The ultimate guide about tipping etiquette in Europe

The ultimate guide about tipping etiquette 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.

JUNE 17, 2024

6 min read

Tipping practices in Europe are different from what you might be used to. In casual settings, you normally just round up the bill. More formal establishments expect a specific percentage as a tip — usually between 5–10% in restaurants, bars, and taxis.
It’s not only practical to learn the tipping etiquette of the places you’re visiting, but it also shows respect for the local culture and to the service staff.
If you’re traveling to popular European destinations such as France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, knowing the local tipping customs will help you feel more confident and comfortable. Remember that tipping practices also vary within Europe.

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.

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Navigating tipping and service charges in Europe

It’s hard enough to read a receipt in a foreign language, let alone decipher those service charges and figure out when — and how much — to tip. Here’s a streamlined guide to help you master the art of tipping in Europe.

Tipping vs. service charges

Tipping: This is a voluntary gesture to show appreciation for excellent service, typically given in cash or added to your bill.
Service charge: Often included in your bill, this fixed fee appears as “service compris” in France or “coperto” in Italy. It’s intended to compensate the service staff.

When to add an extra tip

In countries like France and Italy, the service charge generally covers the costs of table service, so any additional tip you leave is a bonus.
In Europe, tipping is seen as a reward for exceptional service rather than a compulsory practice. Even if your bill includes a service charge, you can still add a tip if you’re truly impressed.
For country-specific tipping guidelines, consult local travel resources.

More tipping advice for travelers

Watch the locals: Observe local tipping habits, if you get the chance. This can give you clues on what amount is appropriate.
Cash is king: Although cards are widely used in Europe these days, cash tips are often preferred.
When in doubt, ask: If it’s unclear whether a service charge is included, ask your server.
Taxis and other services: For taxis or personal services like hairdressing, tipping 5–10% is standard. You can still adjust that amount based on the quality of the service.

With these pointers, you’re set to navigate tipping in Europe confidently and courteously.

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.

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.

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FAQs

In Europe, not tipping at all can be seen as disrespectful or insulting. Although tipping is usually optional, it’s customary in many countries to leave at least a little something for the service staff.

Yes, tipping customs can vary significantly across Europe. Urban and rural areas might have different practices, as do tourist spots compared to quieter places. In larger countries like Germany or Italy, different regions of the same country might have their own tipping norms. Do your best to adapt your tipping to these regional customs — it’s one important way of being a respectful visitor.