Tipping etiquette varies worldwide, and if you’re visiting Germany, it’s essential to understand local customs. Unlike in the United States, where tipping is standard practice, tipping in Germany is more of a gesture of appreciation than an obligation. However, knowing how much to tip in different situations can enhance your experience and help you leave a good impression.

Understanding the Service Charge (“Bedienung”)

In Germany, many restaurants and cafes include a service charge (“Bedienung”) in the bill, meaning servers are already compensated. However, tipping is still customary to show gratitude for good service. Unlike in some countries, tipping is not done by leaving money on the table but rather by handing it directly to the service provider or adding it while paying.

How Much to Tip in Different Situations

Restaurants and Cafés

• Casual Cafés and Bakeries: At self-service cafés or bakeries, tipping is uncommon, but rounding up the bill by a few cents is appreciated.
• Sit-Down Restaurants: While service charges are often included, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is standard if you received good service.
• Fine Dining Restaurants: In upscale restaurants, a tip of 10% is customary for excellent service.

Bars and Beer Gardens

• Casual Bars: Tipping is not expected, but rounding up your bill by a euro or two is a friendly gesture.
• Beer Gardens: Since these are often self-service, tipping is uncommon.
• Cocktail Bars: If the bartender provides excellent service, leaving €1-€2 per drink is polite.

Taxis and Rideshares

• Taxi drivers appreciate a small tip of 5-10% or rounding up the fare to the nearest euro.
• Rideshare services like Uber do not require tipping, but rounding up the total or adding €1-€2 is appreciated for great service.

Hotels

• Concierge: If they go out of their way to help with reservations or special requests, tipping €5-€10 is a nice gesture.
• Housekeeping: Leaving €1-€3 per night for housekeeping staff is courteous.
• Bellhops: Tipping €1-€3 per bag is standard.
• Room Service: If a service charge is not included, tipping €1-€5 is appropriate.

Tour Guides

• Group Tours: Tipping the guide €5-€10 per person is common.
• Private Tours: If you received exceptional service, a tip of €10-€20 per person is appropriate.

Hairdressers and Spa Services

• Tipping your hairstylist or barber 5-10% is a kind gesture.
• Spa therapists typically receive €5-€10 for massages or treatments.

Other Services

• Coat Check: If there is no charge for checking your coat, leaving €1-€2 is polite.
• Restroom Attendants: In public restrooms, especially at high-end establishments, leaving €0.50-€1 is appreciated.

How to Give a Tip Properly

Unlike in some cultures where tipping is done by leaving money on the table, Germans prefer a more direct approach. Here’s how to do it:

1. When paying, tell the server the total amount you wish to pay, including the tip. For example, if your bill is €18 and you want to leave a €2 tip, say, “Machen Sie 20 Euro bitte” (“Make it 20 euros, please”).
2. If paying by card, inform the server how much to charge before they process the payment, as tip amounts cannot always be added afterward.
3. Avoid leaving coins or small bills on the table, as this is considered unusual in Germany.

Final Thoughts

Tipping in Germany is about appreciation rather than obligation. While it’s not mandatory, showing gratitude through small tips can create positive interactions and enhance your experience. By following local customs and understanding the appropriate amounts, you’ll navigate tipping etiquette with ease and confidence. Happy travels!