How to Tip While Traveling in Europe
Gratuities in Europe are a bit different than in the U.S. While tipping is not as generous, it is often expected and is generally based on your means and philosophy. Some rules regarding tipping apply throughout Europe; others vary from country to country. When in doubt, ask at the hotel about local tipping customs.
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Instructions
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Abide a 10 percent rule when tipping at European restaurants. Tip only at establishments that offer table service with a wait staff. Check the menu to see if a "service charge" is added to the bill and, if so, it is not necessary to tip any additional. Do leave extra if superior service warrants it.
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Hand the waiter money in Germanic countries and state how much he should keep. Hand him 100 euros for an 80 euro tab and say "Ninety." Hand the gratuity directly to the wait person in Spain and Italy.
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Round up a restaurant bill in France, unless the service was unsatisfactory, even if 10 to 15 percent was added to the tab. Leave a few euros on the table for exceptional service.
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Tip hairdressers and manicurists in France and Britain. Forgo gratuities for salon personnel in Sweden and The Netherlands.
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Round up the taxi fare throughout Europe. Add a few euros for exceptional service or guidance.
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Reward tour guides with a few euros for exceptional service. Offer a euro or two but do not feel pressured by a guide's open hand.
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Tip at hotels on a discretionary basis. Leave a few euros for the housekeeping staff at the end of your stay.
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