Tipping etiquette in Europe: a quick guide

Tipping in Europe is generally much lighter than in the US — many restaurants already include a service charge, and tipping isn't expected the same way. Rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common and appreciated, but rarely obligatory.

This varies by country: tipping is more customary in places like the UK and Ireland, while in Japan-influenced-etiquette-free zones like some Nordic countries it can even feel unnecessary given already-high included service. When in doubt, small rounding-up gestures are always safe and never considered rude.