What is the Tipping Culture in Germany?
Tipping customs vary widely across the globe, reflecting different cultural norms and expectations. In Germany, tipping is appreciated but not as obligatory as in countries like the United States. While service industry workers do receive tips, the culture surrounding gratuities in Germany follows a more reserved and structured approach. This article explores the nuances of tipping in Germany, providing insight into when, where, and how much to tip in different situations.
The General Approach to Tipping in Germany
Germany does not have a strict tipping culture, meaning that while tipping is common, it is not seen as a mandatory gesture. Instead, it is considered a voluntary reward for good service. The term for a tip in German is "Trinkgeld", which translates to "drink money." Unlike in some other countries where service staff rely heavily on tips due to lower wages, employees in Germany typically receive a stable income.
Unlike in the U.S., where tipping a percentage of the bill is expected, in Germany, rounding up the bill is more common. Rather than calculating an exact percentage, people tend to give a small extra amount, often rounding up to the next convenient number.
Tipping in Restaurants and Cafés
In restaurants, tipping is expected but remains modest compared to American standards. A typical tip ranges between 5% and 10% of the total bill. For example:
If the bill is €27, rounding up to €30 is common.
If the bill is €45, leaving €50 is a polite gesture.
Unlike in other countries where tipping is done by leaving cash on the table, in Germany, it is customary to hand the tip directly to the waiter when paying. If paying by card, customers should inform the server of the total amount they would like to pay, including the tip, as card payment machines often do not have a built-in tipping option.
In cafés and smaller eateries, a simple rounding up is also sufficient.
For example, if a coffee costs €2.80, rounding up to €3.50 is a polite and appreciated gesture.
Tipping in Bars and Pubs
In bars and pubs, tipping is more relaxed. It is not expected to leave a significant tip, but rounding up the bill is customary. For example:
If a drink costs €4.50, rounding up to €5 is appreciated.
If ordering multiple drinks, leaving an extra euro or two is a polite gesture.
Bartenders generally do not expect large tips, and tipping is more common in sit-down bars than in self-service establishments.
Tipping in Hotels
Tipping in hotels varies depending on the service provided. Guests typically tip the following amounts:
Bellboys/porters: €1-2 per bag
Housekeeping staff: €2-5 per night, especially for extended stays
Concierge: If they provide special assistance, such as making a reservation or arranging transport, a tip of €5-10 is appropriate.
Room service: A small tip of €2-5 if a service charge is not already included in the bill.
Tipping in Taxis and Rideshares
Tipping taxi drivers is customary but not obligatory.
The standard practice is to round up the fare to a convenient amount. For example:
If the fare is €17.40, rounding up to €18 or €19 is polite.
For longer rides or excellent service, a tip of €2-5 is considered generous.
With rideshare services like Uber, an additional tipping option is included in the app.
However, a small cash tip for exceptional service is always welcome.
Tipping in Other Services
Several other service providers in Germany may also receive tips, including:
Hairdressers: A tip of 5-10% is customary, depending on the service.
Tour guides: A tip of €5-10 per person for group tours and €10-20 for private guides.
Delivery drivers: A small tip of €1-3 for food deliveries is a polite gesture.
Restroom attendants: In public restrooms, it is common to leave €0.50-1, as many restrooms have attendants responsible for cleanliness.
Cultural Considerations
While tipping is generally appreciated, some Germans may see excessive tipping as unnecessary or even inappropriate.
Unlike in some cultures where refusing a tip may be considered rude, in Germany, a service provider might politely decline an overly generous tip.
It is also important to note that service charges are often included in the bill at higher-end restaurants.
Checking the bill before tipping ensures that customers do not overpay for service that is already accounted for.
Tipping in Germany is a practice of appreciation rather than obligation. While service providers appreciate tips, the amounts are generally smaller compared to some other countries. The most common practice is rounding up the bill rather than tipping a fixed percentage. Understanding and respecting these cultural nuances ensures a smooth and respectful experience while traveling or living in Germany.
Bastian Schwithal
Berlin Food Tour