Finland, known for its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant cities, and high standard of living, follows a different tipping culture than many other countries. Unlike destinations where tipping is a standard practice, Finland operates on a principle of fair wages, meaning tipping is not expected in most situations. However, leaving a gratuity for exceptional service is always appreciated. Here’s everything you need to know about tipping in Finland.

Tipping at Restaurants and Cafés

In Finland, restaurant staff earn a fair wage, and service charges are often included in the bill. Tipping is not expected, but it is welcomed for outstanding service.

• Sit-down restaurants: If service is excellent, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is a kind gesture.
• Fine dining establishments: While tipping is still not expected, high-end restaurants may see customers leaving a 5-10% tip.
• Cafés and casual eateries: Tipping is rare, but rounding up the bill by a few euros is polite.
• Buffets: No tipping is expected, but you may leave a small tip if table service is provided.
• Delivery services: Rounding up the total or adding €1-€2 is a nice gesture for good service.

Tipping Hotel Staff

Hotel service in Finland is efficient, and staff do not rely on tips. However, a small gratuity for exceptional service can be given.

• Bellhops and porters: Tipping €1-€2 per bag is appreciated but not expected.
• Housekeeping: Leaving €5-€10 at the end of your stay for great service is a nice touch.
• Concierge: If they provide extra assistance, such as making reservations, a €5-€10 tip is considerate.
• Room service: If a service charge isn’t included, rounding up the bill or leaving €2-€5 is appropriate.
• Spa and wellness staff: Tipping is not required but leaving 5-10% for an outstanding experience is appreciated.

Tipping Taxi and Rideshare Drivers

Tipping taxi drivers in Finland is not a common practice, but rounding up the fare is polite.

• Taxi drivers: Simply rounding up to the nearest euro is sufficient.
• Rideshare drivers (Uber, Bolt): No tip is required, but rounding up the fare or leaving €1-€2 is appreciated for great service.
• Airport transfers and private drivers: If service is exceptional, tipping €5-€10 is a kind gesture.

Tipping Tour Guides and Excursion Staff

Tour guides in Finland are well-paid professionals, and tipping is not expected. However, if they go above and beyond, a small tip is a thoughtful way to show appreciation.

• Group tours: Tipping €5-€10 per person is generous but not expected.
• Private tour guides: Leaving €10-€20 per day is a kind way to show gratitude for an excellent experience.
• Drivers on guided tours: If separate from the guide, tipping €5-€10 per day is considerate.
• Boat excursions: Tipping is rare, but if the crew provides outstanding service, €5-€10 per person is a nice touch.

Tipping at Spas and Salons

Spas and salons in Finland do not expect tips, but if service is exceptional, leaving a small gratuity is appreciated.

• Massage therapists and spa staff: Tipping 5-10% is a generous gesture but not necessary.
• Hairdressers and beauty salons: Rounding up the bill or leaving €5-€10 for excellent service is appreciated.
• Manicurists and estheticians: Leaving a €2-€5 tip is a nice way to say thank you.

Tipping Grocery Baggers and Gas Attendants

Certain service jobs in other countries rely on tips, but in Finland, these professions do not expect gratuities.

• Grocery store baggers: Finland does not have a tipping culture for bagging groceries.
• Gas station attendants: Since most gas stations are self-service, tipping is unnecessary.

Tipping Street Performers and Musicians

Finland has a thriving arts scene, and while tipping is not expected, it is appreciated by performers.

• Street musicians and performers: If you enjoy a performance, dropping a few euros in the tip jar is a nice gesture.
• Live bands at restaurants: If no service charge is included, tipping €5-€10 for musicians is kind.

Final Tipping Tips for Finland

• Tipping is never required, but always appreciated. Finland’s fair wage system means that no one relies on tips.
• Round up rather than leaving large tips. In most cases, simply rounding up the bill is enough.
• Use local currency. Tipping in Euros (€) is preferred over foreign currencies.
• Be discreet when tipping. Handing a tip directly to the service provider is polite but not always expected.
• Check for service charges. Some high-end restaurants and hotels may include a service fee, making additional tipping unnecessary.

Conclusion

Tipping in Finland is not a cultural norm, and service charges are often included in prices. However, showing appreciation for exceptional service through small gratuities is always welcome. Whether dining at at a Restaurant (Waiters & Waitresses)”>a restaurant, taking a guided tour, or using transportation, tipping is never expected but can be a kind way to acknowledge great service. By following these guidelines, you can navigate Finland’s tipping customs with ease and enjoy a stress-free travel experience!