Holidaymakers should always double-check their bill when abroad for any hidden service fees. Travel experts at StressFreeCarRental.com have shared what people are expected to tip in different countries as well as where service charges are mandatory, especially while in Europe.
Visitors to Spain can expect to be presented with 30% service charges despite the fact obligatory service charges are illegal in Spain. Tourists do not have to pay the service fee, especially if it seems unreasonable.
A service charge of 15 percent is automatically included by law in most French restaurants, while a mandatory coperto charge in Italy often takes holidaymakers by surprise.
John Charnock, CEO of StressFreeCarRental.com said: “Tourists planning a vacation to Europe should familiarize themselves with the local tipping etiquette and keep an eye out for hidden service fees. Tipping and service charges can be a great way to show gratitude for good service, but unfortunately some places use it to level out not paying their employees enough.
“Service charges in some destinations like Spain are not mandatory but can be up to 30% of a final bill which can leave customers with eye-watering extra costs, so you may want to politely request to take it off depending on your experience.
“In other countries some additional costs are mandatory and visitors should avoid asking if they can be removed from the final bill as they can offend the locals. In Italy for example there is a standard fee per person to cover costs which cannot be removed.”
Tipping and service charges across European tourist spots:
1. Spain
Tipping in Spain is not compulsory, but it is polite to leave a tip if the service is good. Aim for at least a 10% tip. Some establishments can add service charges of up to 30%, but adding an obligatory service charge to a bill is illegal in Spain, so they are legally obliged to remove it if you ask.
2. Italy
In Italy, tipping is not mandatory or expected, but guests are recommended to leave a tip of around 10% for good service to show gratitude. However, there is something called a coperto charge in Italy which often catches tourists off guard. This is a standard per-person fee, usually about €2 a head, and cannot be refused, covering things like tableware and linen.
3. Greece
Service charges are commonly added to the bill in the touristy areas in Greece, and if this is the case you don’t need to pay a tip, but it is polite to. Establishments without a service charge usually expect a tip of about 10- 20% in cash.
4. France
In France, it is required by law to include a 15% service compris (service charge) on a restaurant bill. The fee is included in the price stated on the menu and it’s not an extra cost at the end of the meal. Technically this means tipping is not expected, although it would be appreciated by staff who have gone above and beyond.
5. Portugal
In general, it is customary to leave a 10% cash tip after a meal, but higher-end restaurants will sometimes automatically add a service charge. Hence, it is important to check the bill to avoid double tipping.
6. Croatia
In most Croatian establishments, tipping is considered a gratitude for good food and service, and 10-15% of the total bill, or a few coins, is polite although not expected. Some higher-end restaurants may add a smaller 10% service charge on, so check this before adding an extra tip.
7. Germany
Check the menu or the bill in restaurants in Germany for a mention of “Bedienung” which means the price includes a service charge. However, the service charge is taxable income and won’t go directly to the staff, so guests should still try and leave a small tip, although it’s not mandatory.
8. Switzerland
A service charge will usually be added to the bill in Switzerland although it should be stated beforehand, and does usually go directly to the company, not staff. A tip of 10-15% is polite, although it is not customary.
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