Ultimate guide to Tipping etiquette in the Netherlands & Amsterdam

Tipping in the Netherlands is not mandatory, but it is common practice in certain situations. Here is a guide to tipping in the Netherlands:

  1. Restaurants

In restaurants, it is customary to leave a small tip if you are satisfied with the service. The standard tip is 5-10% of the total bill, but you can round up the total amount if the service was good. It is important to note that service charges are often included in the bill in the Netherlands, so it is always a good idea to check before tipping.

  1. Cafes and Bars

In cafes and bars, it is not common to leave a tip. However, if you are satisfied with the service, you can round up the total amount or leave a small amount as a gesture of appreciation.

  1. Taxis

In taxis, it is customary to round up the fare to the nearest euro. For example, if your fare is €12.70, you can round up to €13. You can also leave a small additional tip if the service was exceptional.

  1. Hairdressers and Beauty Salons

In hairdressers and beauty salons, it is common to leave a small tip if you are satisfied with the service. The standard tip is 5-10% of the total bill.

  1. Hotels

In hotels, it is customary to leave a small tip for housekeeping staff. The standard amount is €1-2 per night, left on the nightstand or in an envelope with a note of thanks.

  1. Other Services

For other services such as tour guides, delivery services, and other personal services, tipping is not expected but is appreciated if you are satisfied with the service. The standard tip is 5-10% of the total bill.

Finally, please be aware that many places in the Netherlands do not except credit cards, however, payment by debit card instead of cash is very common, and even encouraged in almost every situation.

In conclusion, tipping in the Netherlands is definitely not mandatory, but appreciated in certain situations. When tipping, it is important to consider the type of service and the quality of the service provided. Always check if service charges are included in the bill before tipping. By following these guidelines, as a visitor, you can show your appreciation for good service and enjoy your stay in the Netherlands.

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