Tipping customs vary across the world, and Austria has its own unique etiquette when it comes to gratuities. While tipping is not as obligatory as in countries like the United States, it is a common practice in Austria to show appreciation for good service. Whether you’re dining at a restaurant, taking a taxi, or staying at a hotel, understanding how much to tip can help you navigate Austrian hospitality with ease. Here’s everything you need to know about tipping in Austria.

Tipping at Restaurants and Cafés

In Austria, tipping at restaurants is customary but not excessive. Unlike some countries where servers rely on tips, Austrian waitstaff receive a fair wage. However, rounding up the bill or leaving a small percentage as a tip is considered polite.

• Restaurants: A 5-10% tip is standard for good service. In upscale restaurants, tipping 10% is appreciated, especially if the service was excellent.
• Cafés and coffeehouses: It’s common to round up the bill to the nearest euro or two rather than leaving a percentage-based tip. For example, if your coffee and pastry cost €4.50, rounding up to €5 is sufficient.
• Self-service restaurants: Tipping is not expected, but leaving small change is a kind gesture.

Austrian etiquette often involves handing the tip directly to the waiter instead of leaving it on the table. When paying by card, it’s best to state the total amount you wish to pay, including the tip, before the transaction is processed.

Tipping in Bars and Pubs

Tipping at bars in Austria is less formal than in restaurants.

• Cocktail bars and upscale lounges: Rounding up to the nearest euro or two per drink is common.
• Traditional Austrian beer halls and pubs: Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. Rounding up your bill or leaving 5-10% for table service is a good practice.

Tipping Taxi Drivers and Rideshare Services

Taxi drivers in Austria do not expect large tips, but rounding up the fare is common courtesy.

• Short rides: Round up to the nearest €1-2.
• Longer rides or airport transfers: Tipping 5-10% is polite, especially if the driver assists with luggage or provides excellent service.
• Rideshare services (Uber, Bolt): Tips are not mandatory, but adding €1-2 through the app or in cash is a kind gesture.

Tipping Hotel Staff

Hotels in Austria, especially higher-end ones, have some tipping customs that guests may want to follow:

• Bellhops: €1-2 per bag if they assist with your luggage.
• Housekeeping: Leaving €1-3 per day for cleaning staff is appreciated, particularly for longer stays.
• Concierge: If the concierge provides exceptional service, such as securing difficult reservations or arranging transportation, a tip of €5-10 is a generous way to show gratitude.

Tipping Tour Guides and Excursion Staff

Guided tours often involve tipping, particularly for outstanding service.

• Group tours: €2-5 per person is standard for a half-day tour, while a full-day tour may warrant €5-10 per person.
• Private tour guides: For a personalized experience, tipping €10-20 per person is a respectful amount.
• Bus drivers (for multi-day tours): Tipping €1-2 per day is common, particularly if they handle luggage.

Tipping at Spas and Beauty Salons

While tipping in spas and salons is not obligatory, it is appreciated for good service.

• Massage therapists and spa staff: Leaving a 5-10% tip is a kind gesture for a great experience.
• Hairdressers and barbers: Rounding up or tipping 5-10% of the total bill is a polite way to show gratitude.

Tipping Grocery Baggers and Street Performers

• Grocery store baggers: In Austria, bagging your own groceries is the norm, and tipping is not expected.
• Street performers: If you enjoy a musician or entertainer in a public space, tipping €1-2 is a great way to support their work.

Final Tips for Tipping in Austria

• Cash is preferred. While many businesses accept card payments, tips are typically given in cash directly to the service provider.
• Be discreet. Austrians tend to tip quietly, rather than making a show of it.
• Check for service charges. Some high-end restaurants may include a service fee in the bill, in which case an additional tip is not necessary.
• Round up for convenience. Instead of calculating an exact percentage, rounding up to a simple amount is the most common practice.

Conclusion

Tipping in Austria is a sign of appreciation rather than an obligation. While service workers receive fair wages, leaving a small tip for good service is always welcomed. By following these guidelines, you can show gratitude while enjoying a seamless experience in Austria’s restaurants, hotels, and attractions. Keep it simple, round up when appropriate, and enjoy your time in this beautiful country!