Tipping Culture Abroad

Tipping in Europe is generally less emphasized than in the United States. While not strictly obligatory, it’s polite to leave a tip for good service. Tipping is still generally accepted and welcomed. Tipping is discretionary of course. These are recommendations, but we do consider tipping a personal choice, and leave the final tipping amount up to your own personal discretion.

Driver/Guide Tipping Suggestions for Group Tours: Service charges and local taxes are included in your trip cost. For group tour services, the suggested tipping amount is €10.00 (euro) – €12.00 (euro) per person per day. These are only suggestions and you may wish to offer different amounts for any additional or exceptional services provided. This would include a tip to any relief driver as well.

Driver/Guide Tipping Suggestions for Chauffeur Tours: Service charges & local taxes are included in your trip cost. For Chauffeur Drive services, the suggested tipping amount is €8.00 (euro)- €10.00 (euro) per person per day. These are only suggestions and you may wish to offer different amounts for any additional or exceptional services provided.

Hotels, Guesthouses, and B&Bs: Irish accommodation providers in general have it all factored in – no tips are expected. However, you may leave a few Euros in your room for the housemaids if you desire. Customarily, a €2 (euro) per night for housekeeping is customary.

Taxis, Pubs, Restaurants: Tipping for taxis, restaurants, and pubs all average around 10%.

Tour Guides: Depending on your tour, step-on guides, tour guides and other hosts may provide additional services. A tip is also a welcome gesture in these situations, as you deem appropriate.

Country Variations: While tipping in Europe varies from the United States, it also varies from one country to another. Some countries, like France and Spain, often include a service charge.

How to pay: There may not be an opportunity to pay a tip with your credit card payment. Be prepared to tip in cash as needed.

In general, if someone in the service industry does a super job for you, consider leaving them a tip. When in doubt, ask, as locals will guide you in the appropriate and correct tipping decision. Resist the urge to tip American-style, though, as it is not customary throughout Europe.