Denmark, known for its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and high standard of living, has a different approach to tipping than many other countries. Unlike in North America, tipping is not always expected, as service charges are often included in bills. However, tipping for exceptional service is always appreciated. Here’s a detailed guide to tipping in Denmark.

Tipping at Restaurants and Cafés

Danish restaurants and cafés generally include a service charge in the bill, but leaving a small tip is a way to show appreciation.

• Sit-down restaurants: A 5-10% tip is common if service was particularly good, though it is not mandatory.
• Casual eateries and bakeries: Tipping is not expected, but rounding up to the nearest 10-20 DKK ($1-3 USD) is a nice gesture.
• Cafés and coffee shops: Leaving small change or rounding up the bill is appreciated but not required.
• Buffets: No tipping is necessary unless a waiter provides table service, in which case 5% is acceptable.
• Delivery services: A tip of 10-20 DKK ($1-3 USD) is a generous way to thank the delivery person.

Tipping Hotel Staff

Hotels in Denmark, including high-end ones, do not expect tipping, but a small gratuity can be a courteous gesture.

• Bellhops and porters: Tipping 10-20 DKK ($2-3 USD) per bag is a polite way to show appreciation.
• Housekeeping: Leaving 10-20 DKK per night is a kind gesture but not obligatory.
• Concierge: If they assist with difficult reservations or special requests, tipping 50-100 DKK ($7-15 USD) is appreciated.
• Room service: If a service charge isn’t included, rounding up the bill is a good practice.
• Spa and wellness staff: A 5-10% tip is standard for massages or treatments.

Tipping Taxi and Rideshare Drivers

Tipping taxi drivers in Denmark is uncommon, but a small tip is a great way to show appreciation.

• Taxi drivers: No tipping is required, but rounding up the fare to the nearest 10-20 DKK ($2-3 USD) is a common practice.
• Rideshare drivers (Uber, Bolt, etc.): Since Uber is not available in Denmark, for other private rides, rounding up the fare is appreciated.
• Airport shuttles: Tipping is not necessary, but a small tip for assistance with luggage is courteous.

Tipping Tour Guides and Excursion Staff

Tour guides in Denmark do not typically expect tips, but if they provide an excellent experience, gratuities are welcome.

• Group tours: Tipping 50-100 DKK ($7-15 USD) per person is a nice way to show appreciation.
• Private tour guides: Tipping 100-200 DKK ($15-30 USD) per day is appropriate for personalized service.
• Drivers on guided tours: If separate from the guide, tipping 50-100 DKK per day is recommended.
• Boat excursions: Crew members appreciate a small tip but do not rely on it.

Tipping at Spas and Salons

Spas and beauty services in Denmark follow similar tipping practices as restaurants.

• Massage therapists and spa staff: A 5-10% tip is appreciated but not required.
• Hairdressers and beauty salons: Tipping 5-10% of the bill is customary if the service was excellent.
• Manicurists and estheticians: A 5% tip is a nice gesture.

Tipping Grocery Baggers and Gas Attendants

Certain service jobs in Denmark do not rely on tips, as workers receive fair wages.

• Grocery store baggers: Tipping is not expected.
• Gas station attendants: Tipping is uncommon, but rounding up the bill is a small way to show appreciation for extra service.

Tipping Street Performers and Musicians

Denmark has a vibrant street performance culture, particularly in Copenhagen and Aarhus.

• Street musicians and performers: If you enjoy a performance, tipping 10-20 DKK ($2-3 USD) is a generous gesture.
• Live bands at restaurants: If no service charge is included, tipping 50-100 DKK ($7-15 USD) for musicians is appreciated.

Final Tipping Tips for Denmark

• Check your bill before tipping. Many restaurants and services already include a service charge.
• Use cash for tipping. While credit cards are widely accepted in Denmark, cash tips are preferred.
• Be discreet when tipping. Handing a tip directly to the service provider is considered polite.
• Round up when in doubt. If unsure about the exact amount, rounding up is a simple and acceptable approach.

Conclusion

Tipping in Denmark is not a strict requirement, but it is a nice way to acknowledge great service. Since service charges are often included in bills, there is less pressure to tip compared to other countries. However, small gratuities for exceptional service are always appreciated. By following these guidelines, you can navigate Denmark’s tipping customs with ease and show appreciation in a respectful way. Enjoy your trip!