navigation

tipping in Netherlands

Many services already have a service charge added to the bill. If this is the case, you aren’t obliged to tip extra. Tipping in the Netherlands, like in most of Europe, isn’t really expected. However, leaving extra change or rounding up the bill in restaurants, bars and cafés is common. No need to tip more than that, unless you receive great service.

tipping etiquette for hotels in Netherlands

In the Netherlands Don't Tip at hotels

In the Netherlands tipping isn’t expected unless you are staying for a long time, or is you receive extra services. Even then tipping is at your own discretion. There is often a 15% service charge already added to the hotel bill. If you do decide to tip your porter you should tip 1 or 2 Euros per bag.

Luxury Hotels

Most of The Netherlands luxury hotels are in Amsterdam, including:

  • InterContinental Amstel Hotel
  • Hotel De L'Europe
  • The Dylan Amsterdam
  • Andaz Amsterdam

tipping in restaurants in Netherlands

In restaurants Tip 5% - 10% in The Netherlands

In the Netherlands tipping is expected in restaurants for good or exceptional service, around 5-10% of the bill. If the service was average, you can round-up the bill or leave the change. Give your tip to the service person directly. Don’t tip for bad service. Sometimes a service charge is already included. You don’t need to tip extra, but you can if the service was exceptional.

In a café or bar leave small change behind or round-up the bill. You can leave this on the counter or table, or give your tip to the waiter directly.

tip etiquette at spas in Netherlands

At spas Don't Tip in The Netherlands

You don’t need to tip at a spa, unless otherwise specified. Feel free to ask what the etiquette is at the spa you're attending.

Spa Ettiquette

Spa etiquette in the Netherlands is the same as most spas around the world. Arrive early, be respectful, speak low if you need to talk and turn off your cellphone.

should you tip your tour guide?

tip tour guides Tip Exceptional Service in the Netherlands

You don’t need to tip your tour guide. If you receive exceptional service and feel the need to tip, tip a few Euros.

There are guided tours available for Amsterdam and the Netherlands. Some include multi-city European tours, where you can visit many European capitals and cities.

should you tip your taxi driver?

In The Netherlands Don't tip Taxi drivers

Tipping a taxi driver in the Netherlands is not common, but you can round-up the bill, or leave 1 or 2 Euros for really good service.