Am I expected to tip in Germany?

Tipping in Germany is not a common practice across the country. There is, however, a time and place for tipping in Germany.

Tipping in Germany is not as common as in some other countries, but there are still times when an extra euro goes a long way in showing gratitude, especially for exceptional service. Keep in mind, however, that service is typically included in the final restaurant bill (marked as Bedienung in German), so you don’t need to tip a lot to make it go a long way.

There is no set-in-stone rule for tipping in Germany. It is solely up to you what you leave in addition to the final bill, but do try to tip in cash versus on a credit card. The amounts below are simply suggestions based on what is considered standard practices for different services.

Restaurant Servers: Service is typically included in the final bill (marked as Bedienung), but you can leave something extra if your expectations were exceeded. Simply tip 10 to 15 percent of the total or round up to the closest euro. Tip in cash versus on a credit card and do not leave your tip on the table.

Bartender: It is not necessary to tip, but you can round up to the nearest euro when paying for drinks.

Taxis: A tip isn’t expected, but you can round up to the nearest euro or give 10 percent for exceptional service, such as helping with luggage.

Airport shuttle: It is not necessary to tip your driver, but it is considerate to tip 1 EUR per bag if they help with your luggage.

Doorman: It is standard practice to tip 1 EUR per bag or service, such as hailing a taxi.

Bellhop: It is customary to tip 1 to 3 EUR per bag, depending on the size.

Housekeeping: Depending on the work needed to keep your temporary living space in order, you can tip anywhere from 3 to 5 EUR per day.

Concierge: If the concierge goes out of his/her way to book reservations, offer directions, or provide insider knowledge to make your stay more memorable, it is acceptable to tip 10 to 20 EUR.

Spa service provider: Tipping isn’t common, but you can leave 5 percent of the total cost for exceptional service.

Tour guide: Tipping is expected if the tour is "free" since that's how tour guides get their money, 5-10 EUR per person for a 1-3 hour tour is enough. If you already payed for the tour but want to give your guide some extra money, leave them another 5 EUR.

10 Curious Facts for Travelers

1. Tipping is not required in Germany but it is customary to tip servers 10-15% at restaurants.
2. Simply rounding up the bill is acceptable when tipping smaller amounts.
3. Tips can be left in cash even if you pay the bill by card.
4. Tip hotel cleaning staff a few euros per night and porters 1-2 euros per bag.
5. Taxis drivers expect around 10% tip but it's not mandatory.
6. Hairdressers and barbers appreciate 10% tips.
7. Tours guides expect about 10 euros per person for a tip.
8. No need to tip at counter-service cafés or bars.
9. Tip food delivery workers a couple euros in cash.
10. Most Germans understand different tipping customs, so don't stress too much about it.