To Tip or Not to Tip (and how much where)
 

I'm no expert on tipping and would like to hear from others what's the norm in different areas. I've often wondered if I'm offending anyone or being excessive in different parts of Europe. In the Czech Republic, tipping varies by the type of restaurant. At a fancy restaurant when the service is good, I'd go up to 15%. In non-tourist restaurants and pubs, people round up slightly, at most to 10%. I've seen many Czechs leave 80 crowns for a 76 Crown bill. In taxis, I round up to the nearest 10 Crowns but not less than 5. Also, it's normal when talking to waiters, to say the total amount you're leaving them including the tip - not how much change to give you back, as in the States. How is it elsewhere?

I thought prices in restaurants in Europe included tips, and that you only add if the service was extra good.

In London I was told to tip a lot, like 15%. But then again, a waiter told us this.

Great Question - Please answer - What about Italy?

Generally in Italy tips are inclluded and the menu will indicate this(or ask the waiter " serviso" is the word.. If, however, tips are not included and you are using your credit card, the waiter would appreciate very much receiving his tip in lire. We generally tip 10-15% when the tip is not included, but in most cases it's already included. <BR>

I'll be in Austria and Germay in a few weeks - how does it work there?

i hear that you shouldn't tip cabbies in paris. they regard it as an insult.

I think for the most part, at least in restaurants, that the polite thing to do is to round up your bill to the next even mark, drachma, franc, whatever. In Italy it's included, usually...you pay for your bread and your service in one shot. Definitely don't go overboard. I hear that many regard Americans as flaunting their wealth when they tip excessively and do not consider it a token of appreciation in these cases.