Tipping in Europe: How much to tip where?

When travelling in Europe, it is important to find out not only about sights and cuisine, but also about tipping in Europe, as each country has its own etiquette.. This is because different countries have different expectations regarding how much tip is customary in restaurants, hotels and taxis. Our comprehensive overview will help you to be well prepared and behave respectfully – from restaurants in Spain to hairdressers in Sweden.

General tipping etiquette

Tipping, also known as a ‘tip’ or ‘pourboire’, is usually a sign of appreciation in Europe. In many countries, it is customary to give 5 to 10% of the bill. However, there are differences depending on whether the service is already included or not. The rule of thumb is to look at the bill and ask politely if necessary.

Regional tipping overview by country

Here you will find a detailed overview for the most important European countries – with tipping tips for restaurants, hotels, transport, tours and hairdressers.

Tipping in Germany

Tipping in Germany is more than just a little extra – it shows appreciation for good service and hard work. Whether in a restaurant, at the hairdresser’s or for tradespeople: there are many situations where tipping is not only appropriate but also expected.

• Restaurants: 5–10%, say when paying.

• Hotels: £1–2 per day.

• Transport: Round up or 10%.

• Tours: 5–10%.

• Hairdressers: £2–5 or up to 10%.

Tipping in France

Fluffy croissants, tangy cheese, fine wine – France has a lot to offer when it comes to food. But what about tipping? To save you wondering when the bill arrives at the café, here is all the information you need.

• Restaurants: Service is often included in the bill at around 15%. If you still want to say thank you, you can give an extra 5% as a gesture.

• Hotels: £1–2 per room, £1 per suitcase.

• Transport: Round up or 5–10%.

• Tours: 5–10%.

• Hairdressers: 5–10%.

Tipping in Belgium

Belgium – famous for chocolate, waffles and chips with mayonnaise. But how do you say thank you for good service in Brussels, Antwerp or Bruges? Here you will find everything you need to know about tipping in Belgium.

• Restaurants: Service is often included, but 5% is welcome as a thank you.

• Hotels: £1 for the room, £1 per piece of luggage.

• Transport: Round up.

• Tours: Give 5–10%.

• Hairdressers: 5–10%.

Tipping in Sweden

Swedish cosiness, fika breaks and clear lakes – Sweden is a country that inspires. But what about tipping in Stockholm, Gothenburg and other cities? Here you can find out what is customary.

• Restaurants: Service included, round up or 5–10% on the bill.

• Hotels: 1–2£ in cash.

• Transport: Round up.

• Tours: 5–10%.

• Hairdressers: 5–10%.

Tipping in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is known for its relaxed attitude – and that also applies to tipping. Although service is usually included in the price, staff are happy to receive a small extra tip. Our overview shows you how much tipping is customary:

• Restaurants: Service is often included, but a 5–10% tip is appreciated.

• Hotels: Tipping is rather unusual here.

• Transport: Rounding up to the nearest full euro is sufficient.

• Tours: 5–10% for guides, drivers around £2–5.

• Hairdressers: 5–10% is customary.

Tipping in Spain

Tapas, sangria and sunshine galore – Spain indulges all the senses. But what about tipping? Here you can find out how much extra is appropriate for the bill and service without going overboard.

• Restaurants: In simple bars, change is left on the table; in restaurants, 5–10%.

• Hotels: £1 per day for room service, £1 per piece of luggage.

• Transport: Rounding up is sufficient.

• Tours: Give a tip of 5–10%.

• Hairdressers: Around 5% of the bill.

Tipping in Portugal

Port wine, pastéis de nata, golden beaches – Portugal makes you want to explore. There are also a few special features when it comes to tipping. Read here to find out how to thank restaurant staff, taxi drivers and others.

• Restaurants: 5% in restaurants; in cafés, you can simply round up the bill.

• Hotels: £1 per night.

• Transport: Round up.

• Tours: 5–10%.

• Hairdresser: £5 or up to 10%.

Tipping in Italy

Espresso at the bar, pizza in Naples, pasta in Rome – Italy is a paradise for foodies. But when it comes to tipping, there is often uncertainty: what is already included in the price and what should you give extra?

• Restaurants: A charge for bread and cover (‘coperto’) is usually added to the bill. Nevertheless, a tip of 5–10% or £1–2 for small bills is appropriate.

• Hotels: Room cleaning approx. £1 per night, porter or luggage handler: £1 per item of luggage.

• Transport: Taxi fares are usually rounded up or increased by approx. 5%.

• Tours: 5–10% tip for guides, drivers approx. £2–£5.

• Hairdressers: £1–£2, 5% for expensive treatments.

Tipping in Croatia

Crystal clear water, fresh fish, historic old towns – Croatia has a lot to offer holidaymakers. But how do you say thank you for good service? Here you can find out how much tipping is customary in hotels, restaurants and other places.

• Restaurants: 10–15%, change in bars.

• Hotels: £1 per room, £1 per suitcase.

• Transport: Round up.

• Tours: 5–10%.

• Hairdressers: £5 or 5–10%.

Tipping in Greece

White houses, blue sea, fresh feta – Greece is famous for its hospitality. And that’s exactly why tipping is considered good manners. Read here to find out how much is appropriate.

• Restaurants: 5–10% or change.

• Hotels: £1–2 for service.

• Transport: Round up or give a small amount.

• Tours: 5–10%.

• Hairdressers: £5 or 5–10%.

Tipping in the United Kingdom

There are clear rules in the United Kingdom: while tipping is rarely given in pubs, it is almost mandatory in restaurants. To help you keep track of things in the United Kingdom, here are all the important tips.

• Restaurants: 10–15% for table service, pubs usually no tip.

• Hotels: £2 per day for room cleaning, £1 per suitcase.

• Transport: Round up or 10% in taxis.

• Tours: 5–10% for guides, £2–5 for drivers.

• Hairdressers: 5–10% or £2–5.

Tipping in Ireland

Green landscapes, Guinness and music – Ireland welcomes its guests with open arms. And that also applies to tipping. Read here to find out when and how much to tip in Ireland.

• Restaurants: 10–15% in restaurants, not in pubs.

• Hotels: £1–2 for cleaning, £1 per suitcase.

• Transport: Round up.

• Tours: 5–10% for guides/drivers.

• Hairdressers: 5–10%.

Practical tip chart overview of tipping rules in Europe

Our tip chart gives you a clear country-by-country breakdown of what’s expected when it comes to tipping in hotels, restaurants, taxis, and more.

When is it not necessary to tip?

In some cases, it is perfectly acceptable not to tip – and sometimes it is not even expected. A typical example is when the bill already includes a service charge. In countries such as France, you will often see the words ‘service compris’ – this means that the service is already included in the price. An additional tip is then optional, but still appreciated for very good service.

You do not have to tip for poor service either. If you receive unfriendly service, have to wait a long time or the staff is inattentive, you can show this by not leaving a tip – after all, tipping is a voluntary gesture of appreciation.

In self-service restaurants or cafés without table service, tipping is also uncommon. Here, a small amount is placed in the tip box, if anything.

There are also countries where tipping plays hardly any role in the culture. Typical examples are pubs in Great Britain or Ireland: there, you order at the bar, pay directly, and no tip is expected. Sometimes, however, the staff is invited to have a drink – a friendly gesture that serves more as a social interaction than a traditional tip.

In short: tipping is not mandatory – and in some situations, it is simply unnecessary.

Tipping in advance: does it guarantee better service?

Sometimes it can be a good idea to give a small tip before a service is provided in order to improve the service. Travellers often take advantage of this option, especially in hotels: a discreet tip given to the receptionist can increase the chances of getting an upgrade or a particularly quiet room, for example. Cleaning staff also appreciate a small amount at the beginning of your stay.

For guided tours or day trips, an advance tip can also be useful if you want particularly dedicated service. This shows the guide that you appreciate the effort and may motivate them to provide a more personalised experience.

However, it is important to remember that tips should always be given politely and respectfully. Avoid being demanding or unpleasant – after all, it is a friendly gesture of appreciation, not a bribe.

Top tips for tipping in Europe

1. Be aware of cultural differences: Find out about tipping etiquette in your destination country before you travel. What is considered appropriate in Germany may be unusual in Sweden.

2. Check your bills carefully: In many countries, service is already included. Look out for phrases such as ‘service compris’ or ‘servizio incluso’. These fees usually replace the tip, so no further payment is necessary – unless you wish to show your appreciation.

3. Have the right currency with you: Always have small change or small notes ready. Tipping in cash is often less complicated than paying by card.

4. Adapt to the service: Exceptionally good or poor service should be reflected in the tip. A smile or a thank you is no substitute for money, but it is still important.

5. Hand over tips in person: If possible, give the tip directly to the person who served you. This is more direct, fairer and more personal.

Frequently asked questions about tipping in Europe

What is the difference between tips and service charges?

Service charges are mandatory surcharges that are often automatically added to the bill. Tips, on the other hand, are voluntary and show your satisfaction with the service.

In which countries is tipping frowned upon?

In Europe, tipping is welcome almost everywhere. Only in pubs in the United Kingdom or Ireland is it rarely expected. The situation is different in Asian countries such as Japan, where tipping is even considered rude.

How much should you tip for a bill of £100?

In most countries, 5 to 10% is appropriate. For 100 euros, that would be 5 to 10 euros, depending on your satisfaction.

Is it okay not to tip?

If the service was poor or a high service charge is already included, you can leave no tip. Otherwise, a small tip is expected.

Tipping when paying by card?

It is not possible to tip by card everywhere. Ask or give the tip in cash.

The bill includes a service charge – what now?

If the bill already includes a service charge, no further tip is necessary. However, a small extra is often welcome.

Do you tip in Germany?

Yes, tipping in Germany is customary. A tip of 5–10% is expected in restaurants and rounding up in taxis is standard. It’s a common part of the culture and a way to show appreciation.

Do you tip in Europe?

Yes – tipping is common in most European countries, although the expected amount and context vary. Always check local customs. For example, tipping in Germany is more common, while in Sweden tipping is more relaxed.