German Tipping Culture Guide

Figuring out the tipping rules in a new country can feel tricky. Germany has clear habits around gratuities, known as “Trinkgeld.” Unlike places where tips make up a large share of a worker’s pay, in Germany a tip is a voluntary thank-you for good service, not a must. This guide explains when to tip, how much, and the best way to do it, so your visits run smoothly and politely.

Service workers in Germany earn at least the legal minimum wage, but tips are still a welcome extra. The word Trinkgeld, “drink money,” shows the original idea: a small bonus to enjoy. This is different from countries like the United States, where tips often cover a big part of wages. By following local practice, you can show thanks in a way people in Germany expect.

What is German tipping culture?

German tipping mixes politeness and practicality. It is not required, but many people tip to show they were happy with the service. The term “Trinkgeld” hints at a small extra, not the main pay. This idea runs through many service areas in Germany.

Remember that service staff earn at least minimum wage, so they do not depend on tips to get by. Even so, tips are valued and add to total pay. A 2023 YouGov poll found that 72% of Germans usually tip in restaurants. This shows a strong habit of saying thank you with a small extra, even if the sums are often lower than in some other countries.

How does tipping in Germany differ from other countries?

The biggest difference compared to places like the United States is the role of tips. In the US, tips are a key part of income, and wages for tipped workers can be lower. People often give 15-20% or more.

In Germany, staff get at least minimum wage. Tips are a bonus, not survival money. You will see more rounding up or smaller percentages (about 5-10%), not the higher rates common elsewhere. Also, people prefer giving the tip directly to the server in cash instead of leaving money on the table.

Why is tipping practiced in Germany?

Tipping in Germany is a way to thank someone for good service. It adds a bit to income and recognizes effort. The “drink money” idea fits this: a small bonus for the person who helped you.

There is also a habit factor. Many Germans tip as part of the usual exchange, even if the service was simply fine. Bigger tips can signal great service; small tips or none can signal that something was off, especially if you also say so.

General tipping rules in Germany

Once you learn the basic idea, the rules are simple. Tipping is optional, appreciated, and linked to how well things went. It is less about fixed percentages and more about a fair thank-you.

People often round up or add a modest amount. That fits the idea of Trinkgeld as a bonus, not pay replacement. Whether you are at a café or a fine restaurant, a polite and steady approach works well.

How much should you tip in Germany?

Tips in Germany are usually smaller than in the US. A common guide is 5-10% for good service. If the service was outstanding, up to 15% is generous. Going far beyond that can look unusual to locals.

For small checks (like in cafés or bars without table service), rounding up to the next euro is common. If the bill is €16.30, paying €17 or €18 is fine. For higher restaurant bills, many people tip closer to 5% than 10%. It depends on the place, the service, and your judgment.

When is tipping expected and when is it optional?

Tips are technically optional, but some places expect them more than others.

• Common: restaurants with table service, bars/cafés with table service, hotels, taxis, hairdressers.
• Less common: fast-food chains, self-service spots, and quick counter-only visits.
• Small payments: staffed public restrooms (about €0.50-€1).

Postal workers are rarely tipped, though holiday gifts do happen in some neighborhoods. If the service was good, a tip is usually welcome.

Should you tip if a service charge is included?

German restaurant bills usually do not include a service charge. If “Bedienung” appears, a service fee was added. This fee is taxed and does not go straight to your server as a personal tip.

Even with “Bedienung,” many people still add a small extra, such as rounding up or leaving a couple of euros. Treat the fee and your Trinkgeld as separate things.

Is tipping considered rude or required in Germany?

Tipping is neither rude nor required. It is a polite way to say thank you. If service was fine and you leave nothing, it may seem a bit cold. Very large tips (like 20% for average service) can feel showy.

Follow local habits: give a modest, direct tip for good service; give little or nothing for poor service. If something went wrong, saying so politely can help more than the size of the tip.

How to leave a tip in Germany

How you give the tip matters. In Germany, you usually do not leave money on the table. Instead, speak to the server and state the total you want to pay. This keeps things clear and respectful.

Cash or card both work, but a few words at the right moment make the process smooth.

Best tipping etiquette with cash

With cash, say the total you want to pay (bill plus tip) as you hand over the money. If the bill is €16.30 and you want to make it €18, give a €20 note and say “achtzehn.” You will get €2 back, and the rest is your tip.

If you want them to keep all the change, say “stimmt so” (“keep the change”). For example, if the bill is €18 and you hand over €20 with “stimmt so,” the €2 difference is the tip. Do not leave cash on the table; it can come across as arrogant.

Can you tip by credit card in Germany?

Yes, often, but cash is still preferred. Many card machines do not have a tip prompt. More places now allow adding a tip to a card total, though.

If you want to tip by card, tell the server the full amount to charge before they run the card. For a €16.30 bill, say “achtzehn” to pay €18 in total. Keep in mind that card tips may be pooled or processed later. Many people pay the bill by card and give the tip in cash so it goes straight to the server.

Tips for discreet and polite tipping

• Do not leave coins or notes on the table; speak to the server and state your total.
• Use “stimmt so” to let them keep the change.
• Tip jars are common at hairdressers and some cafés; drop coins there if you prefer.
• For hotel housekeeping, leave a few euros in a clear spot with a short note if you like.

Tipping in German restaurants and cafés

Eating out or grabbing coffee often comes with a tip. The basic rules stay the same, but the style of service can change what you give and how you give it.

Once you know the patterns, you will feel at ease everywhere from beer gardens to bakeries with seating.

Tipping at table-service restaurants

At sit-down restaurants, rounding up by €1-€2 for small bills is common. For larger bills, 5-10% is standard. If your bill is €16.30, paying €18 is reasonable. For €100, €5-€10 is normal; €15 is generous. Servers earn a base wage, so your tip is a bonus.

Hand money directly to your server. With cash, say the total (bill plus tip) as you pay. If the bill is €22.50 and you want to leave €2.50, say “fünfundzwanzig” when you give a €50 note. With cards, say the total before the payment runs. Cash tips are often preferred, as they go straight to the person who served you.

Tipping at self-service or fast-food restaurants

At self-service or fast-food places (e.g., McDonald’s, Burger King, or local counters), tips are not expected. There is less personal service.

If you want to leave something for a kind interaction, you can round up to the next euro. Some counters have a small tip jar for coins, but you do not have to use it.

Where do tips go in German hospitality venues?

Policies differ:

• Direct cash to your server often stays with that person (commonly tax-free if given by the guest straight to the employee).
• Some places pool tips and split them among staff, sometimes including the kitchen; pooled tips are taxed.
• Owners cannot keep staff tips. Tips paid by card usually go through the system, which can mean pooling, tax, or delays.

How to tip when paying with cash or card

Cash: say the total you will pay. If the bill is €16.30 and you want to tip €1.70, hand over €20 and say “achtzehn.” You will get €2 back. Or say “stimmt so” to let them keep the change from a larger note.

Card: tell the server the total before they charge you. If the bill is €25 and you want to pay €27.50, say “siebenundzwanzig Euro fünfzig.” Many people still give the tip in cash even if they pay the bill by card.

Tipping in German bars and clubs

Bars and clubs are more casual, but a small tip is still appreciated, especially when things are busy.

Whether you order one beer or several drinks, a simple round-up works well.

How much do you tip bartenders in Germany?

Rounding up to the next euro is common for a single drink. If a beer is €4.50, pay €5. For several drinks, round up the final total or add about 5-10% for good service.

At higher-end cocktail bars, you might tip a bit more to reflect the extra skill involved, but 10% still counts as a good tip. Say the total out loud when you pay.

Is tipping expected for each drink?

No. If you order at the counter, you usually tip when you settle the tab, not for each drink. Round up the final amount or add a small percentage.

With table service, the habit is similar to cafés and restaurants: round up or leave 5-10% when you pay.

Tipping delivery drivers and service staff

Delivery services and other at-home helpers are an important part of daily life. You may only see them for a moment, but a small tip is a kind way to say thanks.

From hot meals in the rain to big package days, a little extra can make a difference.

Tipping for food delivery and takeout

Tipping food delivery drivers is optional but common. A usual range is €0.50-€2. If the weather is bad or the order is large or hard to carry, giving more is kind.

It’s best to tip drivers in cash at the door. App tips can go to the restaurant first and may not always reach drivers quickly or fully. For takeout you pick up yourself, tipping is not expected unless someone provided special help.

Tipping for package and mail deliveries

Tips for package and mail deliveries are rare. Most people do not tip postal workers or couriers day to day.

Some people give a small gift or a few euros to a regular mail carrier around Christmas or New Year, but this is personal and not a general rule.

Tipping taxi drivers in Germany

Short or long rides may include a tip if the service was good. It is welcome but not mandatory.

Knowing how much and how to pay keeps things simple and polite.

Appropriate tipping amount for taxi rides

About half of Germans tip taxi drivers. For short rides, round up to the next euro (e.g., €7.50 to €8). For longer rides or extra help (good route, help with bags), 5-10% is fair. On a €50 fare, €5 is common.

Carry small notes and coins so you can tip easily.

How to tip a taxi driver in Germany

Say the total you want to pay. If the fare is €12.80 and you want to tip €1.20, say “vierzehn” and hand over the money.

You can also say “stimmt so” to let the driver keep the change. Cash is easiest. If you use an app like Uber, you may be able to tip in the app after the ride.

Tipping at German hotels

Many people help make your stay pleasant, from reception to cleaning staff. Tipping levels are lower than in some countries, but a small thank-you for special effort is welcome.

The amount depends on the hotel type and the service you receive. A little planning helps you be ready.

How much to tip at hotels

In budget places (B&Bs, guesthouses, hostels), tipping is less common. In nicer hotels or for specific services, it is appreciated. A YouGov poll found 37% of Germans tip hotel staff regularly. Give based on service and hotel level.

For housekeeping, €2-€4 per night in a high-end hotel is a kind gesture, but it is not expected everywhere. For room service delivery, €1-€2 is fine. Use your judgment.

Tipping bellhops, housekeeping, and porters

Bellhops and porters usually get €1-€2 per bag, more for heavy or many bags. Keep small change at check-in time.

For housekeeping in nicer hotels, €2-€4 per night is thoughtful. Leave it daily in a clear spot so the right person receives it. In budget stays, tipping housekeeping is usually not needed.

Tipping concierges and other hotel staff

If a concierge helps with hard-to-get bookings, last-minute tickets, or detailed plans, €10-€20 is fair, based on the effort and value. For simple tasks like calling a taxi, no tip is expected.

For valet service, €5-€10 each time they bring your car is common. Front desk staff generally do not expect tips for routine help. Always link the amount to the service quality.

Tipping personal care and other service providers

Outside hotels and restaurants, many personal services also involve tipping. Knowing the usual amounts helps you show respect for the work done.

Haircuts, massages, and tours all have simple, well-known ranges.

Tipping hairdressers, barbers, and beauty salons

About half of customers tip at salons. If you are happy with the result, 5-10% works well. For a €40 cut, €2-€4 fits.

Many salons have a tip jar at the counter or separate jars with names. Cash tips are common and go directly to the person who served you.

Tipping massage therapists and spa staff

For massages and spa treatments, 10-15% is a good guide. On a €100 treatment, €10 is standard for good service; €15 is strong praise for great work.

Give the cash to your therapist or use the tip jar if there is one. Tip based on how satisfied you were.

Tipping tour guides and drivers

Tour guides appreciate tips. For large group tours, €1-€5 per person is common. For private tours, 5-10% of the tour price fits, especially if the guide was excellent. “Free tours” run on tips; about €5 per person is fair for a good tour.

Drivers on tours may also get a few euros per person, especially if they helped with bags or made the day easier.

Tipping movers and cloakroom attendants

Moving is hard work. Movers often get a larger one-time tip based on how big and tough the job was, and on your budget.

For cloakrooms at theaters, operas, or clubs, €0.50-€2 is common when you pick up your items.

Tips for tipping in Germany: practical advice and cultural insights

Beyond the numbers, a few habits and small details can help in less common situations and when you are in a group. These pointers help you avoid awkward moments and show respect for local customs.

They also help you read the room and pick the right amount for the moment.

When to skip a tip

It is fine to skip a tip when service was poor: major mistakes, very slow service without a reason, or rude behavior. Leaving little or nothing sends a clear message. For serious problems, speaking to a manager can help more.

Skip tips at fast-food places, self-service spots, or when you just grab a coffee at the counter and leave. Do not tip postal and package staff for routine deliveries. In budget hotels and hostels, tipping is not expected unless someone did something special for you.

Tipping on business trips or in groups

• Business meals: 5-10% for good service; up to 15% for great service.
• Carry small notes and coins to make cash tipping easy, even if the company card pays the bill.
• For groups, calculate the tip on the total, then split. One person can collect and hand over a single cash tip.
• If “Bedienung” appears on a group bill, add a small personal tip anyway.

Why tipping in euros is best

Always tip in euros. This is the local money and what staff can use right away. Foreign currency can be a hassle to change and may lose value through fees and exchange rates.

Using euros avoids confusion about value. Keep small notes and coins ready for bellhops, taxi drivers, and rounding up in cafés.

How to use your judgment in special situations

Use tips to reflect how happy you were. If someone went above and beyond, give a bit more. If things were bad, give little or nothing and, if needed, share polite feedback.

Think about where you are and who served you. A local guide on a free tour depends on tips. A chain café cashier does not. Trust your feel for the situation and be fair and respectful.

Frequently asked questions about tipping in Germany

Even with clear rules, a few questions come up again and again. Here are short answers that confirm the main points.

They compare habits across countries and cover simple “what if” cases.

Do Germans tip less than Americans or other Europeans?

Yes, Germans usually tip less than Americans. In the US, 15-20% is often the baseline. In Germany, 5-10% or rounding up is common, and 15% is generous.

Across Europe, habits vary. Some places are looser about tipping; others lean a bit higher. In Germany, Trinkgeld is “drink money,” not a key part of wages.

What if you forget to tip?

If you forget once, it usually is not a big deal. People may think you were not fully happy or that you did not know the custom. Since tipping is optional, no one will force the point.

If you notice soon after and want to fix it, you can go back and leave a tip. Missing it every time after good service can come across as impolite.

Is tipping customary in Berlin, Munich, and other cities?

Yes. In Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, Frankfurt, and elsewhere, a 5-10% tip for good service or rounding up is standard. Small regional differences exist, but the basics are the same.

Busy cities see many visitors with different habits, but modest, direct, cash tips fit best. A local saying sums it up: “Der Kunde ist König, aber Deutschland ist eine Republik.” In other words, staff keep their professional pride and welcome tips as a bonus for good work.