The biggest question I get is, “What are the rules on tipping? I don’t want to be the stupid American who doesn’t tip enough”

Depending on where you go in Europe, typically you do not tip unless you are wow’d by the service! And I mean wow’d! Even then, you don’t leave more than a 2 euro coin on the table. And don’t forget, this is a cash society. Always have enough cash to pay for the bill!

Here is a breakdown on tipping rules in high tourist European countries:

Austria: round to nearest ten. If the check is 47 euros, leave 50. *European etiquette treats Austria same way as Belgium. 10% tip is appreciated if the service is exceptional.

Belgium: Price on the ticket is the price you pay. I rarely leave more than what is charged due to the included charges for service. If the service is exceptional, I’ll leave maximum 10% as a tip.

Germany: I round to the nearest ten.

Hungary: 10% maximum. If you pay card, you can ask to add the tip to the total bill. But make sure it isn’t already on the bill. If so, just pay and leave.

Italy: I tip when the food and service is good–which is every time! Eating in Italy is a delightful experience from the pasta to the wine to the extravagant waiters 🙂

Ireland: I tip in the pubs because if you see how the level of craziness inside doesn’t affect the temperament of the bartenders, it’s quite impressive. I leave max 5%.

France: I never tip because the French are never pleasant to Americans who butcher their language. Order quick and get out.

Romania: 10% always.

The Netherlands: I love the Dutch. I would be happy to leave a euro or two

Portugal: Tipping is considered respectful to the restaurant and wait staff. Not receiving a tip could be taken as an insult or that you did not like the food.

Switzerland: This is an expensive country but it is common to leave a little tip. Two euro max.

Spain: Check the bill as most of the time there is a service charge included. If not, 5-10% is polite.

United Kingdom: Lovely people but I rarely tip if it’s a small party of three or less. Prices in UK are expensive anyway so I suggest save your pounds for tube tickets.