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The Ultimate Country-by-country Guide to Tipping in Europe

Here's how much to tip in Europe, from hotels and restaurants to taxis and tour guides.

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The staycations and trip cancellations from the past two years are giving way to a big travel year, and European countries are top of mind for many. Much has changed within the travel space since the COVID-19 pandemic, and among the questions tourists have now is: How much should I tip?

This uncertainty is nothing new, actually. Most travelers are aware that tipping practices differ between the U.S. and Europe. Rick Steves, author, TV host, and expert on European travel, recently told Travel + Leisure , "People overthink tipping in Europe." Steves' website also begins with similar advice: "Don't stress over tipping."

Still, some guidelines can be helpful. Customs change, and there's even some thought that pandemic-related restaurant and hotel shutdowns have created a need for larger gratuities. On that topic, Steves said, "There's really no rationale for bigger tipping because of COVID, in my experience."

We also contacted several Europe-based travel professionals for their insight. According to Simone Amorico , co-owner and CEO of Access Italy , "At restaurants in Italy, an average of 10% to 15% is appreciated. When it comes to drivers and tour guides, it all depends on the experience. Average is 10%, but many leave more, especially post-pandemic." He added, "At hotels, guests may tip the concierge or guest relations, depending on the services requested, as well as housekeeping, but the figure varies."

Richard Nahem, longtime Paris resident and owner of Eye Prefer Paris Tours , said, "The tip is usually included in the bill, and it's sometimes called the service charge. It's perfectly acceptable not to leave a tip, but it's customary to leave 3% to 5% as a courtesy. Most restaurants and cafes are not equipped to add a tip to your credit card bill, so it's best to have some coins with you. Hand the cash tip to the server, rather than leaving it on the table." Nahem added, "It's also customary to tip the concierge at hotels, and for taxis, a euro or two is fine."

Travelers to Europe often take group tours and want to reward an especially entertaining or accommodating guide. For a two-hour walking tour, for example, a tip of two to five euros per person is appropriate, according to Rick Steves. For a smaller group, the tip should be more, and for a private guide, 10 to 20 euros for the group is fine in most cases, unless extra service is provided. At bars in Europe, tips are not customary, but leaving change or a few euros is always appreciated, if not expected. For takeaway food or drinks, counter dining, or stand-up service, tips are also not customary.

Clearly, even the advice from experts varies when it comes to tipping customs, and in many cases, it comes down to personal judgment. However, all would agree that no matter how many euros a traveler leaves, it's most important to treat servers and hospitality workers with courtesy .

Here are a few guidelines on tipping in Europe.

The service charge (servizio) is usually included and noted on the check. If there's no service charge, a 10% to 15% tip is fine. A cover charge (coperto) may be indicated, but that is generally not for the waitstaff. At hotels, tip around two euros per bag, and for housekeeping, one euro per night is appropriate. For taxis, no tip is necessary, but leaving the change for the driver is customary. Tips for tour guides vary, but consider 10% an average.

In restaurants, a service charge is often included, but if not, 5% to 10% is normal. At hotels, tip one to two euros per bag for porters, and the same per day for housekeeping. Taxi drivers expect about 10%, and about the same for tour guides, but you may wish to add more if your guide provides special service.

Service is generally included on restaurant checks, but if not, 10% to 15% is considered generous. No tip is necessary for taxis, but rounding up or leaving the change is fine. One euro per bag is customary for porters at hotels, and one euro per day for housekeeping is appreciated, but not required. Tour guide tips vary, depending on the type of tour. Start at 10%, but offer more for a private tour.

As in most other countries, add 10% to 15% if a service charge is not indicated on the restaurant check. For taxis, leave the change or round up if paying cash. In hotels, leave about two euros per night for housekeeping, and tip porters approximately one euro per bag. Tour guide gratuities should be about 10% as a starting point.

Switzerland

A service charge is typically included in the check, but it's customary to add about 10%, depending on the service. For taxis, rounding up to a few Swiss francs is fine. At hotels, a few francs for porters, doormen, and housekeeping is normal for services provided. Gratuities for tour guides will vary depending on the type of tour, with 10% as a general base.

Iceland and Scandinavian Countries

Tipping in these countries is different from most of the other European destinations in that gratuities are not expected. Most restaurants include service in the bill; at most, round up or leave change if paying in cash. Hotel employees don't expect tips for services, but you may still provide a small amount for extra help. Taxi drivers don't expect tips, either, nor do tour guides. However, for a guide that offers something special, or for a private or full-day tour, you may want to give 10% or so.

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tipping in europe

Tipping in Europe: The Europe Tipping Guide

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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 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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The Ultimate Guide to Tipping in Europe

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.

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

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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.

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!

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)

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Tipping in Europe: An American’s Ultimate Guide

Tipping in Europe: An American’s Ultimate Guide

Tipping in the United States is often obligatory. Americans are accustomed to tipping their servers from formal dining settings to taxi rides. This is because Americans in the service industry largely rely on tips to earn an adequate income. 

Waiters and waitresses, for example, earn just over $29,000 a year; one of the lowest salaries of full-time jobs in America. Fortunately, this is not the case in Europe. 

As a result, tips are not expected in Europe as they are in the United States. American tourists often find this difficult to adjust to, so here is a comprehensive guide on tipping in Europe. 

What is tipping culture like in Europe?

Americans are typically accustomed to leaving at least a 15 to 20 percent tip, especially at a U.S. restaurant. For many, tipping lower than that is indicative of poor service, while not tipping at all can feel downright wrong for many. 

Tipping culture in Europe is very different, so there are some habits American travelers will want to leave at home. For most, tips are not expected in Europe, and it's fine not to tip at all, especially in more casual settings like bars or cafes. 

In other cases, though, small tips may be warranted. That said, there is no one-size-fits-all solution to tipping in Europe, as it all depends on which country the tipper is in, the setting, and the quality of service.

Tipping in France

France is known worldwide as one of, if not the, best country for dining. Travelers would be remiss not to sample some of France’s best restaurants, bistros, and cafes. As a result, ample opportunity exists to leave, or not leave, a tip.

In France, tips are not obligatory . Like most European countries, French service industry workers are paid a living wage and do not rely on tips to earn a fair income. 

One of the ways France supports its café, restaurant, and bar servers is by including a service fee equivalent to 15 percent of the bill. This is called service compris . Tourists can think of this as a tip, as it goes to the waiter. That said, diners may still leave a small tip to show appreciation.

The same goes for taxi drivers. Tipping is not expected, but passengers may wish to round up or leave an extra euro or two - especially if the driver helps with bags. 

Rounding up is one of the most common tipping customs in France and Europe. Visitors can simply round the bill up to the next euro when a larger tip may not be warranted.

Tipping etiquette

Tipping in France isn’t quite as easy as rounding up or just not tipping at all. While this is usually sufficient, there are scenarios in which bigger tips can and should be offered, including:

  • Fine dining settings with attentive service: Five to ten percent
  • Dining with a larger group: One or two euros per person
  • Taxi drivers who help with bags: One or two euros per bag
  • Bellhops at hotels: One or two euros per bag
  • Housekeeping: Two to four euros per night
  • Concierge service: Five to 20 euros depending on the service

In the vast majority of cases, tipping should be in cash. Unlike most American restaurants, European servers will conduct payment at the table. 

This means diners can either tell the server directly how much tip to add or hand them cash directly. Cash is generally the best way to ensure the server gets all of the tips.

Tipping in Italy

Italy is another European country known for serving some of the best food in the world. Travelers worldwide flock to Italy just to taste the pizza, pasta, and wine that Italy is renowned for. 

Tipping is much less common in Italy than in some European countries, such as France. In the majority of cases, tips are not necessary . However, there are some instances in which you can tip.

Small tips can be left at restaurants in cases of excellent service. A small tip usually means a couple of euros, or perhaps five to ten percent of the bill. While a tip of this size would indicate poor service in the United States, it's appreciated in Italy. That said, leaving no tip at all would be considered normal.

As with many European countries, an accepted tipping practice is simply leaving the change from the bill or rounding up to the next euro. While this may not seem significant, it is a gesture of appreciation for service.

Diners should also check their bills for servizio incluso . This additional fee may be on a bill to cover the service. Unlike in France, this extra fee is not the law in Italy. However, when it is included, an extra tip is not necessary.

While tipping is not often expected in dining scenarios, there are some situations in which tipping is more often expected than not, including:

  • Housekeeping: One euro per night
  • Concierge: Five to ten euros depending on service
  • Porters: One euro per bag
  • Tour guides: Five to ten euros

Tour guides are one of the few professions in Italy that expect and rely on tips. Free tours are a common offering throughout Europe, and guides rely on tips for income. Even when it is a paid tour, tips are usually expected.

As with most countries in Europe, tips are best in cash. Restaurant bills will not have a line to add a tip, so cash handed directly to the server is the best practice.

Tipping in Greece

Greece differs from other European countries because servers are typically paid lower wages. Similar to the United States, tipping is not mandatory, but is often expected to support the server's living wage. 

This is especially due to Greece’s economic dependency on tourism. For many Greek islands, such as Santorini, restaurants are full during the peak tourist season. 

The rest of the year, tables are often left vacant. As a result, tipping can go a long way for servers who endure harder times in the off-season. 

Even though tipping is more expected in Greece than in many other European countries, it still differs from the United States. American tippers will not need to tip as big in Greece as they might back home. For example, tipping a server ten percent is plenty. Anything over 15 percent would be considered very generous.

In Greece, service fees are rare. In cases with a service fee, though, it is typically listed on the menu rather than the check. A full tip is not needed on top of the service fee, although some diners may still choose to round up to the next Euro.

Since tipping etiquette in Greece can differ from other European countries, here is a quick guide:

  • Restaurant servers: Five to ten percent
  • Taxi drivers: Round to the next euro 
  • Bars and cafes: No tip is necessary
  • Housekeeping: One or two euros per night
  • Nail and hair salons: No tip is necessary

As with most countries in Europe, Greek tour guides rely on tips. It is also important to note that tourists should always tip in the currency of their host country. EU countries that do not use the euro include:

  • Czech Republic

Tipping in Switzerland

Switzerland is one of the wealthiest countries in the world and, therefore, one of the most expensive to visit. People worldwide head to Switzerland to experience luxury at its finest; from restaurants to hotels. Many may be surprised to learn that there is no national minimum wage in Switzerland.

With this in mind, it's fair to wonder if Swiss service industry workers make a living wage. Fortunately, all Swiss restaurants charge a service fee. This ensures that servers are fairly paid without a tip.

Since restaurants charge a service fee, tips are not expected. It is customary to round up in full-service restaurants, leaving as much as five extra euros when the service is excellent. 

However, larger tips are rarely expected. They can be appropriate, though, when dining in a larger group that requires more attention. As with any country, tips are not compulsory and should only be left when the service warrants it. Travelers should not be expected to tip when the service is unsatisfactory. 

By and large, visitors do not have to worry about tipping in Switzerland. Again, restaurants charge a service fee, so rounding up or adding just an extra Euro is sufficient. There are some situations in which tipping is more expected, though:

  • Cafe servers: No tip necessary, although you can round the bill up if there is table service.
  • Bartenders: No tip is necessary, although you may if the service covers a prolonged period.
  • Taxi: No tip is necessary, although you can round the bill up, especially when bags are loaded and unloaded.
  • Porters: One to two euros per bag.
  • Housekeepers: One to two euros per night.

Similar to most European countries, tips in Switzerland are best in cash. Since tipping isn’t as customary as in the United States, receipts usually do not have a line to add a tip. 

Do Americans need a visa to enter Europe?

Currently, U.S. Citizens do not need a visa to enter Europe, and they can stay in Europe for up to 90 days in 180 days without needing authorisation. This will change in 2025 with the implementation of ETIAS . 

While Americans will continue to be able to travel throughout Europe visa-free, they will need to apply for ETIAS, an electronic visa-waiver program.

What is a Visa Waiver?

A visa waiver is an application process that allows certain travelers to enter a country without a visa. In the case of ETIAS, it allows travelers from 60 countries , including the United States, to enter the Schengen Area without a Schengen Visa. 

This saves these travelers from the longer, more labor-intensive process of acquiring a Schengen Visa . ETIAS is a quick process that digitally attaches to the traveler’s passport and remains valid for up to three years.

What is the purpose of ETIAS?

The United States has a similar system called ESTA , which was introduced following September 11th, 2001. ETIAS has a similar scope - to further secure EU borders and citizens. In 2016, ETIAS was proposed for the following reasons:

  • Each year, around 200 million people cross EU borders, which continues to rise.
  • As a result of several international crises, the number of refugees and people seeking asylum has risen sharply.
  • Terrorist attacks have become disturbingly frequent, threatening the lives of citizens who call Europe home.
  • Technological advancements have made electronic pre-travel authorization a realistic and practical way of maintaining border checks and security.

ETIAS will create a safer EU not just for its citizens but also for its visitors. 

What to do next

European customs can differ quite drastically from those of the United States. Tipping is one example. Thus, American travelers can often over-tip due to these differences. 

While tipping customs are not the same in every European country, the best rule of thumb is to leave five to ten percent when in doubt. In many cases, though, this can be too much.

American citizens should also understand that they will soon be required to apply for ETIAS before entering Europe. This will change the way many people travel, so travelers need to understand how ETIAS affects them.

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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.

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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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Europe Up Close

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”

people sitting in a beergarden in Salzburg

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.

Sunny day in busy rue Merciere in Lyon with people shopping, sitting in cafes etc.

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.

Couple holding wine glasses in a restaurant in italy

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

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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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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.

Tipping in Europe

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European Tipping Etiquette For Your First Trip

Tipping Gratuity

Tipping in Europe is a complicated subject as it widely varies by the country you’re in; however, it isn’t obligatory, and you should only do so if you want to. People in some of the European countries are more inclined to tip than others. That’s why we prepared a European tipping guide for you, so you’re never left in the dark, and you’ll know exactly how much to tip for each kind of service!

Contrary to the United States’ customs, tipping in Europe isn’t as black and white as it may seem. You might be used to the cafe tips, restaurant tips, or Doordash tips . If you’re confused about Europe’s tipping customs, we prepared the most important rules of showing  gratitude during your European retrieve !

In the United States, tipping might seem like an obligation rather than a sign of appreciation for good service. You’re usually expected to tip between 15% to 20% of the pre-tax bill in most sit-down restaurants. So why is Europe different? In Europe, the service staff has a more liveable base pay, and therefore does not rely on tips as their ‘main’ source of income.

As a rule of thumb, tipping in Europe should be within the limits of 5-10% of your restaurant bill, and much less in other service sectors.

European Tipping Etiquettes

Restaurants.

Even though there aren’t any obligations to leave a tip, you can show your gratitude for good service by leaving a modest tip of 10%. Tips are well received, but they’re most definitely not crucial. They’re also much more expected in high-end restaurants, where you might order a few courses and pair them with wine. It is a well-accepted practice in lower-end restaurants to round the bill up to the nearest €5, or €10. This way, you don’t have to wait to get your change back, but it also shows your waiter that you are exceptionally happy with the service they are providing.

However, this is entirely up to your preference and the service you have encountered. If you don’t want to leave a tip or don’t have the spare change, don’t stress about it too much.

You’re not expected to leave a tip at a bar, but for the most part, if you’re going to leave a tip, a simple £2 / €2 is considered sufficient. It is not expected of you to leave a tip at a bar in Europe, so the choice is yours.

Spa Service Provider

Tips for spa service are viewed very kindly in Europe. For Exceptional Service, you should consider tipping around 10% of your total service bill; more than that can be excessive. However, don’t stress about it too much if you don’t have 10% for the bill with you, leave a smaller tip. If possible, try to grant it in a paper bill, rather than coins.

House Cleaning

Again, it’s not a necessity, but definitely a nice gesture to consider if you’re happy with the way your room has been cleaned. If you’re planning on tipping the housekeeper, consider just leaving a tip at the end of your stay (or at the beginning and end if you’re feeling generous). If you’re staying for an extended period, consider tipping once per week. It’s a gesture that will definitely not go unnoticed and will leave your room looking spark clean.

Delivery services

With delivery services such as Doordash, there are many questions regarding the courtesy of tipping and even more answers. The simple answer is – it’s up to you. If your order arrived spectacularly fast, and you feel like the driver deserves a tip, it will undoubtedly be a nice gesture of you, but as with most European tipping standards, it’s at your discretion.

Tour Guides

Tipping your tour guide shows is a common sign of appreciation. In European nations, you should aim to award your tour guide anywhere between 5% and 15% of the price you pay (per person), with the higher spectrum of the tip reserved for an exceptional service!

An exception to this rule is Finland, where tour guides don’t accept tips and find them awkward, so be wary of that when you’re sightseeing Santa’s factory in Rovaniemi ! The same goes for Slovenia.

On the other hand, in Iceland, it’s more common to treat your tour guide to lunch rather than provide them with a monetary gesture. If you’re headed to Switzerland , be prepared to accustom yourself to the existing practices, where it is standard to tip your tour guide around CHF 40 per day.

Even though tipping is not unheard of in Europe, there are some noticeable differences we feel are essential to be mentioned. Some European countries will charge you a standard service charge along with your order, which can vary between 5% and 15% of your total order value. In the UK, a traditional service charge is around 12.5%, and this is already considered a tip – so don’t feel obliged to have to tip anything extra.

Remember that anywhere in the world you find yourself, it is always a nice gesture to show some appreciation to people serving you, but always bear in mind the country’s customs and traditions while doing so!

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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.

tipper european tour

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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 in Austria

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 in Belgium

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 in Czech Republic

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 in France

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 in Italy

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 in Luxembourg

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 in the Netherlands

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 in Portugal

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 in Spain

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 in the United Kingdom

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.  

tipping in Europe

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How Much To Tip a Tour Guide in the U.S. and Europe

How Much to Tip a Tour Guide

Let’s face it. Tipping can be a delicate topic, and how much to tip a tour guide can seem especially ambiguous. What’s the right amount? When do you tip? Is gratuity ever included? Do you tip for kids, too? What if you had a bad experience? Does the amount you need to tip change based on how long the tour is?

Those are all valid questions. We’ve worked with hundreds of local tour guides to offer tours in over a dozen cities across the U.S. and Europe. With that experience, we have some tipping know-how for tours in top tourist destinations like Paris, New York, and Rome. This isn’t meant as a rule book. Tipping is always at the guest’s discretion, but whether you tour with us or someone else, we want to demystify tour guide gratuities for everyone.

Below, we’ll answer the most frequently asked questions about tipping tour guides (plus a few you hadn’t thought to ask). But first, let’s define what gratuities are.

Gratuities and tour guides: an introduction

Tip Jar

A gratuity is an amount of money given voluntarily to certain service workers as a thank you for excellent service. 

It’s considerably less than the full cost of the service, often a percentage or a flat amount, and it really is a way to show appreciation. Gratuity comes from the Latin word gratus , meaning thankful, the same word that gives us “gratitude.” And you thought we wouldn’t be covering etymology in this blog post.

Gratuities are most common in the restaurant and hospitality industry. You often tip cab drivers, bartenders, hair stylists, bellhops, and valets but not other service professionals like your accountant or plumber. Tour guides — those fearless leaders who show us new places and take us on exciting travel experiences — are in the group of hospitality workers who frequently are tipped for good service.

Should I tip my tour guide?

Basic tipping etiquette says, yes, you should tip your tour guide. There are exceptions if your specific tour experience includes gratuities or you simply didn’t have a good time, but in general, tipping your guide at the end of the tour is customary in the U.S. and Europe, though it’s much more common in the States.

Is tipping on vacation different in the U.S. vs. Europe?

Tour Guide at Eiffel Tower

Tipping is much more prevalent in the United States than it is in Europe. In America, a traveler will tip for all kinds of hospitality services, from wait staff to the person who carries your bags to your room.

People don’t tip as much in Europe, so travelers don’t there as much either. For example, servers at restaurants are paid a normal wage and don’t rely on tips for part of their income.

When it comes to tipping tour guides, a tip isn’t required in either region, but it’s much more expected in U.S. culture. Tips, when given, aren’t typically as high in Europe. Tipping a few euros after an excellent walking tour of 1-2 hours is considered sufficient. For a longer tour or a tour with a higher price point because it includes tickets, you might tip more, around 5%-10% of the total tour cost for each person in your group.

Because of globalization, especially with many American tourists in Western European countries like France, Italy, Germany, and Spain, you don’t have to worry about gratuity being awkward or unwelcome. Most tour guides are familiar with the custom of tipping and will anticipate (and appreciate) this from their guests. But even more so than in the U.S., tipping is a sign of excellent service, so if you feel your guide did a fabulous job, a tip is a good way to show that.

How much should I tip my tour guide?

This is the harder question, but it’s probably why you’re here. So you had a good time. Your tour guide shared some local recommendations, made you smile, and overall added to your experience. How much is the right amount to tip?

It’s up to each guest — and at the end of the day, it’s optional — but here are some rules of thumb from our guides and tour operators on the ground.

  • For a short guided tour in the U.S.: Tip $5-$10 (or more) per person if your tour is around two hours or less. This would be an appropriate amount for most walking tours, like our JFK Assassination Tour , as well as some attraction tours, like our express Statue of Liberty visit. For a slightly longer tour, like our Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island tour , you might increase the gratuity some.
  • For a full-day guided tour in the U.S.: Tip $10-$20 per person if it’s a longer guided tour (think six hours or more). A family of four might tip $40 for our guided six-hour tour from the Getty Center to Griffith Observatory .
  • For a short guided tour in Europe: Tip €5-€10 per person for a neighborhood walking tour that’s under two hours. This would be a good fit for our 90-minute Le Marais Walking Tour in Paris. For something longer, you might add a few more euros.
  • For a full-day guided tour in Europe: Tip €10-€20 per person — or about 5%-10% of the total tour price — for a full-day guided tour. If it’s a bus tour, like our D-Day Normandy Beaches Day Trip From Paris, it’s customary to include a tip for the bus driver as well.

statue of liberty aerial photo

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Guided Tour

Statue of Liberty NYC

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Those ranges above are averages, and tipping may end up being more or less, but they’re practical guideposts that any tour guide would feel good about receiving.

When do you tip your guide?

This one is easy. You tip most commonly at the end of the tour. As you’re saying your goodbyes to the guide, you can simply hand off the money. 

“A tip shows that I did an outstanding job, that I exceeded guests’ expectations, especially here in Europe where it’s less common that in the U.S.” Cristina Carrisi, Barcelona tour guide

We’ve seen many people like to do it in a “secret handshake” sort of way, slipping them the money as they shake hands. This works, but a simple hand-off is fine, too.

What if I don’t have cash?

Tour Group

More and more today, people don’t carry cash when they travel. Guides are aware of this, and most have other ways to accept payment, such as Venmo or Zelle. Some guides even have a QR code guests can scan. 

If you’re not sure, it’s perfectly acceptable to ask what kind of electronic payment methods they accept for gratuities. You’ll find most guides have a way to tip without cash. For example, most of our guides in the U.S. have Venmo accounts. In Europe, cash is king, so bring money if you plan to tip.

Do you tip the driver for a bus tour?

This varies by tour. It’s common for bus drivers to have a jar or box near the front where guests can drop a few bills on their way out.

For our U.S.-based bus tours at ExperienceFirst, tipping $5-$10 per guest is appropriate to cover both the guide and the driver. The guides split their tips with the driver, so giving your tip directly to the guide works best. In Europe, tipping the bus driver is customary. Around 5%-10% of the tour price is a good rule of thumb.

This rate matches about how much you’d tip for a traditional 90-minute walking tour. Even though bus tours are much longer, buses tend to be fuller than a walking tour, so this smaller tip amount is adequate. As always, tipping more is appreciated, and it’s a great way to tell your guide they did an outstanding job.

Ancient Rome Walking Tour

Ancient Rome Walking Tour

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How much do you tip a private tour guide.

Tour Guide Tip

Everything works pretty much the same for a private tour. On private tours, people are sometimes less likely to tip, but unless gratuity has been included in the tour cost, it’s a nice gesture to thank your guide for their time, especially if they went above and beyond to make it a special experience for your group.

When people do tip for private tours, they typically tip more since gratuity is usually a percentage of the total service cost, and prices are higher for private tours. Private tours are also often longer and frequently involve private transportation. For a longer private driving tour, for example, such as a private tour of the highlights of LA , $50-$100 in tips is common, but for a larger group of, say, eight people, that’s only around $10 per person.

Do you tip for free tours?

What about those “free” walking tours? Are they really free? In short, no. Locals who offer free walking tours expect gratuities nearly always, so you should factor this into your costs when you plan.

There are a few exceptions. Sometimes a tour will say “no tips accepted” or something similar. Perhaps it’s being put on by the local convention and visitors bureau or other tourism organization. In this case, take them at their word. The walking tour really is free. Here’s one such example of a genuinely free walking tour in Bath, England.

Is gratuity included with your tour ticket?

Tour Group

Generally, gratuity isn’t included in the tour price because it’s optional. A few tour operators may include gratuities, particularly for multi-day excursions that also include room and board, but this is typically listed under inclusions. If you’re unsure, feel free to ask before or after booking. 

Good tour operators will make it clear if gratuities are included or not. After all, the last thing we want is for people to be surprised or feel unprepared.

Alcatraz

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Do you tip if you didn’t like the tour.

If you didn’t enjoy the tour, it’s acceptable not to tip. A gratuity really is a sign that you had a great time and want to show the guide your appreciation.

That said, not giving a tip sends the message that you didn’t enjoy the tour. You can view the tip as a way to communicate your feelings about the tour. 

Do you tip for every person in your group, including kids?

Tour Group

Does the tip amount change if you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or traveling with friends or kids in tow? It’s a good question. Tips are generally per person. While your guide probably isn’t expecting gratuity to cover an infant in arms, kids often require the guide’s attention as well as adults, so they’re typically factored into the tipping amount.

However, if you’re a larger family, it’s understandable to consider a sliding scale that you feel comfortable with to cover your group. A family with six kids might tip the same amount as one with five. As always with tipping, do what you feel is right for you.

What if you don’t know if tipping is appropriate?

After reading this article, hopefully you understand when and how much to tip guides. But you might be in a situation where you’re still not sure for some reason. Maybe it’s not even for a tour.

But there’s one hack you can always use — just ask. Even the famed Emily Post Institute, which provides etiquette training to businesses and individuals around the world, says it’s OK to simply ask in advance if you’re not sure about tipping protocols for the experience or country you’ll be in. Calling or emailing in advance with your questions can help settle any concerns you might have, and it’s better to know before you go, so you can come prepared and decide what you’d like to do.

What tips mean for tour guides

As we mentioned above, a tip shows appreciation. Tipping vs. not tipping lets the guide know if you did or didn’t have a good time. We asked a couple of our guides what tipping means to them. Here’s what they said.

“It is very appreciated when we receive tips,” said Jonathan Mannato, a tour guide in NYC. “For example, there was a tour I gave in pouring rain. We give tours rain or shine, but this obstacle can be hard to keep the guests happy and engaged. We work extra hard because of this. A family of four at the end generously tipped me for my work, and it made me as a guide feel valued. While we know tipping is not required, it is very helpful with our income in this role.”

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“A tip shows that I did an outstanding job, that I exceeded guests’ expectations, especially here in Europe where it’s less common that in the U.S.,” said Cristina Carrisi, a tour guide in Barcelona. “I remember one time as I was giving a tour, a 5 year old accidentally broke a small statue inside a shop. Her mother had stepped away to look for the rest of the family. I patiently took care of the child while still giving the tour. The tip her family gave me at the end of the tour showed me how well I had handled the situation.”

Demystifying tour guide tipping

Tour Group Tips

I hope we helped demystify how, when, and how much to tip your tour guide. Not knowing the cultural norms or expectations around tipping can make guests feel nervous, which is the last thing any tour guide or operator wants. You’re on this trip to explore and have fun, not worry.

Now that you know how to tip your tour guide, tell a friend what you learned or join the conversation on Facebook if you have more questions. We’d love to hear from you.

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Five Must Know Rules for Tipping in Europe in 2018

Guide to Tipping in Europe

Are you traveling to Europe?

Your bags are packed, you’re off to the airport, and you’re ready to embark on the ultimate European getaway that you’ve been dreaming of for months. Before you depart, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the tipping in Europe etiquette in your destination to avoid looking like a total tourist. You’ve planned a flight, booked a hotel, and created a jam-packed itinerary, but have you thought about tipping internationally? When should you do it? When shouldn’t you? Who should you tip? And of course, how much?

Tipping etiquette varies by country, culture, and situation. A little research is essential for travelers to know who to tip, how to tip, and most importantly, how much to tip. Generous travelers should take caution before handing a waiter a wad of cash if that culture does not consider tipping necessary.

On the other hand, budget – friendly travelers shouldn’t stiff a tour guide just to save a pretty penny. Depending on your destination, showing gratitude for your service can be a tricky business and may be categorized as customary, appreciated, or even a little rare. To avoid looking like the ultimate tourist, we’ve put together some foolproof tips to master the tricky practice of tipping and travel Europe like a local. Here’s a tip: read the guide and tip wisely.

Tipping in Restaurants

#1 Tipping in Europe: Restaurants

If you are from the States, chances are that you have nagged your whole life to tip no less than 15- 20 percent at restaurants and now the golden rule is engraved in your brain. However, when eating at restaurants in Europe, nothing screams “American” more than a 20 percent tip. And, no, that’s not a good thing. In Europe, there’s no obligation to leave a tip although they are appreciated if you know the correct tipping etiquette of the country. As a general rule of thumb, try not to exceed 10 percent of the final bill, as anything more than that is considered excessive. Although you may think you’re being a generous tourist, tipping 15 to 20 percent in Europe is unnecessary, if not culturally ignorant.

Tipping in Restaurants

Important Service Charge Information:

So now that you know the correct amount to tip, don’t make the common tourist mistake of forgetting to check if the bill already included the service charge! There’s nothing like avoiding the infamous “American over-tipping” only to tip twice as much because you neglected to notice the service charge. In most European restaurants, the service (s ervizio in Italian, service in French, servicio in Spanish) will be included in the bill, so you’ll want to factor that before leaving anything extra.

If this is the case, there are a couple of ways to check if the restaurant already includes the service charge. In some countries, the menu will note that  the prices listed on the menu include the service charge (“servizio incluso”) . If the menu does not include the service (“ servizio non incluso” ), it may appear at the end of your bill on a separate line. If the service was extraordinary and the “American over-tipping” label goes out the window, do as the Europeans do and leave an extra euro or two to show your appreciation.

Tipping Guide

Tipping Only in Cash:

You’ve spent so much time researching where to eat on your European getaway that tipping etiquette hasn’t even crossed your mind. That is until you’re handed the bill and realize you can’t tip on a card, and panic because you spent all your cash on gelato. You’re probably thinking, who carries cash these days? Before you empty your wallet gallivanting the streets of Europe, be prepared to save some euros to tip in cash.

Most Americans are not accustomed to tipping solely in cash due to the convenience of swiping a card and rounding to 20 percent. It might come as a bit of culture shock to find that most European restaurants do not even have the option to tip on a card and all gratuity should be left in euros. Try your best to exchange your dollars before handing cash over to your waiter, as in most countries it is considered rude to tip in a foreign currency. It may seem like a lot to take in, but once you get the hang of it you’ll be tipping like a local in no time.

Tipping Guide

Tip Directly:

So you’ve probably heard the horror stories of pickpocketing in Europe and you’re ready to take on the streets. You keep your watch, bag, sunglasses, and passport on your person, but what about your tip? Yes, it may seem a bit strange, but the same pickpocketing rules apply to tipping in restaurants.

Typically, it’s better to hand the tip to the waiter rather than leaving it on the table, especially in busy places where it might get into the wrong hands. Another reason to hand the tip over yourself is to ensure that the waiter receives their hard-earned cash in full. In some restaurants that accept credit card tips, servers may not receive the full amount, if any at all. The bottom line; try to tip in cash whenever possible and remember the happier the server, the happier the happy hour, right?

Tipping in Bars

Tipping at Bars:

We’ve all had that one bartender that we painstakingly handed over a tip despite waiting a half hour for a drink. Despite our American habits, bartenders do not expect tips in Europe. Although tipping is customary in table-serving restaurants, it is not common when ordering food or drinks over the counter at bars and pubs. I know this may seem very out of the ordinary and maybe even a little guilt worthy, but European servers actually earn a high paying salary, and any tips act as a bonus.

If walking away from an empty-handed bartender seems a little too uncomfortable for your liking, leaving 1 or 2 euros for exceptional service is always welcome. Who knows, you may have just found your “go to” pub in Europe and might be back tomorrow.

Tipping Etiquette

Sure, the tipping etiquette has general rules to keep you in the clear when traveling across Europe, but you should always do a little research specific to your destination just in case. For example, in Germany, it’s considered classy to say the number of euros you’d like the waiter to keep when paying your bill and German cuckoo clocks are very famous in the world which is made in the Black Forest, Germany.

Czech Republic:

On the other hand, most places in the Czech Republic will state whether or not your bill includes the service charge, in English! If it doesn’t include the service, it’s customary to round up the bill by adding 5-10 percent while speaking a few Czech words. Rumor has it, saying hello, thank you, and goodbye in Czech will get you better service and speaking in full English will imply a bigger tip. No matter your destination, you should familiarize yourself with the culture and tipping etiquette of the country to avoid any tourist mishaps and tip like a true European.

Traveling to Paris? If Paris is at the top of your bucket list, it’s important to know a bit about their tipping etiquette to avoid confusion. In France by law, the price always includes the service charge no matter the establishment. It’s no surprise that Paris is an expensive city to live in, so waiters are paid accordingly!

Although your waiter will be taken care of, it’s still customary to throw a few euros their way after a meal or drink. Nothing crazy. A euro or two will do the trick but when in doubt, tipping around 5% in cash will keep you in the clear. After all, they deserve a few extra bucks after all the gelato they brought you!

Tipping for Transportation

#2 Tipping in Europe: Transportation

So you’ve made it to your destination and you’re ready to grab a taxi and hit the town. But is your wallet ready? If you’re planning on taking a taxi or shuttle from the airport to your hotel, you’re going to have to tip. This means that you’ll need some local currency almost as soon as you step off the plane and grab your bags. If you haven’t already exchanged your dollars for euros before you departed, don’t fret!

All international airports offer currency exchange counters as well as kiosks, though they may be a little pricey. Now that you have your euros in line, a general rule of thumb for tipping taxis and shuttles is to round up your total and tell your driver to keep the extra cash. If you’re traveling a short distance, just round up to the next euro when tipping your driver, but anything long distance should be rounded to the nearest 10. If your cabbie hauls your over-packed bags so that you can spare your freshly painted nails, you might want to toss in a little more. On the other hand, if you feel the driver ripped you off or overcharged you, skip the tip and get on your way. Either way, tipping in Europe is considered optional and anything extra will be much appreciated.

If you find yourself struggling to decide on a culture appropriate tip amount while on a European retreat, you could always stick to the Scottish 10 percent rule. In Scotland, 10 percent is a universal tipping amount that goes for just about anything. Whatever you do, don’t stress! Do as the Scottish do and keep it simple.

Tipping for Hotels

#3 Tipping in Europe: Hotels

If your European retreat consists of fresh linen sheets, towels folded as swans, and 24-hour room service, it’s time to show some appreciation. Hotel employees who go above and beyond to make your stay enjoyable will appreciate a token of recognition for their hard work. For the house cleaners cleaning up after your suitcase explodes daily, it’s considerate to leave two euros for a well-maintained room.

If you sat back, relaxed, and watched a bellhop break his back carrying a months worth of clothing stuffed into one bag, it’s acceptable to tip one to two euros per bag. When it comes to the concierge, it’s not common to tip but one to two euros is appreciated if the service exceeds your expectations . If you find yourself tossing euros around like its candy, then take a trip to the concierge to break some larger bills. The concierge at your hotel will be able to break larger bills so that you can keep your wallet full, and service happy while in Europe.

Before emptying all the singles in your wallet, be sure to research the tipping etiquette in your specific destination. Although tipping hotel staff may be customary in most parts of Europe, certain countries like Iceland think otherwise. In Iceland, it’s not encouraged to tip hotel staff, whether it be the housecleaners or the bellhop. If you’re wondering why your hotel bill seems a bit larger than average, it’s because the bill actually includes their services in the full price of your stay.

If the American side of you just can’t resist leaving a small token of appreciation, the staff will certainly appreciate a small tip, though they do not expect it.

Tipping for Salons and Spas

#3 Tipping in Europe: Salons and Spas

What better way to live like a local than to get a fresh European hairstyle on your trip? Unlike the typical 20 percent given to hairdressers in the US, it’s thoughtful to tip only 10 percent of the final bill if you’re happy with your new European do. Much like restaurants, it’s common for hair and beauty salons to include a service charge in the bill, so look out for that before handing over extra euros.

If the bill includes the service but your new locks leave you overjoyed, don’t be afraid to tip a couple of extra euros as your generosity won’t go unnoticed. Massage on your mind? The same rules apply to spas in Europe where 10 percent of the final bill is customary. Before you reach into your wallet, do a little research on your destination as it is not common to tip beauty services in all countries.

When in doubt, ask! As a general rule of thumb, the French and British generally tip hairdressers and spas, while the Dutch and Swedish typically don’t. If you’re traveling to Italy, don’t expect to tip at all, however it is polite to round up and tell your beauty guru to keep the change. Whether you want to channel you inner European or just want a pampering along with your retreat, you will definitely leave stress free, especially about tipping.

Tipping for Tour Guides for groups

#4 Tipping in Europe: Tour Guides for groups

Whether you just embarked on the most fascinating or boring tour of a lifetime, tipping your tour guide is completely optional. Guides who give their spiel at tourist attractions or bus and boat tours often hold out their hands at the end for a tip, which may make you feel obligated to throw a euro their way.

If you’ve already paid for the tour, the guide does not require a tip. Although, exceptional service may deserve a euro or two . If you get on good terms with your tour guide, they can be a great source of information to learn about the tipping culture in your destination. You never know, that euro may be the difference between a relaxing afternoon lunch or a not so great international experience.

For any private experiences, tip as you would in the US.

Tips for Tipping

#5 Tips for Tipping in Europe 

You’ve planned a whole trip, so it’s understandable if you forgot to research the tipping etiquette of your destination. If you sit down for a much-anticipated, authentic meal and realize you don’t know what to do, don’t panic! Simply look around and see what other visitors are doing and repeat after them. One word of advice, never ask the service provider IF you should tip them. Not only will this create an uncomfortable situation, but more times than not they will encourage you to tip even if service providers do not require tips.

No matter the service provided, always tip in cash. Make sure you have plenty of small bills on hand throughout your trip for that unexpected taxi ride or spur of the moment tour. Use larger bills to pay for material items such as shopping and souvenirs, and accumulate the change to use as tips. Oh, and make sure the cash is in the local currency of your destination because there’s nothing like taking a long taxi ride only to find that he won’t accept US dollars.

If all else fails, follow the general rule of 10 percent and you should be fine. For smaller services, opt for a euro or two but if you feel uncomfortable leaving the provider empty handed, then simply don’t. Better to spare a euro for someone not usually tipped than to stiff a person who expects a tip. Whether you’ve done your research or not, don’t stress about tipping! Follow your instincts.

Guide to Tipping in Europe

No matter your European destination, learning the tipping etiquette is your first step in navigating Europe like a pro. While everyone appreciates tips no matter where you travel, tipping in Europe is not as abundant as in the United States, and in many countries, not expected at all. The proper amount depends on the country, culture, and circumstances, so use your best judgment!

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The ultimate guide to tipping around the world

Oct 28, 2019 • 19 min read

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If you’ve ever found yourself nervously flicking through a stack of notes at the end of a meal when on the road, or fumbling for loose change in the back of a taxi in an unfamiliar city, you’ll understand. Tipping is an elusive custom that seems to change its rules the world over – what is deemed a generous token of appreciation in some countries, can offend the subtle cultural sensibilities of others.

A man, who is dining with a female companion, taps his debit card on a card reader at the end of a meal. Both diners are slightly out of focus, while the card machine appears crisp and sharp. The gent wears a rather nice watch.

To help steer you through the quagmire of uncertainty and doubt that gratuities can throw up, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to tipping around the world. Whilst it’s important to acknowledge that tipping customs are always morphing and developing – particularly under the influence of mass tourism – this guide will shed at least some light on your travel tipping quandaries and monetary confusion, from restaurants and bars to hotels and taxis. And if after reading you’re still in doubt, there’s no need to worry – you’ll find detailed notes on the tipping conventions of your specific destination in the back of your Lonely Planet guidebook  (hint, hint).

A hot chocolate in a green and white mug stands on a tabletop, next to a small dish containing a receipt and some coins, which have presumably been left as a tip.

Restaurants and bars Restaurant tipping in Europe is often misunderstood by non-European visitors, with US tourists in particular applying their own generous tipping culture where it isn’t necessarily appropriate. Many countries within the EU have laws that accommodate and standardise gratuity, and larger tips left after even the heartiest of meals, i.e. 15% and upwards, aren’t necessary.

Generally speaking, most European countries, including France , Germany , Spain , Czech Republic , Hungary , Ireland , Portugal and the UK , will add a service charge to a bill but, if not, leave between 5% and 10% (in local currency cash) unless the service and/or food has been poor. Certain other countries including Italy , Austria and Russia won’t always add service charge or expect a tip, but it is common to round up the bill, as wages in the hospitality industry tend to be lower. If eating in a restaurant in Italy , you may see the word ‘ corperto ’ on your bill – this is ‘cover charge’, but won’t necessarily go to the wait staff, so if you’re keen to tip, do it with cash and give it to your server.

Renowned for being eye-wateringly expensive, you’ll be relieved to note that restaurant tipping in Scandinavia and Iceland isn’t expected, and is usually covered in the overall price of the meal.

Adding tips in European bars isn’t expected, but if you’re feeling a bit generous (read: tipsy) after a few drinks, feel free to round up the bill. Tipping in London pubs (and indeed, pubs in the rest of the UK ) is a bit of a head-scratcher for tourists, but it isn’t commonly done. If you find yourself riding high on the general bonhomie that the traditional British pub is known for, do offer to buy the bartender a drink using the phrase “and one for yourself” (with or without your best attempt at a cockney “guv’nor” following it).

Hotel staff Hotel tipping etiquette for many European countries is fairly similar – note that tipping housekeeping staff here is generally less common than in the USA. In the UK , France , Spain , Italy , Germany , Czech Republic and Hungary , if you feel you want to tip, giving €1 to €2 per bag to porters and around €2 to €5 to housekeeping staff is a good rule. Slightly smaller amounts are required in Balkan and Eastern European countries.

In Russia , hotel staff are used to larger tips – between 200 and 250 rubles for porters and 100 to 200 rubles for housekeeping staff.

In pricey Scandinavia and Iceland , hotel staff do not expect tips as service charges are already included in their wages. The same is true for Switzerland , but here handing the housekeeping staff a small amount (roughly 5 to 10 francs) at the end of your stay will be greatly appreciated, even if not expected.

Tour guides Tour guides and drivers in almost all countries in Europe are tipped separately. In Central and Eastern European countries and Italy , tip both about 10 to 20% per day of the tour depending on how much you enjoyed it. In most Western European countries, including France , Germany , Spain and the UK , a tip of around €25 to €40 (or local currency equivalent) a day for the guide, and €10 to €15 for the driver is fair. Russian guides and drivers may expect slightly more – around 3000 rubles for guides and 2,000 for drivers.

Private car drivers in Turkey will expect significant tips of around 200 to 300 lira per day, whilst group tour guides are usually tipped around 60 to 100 lira, and closer to 450 lira for private tour guides.

In Scandinavian countries and Iceland , tips for tour guides and drivers are not expected, but if you feel your experience warrants it, tipping 10% to both guide and driver is a nice gesture. Alternatively, you can offer to buy them both some lunch.

Taxi drivers Taxi tipping in Europe is straightforward – pretty much across the continent drivers don’t expect tips, but rounding up the fare is customary, even as more and more taxis are being fitted with card machines. The only exceptions to this rule are France , Russia and Switzerland , whereby taxi drivers often expect a 10 to 15% tip at the end of a ride, and Scandinavia and Iceland , where tipping taxi drivers, even by rounding up the fare, is not expected at all.

An arm places a dollar bill into a glass jar, which is labelled with a small sign reading 'tips'.

The Americas

Restaurants and bars For restaurants in the USA and Canada , service charge isn’t always added into the bill, and so tipping is pretty much a foregone conclusion – around 15 to 20% is the norm, unless the meal was truly inedible and/or the waitstaff were obnoxious (then it’s more like 5%...). In bars, tipping around $1 per drink, or 15 to 20% of the total bill is customary.

In Central and South American countries, including Mexico , Nicaragua , Argentina and Peru , service charge is more commonly added, but if you want to tip your waitstaff personally, between 10 to 15% (in local currency or US dollars) is a good amount. In others like Brazil , Chile and Costa Rica , restaurants will often include a 10% ‘sit-down’ charge (‘ cubierto ’ in Chile), meaning that a tip is not expected, but around 5% will still be appreciated if you’d like to give it. Tipping in bars here isn’t the norm, but feel free to round up the overall bill.

If you’re dining in the Caribbean (outside of a fancy resort), check the bill to see if the gratuity has been included already. If not, tip around 15 to 20% in restaurants, or round up the bill at a bar.

Hotel staff Leaving tips for hotel staff in the USA and Canada , particularly housekeeping staff, is common practice. Around $3 to $5 a day for housekeeping staff is a good amount, and $1 per bag for porters. 

Tipping slightly less in Central and South American hotels is fine. US dollars are usually accepted (although local currency is preferred). For porters in countries including Costa Rica , Mexico , Nicaragua , Brazil , Chile , Peru and Colombia , go with the local currency equivalent of $1 per bag for porters and $1 to $2  a day for housekeeping staff. Particularly in South America, rural haciendas are popular accommodation options. These are usually tended by a family of staff who will cook, clean and maintain the gardens, so leaving a pooled tip at the end of your stay of around $10 to $15 (or the local currency equivalent) per guest is appreciated.

Tour guides When embarking upon an organised tour in the USA , Canada or Colombia , you can expect similar tipping etiquette – about $10 to $20 in local currency for a tour guide per day, and around $5 to $10 for a driver. As in Europe, both guides and drivers are tipped separately. 

In most Central and South American countries, tour guides are tipped around $5 to $10 (or local currency equivalent) for a day’s work, whilst drivers are accustomed to receiving half that. Note that slightly different rules apply for Andes Trek and Inca Trail porters – this is covered in the last section.

The exception to the general South America tipping rule (aside from Colombia), is Brazil . Here, tourism industry professionals rely heavily on tips, and more generous amounts are appreciated. Think around 100 to 200 reals for a tour guide per day, and slightly less for drivers. It’s also worth noting that Brazilians are very discreet when it comes to business transactions, so don’t make your generous tipping too obvious!

Caribbean bus tours are a popular way to see different parts of whichever island you’re staying on and, if you choose to hop aboard one, tipping the driver a few US dollars is customary. For private tour guides, tip about $20 a day and for drivers around $10.

Taxi drivers  In the USA , Canada and the Caribbean , tipping taxi drivers about 10 to 15% of your fare is the norm, or a couple of dollar bills will suffice for short journeys. 

Taxi rides in Central and South America fall into two camps when it comes to tipping expectations. If you’ve pre-negotiated (or haggled) the fare before getting into the taxi, don’t worry about tipping unless you formed a particularly strong bond with the driver. If the fare is fixed, feel free to round it up at the end of the journey.

A top-down shot of a woman counting money at a food stall. The stall is filled with trays of colourful, Asian-style cuisine.

Restaurants and bars China , Myanmar , Singapore and Taiwan do not have a strong tipping culture, and so leaving extra money at the end of the meal, or in a bar, is largely deemed unnecessary. However, influenced by the influx of overseas tourists into larger cities, some chic new restaurants in China are starting to accept small tips when offered. The same ever-increasing numbers of tourists in much of Southeast Asia, including Cambodia , Thailand , Vietnam , Indonesia and Malaysia are becoming more and more accustomed to receiving tips, but they still aren’t expected and not leaving one is fine.

In India , service staff have become used to tips from tourists, despite tipping not traditionally being part of Indian culture. In more established restaurants (where service charge is not included), leave 5 to 10% if you really enjoyed the meal, and in smaller, less formal places, either leave a few coins or round up the bill. You can also tip bartenders up to 10% if they’ve really put in the hours serving you.

Other Asian countries, including Japan and Nepal , believe that tipping is only for exceptionally good service – being treated with hospitality and warmth is the norm and shouldn’t be ‘rewarded’. In Japan, some servers might even politely refuse a tip if you leave one.

Hotel staff China ’s no tipping culture prevails when it comes to hotels, but if you’re living the high life in a particularly luxurious establishment, feel free to tip the porter around 5 yuan per bag. You may also find that in high-end hotels, a 10% service charge will be added to the overall bill. Japanese hotels also do not expect their staff to be tipped, particularly in a traditional ryokan  (inn). If you feel particularly inclined, leave around 5000 yen (for a short stay) in an envelope, but it may be politely refused if you hand it over in person. 

India ’s hotel staff are notoriously poorly paid, and so tipping the porter about 50 rupees per bag, and the housekeeping staff 250 rupees a day are particularly welcome gestures.

Throughout most of Southeast Asia, including Thailand , Cambodia , Indonesia , the Philippines , Singapore , Vietnam and Malaysia , a service charge will almost always be included in your overall bill upon check out, and so tips are not expected, although it isn’t uncommon to tip porters the local currency equivalent of $1 per bag. Tipping housekeeping staff is less common but, if you feel you want to, the local currency equivalent of a couple of US dollars per night is fine.

Tour guides As you can probably guess by now, tour guides and drivers in China do not expect tips. South Korean and Taiwanese tour guides do expect to take home a little extra on organised excursions – around 10% of the tour cost is fine to split between the guide and driver. In Japan , tip tour guides around 2500 to 5000 yen for a full day, handed over in an envelope. If you’re using a private driver, it’s a nice gesture to offer to buy them lunch.

A general rule of thumb in India is to tip between 300 to 500 rupees a day for guides and 100 to 200 rupees for drivers.

In Singapore and the Philippines , tipping tour guides and drivers a combined 10% of the overall tour cost is fair – they should split it between themselves. Other Southeast Asian countries like Thailand , Vietnam , Malaysia , Cambodia and Indonesia observe a convention of tipping around $10 to $20 (in local currency) for a tour guide per day, and half of that amount for the driver. It’s customary to give the total tipping amount to the guide, who will then siphon off some for the driver.

Taxi drivers No tips are expected by taxi drivers in China or South Korea , but rounding up the fare is standard practice in Japan . Indian taxi and rickshaw drivers are not accustomed to tips (however much they will insist otherwise), but telling them to keep the change is a genial gesture.

In Cambodia and Thailand , the local currency equivalent of $1 is a good tip for taxi and tuk tuk drivers, whilst in Indonesia , the Philippines and Malaysia , a 10% tip for fixed-fare rides is standard. In Singapore and Vietnam , simply round up the fare or offer the driver to keep the change.

Two women consult with a tuk tuk driver at the side of a road in Bangkok. The small, striking vehicle is painted yellow and blue.

The Middle East

Restaurants and bars In the UAE , Qatar , Jordan and Saudi Arabia , servers in restaurants will expect a 10 to 15% tip at the end of a meal. Even in Dubai , where the government mandates 10% being added to bills at restaurants, hotels and bars, waitstaff will still expect a tip of up to 15%, or even 20%.

Restaurants in Israel will often add a 10% service charge to bills in restaurants and bars, so always check before you start counting out your notes to avoid unnecessary double tipping.

Hotel staff Dubai ’s government-mandated 10% service charge at hotels means that tipping is primarily reserved for those who are feeling particularly flash. In the rest of the UAE , concierges expect a tip for significant requests, like securing a table at a popular restaurant or organising a tour – between 100 and 120 dirhams should suffice. Tip porters around 7 dirhams per bag, and housekeeping staff around 10 to 11 dirhams per day.

In other popular Middle Eastern holiday destinations including Jordan and Israel , tip the local currency equivalent of $1.50 per bag for porters, the same per day for housekeeping, and around $2 to the concierge for small favours if you require them.

Tour guides In Dubai , the rest of the UAE and Qatar , tipping a tour guide the local currency equivalent of around $10 to $15, and a private driver half that amount is a good way to go. After an excursion in other popular tourist countries in the Middle East, including Israel and Jordan , a slightly larger tip of between $25 to $35 (in local currency) for guides and $35 to $45 for driver guides is appropriate.

Taxi drivers Dubai taxi drivers don’t expect tips, but round up the fare if you’re feeling generous. In most other Middle Eastern countries, including the rest of the UAE , Israel , Jordan , Qatar and Saudi Arabia , tip taxi drivers around 10 to 15% of the overall fare.

A concierge and bellboy wait at the entrance to a hotel. Both are dressed in brown suits, with their backs to the camera. One wears a smart grey top hat. Through the glass doors some greenery is visible.

Restaurants and bars Popular restaurants and bars in holiday hotspots like Egypt , Morocco and South Africa will add a 10% service charge to the bill. If there isn’t one, it’s common to leave a tip of around 10 to 15% if you were happy with your meal.

Throughout the rest of Africa , for the most part, leaving 10 to 15% is a normal tip for good service in restaurants, as is rounding up the bill in bars. Waitstaff and bar staff across much of Africa often earn a very basic living wage, therefore tips are a hugely welcome supplement.

Hotel staff In certain northern African destinations like Egypt and Morocco , hotel concierges are powerful forces. Tip them generously (around the local currency equivalent of $15 to $20) at the start of your stay to ensure good service for the duration. Housekeeping staff should be tipped about $3 to $5 a day in local currency, and porters $1 per bag. 

Throughout Africa’s popular tourist destinations, including South Africa , Kenya and Tanzania , hotels will expect small tips of $1 in local currency to the porter for each bag, and to housekeeping staff each day. Concierges can be useful for pulling strings in these countries, so feel free to tip them around $3 to $5 in local currency for any favours they do for you. Luxury safari camps will often provide a general tipping box at the front desk, and anything placed into this box should be spread evenly among the camp’s staff. If you wish to tip a certain member of staff specifically, make sure you hand it to them in person.

Tour guides When taking tours in North African countries, $20 a day (in local currency) is a good amount to tip guides and driver guides, while drivers can be tipped a bit less. In Morocco particularly, tipping of this nature is best done discreetly.

In other African countries where you might embark on an excursion, tipping about 10% of the overall cost to tour guides and drivers is appreciated. On safari drives, the general idea is to tip your guide the local currency equivalent of $10, and your tracker $5 per day, but give these as cumulative tips at the end of the safari.

Taxi drivers Throughout most of the African continent, the norm when it comes to tipping taxi drivers is to round up the final fare, or tell the driver to keep the change. In countries more accustomed to mass tourism, like Egypt and South Africa , drivers will usually expect a 10% tip at the end of a journey.

A group of hikers ascend a rocky mountain in Albania.

Restaurants and bars As staff in the hospitality industry are generally assumed to earn a decent wage in Australia and New Zealand , tipping in restaurants and bars here is not expected, but a standard 10 to 15% is appreciated if you feel the experience warrants it.

On the South Pacific Islands , tipping in restaurants and bars is even less of a concern, as the practice is not part of the indigenous cultures. That said, if you visit a particularly swanky restaurant and have your mind blown with incredible food and service, do feel free to add on 10% to the overall bill, as much as it won’t be expected.

Hotel staff Australia and New Zealand ’s hotel staff are used to fairly standard tips – think around $1 (in either Australian or NZ dollars) per bag for porters and $3 to $5 a day for housekeeping staff.

The South Pacific Islands take a more hospitable stance – when you initially check into your hotel you are considered an honoured guest, and if you stay a second time, family. Suffice it to say, neither of these are expected to tip. If you do feel you want to reward particular staff members financially however, do it face-to-face, otherwise it won’t be taken. This is particularly true of housekeeping staff.

Tour guides Tour guides and private drivers in Australia and New Zealand should be tipped between $20 and $50 (in local currency) per day, whilst bus tour operators can be given around a $5 to $10 tip for a day’s work. 

If you’ve been given a particularly good tour guide or private driver in the South Pacific Islands , showing your appreciation with a tip is acceptable, if not expected. The amount is up to you, but always tip in local currency, as US dollars are hard to trade.

Taxi drivers Similarly, drivers in Australia , New Zealand and the South Pacific Islands will not expect you to tip at the end of a taxi ride, but rounding up the fare to the nearest $1 to $5 is common practice. 

A male gondolier steers a boat through a narrow canal in Venice. The gondolier wears a black and white striped t-shirt, with black trousers. In the background, a number of people can be seen walking across a bridge that spans the canal.

Other top troublesome tipping questions:

How much should you tip for ‘free’ walking tours? A sightseeing option in many major cities worldwide, free walking tours are offered by various companies, but are united in their ‘pay what you want’ approach. Often led by locals, the tours are generally a couple of hours long, consisting of a predetermined, walking route that takes in specific city sites. Attendees are then asked at the end of the tour to leave tips of an unspecified amount if they feel inclined. Theoretically these tours are free, in that you are not obligated to leave any money at all at the end. However, it is generally expected that if you have stayed for the duration of the tour, you should leave the guide with something. A good rule of thumb is to tip the local currency equivalent of around $5 to $10 per person, but you are, of course, welcome to leave more.

Should you tip gondoliers in Venice? Contrary to popular opinion, tipping gondoliers in Venice isn’t really customary, but by all means leave a few euros if you’re feeling flush.

How much should you leave when visiting a mosque or a temple? There isn’t really a hard-and-fast rule here, but try leaving the local currency equivalent of $1 to the person handing out robes and scarves to women, and 50 cents to the person who minds the shoes if there is one.

How much should you tip for a Thai massage? If you grab a quick massage on the Khao San Road or similar, don’t feel obliged to tip more than about 30 baht. If you indulge in a more upmarket massage, your tip should be more around the 150 to 300 baht mark. Resorts and retreats that include multiple treatments will usually state the tipping policy upfront.

How much should you tip Inca Trail porters? The wages of brawny local porters who lug your bags and camping equipment along hiking routes such as the Inca Trail , are often included in a guided tour, but their truly invaluable work shouldn’t go untipped – around 15 to 20 nuevo soles per person, per day, is a good amount to give. 

When should you give baksheesh? When travelling in the Middle East and South Asia, you will often be asked for ‘baksheesh’. The term often applies to a simple gratuity or service charge, but can refer to all kinds of financial tokens of appreciation. If someone asks you for baksheesh without providing a service, this is considered begging, and so giving money is completely at your discretion, although not usually advisable. Baksheesh can be politely asked for by those who have provided a service, but it can be refused at any time and – like almost all tipping customs – is not mandatory, whatever you may be lead to believe. 

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how much should you tip in europe

Your Essential Guide for How Much You Should Tip in Europe

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So, you’ve finally booked that dream trip to Europe! Your bags are packed, your taste buds are ready for some incredible cuisine and you’re almost on the plane.

Travel to: Europe

Perhaps you’ve been wondering about what you should tip in all those countries you’ll be visiting? Should you leave a little extra for that coffee & croissant in France ? Are you expected to tip after enjoying dinner in Italy?

Tipping etiquette across Europe can vary from one country to the next, but here are a few common and consistent rules to help you out. Read on for the ultimate guide to how much you should tip in Europe.

how much you should tip in Europe

How much you should tip in Europe

Restaurants.

  • In most casual restaurants across Europe, you can leave a few extra euros as a tip for your waiter if you’re pleased with their service. A tip of 5% is fair, and a tip of 10% is quite generous.
  • Tips are not usually accepted on credit cards and if they are, it’s unlikely that your waiter will see any of it. It’s a good idea to always be prepared with a few small bills and coins in the local currency and hand the tip to the waiter or leave it on the table after your bill has been settled.
  • Across much of Western Europe, you’ll notice that a service charge is already included in your total. You’ll find this on the bottom of your bill, written as “service” in French, or “servizio” in Italian.
  • This means that that the service fee (your tip) has already been added to your bill.  There’s no need to tip more on top of this. If a service charge has not been added, a tip of 5–10% is normal.

Bars or pubs

Bars don’t rely on tips, however, if you throw some small coins into the tip jar or on the counter each time you order a drink, the bar staff will always notice this, and a few extra coins never goes astray.

Ordering coffee or drinks in a café

Always round up and leave your coins for your server. If your espresso costs € 0.90, leave € 1. 

how much you should tip in Europe

Tips are not expected for a taxi ride, however, a good rule of thumb is to always round up the fare to the nearest euro.

If you’re staying in hotels with porters, simply leave your porter €1-2 for each bag they assist you with.

Housekeeping

If your room was kept clean & tidy during your stay, it’s polite to leave a small tip (a couple of euros per day) in your room for the housekeeping staff upon departure.

How much you should tip in each country

Now that we’ve covered the basics, here’s some additional information about how much you should tip in Europe, a little more country-specific.

Tipping in Austria is a slightly different than the rest of Europe. Service fees are always included in your bill, however, in Austria, it is expected that you also tip 5% on top of the service charge. It’s best to hand it to your server in cash.

For a taxi service, best to leave a 10% tip for your taxi driver in Austria.

For a drink or coffee, always leave the change. If you’re eating dinner, tip 10% of the total bill. Tipping in cash is best for your waiter.

how much you should tip in Europe

In most restaurants and cafes in Italy , you may see both servizio incluso  and il coperto written on the menu. Il coperto is the cover charge for sitting at a table, which is generally a couple of euros. This takes care of things like tap water for your table, if requested and a basket of bread before the meal.

  • Servizio incluso  means that service is included. The restaurant has already included a tip for you, mostly around 15%. You don’t need to tip anymore on top of this.
  • If your bill says servizio non incluso (service not included), a 10% tip or equal to a few euros per person is expected. Leave the tip in cash on your table or hand it to your server.

If you order your food at a counter (espresso counter in Italy) and you eat here, there’s no need to tip, however, leave some small change as gratitude for the convenience and quick service.

how much you should tip in Europe

Czech Republic

Check your bill first to see if service is included. If it isn’t, then leave a tip of 5-10% in restaurants.  

Always round up and leave the change when ordering beers and drinks.  For example, if your beer costs 44 CZK, leave the server 50 CZK. It is also worth noting that making the effort to speak just a few Czech words will always get you better service and a smile!

See Also: 13 Places in Europe To Propose To Your Partner (That Aren’t the Eiffel Tower)

In France, your restaurant bill will usually include a 15% service charge. You’ll find this at the bottom of your bill and this is referred to as service compris . No additional tip is expected if this charge is included.

If the service is not included in the total bill, service non compris  a 15% tip is customary.

Tips for budget-conscious travellers: When visiting the City of Love, Paris, you’ll have three different options for where you can order and drink your coffee.

The price you pay will be different depending on whether you choose to consume your coffee at the bar, at a table inside the cafe or at a table outside the cafe.  A standard coffee costs about € 2.50 when served at a table inside, or around € 1.20 if you drink it at the bar.

To enjoy the same coffee outside the cafe as you watch Parisians go about their day, you’ll pay a little extra for this privilege also.  These are considered prime seats and you’ll pay a couple of euros extra (on top of that € 2.50) to do so.

how much you should tip in Europe

Tipping is not compulsory, but it’s expected that you round up the amount to an even figure. Add about 3-5% tip to the bill. Many public restrooms have an attendant who is usually tipped € 0.50. 

how much you should tip in Europe

Leave a few euros per person if eating in casual restaurants. If you’re dining in some of the more chic restaurants, a tip of 5-10% of your bill is recommended.

The United Kingdom

Service charges are usually included, so check your bill before you pay. If service isn’t included, plan to leave at least 10% of the bill.

See Also: Best Alternative Museums in Europe (That You’ve Probably Never Heard of)

Leave 10% of the total bill in cash to tip your waiter and to show your gratitude for the service.

Most restaurants will build in a 15% tip. Check your bill before you tip twice. It’s up to you if you’d like to leave an extra tip if you received great service.

The Netherlands

Tip 5-10% for great service. Round up the bill for average service. Many public restrooms have an attendant who is usually tipped € 0.50.

how much you should tip in Europe

Restaurant pricing in Finland includes the cost of service, so tips aren’t expected. However, diners often round up the meal’s cost.

Tip 10% for restaurant service. Always leave the small change when ordering beers or coffees.  

Your restaurant will charge a 10% service charge. It’s up to you to leave your waiter a few euros if you received good service.

In Spain, the service is included in the price of your meal or drink. However, tipping is a common practice at restaurants and bars, hotels and in taxis. If you received good service or enjoyed that dinner, leave a tip of 5-10%.

See Also: 50 Fabulous and Free Things to Do in Europe

how much you should tip in Europe

Switzerland

In restaurants and cafes, a service charge is already built into menu prices. It is, however, customary to round up your bill. This means that you might hand the server CHF 30 for a CHF 28 meal.

If you pay by credit card, leave a few francs tip on the table for your server.

Currencies in Europe

Share your money saving tips below for other travellers to read! 

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Rach is a self-confessed food traveller. When she’s not searching for the best food experiences around the globe, you can find her chasing the sun, taking road trips in her camper-van or chowing down on the best eats around Melbourne. You can follow her adventures on Instagram @veryhungrynomads , Twitter @veryhungrynomads and Very Hungry Nomads

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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

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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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The ultimate guide to tipping in Europe

GettyImages-632167585

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.

tipper european tour

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.

tipper european tour

"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.

tipper european tour

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.

tipper european tour

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.

A Guide to Tipping for Travelers

tipper european tour

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 France

A Guide to Tipping in Chicago

A Guide to Tipping in Ireland

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

Tipping in Iceland: The Complete Guide

Guide to Tipping in Las Vegas

A Guide to Tipping in Mexico

A Guide to Tipping in the United Kingdom

A Guide to Tipping in Peru

A Guide to Tipping in Nepal

A Guide to Tipping in New York City

A Guide to Tipping in Asia

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We're presently on the first of three consecutive tours run by Cosmos / Globus. They are requesting tips of 4 to 6 Euros/Pounds per day for the tour director and half that for the driver. As the three tours total some 50 days, that would equate to about 750 Euros or Pounds. When we booked we were of the understanding that all tipping & gratuities were included. In Australia we only tip for great service as a thank you and to encourage great service. We really can't afford to pay out another €750 after what we paid for the tours originally.

What do others, particularly Aussies,think?

Thanks everyone :)

I've come across this before on a couple of occasions. Made me furious to be told I had to do it and how much. I have to say that I've seldom seen anyone pay the 'suggested amount' per day. It's always in their interests to ask.

Check your contract if you can and see if it states that tips are included. However I can't see how they can make you pay. That is a huge sum, is anyone else in the same position on the trip? Can you discuss with them? Another option if you have that sort of phone contract it to ring or email the company you booked with and say that for 3 tours you can't be expected to pay that much and hadn't expected it.

If not then you need to speak to whoever is suggesting this and explain. Perhaps work out what you are prepared to pay in your own mind and just say that you will tip but can't afford that sort of sum. Let's face it, they aren't going to follow you home and demand it ;-)

It happened to me on a Nile River Cruise where a standard amount was collected so the 'whole crew' could get a share. Laudable in a way but it wasn't in any documents and left me short. When I mentioned it to the company I went with they said there was no such thing and refused to acknowledge it.

Again on a tour of Borneo someone decided they would collect a large amount. Speaking to others they agreed we gave what we felt was right, it was a lot smaller,

Ditto on a boat in the Indian Ocean with £25 per week but it was a sealed envelope and I gave what I could and tipped those that had made my trip special.

I'm happy to give to someone who's given me a great experience as you say. I know it's a thing to tip the driver and guide and sometimes there's a suggested amount per day which mounts up to paying their wages I sometimes think.

<<<When we booked we were of the understanding that all tipping & gratuities were included. >>>

This is something that is worth well confirming any time you book a tour as tipping expectations vary greatly around the world. Usually there is something stated specifically in the tour or programme notes indicating if and what tips are usual and expected. If not, I'd ask very clearly and seek written explanation (at least through email) of what is guests are expected to do when it comes to tips and gratuities.

Based on you mentioning euro and pound sterling, then rest assured that it's not going to be illegal to not tip in any of the countries you'll be visiting. Tip whatever you want to tip, if anything at all, and ignore these suggestions!

tipper european tour

This has been beaten to death in the Senior Travel forum. Personally, I would tip nothing in Europe. These 'recommendations' are made for the US market.

https://tinyurl.com/lldfeqh

I'm not Australian but I know what I'd tell them....and it's not repeatable here!

I dislike intensly this notion of expected tipping, it is not the norm in Europe, especially for someone just doing their job.

Not all of us frequent the Senior Travel forum, wigwam, though I probably should as I'm now of an age!

I have seen it suggested in the blurb for some tours in Europe. Usually it's coach tours and high street suppliers.

If you mention it the reply seems to be 'they don't get paid well' - there are so many answers to that I won't start.

I worked out what some were getting in tips once and looked into how to become a travel guide (seriously) because that is some serious money if they get it from whole groups of people.

Nobody tipped me for the many mirriad of jobs I've done,

Hi RojBlake, I wouldn't say I frequent the Senior Travel forum. I was browsing the Humtab forum to see how members felt about the restructure and I came across the Senior forum. I was intrigued by the number of conflicting posts on the Tipping driver and guide thread, so did recall it when I read this thread. I couldn't imagine being on a coach with such a group of unlikeminded people so I commented on being glad I didn't do tours and haven't been back since, although I am also of that age.

In many European cities the Tour Manager who is escorting you from A to B are not aloud to do any guiding in those cities. They have to pick up a local official guide who should be very knowledgable. So, the Tour Manager is basically somebody who shuttles you from one place to another.

Sometimes they can be very good and impart a lot of information, but sometimes they are just winging it as they have never escorted that particular tour before.

This huge tipping idea is directed at Americans who have spoilt it for other nationalities taking excursions and holidays outside their own countries.

Official guides are extremely well paid. Tour escorts can earn good money too by selling extra excursions.

If you feel you have had good service then I would leave €20 for the Tour Manager and €10 for the driver based on a 7 day tour. However, I wouldn't feel guilty in leaving nothing, either.

Interesting Hermanaeriza, that explains a lot. Your suggestion sounds reasonable.

I don't mind tipping for outstanding or extra service or experience but I've seen/experienced some downright shonkey and money for old rope practises too.

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  1. Tipping in Europe by Rick Steves

    Extra Restaurant-Tipping Tips. All restaurant prices in France include a 12-15 percent service charge, so locals tip very little, if at all. Across Mediterranean Europe, a 10 percent service charge is ususally built into your bill. If you wish, you can add an extra €1-2 for each person in your party, or about 5 percent.

  2. The Ultimate Country-by-country Guide to Tipping in Europe

    For a two-hour walking tour, for example, a tip of two to five euros per person is appropriate, according to Rick Steves. For a smaller group, the tip should be more, and for a private guide, 10 ...

  3. Tipping in Europe: The Europe Tipping Guide

    [viator_tour destination="67″] Tipping in Europe 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.

  4. The Ultimate Guide to Tipping in Europe

    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 ...

  5. Tipping in Europe: An American's Ultimate Guide

    Concierge service: Five to 20 euros depending on the service. In the vast majority of cases, tipping should be in cash. Unlike most American restaurants, European servers will conduct payment at the table. This means diners can either tell the server directly how much tip to add or hand them cash directly.

  6. Ultimate European Tipping Guide

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

  7. Our Guide to Tipping in Europe

    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 ...

  8. Tipping in Europe Guide

    It's a nice way to show your appreciation for good service, and each culture has different etiquette around when to tip—and how much. Be prepared by carrying some cash in the local currency. We recommend tipping the equivalent of $7 to $10 per day for your Tour Director, and $3 per day for your bus driver.

  9. European Tipping Etiquette For Your First Trip

    Tour Guides. Tipping your tour guide shows is a common sign of appreciation. In European nations, you should aim to award your tour guide anywhere between 5% and 15% of the price you pay (per person), with the higher spectrum of the tip reserved for an exceptional service!

  10. The Ultimate Guide to Tipping in Every European Country

    Cyprus. 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.

  11. Tipping etiquette in Europe

    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.

  12. Your essential guide to tipping in Europe: 6 proven tips

    Figuring out how much to tip a tour guide in Europe can be tricky. A rule of thumb is €2 (that's just a little over $2) for half-day excursions and at least €5 (about $5.50) for a full day. Of course, if their insight helps you see Europe in a new light, feel free to express your gratitude a bit more.

  13. How Much To Tip a Tour Guide in the U.S. and Europe

    For a full-day guided tour in Europe: Tip €10-€20 per person — or about 5%-10% of the total tour price — for a full-day guided tour. If it's a bus tour, like our D-Day Normandy Beaches Day Trip From Paris, it's customary to include a tip for the bus driver as well. Ranked the #3 cultural tour in the world by Tripadvisor.

  14. Five Must Know Rules for Tipping in Europe in 2018

    #4 Tipping in Europe: Tour Guides for groups Whether you just embarked on the most fascinating or boring tour of a lifetime, tipping your tour guide is completely optional. Guides who give their spiel at tourist attractions or bus and boat tours often hold out their hands at the end for a tip, which may make you feel obligated to throw a euro ...

  15. Do You Tip European Tour Guides? [FAQs]

    Tips for Tipping European Tour Guides 1. Research the Local Customs. Before embarking on your European tour, take the time to research the tipping customs of the countries you'll be visiting. This will help you avoid any awkward or potentially offensive situations. Remember, tipping norms can differ from country to country, so it's ...

  16. The ultimate guide to tipping around the world

    Caribbean bus tours are a popular way to see different parts of whichever island you're staying on and, if you choose to hop aboard one, tipping the driver a few US dollars is customary. For private tour guides, tip about $20 a day and for drivers around $10. Taxi drivers In the USA, Canada and the Caribbean, tipping taxi drivers about 10 to 15% of your fare is the norm, or a couple of ...

  17. Your Essential Guide for How Much You Should Tip in Europe

    Tipping in Austria is a slightly different than the rest of Europe. Service fees are always included in your bill, however, in Austria, it is expected that you also tip 5% on top of the service charge. It's best to hand it to your server in cash. For a taxi service, best to leave a 10% tip for your taxi driver in Austria. Croatia

  18. Tipping in Europe: Everything You Need To Know

    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 ...

  19. How much should I tip in Europe?

    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.

  20. Tipping for Travelers: Who, When, and How Much

    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.

  21. Expected tipping of a tour bus guide & driver

    Expected tipping of a tour bus guide & driver. We're presently on the first of three consecutive tours run by Cosmos / Globus. They are requesting tips of 4 to 6 Euros/Pounds per day for the tour director and half that for the driver. As the three tours total some 50 days, that would equate to about 750 Euros or Pounds.

  22. Tipping on Local Tours: Etiquette and Guidelines Demystified

    Tipping in Different Regions. European countries . In many European countries, tipping is not as prevalent as it is in some other parts of the world. ... However, tipping tour guides and drivers is more common, and a tip of around 10% is considered generous. Tipping on Different Types of Tours. Group Tours: On group tours, the tour operator may ...

  23. European Tour

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  24. 2024 European Tour

    The 2024 European Tour, titled as the 2024 DP World Tour for sponsorship reasons, is the 53rd season of the European Tour, the main professional golf tour in Europe since its inaugural season in 1972. It is the third season of the tour under a title sponsorship agreement with DP World that was announced in November 2021.