Here’s how much to tip in 10 European countries, covering hotels, restaurants, taxis, and tour guides.
Planning a trip to Europe, whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned traveler, is always exciting. However, one common question often comes up: Is tipping in Europe necessary?
The simple answer is yes, tipping is practiced in Europe, though it varies by country. Rick Steves, a well-known European travel expert, advises, “Don’t overthink tipping in Europe.” His website echoes this sentiment: “Don’t stress over tipping.”
Still, a few guidelines can help. Simone Amorico, CEO of Access Italy, suggests, “In Italy, tipping 10 to 15 percent at restaurants is appreciated. For drivers and tour guides, 10 percent is typical, but some may leave more.” He also notes, “At hotels, tipping the concierge or housekeeping is common, depending on the services provided.”
In Paris, Richard Nahem, owner of Eye Prefer Paris Tours, explains, “The tip is usually included in the bill as a service charge. It’s fine not to leave an extra tip, but leaving three to five percent as a courtesy is common. Most places don’t add tips to credit card bills, so it’s best to have some cash. Hand the tip to the server rather than leaving it on the table.” Nahem also mentions that tipping the concierge at hotels and leaving a euro or two for taxi drivers is customary.
For a two-hour walking tour, Rick Steves recommends tipping two to five euros per person. For smaller groups or private tours, tipping 10 to 20 euros for the group is appropriate, especially for exceptional service. You don’t need to tip bartenders in Europe, but leaving some change or a euro is appreciated. Tipping isn’t expected for takeaway food, counter dining, or stand-up service.
While expert advice on tipping in Europe can vary, the key takeaway is that it often comes down to personal judgment. Regardless of how much you tip, treating servers and hospitality workers with respect is what matters most.
Tipping Guidelines for 10 European Countries
Italy: The service charge (servizio) at restaurants is usually included. If not, a 10 to 15 percent tip is appreciated. Tip one to two euros per bag at hotels and the same per night for housekeeping. For taxis, rounding up is customary, and for tour guides, 10 percent is a good average.
France: A service charge is often included in restaurant bills. If not, tipping five to 10 percent is normal. At hotels, tip one to two euros per bag and per day for housekeeping. Taxi drivers expect a euro or your small change. For tour guides, tip around 10 percent, with more for exceptional service.
Greece: Tipping 10 to 15 percent at restaurants is generous if the service charge isn’t included. For taxis, rounding up is fine. At hotels, tipping one euro per night for housekeeping and per bag for porters is customary. For tour guides, start with 10 percent, offering more for private tours.
Ireland: In restaurants, tip 10 to 15 percent if the service charge isn’t listed. For taxis, round up or leave the change. At hotels, tip two to three euros per night for housekeeping and about one euro per bag for porters. Tour guide tips should start at 10 percent.
Switzerland: A service charge is usually included, but adding about 10 percent is common. For taxis, rounding up is sufficient. At hotels, tip two to three francs for porters and housekeeping per night. For tour guides, start with 10 percent, adjusting based on the tour type.
Spain: At upscale restaurants, check if the service charge (servicio incluido) is included. If not, tip 10 percent. For taxis, rounding up is fine. At hotels, tip one to two euros per bag and two euros per night for housekeeping. If a concierge assists with bookings, tip five to 10 euros. For tour guides, tip two to three euros for large groups, five euros for smaller groups, and 15 euros per person for private tours.
Iceland and Scandinavian Countries: Tipping isn’t expected in these countries. Most restaurants include service in the bill; rounding up or leaving change is optional. Hotel staff and taxi drivers don’t expect tips. For tour guides, tip around 10 percent if they provide extra-special service, or for private or full-day tours.
