Americans struggle with European tipping practices, so let's get the story straight.
First of all, never tip in Europe as much as you would in the United States. Don't feel uncomfortable, don't feel cheap. There are plenty of Europeans who don't tip at all.
Meals: In nearly all restaurants, the tip is included in the price of the meal. In Paris for instance, the menu may even say "service compris" which means the tip is included. Nevertheless, a 2-4 euro tip per person at dinner is generous. Anything more is excessive.
Taxi: On a 25 euro taxi ride, I would recommend leaving a tip of about 2 euros at most.
Tour Guides: On my tours to Italy for instance, if a guide is with us an entire day, we might leave 5-7 euros per person. That's it.
Bars: For those on my tours to Paris, Italy, and Spain, I recommend leaving change (up to 2 euros or so).
Hotels: If staying at a hotel for a week, a 5 euro note is fine for the person who cleans your room.
Concierge: This is a little more complicated. If the concierge scores you great tickets for that sold out play or concert, a tip of 20 euros might be appropriate. If they help you out planning an itinerary for a week, 20-30 euros is what I would feel comfortable with.
Remember, it is not necessary to tip anyone, but never tip as much as you would in the United States or Canada.
For more information on:
- Tours to Paris
- Tours to Italy
- Tours to Spain
- Tours to Peru and Machu Picchu
see www.travelingprofessor.com