Your Ultimate Guide to Tipping in Europe
Traveling through Europe can be an unforgettable experience, filled with stunning architecture, rich history, and diverse cultures. However, one aspect that often confuses travelers is the etiquette surrounding tipping. Unlike in the United States, where tipping is customary and expected, the tipping culture in Europe varies greatly from country to country. This guide will help you navigate the complexities of tipping in Europe, ensuring you leave a positive impression while respecting local customs.
Understanding the Basics
Before diving into specifics, it’s important to understand that tipping in Europe is generally more relaxed than in the United States. In many European countries, service charges are included in the bill, and additional tipping is not obligatory. However, small tips are appreciated for exceptional service.
Western Europe
France
In France, a service charge (service compris) is usually included in the bill at restaurants. If you receive exceptional service, leaving a small tip of 5-10% is a nice gesture. For taxis, rounding up to the nearest euro is customary. Hotel staff, such as porters and housekeeping, typically appreciate €1-€2 per service.
Italy
Similar to France, Italy includes a service charge (coperto) in the bill. Leaving an extra 5-10% for outstanding service is appreciated but not necessary. Rounding up the fare for taxis is common, and hotel staff usually receive €1-€2 per service.
Spain
In Spain, tipping is less common. A small tip of 5-10% for excellent service at restaurants is sufficient. For taxis, rounding up to the nearest euro is standard. Hotel staff may receive €1-€2 for their services.
Northern Europe
United Kingdom
In the UK, a service charge is sometimes included in restaurant bills. If not, a 10-15% tip is customary. For taxis, rounding up to the nearest pound or adding 10% is typical. Hotel staff, including porters and housekeeping, appreciate £1-£2 per service.
Germany
Germany includes a service charge in restaurant bills, but it’s customary to round up or leave a small tip of 5-10% for good service. For taxis, rounding up or adding 10% is common. Hotel staff usually receive €1-€2 per service.
Scandinavia
In Scandinavian countries like Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, service charges are included in the bill. Tipping is not expected, but rounding up or leaving a small tip for excellent service is appreciated. For taxis, rounding up to the nearest krone is standard. Hotel staff may receive a small tip for their services.
Eastern Europe
Czech Republic
In the Czech Republic, a 10% tip at restaurants is customary if the service charge is not included. For taxis, rounding up or adding 10% is common. Hotel staff typically receive €1-€2 per service.
Hungary
In Hungary, a 10% tip at restaurants is customary. For taxis, rounding up or adding 10% is expected. Hotel staff appreciate €1-€2 per service.
Poland
In Poland, leaving a 10-15% tip at restaurants is customary. For taxis, rounding up or adding 10% is standard. Hotel staff usually receive €1-€2 per service.
Southern Europe
Greece
In Greece, a service charge is sometimes included, but leaving an additional 5-10% for good service is appreciated. For taxis, rounding up to the nearest euro is common. Hotel staff typically receive €1-€2 per service.
Portugal
In Portugal, a 5-10% tip at restaurants is customary. For taxis, rounding up to the nearest euro is standard. Hotel staff appreciate €1-€2 per service.
Croatia
In Croatia, leaving a 10% tip at restaurants is customary if the service charge is not included. For taxis, rounding up or adding 10% is common. Hotel staff typically receive €1-€2 per service.
While tipping practices vary across Europe, the general rule is to tip modestly and only for exceptional service. Understanding local customs will help you navigate the intricacies of tipping, ensuring you show appreciation without overstepping cultural boundaries. By following this guide, you can enjoy your European adventure with confidence, knowing you are respecting local traditions and customs.