The ultimate guide to tipping in Europe

01.08.2024 - 00:55 / lonelyplanet.com

Jul 31, 2024 • 5 min read

If you've ever found yourself nervously flicking through a stack of notes at the end of a meal when on the road, or fumbling for loose change in the back of a taxi in an unfamiliar city, you'll understand. Tipping is an elusive custom that seems to change its rules the world over – what is deemed a generous token of appreciation in some countries can offend the subtle cultural sensibilities of others.

From understanding cover charges in restaurants in Italy to knowing how much gratuity to leave housekeeping staff in France, here's our guide to tipping across Europe.

Restaurant tipping in Europe is often misunderstood by non-European visitors, with US tourists in particular applying their own generous tipping culture where it isn't necessarily appropriate. Many countries within the EU have laws that accommodate and standardize gratuity, and larger tips left after even the heartiest of meals, i.e., 15% and upwards, aren't necessary.

Generally speaking, most European countries, including France , Germany , Spain , Czechia , Hungary , Ireland , Portugal and the UK , will add a service charge to a bill for parties of six or more, but if not, give between 5% and 10% (in local currency cash) unless the service or food has been poor. Certain other countries, including Italy , Austria and Russia , won't always add a service charge or expect a tip, but it is common to round up the bill, as wages in the hospitality industry tend to be lower. 

If eating in a restaurant in Italy, you may see the word corperto  on your bill – this is "cover charge," but won't necessarily go to the wait staff, so if you're keen to tip, do it with cash and give it to your server. Round the bill in smaller Italian establishments like pizzerias; add a 5% to 10% tip in restaurants, trattorias, etc.

Renowned for being eye-wateringly expensive, you'll be relieved to note that restaurant tipping in Scandinavia and Iceland isn't expected and is usually covered in the overall price of the meal.

Adding tips in European bars isn't expected, but if you're feeling a bit generous (read: tipsy) after a few drinks, feel free to round up the bill. Tipping in London pubs (and indeed, pubs in the rest of the UK) is a bit of a head-scratcher for tourists, but it is never done and not expected. If you find yourself riding high on the general bonhomie that the traditional British pub is known for, do offer to buy the bartender a drink using the phrase "and one for yourself."

Hotel tipping etiquette for many European countries is fairly similar – note that tipping housekeeping staff here is generally less common than in the USA. In the UK, France, Spain, Italy, Germany, Czechia and Hungary, if you feel you want to tip,