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.

 

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

Tipping etiquette in Europe

Albania

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.
 

Andorra

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.
 

Armenia

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.
 

Austria

In Austria, tipping is a common practice especially in taxi rides and restaurants. Generally, the tip amount is less than in North America because most establishments have a service fee.

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.
 

Azerbaijan

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.
 

Belgium

In Belgium, service staff are generally well-paid and do not rely much on tips. Still, if you're very satisfied with a particular service, tipping is welcome.

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.
 

Bulgaria

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.
 

Croatia

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.
 

Cyprus (Republic)

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.
 

Czech Republic

Tipping is commonly practiced in Prague and other leading tourist cities in Czech Republic. It is appreciated but not mandatory.

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.
 

Denmark

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.
 

Estonia

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

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.
 

France

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.
 

Georgia

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.
 

Germany

Service employees in Germany are generally fairly compensated, so tipping is not really necessary. Still, it's expected to leave some gratuity unless the service is very poor.

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.
 

Greece

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.
 

Hungary

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).
 

Iceland

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

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.
 

Italy

As with most European countries, tipping is not mandatory in Italy but it is considered generous. Italians don't overtip.

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.
 

Kazakhstan

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.
 

Latvia

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.
 

Liechtenstein

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.”
 

Lithuania

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.
 

Luxembourg

In Luxembourg, service is typically included in the quoted price for hotel accommodations, restaurant orders, and taxis. If you want to tip extra for excellent service, you are welcome to do so.

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.
 

Macedonia

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.
 

Malta

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.
 

Monaco

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.
 

Netherlands

Although tipping is by no means obligatory in the Netherlands, it is appreciated. The hotel and restaurant industry represents a fairly compensated group of workers. However, if you are especially pleased with the caliber of service, then tipping is only appropriate.

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.
 

Norway

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.
 

Poland

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.
 

Portugal

Tipping is only common in tourist hotspots such as Lisbon and the Algarve; in others, it is not anticipated. Most Portuguese only tip if the service is impressive. However, should you decide to give gratuity, it is unlikely to be refused.

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.
 

Romania

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.
 

Russia

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.
 

San Marino

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.
 

Serbia

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.
 

Slovakia

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.
 

Slovenia

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).
 

Spain

Spaniards are very casual about tipping, with most locals only leaving a modest amount or rounding up to the nearest euro. It still depends on how happy you are with a particular service, although some establishments call for a higher tip than others.

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.
 

Sweden

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.
 

Switzerland

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).
 

Turkey

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.
 

Ukraine

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.
 

United Kingdom

British tipping etiquette is pretty straightforward. Most bills include a form of service fee, and tipping on top of that is a personal choice. In upmarket hotels and restaurants, tips are certainly expected.

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.
 

Vatican City

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.
 

PIN FOR LATER