Thinking About Tipping in the Netherlands? Here’s the Straight Talk
If you’re heading to the Netherlands from the USA, one thing you’ll quickly notice: tipping is way less of a big deal here.
Unlike back home, where 15-20% tips are almost expected everywhere, tipping in the Netherlands is appreciated — but never mandatory.
And honestly? That’s a breath of fresh air.
Workers here get fair wages, strong benefits, and don’t rely on tips just to make ends meet.
Still, knowing how much and when to tip will save you from any awkward moments and help you show respect for great service.
Let’s make this simple.
Why Tipping Works Differently in the Netherlands 🇳🇱
First, a little context (trust me, it helps).
In the Netherlands:
- Minimum wage is solid — no one’s scraping by waiting for tips.
- There’s a strong social safety net — healthcare, unemployment, pensions, you name it.
- Service charges are often already included in your bill.
Basically, the whole system is set up so that workers can live without depending on tips.
Tipping is more about saying “thanks for the great service,” not filling someone’s paycheck.
✅ Bottom Line: Tip when you feel like it, not because you have to.
How Much to Tip in Restaurants and Cafés
Unlike in the U.S., you’re not expected to add 15-20% on top of your meal cost.
Here’s how it works:
| Situation | What To Do |
|---|---|
| Casual Café | Round up the bill (e.g., if your coffee is €2.80, leave €3) |
| Mid-Range Restaurant | Round up or leave €1-2 extra |
| Fine Dining | 5-10% for excellent service, but double-check if a service charge (“servicekosten”) is already included |
Pro Tip: Always check your bill. If you see “servicekosten,” then no extra tip is needed unless you really want to.
💬 Story Time: I once tipped 15% at a small café in Amsterdam because that’s what felt “normal” to me. The waitress looked shocked — and almost embarrassed — thanking me profusely like I had given her a gift. That’s when I realized…a simple €1-2 would’ve been more than enough.
Tipping Taxi Drivers in the Netherlands
Taking a cab?
Again, no 15% tip expected like in the States.
Here’s the norm:
- Round up to the nearest Euro.
- If the driver helps with bags or gives awesome service, throw in an extra €1-2.
- No need for fancy calculations.
✅ Example: If your ride costs €13.40, just hand over €14.
Hotel Tipping Rules for American Travelers
Hotels work a bit differently too.
In general:
| Service | Suggested Tip |
|---|---|
| Bellhop (if helping with luggage) | €1-2 per bag |
| Housekeeping | €1-2 per night, left in the room |
| Concierge | €5-10 if they went out of their way for you |
Again, only tip for great service.
If no one helped you directly, you don’t need to tip just because you’re used to doing it in the U.S.
Tipping for Other Services (Salons, Tours, Bars)
- Hairdressers/Salons: Round up a few euros if you’re happy with the result.
- Tour Guides: €5-10 per person for a great private tour, or €2-5 for a group tour.
- Bars: No tip needed if you’re just grabbing drinks. Round up if you’re paying cash.
✅ Note: When paying by card, there’s often no prompt for a tip. Cash is still king for tipping.
Common Mistakes US Tourists Make (and How to Avoid Them)
Don’t get caught out!
Here’s what Americans often get wrong:
- Tipping too much: 15-20% tips feel huge here and can embarrass staff.
- Tipping when not needed: If “servicekosten” is listed, you’re already covered.
- Feeling guilty for not tipping: Relax, seriously. Locals often don’t tip at all in casual spots.
- Forgetting small cash: Always keep a few €1 and €2 coins handy — it makes rounding up way easier.
✅ Quick Tip: When in doubt, rounding up €1-2 is almost always perfect.
FAQs: Quick Answers for American Travelers 🇺🇸
Is it rude not to tip in the Netherlands?
Nope! Tipping is optional and service workers don’t expect it.
How do I know if service is included?
Look at your receipt — if you see “servicekosten” or “service included,” you’re good.
Should I tip even if service was bad?
Not at all. Tipping should reward good service only.
Is cash or card better for tipping?
Cash is easier. Most card machines don’t ask for a tip.
Final Thoughts: Tipping in the Netherlands Is Stress-Free
Traveling to the Netherlands means you can relax when it comes to tipping.
There’s no complicated math, no awkward pressure.
Just remember:
- Tip when the service is great.
- Keep it small and genuine.
- And don’t feel bad if you don’t tip — that’s normal here.
When in doubt, a simple “Dankjewel!” (thank you) and a friendly smile go a long way.