An Informative Guide to Tipping Across Europe

Whether you're embarking on your first European adventure or you're a seasoned traveler, planning a trip to Europe is thrilling. Amid the many questions that arise during trip preparation, one stands out: Is tipping necessary in Europe?

The simple answer is yes, tipping is customary in Europe. Many travelers recognize that tipping customs vary from those in the U.S. Renowned travel expert Rick Steves advised Dinogo, 'People often overthink tipping in Europe.' His website echoes this sentiment, stating, 'Don't worry too much about tipping.'

While some general tips can be beneficial, Simone Amorico, co-owner and CEO of Access Italy, notes that 'In Italian restaurants, a tip of 10 to 15 percent is appreciated. For drivers and tour guides, around 10 percent is typical, though many opt to give more.' He also mentioned that tipping the concierge or guest relations at hotels can depend on the services received, as well as leaving something for housekeeping.

Richard Nahem, a long-time resident of Paris and owner of Eye Prefer Paris Tours, explained, 'The service charge is usually included in the bill, so tipping is not mandatory. However, leaving three to five percent as a courtesy is customary. Many restaurants and cafes cannot process tips on credit cards, so it’s best to have some coins on hand to give directly to the server instead of leaving it on the table.' He added that it's also standard to tip hotel concierges, and for taxis, a euro or two suffices.

For a two-hour walking tour, Rick Steves suggests a tip of two to five euros per person, or the equivalent in local currency. For smaller groups, consider tipping more, while a private guide should receive around 10 to 20 euros for the group, unless additional services are rendered. Tipping bartenders is not typical in Europe, but leaving a euro or some change is always appreciated. Tips are generally not expected for takeaway food, counter dining, or stand-up service.

It's clear that expert opinions on tipping in Europe can differ, often coming down to personal judgment. However, there's a consensus that regardless of how much is tipped, it's crucial to show respect and courtesy to servers and hospitality staff.

Here are some helpful tips for tipping in 10 European countries.

Italy

In Italian restaurants, the service charge (servizio) is typically included and marked on the bill. If it’s not present, a tip of 10 to 15 percent is appropriate. A cover charge (coperto) is usually noted, but this does not go to the waitstaff. For hotel staff, consider tipping one to two euros per bag and the same amount per night for housekeeping. Tipping taxi drivers isn't required, but it's customary to leave the change. For tour guides, a tip of around 10 percent is common.

France

In French restaurants, the service charge is usually included, but if it’s not, tipping five to 10 percent is standard. For hotel staff, consider tipping one to two euros per bag for porters and the same amount daily for housekeeping. Taxi drivers generally expect a euro or the change if it's sufficient—like when you pay a €10 bill on a €9.15 fare. For tour guides, a tip of about 10 percent is typical, but feel free to give more for exceptional service.

Greece

In Greek restaurants, service is typically included in the bill, but if it isn’t, a tip of 10 to 15 percent is appreciated. Tipping taxi drivers is not required, but rounding up or leaving the change is perfectly acceptable. For hotels, it's customary to tip one euro per night for housekeeping and the same for porters who handle your bags. When it comes to tour guides, tipping can vary; start at 10 percent, and consider giving more for private tours.

Ireland

In Irish restaurants, if no service charge is indicated on the bill, consider adding 10 to 15 percent. For taxi rides, it's customary to leave the change or round up when paying in cash. At hotels, tipping two to three euros per night for housekeeping and about one euro per bag for porters is standard. When it comes to tour guides, a tip of around 10 percent is a good starting point.

Switzerland

In Switzerland, a service charge is usually included in the bill, but it’s customary to add about 10 percent depending on the quality of service. For taxi fares, rounding up the total is acceptable. At hotels, consider tipping two to three francs for porters and door staff, and the same amount per night for housekeeping. Gratuities for tour guides can vary, but starting at 10 percent is generally advisable.

Spain

In higher-end restaurants, the menu will indicate if a service charge is included (servicio incluido). If it’s not, a tip of 10 percent is appropriate. For taxis, rounding up is acceptable if you pay in cash. In hotels, it’s courteous to tip one to two euros per bag for the bellhop and two euros per night for housekeeping. If a concierge assists with reservations, consider tipping five to ten euros. For tour guides, two to three euros is suitable for larger groups, while five euros is better for smaller groups, and for private tours, aim for 15 euros per person.

Iceland and Scandinavian Countries

Tipping practices in countries like Iceland, Denmark, Norway, and Sweden differ from many other European destinations, as gratuities are generally not anticipated. Most restaurants include service in the bill, and if paying in cash, rounding up or leaving some change is common. Hotel staff typically do not expect tips, although you can give a small amount for exceptional service. Similarly, taxi drivers and tour guides do not expect gratuities, but for guides who provide exceptional service or during private or full-day tours, a tip of around 10 percent is appreciated.