Global Major Cities Guide

Guidance on tipping in Frankfurt, including common practices for restaurants, taxis, and other services.

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Comprehensive Guide to Tipping Etiquette in Frankfurt, Germany

Tipping in Frankfurt, as in the rest of Germany, is generally appreciated but not as obligatory or formalized as in some other countries like the United States. The practice is more understated and reflects a gesture of appreciation for good service rather than a mandatory expectation. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate tipping in Frankfurt.

Currency Used

Currency: The official currency in Frankfurt (and all of Germany) is the Euro (€).
Denominations: Euros are available in both coins (€0.01, €0.02, €0.05, €0.10, €0.20, €0.50, €1, €2) and banknotes (€5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500). Coins are commonly used for small tips.
Practical Tip: Always carry some small change or lower-denomination bills, as tipping is often done in cash, even if you pay by card.

General Tipping Norms

Tipping in Germany is referred to as "Trinkgeld," which translates to "drink money."
It is not mandatory but is seen as a polite way to show appreciation for good service.
Tips are typically smaller than in countries like the U.S., with a focus on rounding up the bill or adding a modest percentage.

Tipping in Different Scenarios

1. Restaurants and Cafés

Expected Tip: 5-10% of the total bill is customary for good service.
How to Tip:
- When the server brings the bill, state the total amount you wish to pay, including the tip. For example, if the bill is €18.50 and you want to leave a €1.50 tip, you would say, "Make it €20."
- Alternatively, you can hand over the cash and say the total amount you want to pay, or simply leave the tip on the table if paying in cash.
Cultural Note: Unlike in some countries, tips are not left on the table by default. Instead, they are handed directly to the server or included in the verbal payment process.
Service Charge: In most restaurants, a service charge is already included in the bill, but tipping is still appreciated for good service.

2. Bars and Pubs

Expected Tip: Round up to the nearest euro or add €1-2 per round of drinks.
How to Tip: Hand the bartender the cash and say the total amount you wish to pay, or simply round up the bill.

3. Taxis

Expected Tip: Round up the fare to the nearest euro or add 5-10% for longer rides or exceptional service (e.g., help with luggage).
How to Tip: When paying, tell the driver the total amount you wish to pay, including the tip. For example, if the fare is €13.50, you might say, "Make it €15."
Cultural Note: Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory, especially for short rides.

4. Hotels

Bellhops/Porters: €1-2 per bag is customary.
Housekeeping: €2-5 per night, left in cash in the room at the end of your stay.
Concierge: Tipping is not expected, but if they go out of their way to assist you (e.g., securing hard-to-get reservations), a tip of €5-10 is a nice gesture.
Room Service: Check if a service charge is included in the bill. If not, a small tip of €1-2 is appreciated.

5. Tour Guides

Expected Tip: €5-10 per person for a half-day tour, or €10-20 for a full-day tour, depending on the quality of the experience.
Group Tours: If the tour is free or operates on a "pay-what-you-wish" basis, a tip of €5-10 per person is customary.

6. Hairdressers and Beauty Salons

Expected Tip: 5-10% of the total bill.
How to Tip: Hand the tip directly to the stylist or leave it at the reception desk.

7. Other Services

Delivery Drivers: €1-3, depending on the size of the order and the distance.
Public Restrooms: In some public restrooms, especially in train stations or shopping centers, attendants may expect a small tip of €0.50-1. Look for a small plate or jar near the entrance or exit.

Practical Tips for Tipping in Frankfurt

Cash is King: While card payments are increasingly accepted, tipping is often done in cash. Be prepared with small denominations.
Round Up: Rounding up the bill is a common and easy way to tip in Germany. For example, if your bill is €17.80, you might round up to €19 or €20.
Be Polite: When tipping, it’s customary to thank the person for their service. A simple "Danke" (thank you) or "Vielen Dank" (thank you very much) goes a long way.
Check the Bill: Some restaurants include a service charge ("Bedienung") in the bill. If this is the case, additional tipping is not necessary but still appreciated.
Avoid Over-Tipping: Germans generally do not tip excessively. A modest tip is sufficient and culturally appropriate.

Cultural Considerations

Efficiency and Professionalism: Service staff in Germany are typically well-trained and professional, and tipping is seen as a reward for good service rather than an obligation.
Direct Communication: Germans value directness, so when tipping, clearly state the total amount you are paying, including the tip.
No Pressure: If the service was subpar, it is acceptable not to tip or to leave a very small amount.

Summary Table: Tipping in Frankfurt

| Service | Tip Amount | How to Tip | |-------------------------|------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Restaurants | 5-10% of the bill | State the total amount to the server or leave cash directly. | | Bars | Round up or €1-2 per round | Hand cash to the bartender. | | Taxis | Round up or 5-10% | Tell the driver the total amount you wish to pay. | | Hotels (Bellhops) | €1-2 per bag | Hand cash directly to the porter. | | Hotels (Housekeeping) | €2-5 per night | Leave cash in the room at the end of your stay. | | Tour Guides | €5-10 (half-day), €10-20 (full-day) | Hand cash directly to the guide. | | Hairdressers | 5-10% of the bill | Hand cash directly to the stylist or leave it at the reception desk. | | Delivery Drivers | €1-3 | Hand cash directly to the driver. | | Public Restrooms | €0.50-1 | Leave coins in the designated plate or jar. |

By following these guidelines, you’ll not only show appreciation for good service but also demonstrate cultural awareness and respect during your visit to Frankfurt.