Tipping in Europe: A Traveler’s Guide to Restaurants, Hotels, and Tours

The Tipping Culture in Europe: What You Need to Know Before You Go

If you’re traveling to Europe, you may wonder about the tipping culture—should you tip? How much is expected? Unlike in the U.S., where tipping is customary and often expected at 15-20%, tipping in Europe varies widely by country and service.

In most European countries, service charges are often included in restaurant bills, and tipping is more of a gesture of appreciation than an obligation. However, in some places, small tips are expected for exceptional service.

Tipping at Restaurants

France, Italy, Spain, Germany – A service charge ("service compris") is often included in the bill, but rounding up or leaving an extra 5-10% is common for good service.
UK & Ireland – Some restaurants add a 12.5% service charge; if not, a tip of 10-15% is appreciated.
Scandinavia – No tipping is necessary, but rounding up is polite.
Eastern Europe – 10-15% is expected, especially in tourist areas.

Tipping for Other Services

✔️ Cafés & Bars – Rounding up to the nearest euro or leaving small change is standard but not required.
✔️ Taxis & Ride Shares – Generally, no tip is required, but rounding up is common.
✔️ Hotels & Housekeeping –

Porters: €1-2 per bag
Housekeeping: €1-3 per night, left daily in cash
Concierge: €5-10 for special requests like restaurant reservations or tickets
✔️ Tour Guides –
Group tours: €5-10 per person
Private guided tours: €20-50 per day, depending on the service level and length of the tour

Final Tips for Tipping in Europe

Always check your bill – If a service charge is included, additional tipping isn’t necessary.
Carry small change – Many European countries prefer cash for small tips.
Tip discreetly – Unlike in the U.S., tipping is low-key; just leave it on the table or hand it over politely.
Follow local customs – Some countries, like Denmark or Switzerland, include higher wages for service workers, so tipping is minimal.

Enjoy Stress-Free Travel!

While tipping customs in Europe may differ from what you’re used to, knowing the basics will help you avoid over-tipping or under-tipping. When in doubt, rounding up is always a safe and appreciated gesture. Happy travels!

📍 Need help planning your European adventure? Contact Suitcase Gals for expert guidance!

Know before you go

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Tipping in Europe: A Traveler’s Guide to Restaurants, Hotels, and Tours

The Tipping Culture in Europe: What You Need to Know Before You Go

In most European countries, service charges are often included in restaurant bills, and tipping is more of a gesture of appreciation than an obligation. However, in some places, small tips are expected for exceptional service.

Tipping at Restaurants

Tipping for Other Services

Final Tips for Tipping in Europe

Enjoy Stress-Free Travel!

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