restaurants, especially if you have received good service. Some restaurants may include a service charge in the bill, so check before leaving an additional tip.

2. Pubs: It is not necessary to tip in pubs, but you may leave some loose change if you want to show appreciation for good service.

3. Cafes and coffee shops: Tipping is not expected, but you may leave a small amount of change in the tip jar if you wish.

4. Taxis: It is customary to round up the fare or leave a tip of around 10% of the total fare.

5. Hairdressers and beauty salons: It is common to leave a tip of around 10-15% for hairdressers and beauty therapists if you are happy with their service.

6. Hotels: It is customary to tip hotel staff who provide services, such as porters who carry your luggage or room service staff who bring food to your room. A tip of £1-£2 per bag for porters and 10-15% of the total room service bill is appropriate.

In Italy, tipping is not mandatory as service charges are usually included in the bill. However, it is customary to leave a small amount of cash as a gesture of appreciation for good service. Here are some tipping guidelines to follow in Italy:

1. Restaurants: If the service charge is not included in the bill, you can leave a tip of 5-10% of the total amount. It is common to round up the bill to the nearest euro or leave small change.

2. Cafes and Bars: Tipping is not expected in cafes and bars, but if you are happy with the service, you can round up the bill to the nearest euro or leave some small change.

3. Taxis: Tipping taxi drivers is not expected, but it is common to round up the fare to the nearest euro or leave some small change.

4. Hotels: It is not necessary to tip hotel staff, but you can leave a small amount for the cleaning staff, around 1-2 euros per day, and for the porter or concierge, around 1-2 euros per bag or service rendered.

In Germany, tipping is generally not as common or expected as it is in some other countries. However, it is still appreciated in certain situations. Here are some general guidelines for tipping in Germany:

1. Restaurants: In Germany, it is customary to round up the bill to the nearest euro or leave a small tip of around 5-10% if you are very satisfied with the service. Unlike in other countries, the tip is not usually calculated as a percentage of the total bill.

2. Bars: Tipping in bars is not expected, but it is common to round up the bill or leave a small tip of around 1-2 euros for good service.

3. Taxis: Tipping taxi drivers is not mandatory, but rounding up the fare or adding a small tip of around 5-10% is appreciated.

4. Hairdressers and beauty salons: It is customary to tip hairdressers and beauty salon staff around 5-10% for good service.

5. Hotel staff: It is common to tip hotel staff who provide extra services such as carrying your luggage or cleaning your room. A tip of 1-2 euros per service is sufficient.

Overall, tipping is considered a gesture of appreciation in Germany rather than an obligation. It is up to your discretion whether to tip or not, but it is always appreciated when you do.

In Spain, tipping is not obligatory, but it is customary to leave a small tip if you have received good service. Here are some general guidelines:

1. Restaurants: Tipping in restaurants is not mandatory, but it is common to leave a small tip of 5-10% of the total bill if you are happy with the service. Some restaurants may include a service charge in the bill, in which case tipping is not necessary.

2. Bars and cafes: It is not common to tip in bars and cafes, but you can leave small change (such as rounding up to the nearest euro) if you wish.

3. Taxis: Tipping taxi drivers is not mandatory, but it is common to round up the fare to the nearest euro or to add a small amount (such as 5-10% of the total fare) as a tip.

4. Hotels: It is common to tip hotel staff, such as housekeepers, bellhops, and room service staff. A tip of 1-2 euros per day for housekeeping is appropriate, and you can give a small tip (such as 1-2 euros) to bellhops who help with your luggage.

5. Other services: In general, it is not necessary to tip for other services, such as hairdressers, spa treatments, or tour guides. However, if you are pleased with the service, you can leave a small tip (such as 5-10% of the total cost) as a token of appreciation.

It’s important to note that tipping customs may vary depending on the region and the type of establishment, so it’s always a good idea to ask locals or check with the staff to see what is customary.

In Portugal, tipping is generally not expected, but it is appreciated for good service. Here are some tipping guidelines to keep in mind:

1. Restaurants: It is common to leave a tip of 5-10% of the total bill if you are satisfied with the service. However, many restaurants include a service charge of around 10% in the bill, so it is worth checking before leaving an additional tip.

2. Cafés and bars: Tipping is not expected in cafés or bars, but you can leave some loose change as a token of appreciation for good service.

3. Taxis: Tipping taxi drivers is not expected, but it is common to round up to the nearest euro as a courtesy.

4. Hotels: Tipping hotel staff is not expected, but it is appreciated for good service. You can leave a few euros for the housekeeping staff, and a small tip for the porter who carries your luggage.

5. Tour guides: If you take a guided tour, it is common to leave a tip of around 10% of the tour cost for the guide.

Remember, tipping is always optional and should be based on the level of service provided.

In Ireland, tipping is generally not expected, but it is appreciated for good service. Here are some tipping guidelines to keep in mind:

1. Restaurants and Bars: In restaurants, it is common to tip 10-15% of the total bill for good service. However, some restaurants include a service charge in the bill, so be sure to check before adding a tip. In bars, it is not expected to tip unless you receive exceptional service or want to buy a round of drinks for your group.

2. Taxis: Tipping taxi drivers is not expected, but rounding up to the nearest euro is appreciated.

3. Hairdressers and Beauty Salons: It is common to tip hairdressers and beauty salon staff 10-15% of the total bill.

4. Hotel Staff: It is not necessary to tip hotel staff, but if you receive exceptional service from housekeeping or room service, a small tip of 1-2 euros per day is appreciated.

5. Tour Guides: It is common to tip tour guides 10% of the tour cost if they provide good service.

Overall, tipping in Ireland is a matter of personal preference and should be based on the quality of service received.

Tipping in Austria is generally expected in many service industries, but it is not always mandatory. Here are some tipping guidelines to follow in Austria:

1. Restaurants: Tipping in restaurants is customary in Austria, with the usual amount being between 5-10% of the total bill. If you receive excellent service, you can consider tipping more.

2. Cafés: Tipping in cafés is not mandatory, but it is appreciated. You can round up the bill or leave a small amount of change on the table.

3. Bars: In bars, it is common to round up the bill to the nearest euro or leave a small tip for good service.

4. Taxi drivers: You can round up the fare to the nearest euro or leave a 10% tip if you receive good service.

5. Hairdressers and beauticians: Tipping 5-10% is common in these industries if you are happy with the service.

6. Hotel staff: It is customary to tip hotel staff, such as housekeeping or bellhops, 1-2 euros per day of your stay.

Remember that tipping in Austria is not mandatory, and you should only do so if you are happy with the service you receive.

Tipping is a common practice in Hungary, but the amount can vary depending on the situation. Here are some general guidelines for tipping in Hungary:

1. Restaurants: It’s customary to leave a 10-15% tip at restaurants, depending on the quality of service. Some restaurants may include a service charge in the bill, so be sure to check before tipping.

2. Bars: Tipping at bars is not expected, but if you received good service, you can round up the bill to the nearest round figure or leave a small amount as a token of appreciation.

3. Taxis: You can round up the fare to the nearest round figure as a tip. If you received exceptional service, you can add a little extra.

4. Hotels: It’s common to leave a small tip for housekeeping, usually around 200-500 HUF per night. For porters, you can tip around 200-500 HUF per bag.

5. Tour guides: If you take a guided tour, you can tip the guide around 2000-3000 HUF per person, depending on the length of the tour and the quality of the guide.

Remember that tipping is always voluntary and based on your satisfaction with the service provided.

Tipping customs in Greece can vary depending on the type of service and location. Here are some general guidelines:

1. Restaurants: Tipping in Greece is not obligatory, but it is customary to leave a small amount of change, usually 5-10% of the total bill. If the service was exceptional, you may want to leave a bit more.

2. Cafes and bars: It is not common to tip in cafes or bars, but you may leave some small change if you had good service.

3. Taxis: Tipping taxi drivers in Greece is not expected, but rounding up to the nearest euro is appreciated.

4. Hotel staff: It is customary to tip hotel staff, such as maids and bellhops, a small amount of money for their services. Typically, 1-2 euros per day for the maid and 1-2 euros per bag for the bellhop is sufficient.

5. Tour guides: If you have a private tour guide, it is customary to tip them around 10% of the total cost of the tour.

Overall, it’s important to note that tipping in Greece is not obligatory, and you should only tip if you feel the service was exceptional.

Netherlands

Tipping in the Netherlands is not mandatory, but it is customary to round up the total amount of your bill or to leave a small amount of change as a gesture of appreciation for good service. Here are some general tipping guidelines to keep in mind when traveling in the Netherlands:

1. Restaurants: It is common to round up the bill to the nearest euro or to add a small tip of around 5-10% for exceptional service. However, keep in mind that many restaurants in the Netherlands include a service charge in the bill, so it is always a good idea to check your bill first.

2. Cafes and Bars: Tipping in cafes and bars is not common, but it is appreciated if you round up the total amount of your bill or leave some small change.

3. Hotels: It is common to leave a small amount of change for the hotel staff who carry your luggage or clean your room, usually around 1-2 euros per bag or per day.

4. Taxi drivers: Rounding up the fare to the nearest euro or adding a small tip of around 5-10% is customary for taxi drivers.

5. Tour guides: Tipping for tour guides is not mandatory, but if you enjoyed the tour, it is a nice gesture to leave a small tip of around 5-10% of the total cost of the tour.

It is important to note that tipping is always at your discretion, and you should not feel obligated to leave a tip if you did not receive good service.

In Norway, tipping is not as customary as it is in some other countries, as service charges are often included in the prices of goods and services. However, it is still polite to leave a small tip for good service. Here are some tipping guidelines for travelers in Norway:

1. Restaurants: A service charge of 12-15% is typically included in the bill, so it is not necessary to tip further. However, it is common to round up to the nearest whole number or add a few extra kroner for exceptional service.

2. Bars: It is not necessary to tip at bars in Norway, as service charges are typically included in the price of drinks.

3. Taxis: It is customary to round up to the nearest whole number when paying for a taxi ride. For example, if the fare is 145 kroner, you could round up to 150 kroner.

4. Hotels: It is not necessary to tip hotel staff in Norway, but you could leave a small amount for the housekeeping staff if you feel that they have done an exceptional job.

5. Tour guides: If you go on a guided tour, it is common to tip the guide between 50-100 kroner per person, depending on the length and quality of the tour.

Overall, tipping in Norway is not expected, but it is appreciated for exceptional service.

In Sweden, tipping is not as common as it is in other countries, but it is still appreciated in certain situations. Here are some tipping guidelines for travelers to Sweden:

1. Restaurants: It is not customary to tip in restaurants in Sweden, as a service charge is usually included in the bill. However, if you feel that the service was exceptional, you can leave a small tip of 5-10% of the total bill.

2. Bars: Tipping at bars is also not common in Sweden. If you do want to tip, rounding up the bill to the nearest whole number is generally enough.

3. Taxis: It is not necessary to tip taxi drivers in Sweden, but rounding up the fare to the nearest whole number is appreciated.

4. Hotels: It is not necessary to tip hotel staff in Sweden, as a service charge is usually included in the bill. However, if you feel that the service was exceptional, you can leave a small tip for the housekeeping staff.

5. Tour guides: If you take a guided tour, it is not necessary to tip the guide in Sweden, but if you feel that the guide did an exceptional job, a small tip of 5-10% of the total cost of the tour is appreciated.

Overall, tipping in Sweden is not expected, but it is always appreciated if you feel that the service was exceptional.

In Denmark, tipping is not a common practice as service charges are usually included in the prices of goods and services. However, if you wish to show appreciation for exceptional service, you can follow these general tipping guidelines:

1. Restaurants: It is not necessary to tip in restaurants as a service charge is usually included in the bill. However, if you wish to leave a tip for exceptional service, you can round up the bill to the nearest 10 or 20 DKK.

2. Bars: Tipping is not expected in bars, but you can round up the bill to the nearest 10 or 20 DKK if you are satisfied with the service.

3. Hotels: It is not necessary to tip hotel staff, but you can leave a small amount for the housekeeping staff if you wish.

4. Taxi: It is not expected to tip taxi drivers in Denmark, but you can round up the fare to the nearest 10 DKK as a gesture of appreciation.

Overall, tipping in Denmark is not expected, but a small gesture of appreciation for exceptional service is always appreciated.

In Finland, tipping is not as common or expected as it is in some other countries, and service charges are usually included in the price of goods and services. However, it is still appropriate to leave a small tip for good service, particularly in restaurants.

Here are some general guidelines for tipping in Finland:

1. Restaurants: Tipping is not expected, but leaving a small amount (5-10%) for excellent service is appreciated.

2. Taxis: Tipping is not necessary, but rounding up to the nearest euro is common.

3. Hotels: It is not necessary to tip hotel staff, but leaving a small amount (1-2 euros) for the housekeeping staff is appreciated.

4. Tour guides: Tipping is not expected, but if you feel the guide did an excellent job, a small amount (5-10 euros) is appropriate.

Overall, it’s important to remember that tipping in Finland is not as common as in other countries, and it’s not expected. However, if you feel that you’ve received exceptional service, a small tip is always appreciated.

Tipping in Iceland is not expected, but it is appreciated in some cases. Here are some general guidelines for tipping in Iceland:

1. Restaurants: Tipping is not expected in Iceland, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip (around 10%) is appreciated for good service.

2. Bars: Tipping is not expected in bars, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip (around 10%) is appreciated for good service.

3. Tour guides: Tipping tour guides is not expected, but it is appreciated for exceptional service. A tip of 500-1000 ISK (around $4-$8 USD) per person is a good guideline.

4. Taxi drivers: Tipping taxi drivers is not expected, but rounding up the fare is appreciated.

5. Hotel staff: Tipping hotel staff is not expected, but leaving a small tip for housekeeping (around 200-500 ISK, or $2-$4 USD per day) is appreciated.

Overall, it’s important to remember that tipping is not expected in Iceland, but it is appreciated for good service. If you receive exceptional service, feel free to leave a small tip to show your appreciation.

Switzerland

In Switzerland, tipping is a common practice, but it’s not mandatory. Service charges are typically included in the bill in restaurants, cafes, and bars, but if you feel the service was exceptional, you may want to leave a tip. Here are some general guidelines for tipping in Switzerland:

• Restaurants: A service charge of around 10-15% may be included in the bill, but it’s common to round up the total to the nearest franc or leave an additional 5-10% as a tip for good service.
• Taxis: Rounding up to the nearest franc is standard practice, but if the driver provided extra assistance with your luggage or was particularly friendly, you may want to add a few extra francs.
• Hotels: It’s customary to tip hotel staff who provide a service, such as porters who carry your luggage, housekeeping, or room service. For porters, a tip of 2-5 francs per bag is appropriate, while for housekeeping, leaving 2-5 francs per day is common.
• Tour guides: Tipping for tour guides is not expected, but if you feel the guide provided an excellent service, you may want to give them 10-20 francs.

Overall, it’s important to remember that tipping in Switzerland is discretionary, and it’s up to your discretion. If you’re unsure, you can always ask locals or staff for advice.

In Croatia, tipping is a common practice, but it’s not mandatory. Service charges are often included in the bill in restaurants, cafes, and bars, but if you feel the service was exceptional, you may want to leave a tip. Here are some general guidelines for tipping in Croatia:

• Restaurants: A service charge of 10% may be included in the bill, but it’s common to round up the total to the nearest kuna or leave an additional 5-10% as a tip for good service.
• Taxis: Rounding up to the nearest kuna is standard practice, but if the driver provided extra assistance with your luggage or was particularly friendly, you may want to add a few extra kuna.
• Hotels: It’s customary to tip hotel staff who provide a service, such as porters who carry your luggage, housekeeping, or room service. For porters, a tip of 5-10 kuna per bag is appropriate, while for housekeeping, leaving 10-20 kuna per day is common.
• Tour guides: Tipping for tour guides is not expected, but if you feel the guide provided an excellent service, you may want to give them 10-20 kuna.</

Overall, it’s important to remember that tipping in Croatia is discretionary, and it’s up to your discretion. If you’re unsure, you can always ask locals or staff for advice

We also recommend that you leave the U.S. with maybe $100 converted into the currency of your destination in small bills.  That way, you have some pocket money to tip the many people who will get you to your ultimate destination.  After that, we recommend that you use the many bank ATMs all over Europe’s major cities to get additional cash if needed.

Have fun.  We hope you found this article helpful.

Category: Travel News & Tips · Tags: Travel News

4 Comments on “ Ultimate European Tipping Guide ”

How can I get a copy (pdf) to take with me and keep in my travel folder?

Hi Larry. Go to the top of the page, click print on your browser, and then save it as a PDF.

This is great, thanks. Any thoughts on Switzerland or Croatia?

I just added Switzerland and Croatia. Great to hear from you. 🙂

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Tipping in Europe: 11 Things You Need to Know on How to Tip Around Europe

• May 23, 2021

Table of Contents

In the United States, tipping is considered essential when receiving most services. When you go to a restaurant, get your hair done, or hire a taxi, it’s customary to add a few extra dollars at a minimum to your total. A 10% or 20% tip is usually standard for great service. This is intended to show the person you’re tipping that you appreciate their work. It’s also considered essential because some workers including waiters and waitresses receive a baseline salary that’s under minimum wage. Because of these factors, not tipping is considered quite rude – and some people have been known to leave a single penny or a dollar to intentionally tell a server that their service was not appreciated.

If you’re in Europe, things are very different and tipping is typically seen as unnecessary, and in some places, you might be the only person who leaves a tip. If you’re planning a trip to Europe or are just curious about how tipping works over there, this post is for you! We will go over some of the common questions that are asked about the practice and give some advice to make sure you feel prepared when it comes to tipping in Europe.

Related Posts:

• 8 Travel Tips You Need to Know Before Taking Your Next Long-Haul & Multi-City Flights
• The Ultimate Packing List For a Trip to Europe
• 7 Expert Tips You Need to Know Before Planning a Multi-City Trip to Europe

1. If you’re going to tip, tip in cash and hand the money directly to the person who served you.

It’s always a good idea to keep a few euros available in coins or bills to use as a tip whenever you need it. You may not have a place to add a tip when you pay a bill with your credit card, and handing money directly to the tour guide, concierge, or waiter is also a way to say thank you for the service you received. Additionally, if you simply leave cash on the table when you leave a restaurant, people may think you’ve forgotten some money and may not assume automatically that it’s a tip.

2. Tipping is completely optional. Really.

If you’re used to tipping culture in the United States, the concept of leaving a restaurant or bar without leaving a tip might feel uncomfortable or like a huge faux-pas. Even a small tip is customary in the United States regardless of the quality of the service received. But if you receive service that you don’t think warrants a tip in Europe, you don’t have to leave a tip. Tipping in Europe is considered a sign that the service was exceptional as typically service professionals are paid a higher wage than their American counterparts.

3. You don’t need to tip for self-service.

While this is also usually true at establishments within the United States, you may have tipped at a buffet or something similar. In Europe, this is generally not considered necessary and you only need to tip someone who has actively provided you a service.

4. Sometimes the tip is already included in your total cost.

This is also true in the United States – some businesses may include a 5% to 15% tip in the total cost so check your bill before you decide to leave a cash tip. Countries like Italy include a small surcharge that will be listed on the menu already, and you might even see a listed fee for bread, tableware, etc. These are all considered normal!

5. Tipping in hotels is a great idea.

Whether it be a bellhop, a concierge, or a front desk associate, the staff at your hotel can make a huge difference in your vacation. They can give you insider tips about how to avoid crowds at certain attractions or let you in on some secrets about how to save money during your trip. If the hotel staff has helped you out, make sure you tip accordingly.

6. When you’re not sure how much to leave, tip two euros.

When you took a taxi or simply ordered a drink at a bar and aren’t sure if you need to tip or not, a euro or two is usually a safe bet. Leaving a single euro is considered rude in some places and is akin to a backhanded compliment.

7. There’s no need to tip in Scandinavian countries or in Iceland.

In Denmark , Norway , Sweden , Finland , and Iceland , employees are paid a living wage and don’t need to rely on tips. In fact, the earnings from tips are already factored into pay so you don’t need to tip, nor should you. At most, you can round your total up to the nearest euro.

8. It’s polite to tip your tour guides and some will expect it.

Many who work in the tourism industry or adjacent to it may be familiar with visitors from the United States who are used to people who tip. That said, professionals like tour guides generally should be tipped if you enjoyed the tour.

9. While it’s not usually considered actually offensive to tip in most places in Europe, there are some populations that may find it rude or strange.

In countries like Russia or Switzerland , tipping may be considered rude so it’s best to avoid it or simply round up to the nearest euro just to cover your bases.

10. When in doubt, round up to the nearest euro.

If you are in one of the many countries where tipping is not customary or necessary but you still feel like you want to leave something , you can simply round up your total bill to the nearest euro or equivalent currency.

11. There’s no need to stress about tipping.

Ultimately, the discussions around tipping in Europe are not as prevalent or serious as it is in the United States. While you can’t go wrong with tipping a few euros, you don’t need to tip everywhere you go and you don’t need to overthink it. In the United States, it is considered rude not to leave a tip, the opposite is not true in Europe. While tipping is not required in most places, it is not considered rude to leave a small tip as a way to say thank you for great service.

Remember, giving people a few extra dollars is always going to be appreciated! So while there are some assumptions that tipping in Europe is considered rude, it’s usually completely fine to tip even if it’s not a customary thing.

For more tipping guides specific to each European country, please visit our destination guide .

Travel Resources for Planning Your Trip to Europe

To make planning your own trip to Europe easier, we listed some of our favorites and recommended travel resources below. You can search and find the best flights, transportation options, hotels to stay in, tours/activities, and things you can do in each destination during your trip.

Agoda : Search thousands of destinations around the world & quickly compare prices to find amazing deals on the best flights.

CheapOAir : You can find airline tickets, hotel rooms, rental cars, and vacation packages all on one site!

Kiwi.com : What we like about Kiwi is the fact that they are able to create combinations of flight, train, and bus tickets and offer them in a single itinerary. Also, Kiwi has what they called “ Nomad ” which helps you find the best way of visiting multiple destinations, saving you time and money.

JetRadar : You can search and compare airfares from 726 airlines and dozens of travel agencies and systems.

Agoda : Agoda is one of the world’s largest online travel accommodation platforms with a network of over 2,000,000 vacation rentals and hotels worldwide.

Hotellook : They have more than 250,000 hotels in 205 countries, working with data from more than 10 online booking systems, such as Booking.com, Agoda.com, Hotels.com, Expedia, and others.

Transportations:  

Airport Transfers :  KiwiTaxi ,  Viator or   GetTransfer  ( offer both airport transfers & car rentals with a personal driver)

Train : EuroRail ,  Trainline  or  RailEurope  

Bus :  Flixbus : Very affordable (as low as $6) and convenient way to transfer between cities in Europe.

Car Rentals :  AutoEurope ,  EconomyBookings ,  or   GetTransfer  (transfers & car rentals with a personal driver)

Bike Rental :  BikesBooking  (Bikes & scooter rentals) 

Transportation Comparison :  Omio  (search, compare, and book tickets for buses, trains, and flights all in one site)

Tours & Activities :

TakeWalks  (WalkofItaly): This is our favorite site for walking tours & day trips.

Tiqets : Great site for entrance tickets. It offers directly bookable, instantly available, and completely mobile tickets for museums, shows, and attractions all over the world.

Musement : They have good activities and tours in Italy and Spain, also many great day trips you can choose from.

GetYourGuide : A large number of tours, excursions, and other travel activities

Viator : The largest one. It has everything from tours, attractions, shore excursions, and private guides in over 2,700 destinations worldwide. It also has many transportations and transfers options and some unique experiences we didn’t find anywhere else.

Need help planning a trip to Europe?

Ready for a European getaway but don’t know where to begin? If you find this type of trip planning to be too complicated to plan on your own, we’re here to help!

At  MultiCityTrips , multi-destination travel and complicated itineraries such as a multi-city, multi-country trip to Europe are our specialties.  Contact us  today to learn more about how one of our experienced travel experts/destination specialists can  personalize your multi-city trip   and craft the best vacation package for you.

Don’t want to start from scratch and need some trip inspiration? Check out our  marketplace  for customizable pre-designed packages available right now for many amazing destinations.

To learn more about how our process of trip planning works in detail, please see our “ How It Works ” page or check out our video on  “How to Plan a Multi-City Trip to Europe in  5 Easy Steps”   here.

Have questions for us? Try our 24/7 live chat, call/text us at  (888)223-2316 ,  Schedule a FREE Call, or contact one of the travel experts/destination specialists at  [email protected] .

Private Travel Coaching & Consulting Call

Want to plan and book your upcoming trip yourself? If this is your first time traveling to any of the European destinations or you are new to multi-city, multi-country travel but prefer to manage every part of your trip on your own, this option is for you! 

For just  $150 per hour , our destination expert can answer any questions you might have as you plan and book your dream trip. From assisting with route planning, and destination selection, recommending the best areas or places to stay, the best transportation options, things to do and see, saving tips and so much more! 

Ready to plan your trip with our help? Book your private coaching session with our destination expert now and we’ll confirm your appointment within 24 hours!

More Travel Inspiration & Guides

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10 of The Best Free Things to Do in Florence

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Travel resources for planning your own trip.

To make planning your European trip on your own easier, in addition to what already mentioned in our travel guide, we included some of our recommended travel resources below. You can search and find the best flights, transportation options, hotels to stay in, tours/activities, and things you can do in any destination using these travel resources:

European River Cruises:

Uniworld River Cruises : The world’s best and most awarded luxury river cruise line—offers itineraries in spectacular destinations throughout Europe, Russia, Egypt, Asia, and Peru. The company’s European fleet features luxurious ships with an average capacity of 120 guests, the highest staff-to-guest ratio in the river cruise industry, enticing shore excursions, world-class gourmet cuisine, impeccable hospitality, and numerous other all-inclusive benefits.

Pre- and Post-cruise/Tour Extensions:  Uniworld curated pre-and post-cruise/tour extensions make it easy to add a few days to the front or back end of your trip while leaving the planning to them

The packages include a variety of hotel options, transfers, and a dedicated destination expert to escort you along the way.

Airport Transfers & Transportations:  

Airport Transfers: GetTransfer offers both airport transfers & car rentals with a personal driver. Other airport transfer options are KiwiTaxi and Viator.

Train :  EuroRail ,  Trainline ,  or  RailEurope are all great sites for train tickets as well as Rail Passes if you would like to add more flexibility to your trip. They are good for most trains throughout Europe. For trains in Italy, we like and recommend ItaliaRail . As for Portugal, you will need to go to the official website for Comboios de Portugal (the Portuguese train company) to book your train tickets when traveling in Portugal.

CarRentals :  AutoEurope ,  EconomyBookings ,  or   GetTransfer  (transfers & car rentals with a personal driver)

Bike Rental :  BikesBooking is a great site for bikes & scooter rentals

Travel Insurance:

Travel Guard :  Their comprehensive travel insurance programs, starting at $30, include per-trip & annual plans, coverage for trip cancellation , trip interruption, trip delay, medical expenses, baggage loss & more! Travel Guard provides 24/7-customer service with a personal touch through its World Service Center.

DISCLAIMER : Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links, MultiCityTrips may receive a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Trip by Travel Experts

Need help planning a trip and find the best vacation package for your multi-city trip to Europe? If you find this type of trip planning to be too complicated to plan on your own, we’re here to help!

At  MultiCityTrips , multi-city, multi-country European vacations, and complicated itineraries are our specialties. Contact us today to learn more about how one of our experienced travel experts/destination specialists can personalize an amazing multi-city trip to your dream destinations in Europe.

Ready for a trip? Check out our planning options and get in touch with us today!

Featured Pre-Designed Packages

These air-inclusive, pre-designed multi-city European vacation packages can be personalized to suit your needs!

6 Nights/7 Days Signature Escape to Paris and Prague

8 Nights/ 9 Days Signature Escape to Berlin, Dresden (Day Trip), and Prague

6 Nights/7 Days Signature Escape to Paris and Rome

6 Nights/ 7 Days Signature Escape to Dubrovnik and Split

Schedule a FREE Consultation

Not sure or can’t decide which planning option is right for you? Schedule a free 30-minute call with one of our travel experts to discuss your travel needs today!

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A Traveler’s Guide to Tipping in a Changed World

In the age of tip fatigue, many are bewildered by how much to tip in hotels and restaurants and on guided tours. Customs in foreign countries complicate the picture. Here’s some advice from experts.

By Elaine Glusac

Not long into the pandemic, Americans were eager to tip their front-line-working baristas and servers. But now that tip fatigue has set in — driven by the proliferation of payment tablets that suggest tipping for everything from a sandwich at a grab-and-go counter to an ultrasound — consumers are often bewildered by when and how much to tip.

“This is the hottest topic in etiquette right now,” said Daniel Post Senning, the co-author of “Emily Post Etiquette, The Centennial Edition” and the great-great grandson of the etiquette icon Emily Post . He cites the pressure of inflation, the disruption of the pandemic and the rush back to travel for the unease. “There’s growing anxiety and public discussion around tipping.”

Offering guidance on when and how much to tip when you travel, etiquette experts, academics and travelers weighed in with the following advice.

Make 15 to 20 percent your restaurant baseline

Tipping standards at restaurants vary widely around the world. In the United States, the American Hotel & Lodging Association suggests in its “Gratuity Guide” leaving 15 percent of the total bill or up to 20 percent for extraordinary service.

“The minimum is 15 percent,” said Elaine Swann, an etiquette expert and the founder of the Swann School of Protocol in Carlsbad, Calif. “It can be increased from there based on the level of service received.”

Before the pandemic, tip averages in restaurants nationally had crept up to 18 percent, a standard that fell back to 15 percent more recently as inflation grew, according to Amanda Belarmino, an assistant professor in the hospitality school at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. “I don’t think consumers want to be stingy, but everybody’s budget is tight and they’re trying to make trade-off decisions,” she said.

Despite expert advice, consumers may not have a choice. In many American cities, tips are increasingly included in the bill and often are well above 15 percent. A recent article making the rounds in New York argues for a 20 to 25 percent standard.

At a trendy cocktail bar in Los Angeles recently, an $18 drink came to $24 after an 18 percent gratuity and an additional fee for employee health care. The bartender mentioned that the establishment includes tips in their tallies because it serves many guests from foreign countries where tipping is not standard.

According to the Independent Restaurant Coalition , service charges benefit all employees, including cooks and dishwashers as well as waiters. “The service charge model ensures that employee compensation is fair, reliable and not reliant on the diners’ experience or bias,” said Erika Polmar, the executive director of the coalition.

Beyond the United States, tip amounts vary, as illustrated in this tipping map. Often, they are less than in the United States and are sometimes included as a service charge (see the section below on tipping abroad).

Don’t be afraid to say no

Some tip requests should be denied, according to experts.

For example, when you’re ordering coffee or a sandwich from a kiosk or counter and are presented with a payment screen including suggested tip amounts, “Push past that awkwardness and push no tip,” Ms. Swann said. “Proprietors are offering a perk to employees and they’re putting it on the backs of consumers to absorb.”

Caving in to social pressure or even a scowl from the employee is, in Ms. Swann’s opinion, “giving in to a level of entitlement that should be nonexistent.”

The growth of credit card payments over cash has made it harder to show a token of appreciation via the tip jar, especially if you’re not carrying cash. If in the past you would pay with cash and leave the coins, Mr. Senning advised rounding up on your credit card and doing the same thing virtually.

Stock up on small bills

Beyond restaurants, travel offers many other opportunities to leave tips for service providers such as cabdrivers, bellhops and valets. Before she takes a trip, Ms. Swann goes to the bank to get cash, especially the $1 and $5 bills that are nearly impossible to withdraw from A.T.M.s.

Most experts agree taxi or rideshare drivers deserve 15 to 20 percent of the fare, depending on the service and the cleanliness of the vehicle. (Ms. Swann once rode in a rideshare car filled with dog hair and made the rare decision not to tip.)

Airport skycaps and the bell people at a hotel should get a few dollars a bag, based on service, and perhaps more if the task is onerous, like handling golf or ski bags. Valet parkers should get $2 to $5 at drop-off and pickup.

And if you only have larger bills, Ms. Swann added, it’s perfectly fine to ask for change back.

Remember the hotel housekeeper

Etiquette experts say hotel guests should leave $2 to $5 a night for the housekeeper each morning. The American Hotel & Lodging Association recommends $1 to $5 a night left daily, preferably in a marked envelope making it clear that it is intended for the housekeeper. In its tipping guide , UNITE HERE, the labor union whose members include hotel workers, suggests a minimum of $5 a day and more for suites.

Not many travelers comply.

Despite having the most physically demanding jobs in hotels with few avenues for advancement, “hotel housekeepers are some of the least-often tipped employees in the service industry,” according to Dr. Belarmino of U.N.L.V. “Unlike servers, who are often paid less than minimum wage that is then made up by tips, hotel housekeepers’ pay is not contingent upon tips. However, it is a courtesy to tip them.”

But in the age of infrequent or optional room cleaning, which has become more common since the pandemic, the guidelines get murkier. “If you stay one night or if you choose to skip housekeeping, I would recommend tipping about $5 at checkout,” Dr. Belarmino said.

If housekeeping is available on demand, most experts recommend tipping each time the room is serviced. And you may want to consider raising the amount.

“If the hotel won’t do daily housekeeping, make sure to tip extra on the days that you do get service and at checkout, because rooms that have gone days without housekeeping are dirtier and harder for housekeepers to clean,” wrote D. Taylor, the international president of UNITE HERE, in an email.

Mind foreign tipping customs

Customs regarding gratuities vary by country. On some trips abroad, guides with the high-end tour company Abercrombie & Kent use orientation sessions to advise guests on when to tip in unexpected places — like bathrooms in Egypt — and provide travelers with small denominations in the local currency to do so.

If you don’t have a guide to instruct you, make learning the culture of tipping abroad part of your trip planning by consulting guidebooks, tourism board websites and online sources like Tripadvisor .

“You have to look at two things: Is it expected and mandatory as it is here in the U.S. for many service jobs? And what is the social safety net like in that place?” said Pauline Frommer, the editorial director of Frommer’s , which publishes travel guidebooks covering 48 countries, including advice on how to tip.

In countries like Mexico, where wages are low, she advised tipping in restaurants as you might at home. In Europe, where waiters are paid better, tipping is less important. On trips to London and Paris last summer, she found bills with service fees included, often listed as “S.C.” for “service charge.”

“If you didn’t know, you might tip on top of that,” she said, recommending that travelers scrutinize their bills and ask if something is unfamiliar.

In Italy, travelers might find a nominal charge called a “coperto” on their bill covering bread and water.

“It comes from the days when you would go to an inn and if you wanted to have a tablecloth and plates, they charged you for it,” said Pam Mercer, the owner of California-based Tuscany Tours , which specializes in small-group travel in Italy and France.

When it comes to restaurant meals in those countries, “There’s not a hard and fast rule,” Ms. Mercer said. Her company advises guests to tip 5 to 10 percent at restaurants and give the tip directly to the waiter.

In cafes and cabs, she rounds up and leaves the change.

“France pays its employees a living wage, unlike the U.S.,” wrote Janice Wang, an American living in France who runs a Facebook group for expatriates there, in an email. “Hence, servers, hairdressers and cabdrivers don’t need tips to live. They appreciate them, but don’t need them. And they never expect a tip.”

Tip your guide

Guide services come in many varieties — from a walking tour leader to a mountaineer who helps you navigate a rock face. Travelers might engage their services for a half-day trip, a two-week tour, and everything in between and beyond.

The global tour company Intrepid Travel states on its website that “tipping is never compulsory, but always appreciated,” while also making the point that tips are a big part of a guide’s income, especially in the United States and Southeast Asia. On a multiday small-group trip in the United States, the company suggests tipping $7 to $10 a day.

The tour company Exit Glacier Guides notes that 10 to 20 percent of the trip cost for its wilderness outings is standard where it operates in Seward, Alaska. The tip for a group walk led by a naturalist beside the Exit Glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park that costs $59 a person would therefore be about $6 to $12 a person.

CIE Tours , which offers group trips in Iceland, Ireland, Italy and Britain, recommends tipping tour leaders and bus drivers the equivalent in local currency of roughly $7 to $10 each a day, depending on the location.

But the platform ToursByLocals , where local residents set prices for their own tours, discourages tips.

“The guides are in essence entrepreneurs, rather than employees, and we suggest that the best tip a traveler can leave is to return to the site and leave a thoughtful review, which will help that guide to grow their business,” wrote Paul Melhus, the co-founder and chief executive of ToursByLocals, in an email.

Free tours make it trickier to calculate tips, even though guides work solely for gratuities. Free Tours by Foot , which offers city walking tours around the world, shies away from any guidance on tipping, noting on its website , “You name the price.”

In an email, a representative in the New York office of the company wrote that the range runs “anywhere from just a thank you to $100,” with the average at $10 to $20 a person.

On its website and in email communications, Free Chicago Walking Tours is more transparent, recommending $10 to $20 a person for the guided walks that generally last two hours. Jeff Mikos, who owns the company, estimates guides average about $10 a guest on groups that can be as big as 30, but are usually closer to half of that.

About a quarter of the group “will be genuine and thankful and won’t tip, and the middle-of-the-pack average is slightly under $10 a person,” Mr. Mikos said. “But there’s always one couple with $50.”

Elaine Glusac writes the Frugal Traveler column. Follow her on Instagram: @eglusac .

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2023 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Boston:  A destination steeped in history, as ever, has reinvented itself with outdoor spaces for drinking, dining and recreating, and more change in the air .

Spain:  By welcoming visitors with glorious scents and a natural beauty that rivals Provence in France, the annual lavender harvest has revitalized the medieval town of Brihuega .

Tipping in Europe: A Comprehensive Guide to Tipping Etiquette

June 20, 2023

The Doers Firm

Discover the essential tips for tipping in Europe and navigate the cultural nuances of gratuities. From hotels to transportation and dining, learn the appropriate tipping practices in different countries. Enhance your travel experience by showing appreciation for excellent service.

Introduction

Tipping in Europe is a topic that often perplexes travelers. The customs and expectations regarding gratuities can vary greatly from country to country, leaving visitors unsure of when and how much to tip. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the nuances of tipping in Europe, providing you with valuable insights and practical tips to navigate the tipping culture with confidence.

Understanding Tipping in Europe

Tipping as a cultural norm.

Tipping customs in Europe are deeply rooted in local cultures. While it’s important to note that tipping is not obligatory, it is commonly practiced to acknowledge good service and show appreciation.

Factors Influencing Tipping Customs

Several factors can influence the tipping customs in Europe , including the country’s economic conditions, cost of living, and cultural norms. Additionally, the type of service received and the quality of service provided can also play a role in determining the appropriate tip.

Researching Tipping Guidelines

Before embarking on your European journey, it’s crucial to research the tipping guidelines specific to each country you plan to visit. While there are general tipping practices, understanding the nuances of each destination will help you navigate tipping with confidence.

Tipping in Restaurants

European restaurant tipping etiquette.

In European restaurants, tipping practices vary. While some countries include a service charge in the bill, others rely on customers to leave an additional tip. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the local customs to ensure you tip appropriately.

How to Calculate the Tip?

When calculating the tip in European restaurants, a general guideline is to leave 5-10% of the total bill as a gratuity. However, it’s always a good idea to check if the service charge has been included in the bill before deciding on the tip amount. You can also use our Tip Calculator for perfect tip calculations.

Handling Service Charges

In certain European countries, a service charge may be automatically added to the bill. This eliminates the need for an additional tip unless you wish to show extra appreciation for exceptional service. It’s advisable to review the bill carefully to avoid double tipping.

Tipping in Hotels

Hotel staff tipping practices.

Tipping hotel staff is customary in Europe, and it’s a way to express gratitude for their services. Hotel staff members, such as porters, doormen, and concierge, often rely on tips as part of their income.

Tipping Concierge and Bell Staff

When receiving assistance from the hotel concierge or bell staff, it is appropriate to offer a tip. This can be done upon arrival or departure, depending on the services provided.

Room Service and Housekeeping Tips

For room service deliveries, it’s customary to tip the staff who bring the food to your room. Additionally, leaving a tip for housekeeping is a way to appreciate the cleanliness and care provided during your stay.

Tipping in Transportation

Tipping taxi drivers.

When taking a taxi in Europe, tipping practices vary. In some countries, it’s customary to round up the fare, while in others, a 10% tip is expected. Observing the local customs will help you determine the appropriate tip for taxi drivers.

Tipping for Ride-Share Services

With the rise of ride-sharing services, such as Uber, tipping etiquette has evolved. While tipping is not always expected or required, it’s a nice gesture to offer a small tip for excellent service or when traveling in larger groups.

Gratuities for Tour Guides and Drivers

When taking guided tours or hiring private drivers in Europe, it’s customary to tip at the end of the service. The tip amount can vary, but it’s generally recommended to tip 10-15% of the total cost.

Tipping in Bars and Cafés

Bar and pub tipping etiquette.

In bars and pubs across Europe, tipping bartenders is customary. It’s common to leave a small tip for each drink ordered or round up the bill to the nearest euro as a gesture of appreciation.

Tipping Bartenders and Servers

When receiving table service in bars or restaurants, it’s customary to leave a tip for the servers. The amount can vary, but a 5-10% tip is generally considered appropriate.

Café and Coffee Shop Tipping

In cafés and coffee shops, tipping is not always expected, especially for counter service. However, if you receive table service or want to show appreciation for exceptional service, leaving a small tip is a thoughtful gesture.

Tipping in Other Service Industries

Spa and salon tipping guidelines.

When visiting spas or salons in Europe, it’s customary to tip the service providers. The recommended tip amount is typically 10-15% of the total cost of the service.

Tipping at Tourist Attractions

While tipping at tourist attractions is not obligatory, it’s a kind gesture to offer a small tip to guides or staff members who provide exceptional service or enhance your experience.

Public Restroom Attendants and Tips

In some European countries, public restrooms have attendants who provide a clean and well-maintained environment. It’s customary to offer a small tip as a token of appreciation for their services.

Tipping FAQs

Is tipping expected in all european countries.

Tipping customs vary across Europe, and while tipping is generally practiced, it may not be expected or customary in some countries. It’s essential to research the tipping etiquette of your specific destination before your trip.

How much should I tip in Europe?

The appropriate tip amount in Europe typically ranges from 5-15% of the total bill or service cost, depending on the country and the quality of service received. Researching the local customs will help you determine the specific tip amount.

Should I tip in cash or use a credit card?

While both cash and credit card tips are generally accepted, it’s advisable to carry cash in smaller denominations for convenience. However, in some establishments, you may have the option to add a tip to your credit card payment.

Are service charges included in the bill?

Service charges may be included in the bill in some European countries. It’s important to review the bill carefully to determine if a service charge has been added before deciding on the tip amount.

What if I receive poor service?

If you receive poor service, it’s not obligatory to leave a tip. However, it’s advisable to address your concerns with the management or staff, as tipping practices may vary depending on the situation.

Do I need to tip in countries where it’s not customary?

In countries where tipping is not customary, such as Finland or Iceland, tipping is not expected. However, if you receive exceptional service or want to show appreciation, a small tip is always appreciated.

Navigating the tipping culture in Europe can initially be challenging, but with a basic understanding of the customs and practices, you can tip confidently while showing appreciation for excellent service. Remember to research the specific tipping guidelines of each country you plan to visit and always consider the quality of service received when determining the appropriate tip amount. By respecting local customs and showing gratitude, you can enhance your travel experience while interacting with the local culture.

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About The Doers Firm

The Doers Firm is a studio that focuses on web development and digital marketing. They specialize in creating websites and implementing digital marketing strategies. The team at The Doers Firm is highly regarded and consists of passionate individuals. They have also developed a useful tool called the Tattoo Tip Calculator, which helps solve a specific problem.

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Do You Tip in Europe? Understanding Gratuity Etiquette Across the Continent

Tipping in Europe can often lead to confusion for travelers used to different customs. This guide helps explain European tipping etiquette and shows when and how much to tip in each country.

Tipping practices in Europe vary by country. In general, tipping is less customary and lower in percentage than in the United States. It's common to round up the bill or tip a small amount for good service, often between 5-10%, particularly in restaurants and taxis.

Tipping Customs

• Understanding varying tipping practices across Europe is essential for proper etiquette.
• A service charge may be included, affecting whether an additional tip is necessary.
• Knowledge of local currency and payment methods helps avoid awkward tipping scenarios.

On this page:

Understanding tipping in europe, general tipping guidelines, tipping by country, currency and payment methods, special scenarios of tipping, tipping advice from travel experts.

When you're traveling through Europe, the tipping culture can be quite different from what you're used to. It's important to understand the expectations and customs to avoid uncomfortable situations.

Cultural Context of Tipping

In Europe, tipping is not as ingrained in the service industry as it is in some other places. However, if you receive exceptional service or want to show your appreciation, a tip is a kind gesture. Tipping etiquette can vary greatly across European countries, so it's helpful to familiarize yourself with the local customs. In some countries, a tip is only expected for service that goes above and beyond, whereas in others, it's customary to always leave a small appreciation, often by rounding up the bill.

Countries With Service Charges

Many European countries include a service charge in the bill, commonly known as service compris . This means that the cost of service is included, and additional tipping is not mandatory. However, if you're particularly pleased with the service provided, leaving a small extra tip is always welcome. These charges are typically clear on the bill, but when in doubt, don't hesitate to inquire about them with the staff to ensure you're following local customs.

When traveling across Europe, it’s important to know that tipping customs can vary by country, but there are some common practices that can help you navigate when and how much to tip for services provided.

Restaurants and Bars

In restaurants , it's typical to leave a tip of about 5-10% of the bill if the service was satisfactory, with 10% being a generous tip for good service. However, this can vary; for instance, in Italy, it's common to leave a small extra, called "coperto," while in France , tipping is appreciated but not mandatory since a service charge is usually included in the bill. On the other hand, if you're visiting a bar, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is often sufficient.

Hotel Staff

For hotel staff , such as porters and housekeeping , a small tip is a nice gesture for their efforts. You might give 1-2 euros per bag to porters for helping with your luggage, and a similar amount per day for housekeeping to show your appreciation for their hard work in maintaining a clean and comfortable room during your stay.

Taxi and Private Drivers

When you take a taxi or hire a private driver , tipping isn't always expected but is certainly welcomed. A common practice is to round up to the nearest whole euro on the fare. For instance, if your fare comes to €18.50, you can round up to €20 as a courtesy tip. If the driver has provided excellent service, such as helping with bags or giving a guided tour of the city, a larger tip of 5-10% would show your gratitude for their extra effort.

When traveling across Europe, it's important to note that tipping customs can vary significantly from one country to another. Below, we'll break down what you should expect in terms of tipping habits in different parts of the continent.

Tipping Customs in Western Europe

Tipping in eastern europe.

Eastern Europe generally has more flexible tipping customs, depending on the country and establishment, but small tips are usually welcomed.

• Restaurants: It's typical to leave up to 10% if you enjoyed the service.
• Taxis: Rounding up to the nearest convenient amount is common.

Scandinavian Tipping Practices

Scandinavia has a 'no-tipping-required' ethos due to fairly inclusive service charge practices.

• Restaurants: Tipping is not required, but you can leave up to 10% for outstanding service.
• Hotels: Service is often included, but a small tip for housekeeping or porters is appreciated.

Remember, while tipping is seen as a gesture of gratitude for good service, your experiences may vary, and it's always best to follow local customs.

When traveling through Europe, it's important to understand the preferred currency and payment options, as this can influence how and when you tip for services received.

Cash or Credit Card

You’ll find that both cash and credit cards are widely accepted across Europe. However, carrying some cash is practical for smaller transactions or in places that don't accept cards. While paying with a credit card is convenient and tracks your expenses, some establishments may only accept cash tips . Always have a mix of coins and bills to cater to all tipping scenarios.

Local Currencies in Europe

While the euro is the common currency in many European countries, don't forget nations like Switzerland still use their own currency, the franc . Before visiting, check if the country uses the euro or a local currency to avoid any confusion, especially when you're giving a cash tip . Keep an assortment of euros and local currencies in smaller denominations for ease of tipping.

When traveling in Europe, you'll encounter situations where tipping practices can differ quite a bit from what you might be used to. Understanding these scenarios helps you navigate the cultural differences with ease.

Tipping Tour Guides and Group Tours

Tour Guides : A good rule of thumb is to tip your tour guide if you've had an enjoyable experience. Generally, you can consider giving €5 to €10 for a half-day tour or €10 to €20 for a full-day tour. For Group Tours , if you feel the guide has made your experience insightful, a similar amount per person is appropriate.

Self-Service and Counter Service

For Self-Service establishments, where you order and pick up your food at the counter, tipping is not required. However, if there's a tip jar present, you might want to leave some small change as a gesture of goodwill. At Counter Service cafes, you might round up to the nearest euro to show your appreciation for good service.

Service Fees and Cover Charges

Pay attention to your bill for items like "servizio incluso" (service included) or "servizio non incluso" (service not included). If a service fee is already included, you're not expected to tip extra, but you can if you received exceptional service. On the other hand, a cover charge (coperto) is not a tip, it's a standard fee for sitting down in an establishment and should not influence your decision to tip.

When you're traveling in Europe, understanding when and how much to tip can be a perplexing task. Rick Steves , a well-known travel authority, emphasizes that generous American-style tipping is generally not necessary in Europe. Instead, tipping is more modest.

Here are some quick pointers:

Restaurants: Check the bill for a service charge. If it's not included, consider rounding up or adding a small amount—5-10% is usually ample.

Taxis: Round up to the next whole euro amount for short trips or add 5-10% for longer distances.

Hotels: For housekeeping, 1-2 euros per night is customary, and a euro or two for porters per bag.

Following a tipping guide can prevent you from over-tipping or inadvertently offending the service staff with an excessive tip. When in doubt, it's respectful to follow local customs, and a small tip is often appreciated as a gesture of thanks for good service.

Remember, a smile and a polite 'thank you' in the local language also go a long way!

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The ultimate guide to tipping in Europe

Tipping in Europe isn't what it used to be. Though rounding up a restaurant bill by a few pounds or euros might have been the accepted practice in the past, in many destinations, it's now much more important to understand the percentages of your tip.

Should you be tipping housekeepers daily? And what about taxi drivers? You may have heard that French waiters are paid a solid professional wage and don't work for tips. But how true is that in 2022? Are you undertipping or overtipping during ski season in the Alps?

It's a veritable gratuity minefield out there. Simply knowing how much to tip can often be as awkward as knowing exactly how to tip (more on that later).

So come with us as we guide you through the choppy waters of tipping in Europe. And as we go, keep in mind that at the moment, euros and U.S. dollars are just about equal in value, so the amount of each tip listed in euros is about the same in U.S. currency.

How much should I tip in European restaurants?

A good rule of thumb when dining out in Europe — depending, of course, on the quality of the setting or the level of service provided — is to tip between 10% and 15% of the bill before tax.

However, in countries where hospitality workers typically enjoy higher wages than the norm, you may reasonably consider dialing your generosity down. Jannie Jørgensen, a professional secretary at The United Federation of Workers in Denmark (3F), the country's largest trade union with approximately 272,000 members, told TPG, "In Scandinavia, staff do not expect tips in the way they do in other countries. Because of the Danish [labor market] model, staff here get a salary they can live off and aren't dependent on tips."

There is "no culture of tipping" among the Danish, she adds. Instead, it is largely up to the individual. A former waitress herself, Jørgensen says that a regular diner in Copenhagen would generally tip 10% of the bill if they receive good service.

Of course, if the service is exemplary or somebody went out of their way to assist you — perhaps the chatty sommelier found the finest bottle of red for your perfectly cooked steak — then feel free to drop a 15% or even 20% tip in Nordic regions.

In mainland Europe, you can't really go wrong with anywhere between 10% and 15% as a standard tip, with anything more considered a bonus.

Should I still tip if a service charge has been added to the bill?

Depending on your point of view, adding a service charge to your bill is either a blight on the continent's best restaurants or a handy way of eliminating awkwardness around tipping.

The good news is, if you've scanned the bill and spotted a service charge — typically between 12.5% and 15% — then there's usually no need for an additional tip, though leaving some change is still appreciated.

In France, a 15% service charge ("service compris") is automatically added to bills in restaurants by law, but it's also still common for customers to leave a small token of a couple of euros for solid service. Being a waiter in France is widely seen as a more professional occupation than it is in many other countries, and, as such, staff are paid a higher base wage. As a result, you'll rarely find servers hovering over your table refilling drinks with the same frenzied verve as in the U.S., but tips can still make a real difference.

In 2017, France's Union des Métiers et des Industries de l'Hôtellerie (UMIH) even called for mandatory cash tips after the number of customers paying in cold hard currency dropped off. When considering your tip it's worth bearing in mind the current cost of living crisis and skyrocketing inflation biting into workers' paychecks across Europe — particularly in eye-wateringly expensive cities such as Paris.

Related: 4 European routes where you should take a train instead of a plane

While tipping may not be an expectation when service charges are included in your bill it's worth noting that not all restaurants are up front about where their "service charge" goes. In Denmark for example, Jørgensen says the service charges on bills "usually goes to the restaurant and not the staff." Additionally, if you choose to add a gratuity by credit or debit card, ask your server if they receive all the tips directly; they may well prefer being tipped in cash instead.

In August, Unite The Union took aim at the plush Cameron House Hotel in Loch Lomond, Scotland, after it was revealed 60 workers had been blindsided by a blanket 10% service charge that didn't go to the staff and left them between £200 and £300 pounds ($225 and $340) a month worse off. Which raises the question…

Is it better to tip in cash rather than by card?

Liz Wyse — etiquette advisor at Debrett's , a British company that has been coaching private clients and luxury brands as on authority on behavior since 1769 — says when it comes to tipping, cash is still king.

"It is always preferable to tip in cash. It ensures that the recipient is actually in receipt of the gratuity, and avoids making the whole tipping process cumbersome.

"If you are paying for a service by card and there is a facility to add a tip, then you should certainly do so in preference to leaving no tip at all. Better still, ensure that you have plenty of cash available for tipping purposes at the end of your stay."

Should I tip taxi drivers in Europe?

While tipping a cabbie is not always done up in Denmark, it is nonetheless "good karma to tip drivers," according to Jørgensen. In fact, this is true in most European nations, where a gratuity isn't a necessity when catching a taxi but is often gratefully appreciated.

If you encounter exceptional service (off-the-beaten-path tips for sightseeing, help hoisting large bags or suitcases into the trunk) then by all means go the extra mile in return. Just remember that taxi services in particularly touristic areas will often have steady work and slightly higher fares than elsewhere, so a huge tip won't be expected.

Tipping in cash? The best way is to round up to the nearest euro or equivalent, which also removes the need for mental arithmetic when trying to convert currency and percentages. Again, you should consider the local cost of living standards as you may find a big disparity in average tips between wealthier nations and poorer ones.

Should I tip housekeepers in European hotels?

According to Debrett's Wyse: you should always tip housekeepers.

These unsung heroes are also some of the most underpaid hotel staff around, says the etiquette expert. They're also often at the bottom of the tipping pyramid, so they tend not to get the same cash rewards from guests that are enjoyed by their front-of-house colleagues.

"In most countries €10 a week is perfectly acceptable — or €15 to €20 if you think the service was exceptional," says Wyse. "Generally, in good hotels, you will receive excellent service whether you leave a gratuity daily or not. It is therefore easier to leave a lump sum at the end of your stay. It is a nice gesture to add a note saying thanks for the service — and this will eliminate any uncertainty about the tip. Some hotels provide envelopes for gratuities; if not, just leave it on the nightstand."

If you're unsure on the day you check-out that the housekeeper looking after you is working, you can also hand an envelope with money and a thank you note at reception when you check out.

Related: Mobile tipping comes to hotels: Will housekeepers really benefit?

How much should I tip European hotel porters?

Listen, we've all seen Home Alone 2: Lost in New York . Nobody wants to tip hotel porters (or bellmen) with chewing gum if they can avoid it.

Should you find yourself standing next to a hotel employee who's just hauled your bags and suitcases up two flights of stairs, a tip of €1 to €2 per bag will suffice. However, if you've got more baggage than Jay Gatsby then maybe round it up to a crisp €5 note.

How much should I tip door staff and hotel concierge?

The fixers. The taxi flaggers. The behatted wonders who keep those revolving doors revolving. If there was a beating heart of a hotel, the door staff and concierge would be it.

With no bills in sight and much of the tipping with these heavyweights "off the books," so to speak, we asked Wyse to break down how much you should be looking to slide them:

• If they flag or book you a taxi: "Not essential to tip — but at most €1 to €2."
• If they help you plan a surprise for a loved one: "Tip is necessary — depending on the complexity of the surprise and amount of effort expended, €5-10."
• If they sort out tickets for the hottest show in town: "Tip is necessary — probably around €10, though tip should be commensurate with difficulty of getting tickets. If they've helped you secure rarely available seats, which cost €100 to €150 or more each, then you should increase your tip accordingly — to at least €20."

Should I tip European bar staff?

Unlike in the U.S., where it's common to tip a bartender a dollar or the equivalent of a drink, it's practically unheard of in Europe. By all means, tip a few extra euros to a bartender who's gone the extra mile, or drop a few euros in the tip jar before you stagger out into the night, but tipping is always the exception when you order a drink at the bar, not the rule.

There are some exceptions, however. Germans, for example, will normally round a bill up to the nearest euro if expectations were met, and it's a good rule to follow if you've just enjoyed a few frosty steins. Likewise, there may be more of an expectancy for tips among bar staff working in buzzier nightlife destinations, such as Ibiza or Amsterdam, but they won't begrudge you for not leaving any change.

Table service, on the other hand, is a different story. In this instance, you should tip as you would in a restaurant, between 10% and 15%.

Always ensure you know how the "local" price of a pint converts to your own currency. After all, if you do want to tip on a round, there's no point gifting the equivalent of a dollar per drink in a city like Budapest, where the average pint of local beer works out to $1.65.

"While it may seem penny-pinching to factor in the average cost of living when calculating a gratuity, it is sensible to do so, otherwise you might find that your tips are absurdly extravagant," says Wyse. "It is not an exact science, and you should certainly err on the side of generosity in countries where the wages are lower."

If in doubt, tip like a local

When sizing up other tables on your travels, you may find that the natives aren't all that big into tipping. So, when in Rome, should you do as the locals do?

Emanuele Barrasso, ambassador for Italian wine brand Antinori with a long background in hospitality, believes so. "There's not really a strict rule on tipping in Italy; it's more of a courtesy gesture," he says. "Leaving a tip is entirely up to the guest; it's not a given, although it will be appreciated."

Related: Which first-class high-speed rail service between Milan and Paris is best?

Much like in France, one of the reasons that tipping culture isn't all that prevalent in Italy is that restaurants and cafes are likely to include a service charge ("servizie") or even cover charge ("coperto") from the start. Often, Barrasso adds, it depends on the sort of establishment you frequent.

"If it's a high-end restaurant, tips are very common, although, again, they are not expected," he explains. "If you don't tip in places like this — up to 10% of the bill — it might be perceived as rude. Again, it all boils down to courtesy. I was in the hospitality service for many years; therefore, I am the first to recognize all the effort and length servers go to provide guests with an enjoyable experience."

In short, just because you might look and sound like a foreigner doesn't mean hospitality staff will be expecting you to line their palm with silver. Take it on a case-by-case basis, depending on the level of service and where you find yourself.

How can I hand someone a tip without looking awkward?

Want to avoid any clunky moments when handing a cash tip to a member of staff? Remember these four pointers, says Wyse, and you can't go wrong:

• "Have the money ready, no fiddling in pockets, bags or wallets."
• "There is no need to conceal the money and press it into the recipient's palm."
• "Simply hold out the folded note or coins with your right hand and accompany the gesture with a smile and a thank you."
• "If you intend to shake hands with the person you are tipping, do so after you have handed over the money as a valedictory gesture."

And whatever you do, don't pile a bunch of random coins into someone's grasp, or make a show of not having any change. It's a straight-up no-no:

"Always make sure you have small-denomination notes, or large-denomination coins, ready when you are going to tip," Wyse says. "Emptying out your pockets and filling someone's hands with a random assortment of loose change is rude. It's also rude to look in your wallet, fish out a 50-euro note, and then say 'I'm so sorry, I don't seem to have any small change.' This will come across as patronizing."

Bottom line

Tip well for excellent service. Tip fairly for good-to-average service. Don't tip at all for terrible service.

Look to see if a service charge has already been added to a bill, and if not, base your tip on the amount before tax is added. If you're looking to tip on a credit card, then be sure to ask if the staff will actually receive it. Try to leave cash whenever possible.

Above all, be courteous and patient. This is a two-way street; you may find being a nice human being scores you better service than any wad of cash might do.

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Everything you need to know about tipping on a guided tour..

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When you book a guided tour , it may seem like you’re covering most of your vacation costs before you even depart. Most tours include accommodations, trip leaders, local guides, transportation during the trip, admission fees, and many meals all in the upfront cost. But the addd cost of tour leader tips and other customary gratuities can sneak up on you unless you’ve factored them in at the beginning.

Inspired by my own frustration about the vague information available about how much to tip on guided tours, I’ve compared tipping guidelines and recommendations from a dozen different tour companies to create this tipping guide for tours. You can use it to get a sense of tour operator tipping norms and then plan accordingly.

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Which Gratuities Are Covered in Most Tours?

Many tour companies build tips for support staff into the tour price. That could include hotel staff, waiters, and sometimes (but not always) bus drivers. If your guided tour has a dedicated motor coach driver for the entire trip, for example, you may be expected to tip the driver in addition to your guides.

And almost none of the tour operators I spoke with include the priciest of all tips—tour leader gratuities—into the cost of a tour. The exception is Road Scholar , which includes group leader gratuities in the up-front tour cost. 

Which Gratuities Are Not Covered in Most Tours?

Beyond the above-mentioned exceptions, most tour companies do not include tips for guides and hotel housekeeping. Often, these people rely on tips as a vital part of their income, so it’s important to set your own budget accordingly to make sure you’re tipping at an appropriate level for their service.

• Tour Leader/Director: I’ll go into more detail below about tipping tour leaders, but in terms of the biggest gratuity expense to budget for on a tour, this is it, since the customary amount may well be in the hundreds of dollars.
• Local Tour Guides: Some tour companies will include local tour guides into the gratuities covered in the cost of the tour, while others say you should tip local tour guides individually. If you’re expected to tip local guides on your own, the daily amount usually falls somewhere in the $2 to $10 range. Local tour guides tend to be used for day tours, so you’ll want to tip them at the end of the day, as you may not see them again.
• Hotel Housekeeping: In-room tips for the cleaning staff aren’t generally paid by tour companies. TourScoop’s sister site FamilyVacationist has an explainer about hotel housekeeping tipping etiquette , but generally speaking the customary range is $3 to $10 per day depending on the hotel class. 
• Independent Meals: Learn tipping customs for your destinations before you go, since you’ll likely have some meals on your own and will want to be able to tip or not tip as the culture dictates. 

Why You Should Always Tip Your Tour Leaders

Ask a tour company why you should tip your tour leader and you’ll likely get some version of, “Well, it’s the customary way to thank them for all their hard work” or “It’s how you show appreciation and gratitude.” 

Intrepid Travel goes a bit deeper on its explanation, noting that “tipping is still a big part of leaders’ overall income” and that tipping locals for their guiding services is actually a powerful way to inject cash into the local economy. Since tip money doesn’t pass through a third party, the money “either go[es] straight to the leader, or get[s] divided up among your porters and local guides.”

A great tour leader turns a good experience into a great one, and it’s natural to want to make sure they feel appreciated, even if you have some resistance to the structures that require guests to heavily subsidize these hard-working wonders.

How Much to Tip Your Tour Leaders

The less helpful but most accurate answer to the question of how much to tip your tour leader is that information about tipping is generally found in the final documents you receive before your trip, so be sure to read those pages carefully when you get them (usually somewhere between a month and two weeks before the start of a tour). To give you a ballpark estimate, though, the daily per person tip for a tour leader tip should be somewhere in the range of $7 to $12, with $10 per person per day being the most widely recommended amount. 

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That amount can add up quickly, especially if you have more than one tour leader and/or are traveling with a family group . For instance, Adventures by Disney (which is refreshingly up-front about its tipping recommendations) pencils out gratuities for a 10-day tour with a family of four at $720 to $880, since its family travel adventures always include two tour leaders. That can be sticker-shock territory, which is why I suspect so many tour companies are so cagey about how much to tip tour leaders. 

How and When to Tip on a Guided Tour

Some companies—including Trafalgar , Globus , and Collette —may give you the option to pre-pay tour leader tips with your credit card at the time of booking. On the one hand, that’s great, since it means you don’t need to carry around cash to give at the very end of the trip. On the other hand, it pokes holes in the industry-wide story that the tip is tied to the service you’ve received.

Most tour companies still recommend tipping your tour leader at the end of the tour. Plan to tip in either the local currency or U.S. dollars if it’s a widely accepted currency in the destination country. Some tour leaders also accept Venmo or PayPal.

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The Ultimate Guide To Tipping In Europe

Across the world, tipping has very different implications and practices, for example: Tipping in South Africa is required, as it is in the USA . You are expected to leave a tip of between 15 and 25% in America, and if you don’t you may very well be chased by an irate waiter. But what about Europe? Many bills in Europe will be inclusive of tips, however, this does vary from country to country. Knowing the particular tipping practices in your destination country will avoid confusion and possible negative feelings. So read on for the ultimate guide to tipping in Europe!

• Train Transport Is The Eco-Friendly Way To Travel. This article is written to educate about Train Travel by Save A Train,  The Cheapest Train Tickets Website In The World.

Ultimate Guide To Tipping In Europe By Service

Tipping in Europe generally varies depending on the sort of service that you are receiving. For example, you would be expected to tip a waiter in a five-star restaurant on a different basis to a server behind a counter. Bartenders would not expect a tip at all in some cases, where taxi drivers would. Using your discretion, and generosity is always a good way to go when deciding on the correct tip. Also, most places require that you tip in cash, so be sure to carry a few Euro notes on you at all times.

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Tipping In Restaurants

Any situation where food or drinks are brought to the table usually requires a tip. The amount depends on the sort of dining that you are enjoying. The standard procedure for tipping in Europe is to leave one or two Euro bills on top of the bill amount if a round of drinks but no food is ordered. Full meals in a sit-down environment are different. In this case, a few euros per person is usually sufficient.  Five-star restaurants across Europe usually include the tip in their bill. Be sure to check this as there is no need to leave an extra tip unless you really enjoyed your service. Excellent service does sometimes require an extra tip, so in these cases, you may go all the way up to 15%.

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Most pubs or bars across the continent don’t expect tips at all. Bartenders are paid a salary, and while a few coins in the tip jar will most likely be appreciated, it is not necessary. if you do tip, again remember to use only cash, either notes or coins. In case you are at a loose end here is a list of the 5 Best Bars With Live Music In Europe.

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Stylists And Spa’s

Many people want to get a fresh new hairdo, or a relaxing massage while on holiday . Luckily you will find spas and stylists all over Europe, often in almost every town. Tipping, in either case, is usually about ten percent. If you are incredibly happy with the service that you received, you may go as high as 15%.

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Hotels are a frequent query when it comes to the question of tipping in Europe. As a rule of thumb, one should always follow the One Euro guideline. This basically states that you leave one Euro in tips per service. If a bellhop or porter carries your bags, then one Euro per bag is sufficient. House cleaning should receive a Euro a day. Tipping your concierge is at your own discretion, but it should depend on the level of service that you have received. If they have gone above and beyond to may your stay memorable and pleasurable, then a tip of five to ten euros or even beyond is appropriate.

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What To Tip Taxis  And Transport

Taxi’s and Ubers are an internal part of getting around Europe. When choosing what to tip, it is best to keep in mind how the driver is paid. Generally, though, a two Euro tip for a short taxi or Uber ride is appropriate. Apps such as Uber allow you to tip the driver electronically, while metered taxis will require cash. Tipping in Europe while traveling is much the same as tipping in bars or restaurants. Keep in mind that it is not always necessary, but often appreciated.  Booking your train tickets for your European trip is simple and easy with The Cheapest Train Tickets Website In The World.

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Ultimate Guide To Tipping In Europe By Country

Most countries follow the same general guidelines when it comes to tipping in Europe. Of course, one should always research the intended destination before traveling in order to make sure that you are fully up to date. Train travel can often take you through several countries at the same time, so being sure exactly what to do in each one is always helpful. Some countries do stand out from their counterparts in terms of rules, however.

Iceland And Scandinavia

Whether it is a throwback to their Viking origins or just simple politeness, these countries prefer you not to tip at all. Most restaurants and services will have the tip included in the bill. It is still appropriate to round the bill up to the nearest Euro instead of a tip either via cash or credit card.

Greece And Cyprus 

The Greek’s do everything a bit differently, and tipping is no exception. Larger bills require smaller tips and smaller bills require larger tips.

Leave at least a 5% tip, in cash for servers, even if the bill includes gratuity.  Cash is always king in most European countries, and Austria is no different.

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What To Tip In Ireland And Scotland

Known for their friendliness, both of these nations will carry your bags happily. Tipping for luggage porters is not essential, and is usually not expected. Being gracious and saying thank you politely is, however, expected. If you wish to receive the same service in the future from your porter, be sure to acknowledge them positively.

What To Tip In Europe – Britain

Many British people have tried to explain to tourists that tipping housekeeping is really not needed. When it comes to tipping in Europe, this is one of the firmest rules. Don’t leave a tip on your hotel room, it will most likely be handed in at the front desk as lost money . Bartenders also do not expect tips, and tipping them can be frowned upon. By all means, be friendly and acknowledge your bartender. Put a few coins into the tip jar if there is one. If not, rather leave the tip out of the equation.

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Rounding All The Information Regarding Tipping In Europe

The best advice for tipping in Europe is to do your homework. Read all about the country, or countries that you are planning to visit. remember that train trips often take you through a number of countries that you may be able to stop at. Always bring cash, both coins, and a few notes to tip in cash. If you are unsure of the policies, stick to the ten percent rule for restaurants, and the one Euro rule for everything else. 

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Learn About Tipping in Europe in 2023 (Country-by-country)

• Pinterest 19

Wondering what is the tipping culture in Europe? Here’s my comprehensive guide on how to tip depending on the country where you plan to visit!

It’s important to know the local customs before visiting Europe, and tipping is one of them. Tipping is customary in Europe, but it’s not always the same as in the United States. If you want to avoid any awkwardness or confusion, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the local tipping customs before you travel.

Unlike in countries like the United States, where gratuities are customarily expected for nearly every service rendered, tipping is not as common in Europe. Tipping is rarely demanded of customers in Europe unless they receive extraordinary service. Tipping is either already factored into the price of your meal or service or is left to your discretion, and this varies from country to country.

It’s worth noting that the customary amount of a gratuity varies widely from region to country. Tipping is not standard practice in all countries; for example, in countries like France and Italy , the average tip is just a few euros. It is more normal to leave a larger tip in nations like Germany and Switzerland, particularly in cases of extraordinary service.

Tipping is a balancing act in Europe, so it’s best to arm yourself with knowledge before you travel. The complex world of foreign tipping can be simplified if you familiarize yourself with the local customs of the countries you plan to visit. If you plan on dining out, hiring a taxi, or staying at a European hotel , it’s important to know the local tipping norms and standards.

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Table of Contents

FAQs about tipping in Europe

Are tips common in europe.

Yes, the tipping culture in Europe varies greatly from country to country. In many European countries, such as France and Spain, the gratuity is included in the price of the meal or service, and tipping is not expected. However, in some countries like Italy , it is common to round up the bill to show appreciation for the service provided. 

In countries like the United Kingdom and Ireland, tipping is customary in restaurants, pubs, and hotels, typically ranging from 10-15% of the total bill. It’s important to note that while tipping may be appreciated in some circumstances, it is not always necessary or expected. 

Therefore, it’s always a good idea to research the tipping customs of the country you visit to ensure you’re showing appreciation appropriately.

Is tipping mandatory in Europe?

In Europe, tipping is not considered mandatory, but it’s still appreciated if you choose to do so. Although most restaurants or cafes include a service charge in their bill, it doesn’t imply that you can’t leave anything extra if you received excellent service, especially in countries like Italy, Spain, or France. 

However, in some regions or countries where the minimum wage is lower, tips play a more significant role in the service staff’s livelihoods, so you may want to research or ask locals for advice. 

Ultimately, it’s up to you and your satisfaction with the service you receive, but it’s always polite to show your gratitude if you can.

Is tipping considered rude in Europe?

No, tipping is not considered rude in Europe. It is rude to leave unwanted small changes (for example, a few cents). Either leave a proper tip or don’t tip at all.

Why is there no tipping in Europe?

The reason why there is no tipping culture in Europe is deeply rooted in history and tradition. Unlike most of the Western world, Europe has a long history of social welfare systems and strong labor laws that guarantee fair wages and working conditions for those in the hospitality industry. Therefore, service charges and tips are already included in the prices of goods and services, making it unnecessary for customers to tip. 

Additionally, many Europeans view tipping as a way of reinforcing class hierarchies and believe it should not be the consumer’s responsibility to supplement the wages of service workers. So, while it is considered polite to round up the bill or leave a small amount of change as a token of appreciation, tipping is not expected or required.

Are tips included in Europe?

Yes, it is important to note that while tipping customs vary throughout Europe, including tips in the total cost of a meal or service is not common practice.

Most European restaurants write in their menu if a service charge is included in the price. If not, it is up to you whether you want to leave tips.

Do you tip taxis in Europe?

Tipping taxis is generally not expected or required in most European countries. However, that being said, if you have received particularly good service or had an extra-heavy load of luggage, it is perfectly acceptable to round up the fare to the nearest euro or two as a gesture of appreciation. It’s always a good idea to carry smaller bills or change on you. 

While tipping taxis in Europe is not expected, a small gesture of appreciation for excellent service can never hurt!

Is it better to tip in cash rather than by card?

It doesn’t matter by the end of the day. The tips are calculated and split between workers, whether paid by card or cash.

Tip according to how you want in any way you want!

Should I still tip if a service charge has been added?

It is up to you! You can leave tips if you think the service is exceptional but it is not expected from you.

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Tipping in Europe country by country

Tipping is not anticipated in most instances in Finland because service charges are often included in the prices of goods or services. 

However, if you believe your service was exceptional, leaving a little tip of 5-10% of the total is traditional. As a token of appreciation, it is also customary to round up the sum to the nearest euro or two. 

Remember that tipping is optional and at your discretion. Because Finnish people value honesty and transparency, if you tip, do so freely and immediately to the service employees. 

Tipping is not a big deal in Finnish society, so don’t worry too much about it!

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Regarding tipping in Sweden , it’s essential to understand that it’s not as common as in other European countries. While service costs are frequently included in the bill, you may round up to the closest krona or pay a little percentage if you are delighted with the service. 

However, it is important to note that tipping is not expected in Sweden, and service personnel are paid a good income that does not rely exclusively on gratuities. 

In reality, many residents reserve tipping for very good service and prefer to express gratitude with a simple thank you. 

So, if you’re in Sweden and concerned about tipping etiquette, go with your gut instinct, but don’t feel forced to tip just because you’re used to tipping in Europe.

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Tipping roughly 10% for good service when dining in Norway is typical. However, it is important to understand that tipping is optional and entirely at your discretion. Indeed, many establishments already include gratuity in the entire charge.

If you give a tip, it is customary to round up to the nearest ten kroner. For example, if your bill is 479 kroner, you may leave 500 kroner as a tip.

It is also worth mentioning that tipping is not anticipated in other service industries in Norway, such as taxis and hairdressers. If, on the other hand, you are delighted with the service you have received, a tiny gesture of thanks is always welcomed.

Overall, tipping symbolizes appreciation for good service in Norway, although it is neither expected nor needed. You are allowed to tip or not based on your personal experiences and level of satisfaction.

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You should understand some facts about tipping in Denmark. To begin with, tips are not expected in Denmark because they are already built into the cost of the service. However, it is traditional to leave a gratuity of roughly 10% of the bill if the service is exceptional.

Tipping is not typical in Denmark. Thus, any money provided as a tip should be regarded as a sincere expression of gratitude. Furthermore, tipping is always appreciated and should be done in cash rather than added to the bill.

It is unnecessary to leave a tip if the service charge is already included in the bill, as is the situation at many restaurants. A small gratuity is optional but greatly appreciated if the service is extraordinary.

Taxi rides and haircuts are two examples of situations where tipping is neither expected nor needed, although a small amount can be left if the service is exceptional.

In Denmark, the prevailing idea is that tipping should be done out of gratitude for excellent service rather than duty. Remember that cash is always preferred, and tips are never expected.

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Tipping is not commonly expected or required in Iceland . This is because service charges are often included in purchasing food, lodging, and other services. 

However, if you receive great service, a small tip is always welcome to show your thanks. Remember that most Icelandic residents do not tip, but a little gratuity of 5-10% of the amount is appropriate if you feel obligated to. 

It is also worth noting that tipping is not traditional in other service industries in Iceland, such as taxis, hairdressers, and tour guides. 

While tipping is not expected or required, expressing gratitude and admiration for great service is always nice.

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Tipping is a cultural tradition in Estonia that varies based on the service you receive. Tipping is not required in restaurants, however, if you were pleased with the service, a typical tip of 10% of the entire cost is greatly appreciated. If you’re paying in cash, round up to the nearest euro. No further tip is required if the establishment has included a service charge in the bill.

Rounding up to the closest euro is sufficient for taxi drivers. If the driver goes above and beyond, round up to the nearest euro or add a few cents.

It is customary at hotels to tip the housekeeping workers 1-2 euros per night of your stay. A 1-2 euros tip is recommended for concierge, luggage handlers, and room service services.

It should be noted that while tipping is appreciated, it is not obligatory in Estonia. This is because restaurant and hotel employees are often paid decent pay that is not dependent on tips. Finally, it is up to you to decide whether or not to tip based on the service you have got.

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There are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to tipping in Latvia. Tipping is not required in Latvia, as in other parts of Europe, but service employees always appreciate it. If you are delighted with the service you received, giving a 10% tip is traditional, though you might leave more if you believe the service was extraordinary. 

If you decide to tip, leave cash rather than credit card information, as this is the preferred method in Latvia. It’s also worth mentioning that, in contrast to other European countries, tipping is not expected in bars; instead, customers will frequently round up the cost of their beverages to the nearest euro. 

So, if you’re planning a vacation to Latvia and want to show your appreciation for exceptional service, keep these suggestions in mind!

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Tipping is usually appreciated but not required in Lithuania. For extraordinary service, it is usual to round up your amount to the nearest euro or give a 10% tip. 

If the service is poor or you do not feel obligated to leave a gratuity, it is completely okay not to. It’s also worth noting that certain restaurants may include a service charge in the bill, so double-check before tipping. 

Overall, tipping in Lithuania is a personal decision based on the quality of service received.

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Tipping is widespread in the United Kingdom but is not required. It is customarily anticipated in restaurants, cafes, and pubs, with a typical value of 10-15% of the overall bill. 

However, you may choose not to tip if you receive poor service. Furthermore, some service costs may already be included in the bill, so double-check before tipping again. It’s worth mentioning that tipping isn’t as prevalent or anticipated in other sectors, such as hairdressing or taxi driving. 

So, the next time you dine out, feel free to express your gratitude with a substantial tip but don’t feel forced to do so.

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Hold up! Have you thought about the importance of travel insurance?

Remember this:  anything can happen. Travel is fun, but your health is more important; thus, I always, always, always recommend getting insured during the duration of your trip. I have benefitted from having one multiple times, and it has been covered for thousands of euros!

The latest one is not necessarily “health” related – it was during the peak of the unspeakable terrible C that consumed the world. I was living in Vietnam when I received an email from SafetyWing (my travel insurance) that if I want they’ll fly be back home to Finland as the world goes through a global emergency alert. I flew back fully covered, and dealing with  SafetyWing  was a breeze despite the roar of people in contact with them trying to get back home.

I can’t highly recommend them enough. Otherwise, I rarely get sick; hence I don’t always need to head to a hospital, but knowing that I have travel insurance makes me feel safe at the very least.

Read my post about  why you should get travel insurance  for more information. Otherwise, you can get a free quote from  SafetyWing  – they’re the best, in my opinion.

There are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to tipping in Ireland. First and first, it should be noted that it is not necessary in Ireland, but it is always appreciated for excellent service. Tipping in Ireland is typically 10-15% of your bill; however, it is entirely up to you. Rounding up to the nearest euro or leaving any spare change for smaller purchases is customary.

Remember that, unlike in certain European nations, the service charge is not usually included in the bill. Furthermore, if you’re in a pub, it’s polite to offer to buy a round of drinks for your table.

It’s also important to understand that tipping isn’t limited to restaurants and bars. A gratuity is always appreciated when you receive outstanding service from a cab driver, hairdresser, or other personal service provider.

Remember that tipping in Ireland is not about obligation but expressing gratitude for exceptional service. Don’t worry about specific percentages; simply tipping more than normal for exceptional service is frequently enough to express your appreciation.

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Netherlands

When tipping in the Netherlands, grasping the cultural norms is crucial. Unlike in some other nations, tipping is not required, although it is welcomed as a method of expressing gratitude for excellent service.

In most circumstances, consumers in the Netherlands will only tip if the service they received is excellent. A gratuity is not necessarily anticipated or required if your visit to a restaurant or other place was merely pleasant. However, if your server goes above and beyond to make your experience memorable, leaving a small gratuity is a fantastic way to express gratitude.

In the Netherlands, the standard gratuity is between 5 and 10% of the total bill. However, remember that certain places may include a service charge in the bill, so double-check before giving an additional tip.

It is also vital to understand that tipping is not always anticipated. Tipping taxi drivers or fast food restaurant personnel, for example, is not customary. Many Dutch people will only tip when a personal relationship has been built, such as at a regular coffee shop where the barista knows your name and order.

Finally, while tipping is not required in the Netherlands, it is usually appreciated as a way of appreciating exceptional service. So, if you receive outstanding service, why not offer a tiny gratuity to express your gratitude? Just remember to express your gratitude with warmth and honesty.

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Tipping is regarded as a voluntary and personal show of gratitude for great service in Germany rather than an obligation or expectation. While not required, giving a little gratuity as a mark of appreciation for services rendered, such as in restaurants, hotels, and taxis, is common practice. Unlike in other countries where tipping is required and included in the cost of services, tipping in Germany is more of a discretionary act left to the patron’s choice.

Typically, the final bill amount is rounded up to the closest euro, or a small portion of the overall charge is left, usually between 5-10%, depending on the level of service offered. However, if the service was inadequate or fell short of your expectations, leaving no gratuity is completely appropriate. It is vital to emphasize that cash tipping is favored over electronic tipping because it is frequently not correctly tallied and does not immediately reach the service provider.

Furthermore, it is crucial to remember that tipping culture varies based on region in Germany. Tipping is more popular in some areas, such as the South, and is considered a social standard, but it is less common in others, such as the North. Furthermore, tipping is not confined to restaurants and hotels in Germany; it is also typical to tip taxi drivers, hairdressers, and other service workers.

To summarize, while tipping is not required in Germany, it is considered a kind gesture of appreciation for exceptional service. When tipping, it is best to round up the total bill or leave a modest proportion, between 5-10%. Remember that tipping is voluntary, and it is okay not to leave a gratuity if the service is below your expectations.

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Regarding tipping in Poland, remember that while it is appreciated, it is not required. If you had a positive experience at a restaurant or with a service provider, leaving a 10-15% gratuity is a thoughtful way to express gratitude. If you’re unsure how much to tip, round up your bill to the nearest whole number.

It’s also worth remembering that some establishments may not accept tips, including pubs or cafes. However, leaving a tip is still a nice way to express gratitude.

Remember that leaving a tip in cash is preferable because most restaurants or service providers cannot add a tip to a credit card payment. Make sure you have some coins or notes on hand!

Overall, tipping is seen as a polite gesture to reward good service in Poland, although it is neither expected nor needed. So, feel free to tip, but don’t worry if it’s not in your budget or if you don’t think it’s essential.

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When visiting Belgium, it is critical to understand the practices of tipping. Tipping is not generally anticipated because the bill frequently includes the service charge. However, rounding up the amount or leaving a small percentage (5-10%) for great service is always appreciated.

It is customary to tip more generously when dining at a high-end restaurant or staying in a luxury hotel. A small tip is always appreciated if you receive exceptional service from a bartender or hairdresser.

It is important to remember that, unlike in many other countries, tipping is not considered a requirement or responsibility in Belgium. It is entirely up to you and is determined by the amount of service you receive. By learning this etiquette and correctly tipping, you can make a good impression on people and have a pleasant trip.

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It is usual to leave a gratuity when dining out in France, also known as “le pourboire” in French. Tipping is unusual in France compared to other nations because it is not anticipated or included in the bill. However, giving a little gratuity is a nice way to express gratitude for good service.

The tip size varies depending on the type of service you receive, but it is usually between five and ten percent of the total price. If you had outstanding service, consider leaving a higher tip. It is vital to note that leaving a gratuity at fast food restaurants or for takeaway orders is uncommon.

It is customary to leave cash on the table as a tip rather than adding it to your credit card payment. Furthermore, requesting a change from the tip you left is considered disrespectful.

Overall, tipping is a method to express gratitude for good service in France, although it is not required. So, if you enjoy the service, leaving a good tip is always a kind gesture.

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When visiting Spain, it’s important to grasp the standards and practices of tipping. The good news is that tipping is not as mandatory or anticipated as in other nations such as the United States. However, leaving a little more for great service is still considered courteous.

In restaurants, leaving a modest change or up to 10% of the cost is usual as a tip. If the service was great, feel free to leave a little more. Remember that some restaurants will add a service charge to the bill, so it’s always advisable to double-check before tipping.

In bars, it’s not required to tip for drinks unless you want to leave a tiny amount of change. Bartenders are often not anticipating a tip unless the service goes above and beyond.

Tipping is not expected but appreciated for other services, such as cabs or hairdressers. It’s typical to round up to the nearest euro or leave a modest amount of change. If the service was amazing, feel free to leave a little extra.

Overall, tipping in Spain is a basic and uncomplicated process. It’s not as necessary as in other countries, but a little extra for good service is always appreciated. Always double-check if a service charge has already been included in the bill before giving a tip.

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Regarding tipping, it’s important to remember that it’s not as common in Portugal as in other parts of Europe or the United States. 

However, a tiny gratuity is always appreciated if you receive great service. Tipping is customarily between 5 and 10% of the entire bill; however, there is no duty to tip in Portugal. You should also be aware that some restaurants charge a service charge on top of the bill, which implies that the service charge can be considered a tip in and of itself. 

You can also tip taxi drivers, hairdressers, or other service providers, but it is not required. Portugal is famed for its exceptional hospitality and welcoming atmosphere, so don’t feel obligated to tip if it conflicts with your values. 

Above all, remember always to be respectful and kind to the locals, who will appreciate your thoughtful gestures even if you do not give a tip.

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When receiving a bill for a meal or a service in Czechia, it is traditional to round up to the next whole number. The tip amount, however, can vary based on the kind of service you received. A 10% tip is considered ordinary, whereas a 15% tip is considered great service.

Tipping in cash is always preferable because it is more readily recognized; however, tipping with a credit card is becoming more frequent. When paying with a credit card at a restaurant, do not include the tip in the total amount. It is advisable to pay for everything first and then provide the tip.

It is worth mentioning that some establishments, particularly high-end restaurants, may include a service charge in the bill, making tipping unnecessary. It is entirely up to you when using taxi services, however, rounding up to the nearest full number is a usual practice.

When visiting Czechia, hefty tipping is always appreciated and can go a long way toward expressing your appreciation for great service.

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When visiting Austria, it’s crucial to understand the customs of tipping. It is usual to include a little extra money to express your thanks for good service, although it is not required. In most circumstances, a 5-10% tip is appropriate, although don’t feel obligated to adhere to this precisely. It’s more about expressing appreciation for excellent service.

One thing to keep in mind is that taxes and service costs are usually included in the price, so you don’t need to contribute anything additional. You can round up the bill to the closest Euro or add a little tip in restaurants.

Other services, such as taxi trips or haircuts, are commonly rounded up to the nearest Euro. For instance, if your cab fare is 7.50 euros, you can round it up to 8 euros.

To summarize, tipping is not required in Austria, but showing appreciation for outstanding service is always appreciated. Remember that taxes and service costs are typically included in the price, although rounding up to the closest Euro is considered polite.

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When visiting Italy and eating at a restaurant, it’s critical to grasp tipping etiquette. First, it is important to know that tipping is neither mandated nor expected in Italy. This is because service charges are frequently already included in the bill. However, offering a little tip as a sign of thanks is traditional if you receive great service.

If you tip, do so discreetly and in cash rather than adding it to the bill. A reasonable rule of thumb is to leave 5-10% of the bill or round up to the closest Euro. However, you are not obligated to tip if the service is poor or unsatisfactory.

It’s also worth mentioning that at some bars, particularly in tourist areas, a “sitting fee” or “service charge” may be added to your bill. You do not need to give anything additional on top of this price because it is not a tip.

Remember that tipping conventions differ from country to region, so ask locals or your server for help if you’re unclear. Overall, tipping is a gesture of appreciation rather than a requirement in Italy. So, relax and enjoy your lunch without worrying about giving the ideal tip!

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When visiting Slovakia, it’s important to understand the traditional tipping habits. Tipping is not compulsory in Slovakia; however, it is appreciated if you receive good service. The amount you leave on the tip is often determined by the service received and your level of satisfaction with it.

For example, leaving a tip of approximately 10% of the whole amount is traditional if you dine at a restaurant. However, if you were particularly pleased with the service, you may choose to leave a tip of 15-20%.

When it comes to taxis, rounding up to the closest euro suffices. If you stay in a hotel, you must offer the housekeeping staff a tip of between €1-€2 each day. Similarly, if you are staying at a hotel and someone assists you with your luggage, it is customary to tip €1-€2 per bag.

Remember that tipping is always voluntary, and it’s ultimately up to you whether or not to leave a tip. However, expressing gratitude for good service is always a respectable gesture, and it can go a long way toward creating great relationships with individuals you meet while traveling.

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What are my favorite travel must-haves?

As a frequent traveler, I’ve learned a lot throughout my years of travel, and there are five items that I always carry with me regardless of where I go and how long the trip is. Here are my five travel must-haves!

• Warm packable jacket  – I always carry a light jacket, even when heading to warm countries. There hasn’t been a time I never used it, especially in airports and planes.
• Transparent toiletry bag  – I often bring a carry-on if I’m only traveling within Europe for a few days. Life is so much easier to go through security checks with a transparent toiletry bag.
• Kindle Paperwhite  – I love a good read and always take my Kindle everywhere. It keeps me entertained during long flights and waiting times.
• Powerbank  – I don’t know how I could travel without one! Having a power bank saved me a ton since I carry a lot of electronic devices with me.
• Travel Adapter  – I never leave my luggage without a travel adapter! I carry one with me all the time. It is just one of that travel-must haves that doesn’t hurt to have in your bag at all times.

You should know a few things about tipping in Hungary to avoid any social faux pas. To begin with, tipping is widely expected in most service businesses, including restaurants, bars, and cafes. However, the amount you should tip depends on the situation.

In restaurants, leaving a tip of around 10-15% of the total bill is traditional. If the service is extraordinary, you can go up to 20% or even higher. However, offering a reduced or no tip is OK if the service is terrible. Some restaurants may add a service charge to the bill, so double-check before giving an additional gratuity.

Tipping is less frequent but still valued at pubs and cafes. You can leave a modest change or round up to the nearest entire number. You may want to leave a larger tip in more affluent establishments, especially if the service is exceptional.

When paying with cash, it’s best to tip the waitress rather than leave it on the table. Whether you’re paying with a credit card, ask the server whether there’s a tip option before entering the whole amount.

Remember that while tipping is customary, it is not required in Hungary. However, expressing your gratitude for good service is still a wonderful gift. By following these tips, you’ll be able to navigate Hungary’s tipping culture with ease.

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Regarding tipping in Croatia, leaving a small gratuity for good service is typically accepted. The typical sum is 10% of the overall price, but this can vary based on the kind of service you received.

It’s important to note that tipping isn’t required in Croatia, and the decision to leave a tip is ultimately up to you. If you decide to tip, it’s advisable to do it in cash rather than with a credit card, as this allows the server to keep track of their earnings more easily.

Remember that some restaurants in tourist locations may include a service charge in the bill, in which case tipping is not anticipated. This should be indicated on the menu or the bill, so double-check before giving a tip.

Overall, tipping in Croatia is a rather simple practice. You can thank the diligent servers who delight your dining experience by tipping roughly 10% and paying in cash.

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Tipping is commonly anticipated in restaurants, cafes, and pubs in Moldova. Leaving a 10% tip on the whole amount is customary when dining out. Cash-tipping is always appreciated, as many establishments cannot add a gratuity to the bill.

Tipping is also customary for services like hair salons, spas, and taxi trips. A small tip of 10-15% is appropriate for these services.

It is crucial to note that tipping is unnecessary in Moldova, but expressing gratitude for exceptional service is much valued. However, it is acceptable not to give a tip if you receive terrible treatment.

It is also worth noting that at smaller cafes or bakeries, many Moldovans do not tip, instead leaving the full bill as payment.

Overall, it is best to assess the circumstances in Moldova and exercise caution. If you receive excellent service, consider leaving a higher tip to express your appreciation. Always tip in cash to ensure that the recipient receives the full amount.

• 9 BEST Places to Visit in Moldova (Fortresses, Castles, and More!)

It’s critical to understand local customs and traditions when tipping in Romania. Tipping is generally appreciated but not required in Romania. Leaving a 10-15% gratuity is customary if the service is excellent. However, some restaurants may charge a service fee, so double-check before adding a gratuity.

Aside from restaurants, it is usual to tip hotel employees and taxi drivers. A small tip of 5-10 lei per day is customary for hotel personnel, while bellhops can take 5-10 lei per bag. Taxi drivers are usually tipped 10% of the total fare, rounded up to the nearest whole lei.

Tipping is not expected in other service businesses such as hair salons, spas, or grocery stores. However, a tiny gratuity is always a lovely gift to convey gratitude if you receive outstanding service.

Overall, tipping is a method to express gratitude for good service in Romania, although it is not required. When in doubt, asking locals or staff for tipping advice is always courteous.

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Tipping is a prevalent habit in Serbia and a symbol of appreciation for good service. You should tip 10-15% of the total cost in a restaurant, depending on the service quality. However, it is crucial to note that tipping is optional and at your discretion.

The fare is usually rounded up to the nearest whole number when taking a cab. For example, if your ride costs 420 dinars, you can round it up to 500 dinars and tip the driver the difference. It’s a modest gesture that goes a long way toward expressing appreciation for safe and comfortable travel.

The hospitality business is another place where tipping is respected. Hotel and resort porters are usually available to assist you with your luggage, and it is customary to tip them roughly 100 dinars for each bag. The housekeeping crew appreciates a daily tip of roughly 200 dinars.

Tipping in Serbia means recognizing good service and expressing gratitude to those who go above and beyond during your visit. It is a personal choice but a little meaningful gesture that can brighten someone’s day.

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Bosnia and Herzegovina

Regarding tipping in Bosnia and Herzegovina, it’s vital to remember that the culture surrounding the practice is still growing. Tipping is not usually expected or necessary, but it is certainly appreciated if you believe you have received exceptional service. It is customary in restaurants to leave a modest change, usually approximately 10% of the bill. However, rounding up to the nearest full number is sufficient in cafes and bars. In the case of taxis, round up to the nearest full number or add a tiny amount for great service.

It’s worth mentioning that tipping isn’t as common in Bosnia and Herzegovina as it is in other countries, so don’t feel obligated to leave hefty amounts unless you believe they are merited. If you leave a tip, it is advisable to do so in cash rather than adding it to a credit card payment, as many establishments may not have the technology to process it.

Overall, the ideal approach to tipping in Bosnia and Herzegovina is to tip only when you believe it is acceptable. You will create a favorable impression on the locals and enjoy your travels in this lovely country if you are kind and respectful.

Are you planning to visit Bosnia? Check out these posts!

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Tipping is not required in Bulgaria; however, it is greatly valued, particularly in the service industry. As a sign of gratitude for good service, it is common to leave a small sum of money, usually approximately 10% of the total cost.

While tipping is customary in restaurants, it is not expected at cafes or pubs. However, if you receive outstanding service, it is always a kind gesture to express your gratitude with a tiny tip.

Tipping hairdressers, taxi drivers, and hotel employees are also traditional in Bulgaria. Hairdressers often receive a tip of 5-10% of the total price, whereas taxi drivers are expected to round up the fare to the next whole number.

When tipping hotel workers, it is customary to leave a small sum for the cleaning crew, typically between 2-3 euros each night of stay. You can tip the bellhop between 1-2 euros per bag.

It is important to know that tipping is not expected in Bulgaria, but it is a pleasant way to express your appreciation for exceptional service. Carry some little coins or notes to leave as tips when appropriate.

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North Macedonia

Regarding tipping in North Macedonia, it is essential to understand the local customs and culture. Tipping is widely accepted throughout the country, particularly in the service industry. Tipping is typically 10% of the bill, but this can vary based on the kind of service you receive.

After dinner, leaving a small sum of money on the table is customary. Patrons are supposed to make this gesture to express appreciation for the service. Remember that many restaurants include a service charge in the final bill, so double-check before leaving an additional tip.

Tipping is also typical for other service providers, such as taxi drivers and hairdressers. A few additional denars added to the overall bill would be welcomed and is a nice way to express your appreciation for their efforts.

While not mandatory, tipping is a prevalent practice in North Macedonia and is considered a means to express gratitude for good service. You may assist in developing strong relationships with people who supply you with crucial services during your stay in the nation by expressing your gratitude.

• Top 15 Places to Visit in Macedonia

Tipping is unnecessary in Greece, although it is always appreciated if you believe you have received attention and quality service. In most circumstances, it is customary to tip roughly 10% of the bill. It’s worth mentioning that some restaurants may add a service charge to the bill, so double-check before tipping extra.

Outside of restaurants, tipping is also customary in Greece. For example, leaving a little tip for the housekeeping staff is a traditional way to express your gratitude if you’re staying at a hotel. Similarly, if you’re taking a cab, rounding up your fare is a courteous gesture that the driver will appreciate.

It’s important to remember that in Greece, tipping is typically seen as a way to recognize great service rather than a duty. Remember to tip more if you believe the service is exceptional. Tipping etiquette varies per culture, so it’s always best to study beforehand and prepare yourself accordingly. Remember that tipping is always in style, and tipping in Greece helps to reward positive behavior and good serving standards.

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Tipping is commonly accepted and anticipated in service industries such as restaurants, cafés, and hotels in Kosovo. A typical tip is 10% of the total amount, but some clients will round up to the closest euro or leave a little additional charge. If the service was outstanding, consider tipping more generously. Remember that some establishments may add a service charge to the bill, so double-check before leaving a tip.

It’s also worth noting that tipping is less popular in other businesses like taxis and hair salons. However, a tiny gratuity is always appreciated if you have excellent service. It’s also worth noting that tipping is not usual in tiny convenience stores or supermarkets in Kosovo.

Tipping in Kosovo is a means to express gratitude for good service and is common in the country’s service industry. When in doubt, take the advice of the locals and always assess the level of service received before deciding on a tip amount.

• Top 15 BEST Places to Visit in Kosovo

When it comes to tipping in Montenegro, keep in mind that it is not always expected or required. While it is becoming more frequent, tipping is not a part of the culture or tradition of the country. As a result, you will not be criticized if you do not tip your server or taxi driver.

If you do choose to tip, the standard amount is 10% of the total bill in a restaurant or for a service. You can also visit the nearest Euro for modest purchases like coffee or pastries.

One thing to remember is that many Montenegrin businesses automatically include a service charge in their bills. This implies that you would not be required to offer an additional tip unless you had extraordinary treatment.

Overall, tipping is optional and not mandatory in Montenegro. If you do want to tip, it is appreciated but not expected. Remember to leave a tiny bit of additional cash to demonstrate appreciation for great service when in doubt.

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Plan your trip to Europe: Monthly breakdown

• Europe in January
• Europe in February
• Europe in March
• Europe in April
• Europe in May
• Europe in June
• Europe in July
• Europe in August
• Europe in September
• Europe in October
• Europe in November
• Europe in December

Plan your trip to Europe by season

• Winter in Europe: Top 21 Winter Destinations in Europe
• Spring in Europe: Top 15 Spring Destinations in Europe
• Summer in Europe: Top 14 Best Summer Destinations in Europe
• Autumn in Europe: Top 15 Fall Destinations in Europe

Europe by Experience

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Your A to Z guide to tipping etiquette in Europe

Your bags are packed, you’ve exchanged some dollars for euros , and you’re almost ready for your trip to Europe . Before you depart, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the tipping etiquette in your destination. Here, we’ve rounded up some information about gratuity practices throughout Europe to help you feel prepared for your tour.

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The ultimate guide to tipping in Europe

Tipping can seem like a complicated subject to navigate, but don’t let anxiety take you over. We break down some of the most common tipping practices across Europe to make your next holiday a breeze.

Tipping can be a tricky or even contentious subject, and when you travel, things can get a little confusing. Is it mandatory? How much should I give? When do I tip and when do I not? Perhaps where you come from, tips are a way to show your appreciation for a job well done. Perhaps they’re a way for people working in service professions to make a fair wage. In the United States, for instance, tipping 15-20% on top of your final bill is usually expected, and leaving less than that can be seen as a sign of dissatisfaction with the service provided. 

In some countries, it’s also not uncommon for a gratuity or a service charge to be automatically included in your bill. And in more extreme cases, like Japan or China, tipping at all can be considered a sign of disrespect and is highly discouraged. 

Tipping in Europe is not as straightforward as you might think.. While in the past tipping a few euros could be considered a good rule of thumb, tipping traditions have evolved and vary from country to country. In order to help you navigate your next getaway, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide that will help you navigate those last moments after your meal. 

Your travels covered

Tipping in Spain

Spain is known for its beautiful weather and delicious food, yet tipping in this popular summer destination is not entirely straightforward. Unlike many places, in Spain tipping isn’t regulated or mandatory, and it’s not uncommon for customers not to leave money in addition to their final  bill. However, while it’s not an enforced rule, restaurants expect customers to leave a 10% gratuity for their meal. 

For many other situations, many locals decide based on the quality and type of service if they will leave any tip. Keep in mind that some places will include a tip in their final bill, so it would be wise to take a look before leaving anything extra. 

Learn more about tipping in Spain

Tipping in Italy

The land of pizza, espresso, and DaVinci, is also a rather tricky one when it comes to tipping. If a service charge is included in your bill, you will likely see it as “servizio.” However, should this not be included, it is customary to leave anywhere between 10-15%. Keep in mind that “coperto,” a common cover charge included in many bills, isn’t normally given to your server, therefore you shouldn’t see this as a substitute. 

For other services such as hotels, taxis, and tours a few euros should normally be enough.

Learn more about tipping in Italy

Tipping in France

If you’ve ever heard the expression “service compris,” you’ll know that in France, a service charge is often included with your bill. Tipping anywhere from 5-10% for service if your tip isn’t included in the bill isn’t uncommon, although don’t let tipping anxiety get the best of you—by law, in France service workers are paid a minimum wage, and the tip, or “ pourboire ” is entirely voluntary. Like in many other European countries, tipping hotel staff, tour guides, and taxi drivers, a few euros or about 10% is a good rule of thumb, unless anyone provides an extra service. 

Tipping in Germany and Austria

Germany and Austria have pretty established tipping cultures, and while a small percentage of Germans and Austrians still choose not to tip at all, leaving 5-10% of your bill total as tip, or “trinkgeld,” is customary in most instances. For sit-down meals at restaurants a tip for good service is expected and 10% tip is usually the norm. Be sure to include the tip to the total sum when paying by credit card before paying, or you can always opt to pay the tip in cash. Whatever you do, don’t leave the tip on the table and walk away 

For smaller meals, coffee, or at bars, rounding up to the nearest euro is also acceptable, although some choose to leave a little more depending on the service provided. 

Learn more about tipping in Germany

Tipping in Scandinavian countries

Unlike most of Europe, tipping in nordic countries is not only uncommon, but also not expected. Generally speaking, restaurants include a service charge so feel free to round up and leave the change if you want. Taxi drivers and hotel employees also don’t expect a gratuity, but if an extraordinary service is provided, leaving a small tip in cash at your could be considered appropriate.

Tipping in Europe

While there is no one-size-fits-all playbook for tipping in the rest of Europe, a good rule of thumb is to look out for service charges included in your bill. These are generally an indicator that you don’t have to leave extra money, or can possibly just add a little bit extra on top of your bill. Any time you don’t see an included tip, leaving 5-10% on top of your total will likely be appropriate for most situations. For coffee shops, bars, taxis, and other service industries, leaving a few euros or rounding up your total can also be a good rule of thumb. For restaurant meals 10% is seen as very adequate while 15% is usually rather generous. 

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A Guide to Tipping for Travelers

Andersen Ross Photography Inc / Getty Images

Tipping correctly can save you time, embarrassment, and money. While traveling, many people will offer their services to help make life easier, but it can sometimes be hard to tell who's just doing their job and who expects a tip.

Tipping is payment for a service rendered, but tipping can also be an act of gratitude for someone who goes beyond the call of duty, like a concierge securing front-row seats to the hottest show in town. Choosing not to tip will send a clear message that you have been dissatisfied with the service you've received.

These tipping guidelines are for the United States only. Expectations (and tipping amounts) can vary quite a bit from country to country. Check the travel guide for the particular country you will be visiting for the proper tipping etiquette.

Hotels and Resorts

Occasionally, you might stay at a hotel or resort with a no-tipping policy. In this case, you might find that you are already paying for service by way of a resort fee or service charge added your final bill.

• When valeting your car, tip $1 to $2 to the attendant when he retrieves your car. You can also tip when dropping your car off, but this is optional.
• You don't need to tip the doorman when he opens the door for you, but if he hails you a cab, you should tip $1 to $2.
• Tip bellhops and luggage porters $1 to $2 for every bag they bring up to your room. At a luxury hotel, you might tip more, as much as $5 per bag.
• For housekeeping, leave a daily tip of $1 to $5 per day, depending on the type of hotel and the size of the mess you've made.
• If you order room service, you'll find most hotels already include a service charge on the bill. If there's no service charge, tip 15 percent.
• The hotel concierge exists to help guests, so it's not necessary to tip if they give you directions or make a restaurant recommendation. However, if the service has been especially valuable, such as getting reservations to a restaurant that claims to be totally booked, tipping $5 to $20 is reasonable.
• Be sure to check out our guide for tipping in Las Vegas as well.

In general, more and more cruise lines are moving away from traditional tipping and adding service charges, which will be split evenly among the crew. It varies from line to line, so make sure to ask about their tipping policy before you book your next cruise.

• If the cruise line automatically adds the service charge to your account, you may be able to adjust it lower or higher as you deem necessary. The recommended amount is $10 to $20 per passenger for every day of your cruise.
• Baggage handlers work for the port and not the cruise ship, so you should tip $1 to $2 per bag or $4 to $5 per party.
• Like at a hotel, you can leave $1 to $5 per day for housekeeping in your cabin.
• You will most likely have different servers every day, but if there is someone that stands out (like a bartender who remembers your drink order), feel free to hand them a small token of appreciation.
• Upon any delivery to your cabin, like room service or a special request, you should tip $1 to $3 per visit depending on how much you order.
• Tipping the head waiter isn't necessary, but you can give $5 to $10 if they accommodate a special request or go above and beyond.
• Onshore excursions, you should tip your guides based on the level of personalization from $2 to $10.
• For children's club counselors, tipping is not necessary.
• It's the ship captain's job to command the ship and, occasionally, socialize with guests. Tipping is not necessary and would most likely be refused.

Restaurants and Bars

Whether you're enjoying a night out on the town or just popping down to the hotel lounge for a nightcap, standard tipping practices still apply when you're traveling.

• Tip your server 15 percent to 20 percent of the bill based on the pre-tax total of the bill or more if you enjoyed the service. If a service charge has already been included, feel free to leave without tipping.
• Bartenders should be tipped $1 per drink served, even if they're just pouring beer or wine.
• Tip the sommelier 10 percent of your wine costs, even if it's a less expensive vintage.
• If there is a bathroom attendant, who doesn't just hand out towels but also keeps the bathroom clean, drop a few coins in the tip jar or tip $1 per visit.
• When collecting your things at the coat check, tip $1 per item checked.

Transportation

Depending on how you choose to get around when you travel, you might be expected to tip.

• It's customary to tip cab drivers 15 percent to 20 percent of the fare.
• If you use a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft, you're not obligated to tip the driver, but it's considerate to give $1 to $2 for a short trip or more for a long-haul ride.
• If you arrange an airport shuttle transfer, tip $1 for every bag handled.
• Tip limousine drivers 15 percent to 20 percent, unless a service charge is included.

How much you tip a tour guide varies depending on the tour's length, size, and overall quality. In most countries, tipping your guide at the end of a tour is standard practice and will be rarely turned down.

• For a tour that only lasts a few hours, tip your guide 10 percent to 20 percent the cost of the tour. How much you tip also depends on the size of your tour, so you should tip more for a more personalized experience.
• For a multi-day tour, you should tip your guide $5 to $10 per day on the last day.
• If there was a driver in addition to a guide, tip them $1 to $5 per day.
• For free tours, which are offered in many large cities , you should tip between $5 to $10, depending on the quality of the tour.

Spas and Salons

If you purchase an individualized service at a spa or salon, you'll be expected to leave a tip. Some spas might already include a service charge, so make sure to ask about this at the front desk when you go to pay.

• For a spa treatment like a massage or a facial, tip 15 percent to 20 percent if no service fee has been included. If you're getting the treatment at a discount, your tip should be based on the original price.
• There's no need to tip if you're visiting a spa with common facilities like saunas or hot springs without purchasing an extra treatment.
• Medical spas might have more complicated treatments, like botox injections. Usually, tipping is not allowed for these kinds of services.
• Hairstylists and manicurists should be tipped at 15 percent to 20 percent.
• If someone else washes your hair, you can give them a $1 to $5.

Golf Courses

If you decide to go for a round of golf on vacation, you might run into these tipping scenarios.

• On a golf course, the bag boy takes your clubs when you arrive and sets them up in a golf cart for you. He will also wipe them down before you leave, so tip $1 to $2 on arrival and $2 to $5 as you leave.
• If you arrive without a tee time and the starter fits you in, you can tip them $1 to $5.
• Caddies should be tipped 50 percent of the caddie fee, adjusted higher or lower for your satisfaction with their service.
• A forecaddie works for a group of golfers and should be tipped $20 to $25 per player.

A Guide to Tipping in New York City

A Guide to Tipping Hotel Employees

A Guide to Tipping in Germany

A Guide to Tipping in Portugal

A Guide to Tipping in India

How Much You Should Tip in Amsterdam

A Guide to Tipping in Chicago

A Guide to Tipping in Mexico

A Guide to Tipping in France

A Guide to Tipping in Peru

A Guide to Tipping in Ireland

Guide to Tipping in Las Vegas

Your Guide to Currency in Dubai

A Guide to Tipping in the United Kingdom

Getting Around Montreal: Guide to Public Transportation

A Guide to Tipping in Nepal

Restaurant Tipping Is SO Different Internationally — Here's What To Know

On Assignment For HuffPost

Have you ever found yourself in a mild panic when it’s time to pay your dinner bill on a vacation because you forgot to look up tipping etiquette in that country? You’re definitely not alone. Tipping expectations vary greatly throughout the world, and it can be hard to keep it all straight. Even if you know tipping isn’t standard in a particular region, it can still feel really weird not to leave a tip. Beyond that, in some places, tipping can even be seen as offensive.

“Tipping culture in the U.S. is unique, and most other countries do not have the same tipping norms,” said Amanda Belarmino , associate professor at the William F. Harrah College of Hospitality at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. “In general, we tip more in the U.S. than other countries.”

To help eliminate the confusion and make things a bit easier for you as the busy summer travel season approaches, we reached out to experts to gather some intel and best practices for tipping on food and drinks when traveling abroad.

Here’s what you need to know:

Always do your research.

Nearly every travel and hospitality expert we spoke with mentioned the importance of researching tipping customs before you set off on an international trip.

Up-to-date guidebooks, social media posts and travel agents are all great sources of information. Try options like:

• The tourism website for the country you’re visiting.
• A guidebook from a series like Lonely Planet, Rick Steves, Frommer’s or Fodor’s.
• Reddit , Tripadvisor and other travel forums .
• Travel advisers at places like Virtuoso , Singita and American Express Travel .
• Travel blogs and social media posts.

Once you’re on the ground, you can also check in with locals, whether it’s a hotel concierge, a tour guide or someone friendly you meet on the street.

“My main personal rule for tipping is to never assume one destination’s tipping culture is the same as another,” said Ollie Jones , head of adventure operations at the travel company Flash Pack. “It’s very easy to unintentionally offend locals if you don’t have an idea of what their tipping culture is. When I don’t know, I ask them.”

No matter how much traveling he’s done, Jones always looks up information about local tipping expectations before heading to a new country, and he suggests others do the same.

Tipping culture is a bit different everywhere you go.

In the U.S., a standard tip for a restaurant meal falls somewhere around 15 to 20% . But that’s not the case everywhere. In New Zealand, where the national minimum wage is much higher than in the U.S., tips aren’t customary or expected. In many countries in Europe, a 5-10% tip is acceptable. And in Japan, leaving a tip can be seen as distasteful or awkward.

Tips aren’t always welcome.

Sometimes, tipping isn’t appreciated, and it’s important to know about that in advance so you don’t mistakenly offend someone.

“In some countries tipping can be seen as offensive or can actually be harmful to the economy and livelihood of the local people,” said Terika Haynes , CEO and founder of Dynamite Travel. “Travelers should be knowledgeable and aware of the destination tipping practices to ensure that they are bringing value to the destinations that they visit.”

Places where tips might be seen as distasteful include Japan, where workers are paid a fair wage and cultural norms prioritize good service without the expectation of additional compensation, and China, where tips can be interpreted as rude or embarrassing because they can be seen as a handout, Haynes said.

Always tip using local currency.

It’s important to tip with the currency that’s used in the region you’re visiting. Even if you’re feeling desperate to empty your wallet of U.S. dollars, they’re probably not going to be all that useful to someone who lives in a country that doesn’t use them.

“Be sure to tip in the local currency, as in most foreign countries, waiters won’t appreciate having to exchange the U.S. dollars,” said Alonso Marly, a travel agent at Skylux Travel .

You’ll also want to follow local norms around whether cash or card tips are preferred. Often, cash is easier.

“Most [point of sale] systems in Europe don’t have an option to add a tip after you pay, like in the U.S., so there’s no way to be discreet without leaving cash,” said Amber Haggerty, founder of the travel blog Amber Everywhere .

Look over your bill to see if a service charge has already been included.

Some restaurants and bars might include a gratuity or service charge within your bill. Before leaving a tip, review the bill closely to see if any gratuity has been charged. If you’re unsure, ask someone who works there.

“In some countries the gratuity is included in the total cost,” Haynes said . “Travelers should be diligent at checking their receipt to verify if the tip has already been included to avoid overpaying.” She mentions that you might come across this in places such as Denmark, Spain and Belgium.

Sometimes, service fees are split among a group of employees. “Travelers should confirm who the service fee is going to in case they would like to tip their direct server an additional amount,” Haynes said.

Here’s some additional general guidance to keep in mind while tipping during your travels:

Tipping in Mexico and Canada

In countries closer to the U.S., tipping at restaurants is more common. “In Mexico, tipping 10 to 20% at a restaurant is the norm,” Belarmino said. “If you are at a resort near the beach, then tip more on the higher end.” In Canada, tipping 15-20% is typical.

Tipping in Europe

Throughout much of Europe, tips generally aren’t expected for dining and are usually only given for something exceptional, Belarmino said. That said, some places may add a service charge to your bill.

“In the United Kingdom, especially London, where the culture is most similar to the U.S. out of any European city, a 10% service charge is usually expected in restaurants, not bars,” said Carlos Salomon, general manager at NH Hotels . “In the rest of the continent, 2 to 5% is a generous thank you to exceptional food and beverage industry workers, but it is not expected.”

He doesn’t recommend tipping more than 10%, even if your service is exceptional. “It can be considered obnoxious or flashy to be giving an exceptionally high tip, as 2 to 5% is completely acceptable if you wish to tip,” he said.

Don’t forget to hit the ATM to grab some cash in the local currency before heading out to dinner or drinks. “In most European countries, cash is preferred over credit card tips,” Salomon said.

Tipping in the Caribbean

When visiting the Caribbean, Haynes suggests tipping your waiter or bartender 10-15%. And if you’re heading to an all-inclusive property, she said, it’s standard to tip between $2 and $5 per person for any meal or drink order.

“There is a common misconception for people who are traveling to the Caribbean who take a cruise or stay at an all-inclusive that they do not need to tip because they are staying at an all-inclusive resort or have authorized pre-paid gratuities on their cruise,” Haynes said.

But travelers “should tip above and beyond for these types of vacations, because the amount that employees receive are typically quite nominal,” she said. “Travelers should bring extra money to tip the staff beyond what has been included in the cost of their vacation.”

Tipping in parts of Asia

Tipping customs vary throughout Asia. “Many upscale restaurants include a service charge, but at other restaurants, tips may be refused,” Belarmino said. She added that tipping isn’t expected in Japan and Thailand, but in Vietnam, “the occasional tip is appreciated.” In India, consider tipping around 10% for a meal , or up to 15% if the meal or service was exceptional.

Tipping in parts of Africa

When in South Africa, tip 10-15% on your food and drinks, Haynes said. Similarly, in Morocco, it’s standard to tip at least 10% for meals and beverages

Tipping in parts of Oceania

In Australia and New Zealand, tips generally aren’t expected. “Tipping in New Zealand is not customary — even in restaurants and bars,” said Sarah Handley , general manager for the Americas and Europe at Tourism New Zealand . “However, tipping for good service or kindness is at the discretion of the visitor.”

As an exception, a service charge may be added to your bill if you dine out on public holidays.

Tipping in parts of South America

“Tipping is generally expected for tourists in South America — check out xe.com or equivalent to help you with the math,” Jones said. He explained that it’s best to tip in local currency, and to expect to tip at least 10% the cost of your restaurant bill. “Waiters don’t rely as heavily on tips as they do in the USA but it’s still an important part of their overall income,” he said, adding a few specific tips for different regions:

• In Argentina and Chile, many restaurants will include a cubierto in your bill. “This is a service charge for the table but it’s not a tip that goes directly to the waiter — tip the waiter separately to show appreciation for good service,” he said.
• In Brazil, “check your bill before you leave a tip — it’s common to find that 10% has already been added as a serviço,” Jones said.

In Peru, “locals often don’t tip and tipping isn’t commonplace outside of the main touristy areas,” Jones added.

Want to learn more about tipping? Listen to the tipping episode of HuffPost’s podcast “Am I Doing It Wrong?”

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Pink resumes tour after health scare, tells fans 'We are going to shake our juicy booties'

Pink is resuming her Summer Carnival Tour after an unspecified health issue with a colorful statement.

After cancelling a show in Bern, Switzerland on Tuesday due to an unspecified health issue, the pop-rock superstar is returning to the stage in Copenhagen, Denmark.

"I’m back COPENHAGEN and we are going to shake our JUICY BOOTIES together tonight!!!!!!!" the singer captioned the post. Earlier this week, the "Trustfall" singer took to Instagram to apologize to fans for canceling the show.

"I am so sorry that I have had to cancel my show in Bern this Wednesday," she wrote in an  Instagram caption . "I do everything I can to ensure I can perform for you every night, but after consultation with my doctor and exploring all options available, I’ve been advised that I'm unable to continue with the show tomorrow."

"I was looking forward to being with you and making memories with you and sharing our show with you and am so disappointed that we have to cancel," she added. "Sending love and health to you all, and I really hope to see you again soon."

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

All purchased tickets for the previous show were refunded. Her tour  will head to Amsterdam, Brussels and Stockholm, as well as several German cities, through the end of the month.

On her Summer Carnival Tour, in support of her ninth studio album, "Trustfall," Pink performs the greatest hits that span her two-decade musical career as she fills stadiums with impressive visuals, from aerial acrobatics to over-the-top costumes.

The tour first launched in Europe last June and circled North America from July through early October last year, and this February, Pink embarked on a new leg of the tour in Australia and New Zealand.

Pink is set to launch the second North American leg of the tour in St. Louis, Missouri, on Aug. 10 after the Europe portion wraps.

Contributing: Melissa Ruggieri

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This Airline Has One-Way Flights to Europe Right Now for As Little As $214

Get deals to Portugal, Spain, and more.

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It’s not too late to score a record-low deal to Europe this summer thanks to TAP Air Portugal’s latest fare sale, which has one-way flights starting at $214. 

The limited-time promotion is available for travel now through Sept. 15. There’s no promo code or end date to the sale, so travelers can snag these deals on a first-come, first-served basis, as confirmed by the airline to Travel + Leisure .  

“Summer is peak season for travel to Europe, so it’s amazing to see such great deals in July and August,” said TAP Air Portugal’s director for the Americas, Carlos Antunes, in a statement shared with T+L . “There’s never been a better time to plan a summer getaway to Portugal and beyond.”

Travel + Leisure searched through the list of deals and found the best round-trip flights on sale:

• Newark (EWR) to Barcelona (BCN): $430 
• Washington, D.C. (IAD) to Madrid (MAD): $440
• Boston (BOS) to Ponta Delgada (PDL): $498
• Chicago (ORD) to Rome (FCO): $502
• Miami (MIA) to Valencia (VLC): $740

It’s worth noting that travelers who book the “Discount” fare option can only bring a personal item and carry-on bag, while checked luggage and meals onboard will come at an extra cost. 

While TAP Air Portugal operates nonstop service from the U.S. to Lisbon (LIS) and Porto (OPO), travelers can easily visit other European cities like Madrid, Rome, and beyond with a quick layover. It’s also possible to extend the layover in Portugal for up to 10 days at no additional cost before flying to the next city when booking directly on the airline’s website. 

The airline has increased frequencies on its flights throughout peak summer, operating up to nearly 80 flights every week between the U.S. and Portugal. TAP Air Portugal is part of the Star Alliance , so travelers can earn and redeem miles with frequent flier programs such as United MileagePlus . 

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