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Travel Tips & Trends:
Gratuities

Tipping practices vary across Europe and can differ greatly from what we’re used to in the United States. While service staff always appreciate a show of gratitude, tipping in Europe is generally more modest and less expected than in North America. Still, it’s an important part of travel etiquette — especially when participating in guided tours or group travel.

Tour Guide at Ancient Wall

Here’s a general guide to help you navigate gratuities with confidence and respect:

 

Restaurants & Cafés

  • A service charge is often already included in your bill (listed as service compris or coperto).

  • If service is not included, a 5–10% tip is customary for good service.

  • Even when service is included, locals often leave small change or round up the bill to the nearest euro as a polite gesture.

  • In cafés or for counter service, leaving coins (about €1–€2) is appreciated but not expected.

 

Tour Managers & Local Guides

  • For escorted group tours, it is customary to show appreciation to your Tour Manager and Local Guides who enhance your experience.

    • Tour Manager: €8–€10 per person, per day

    • Local Guide (half or full day): €4–€8 per person, depending on length and quality of service

  • Always adjust according to the level of service and your satisfaction.

 

Drivers

  • Professional motorcoach drivers who accompany a tour throughout are typically given €3–€5 per person, per day.

  • For a local transfer or short excursion, €1–€2 per person is sufficient.

 

Hotel Staff

  • Porters: €1–€2 per bag

  • Housekeeping: €1–€2 per night (leave in an envelope or with a thank-you note)

  • Concierge: If they provide special assistance (such as securing a last-minute reservation), €5–€10 is appreciated.

 

Restaurants, Bars & Taxis

  • Bartenders: Round up or leave small change.

  • Taxis: Round up to the nearest euro or add 5–10% for good service.

 

Cruise or Specialty Services

  • For river or small-ship cruises in Europe, check your itinerary — gratuities may already be included. When not included, guidelines are typically provided onboard.

 

A Few Final Tips

  • Always check if service has been included before tipping.

  • Carry small bills and coins for convenience.

  • In some countries (like the UK or Scandinavia), electronic tips through card payments are becoming more common, but cash is still appreciated.

  • When in doubt, a small, sincere gesture of thanks is always welcome — gratuities should never feel obligatory but rather a reflection of good service.

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