Tipping is a common practice in many parts of the world, especially in the United States, where it’s often expected to supplement service workers’ incomes. However, not every country views tipping the same way.
In some places, tipping is optional, minimal, or even discouraged and yet, the level of service remains high.
In these cultures, hospitality is built into the profession, and workers are compensated fairly by employers rather than relying on tips.
Let’s explore 18 countries where tipping doesn’t significantly influence the quality of service you receive.
1. Japan
In Japan, tipping is considered unnecessary and can even be seen as disrespectful. The concept of omotenashi offering selfless hospitality is deeply rooted in Japanese culture.
Service workers, from restaurant staff to hotel employees, take pride in their roles and strive to exceed expectations.
Leaving a tip can sometimes cause confusion or embarrassment, especially in rural areas or traditional settings.
2. South Korea
Tipping is not a common practice in South Korea. Most businesses include a service charge in their prices, and staff are expected to deliver quality service as a standard.
Whether you’re dining at a Korean BBQ or visiting a spa, the staff will serve you professionally without the expectation of extra payment. Politeness and attention to detail are part of Korean service culture.
3. China
In mainland China, tipping is not customary and may even be declined in some establishments. The quality of service is generally tied to professionalism and efficiency, especially in large cities.
While tipping is more common in places like Hong Kong or international hotels, it is not expected among locals. Many service providers prefer not to receive extra money, relying instead on their standard pay.
4. France
French law requires that service charges be included in restaurant bills, which makes tipping optional. Known as “service compris,” this charge ensures that waitstaff are paid fairly.
While leaving a small amount of change or rounding up the bill is a nice gesture, it won’t significantly influence the quality of service. In France, serving is a respected profession with proper training and dignity.
5. Italy
In Italy, tipping is more symbolic than necessary. Most restaurants charge a coperto or cover charge, which serves as a built-in service fee.
Italians don’t tip large amounts but may leave a few euros or round up as a kind gesture. High-quality service is part of Italian pride, especially in local trattorias and family-run businesses, where the experience matters more than gratuity.
6. Germany
While tipping known as Trinkgeld is practiced in Germany, it’s modest and not obligatory. Rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is appreciated, but you won’t receive poor service if you skip it.
Waitstaff and hotel workers are paid reasonable wages, and German service tends to be efficient, organized, and courteous as a professional standard.
7. Netherlands
Tipping in the Netherlands is low-key and modest. Most bills already include service charges, and it’s common to simply round up the bill.
A few euros left behind for good service is fine, but not tipping doesn’t reflect poorly on you. Dutch service workers are well-trained and polite, and professionalism is maintained regardless of whether you leave a tip.
8. Norway
Norwegians enjoy one of the highest living standards in the world, and service workers are no exception. With strong labor protections and high wages, tipping is not expected.
Some people may round up the bill or leave a small amount in nicer restaurants, but it’s entirely optional. Service in Norway is generally friendly, efficient, and unaffected by tipping habits.
9. Sweden
In Sweden, tipping is not part of the cultural norm. Most people don’t tip unless they receive extraordinary service, and even then, it’s modest.
Restaurants and cafes often include service fees in the final bill. Swedish society values equality, and good service is seen as a professional responsibility, not something to be incentivized with extra money.
10. Finland
Finnish workers are paid competitive wages, and as a result, tipping is rare. In restaurants or taxis, locals typically don’t tip, though rounding up is acceptable.
Service is delivered with a strong emphasis on politeness, competence, and minimalism. There’s no expectation for you to leave extra cash to receive respectful treatment.
11. Iceland
In Iceland, service fees are included in pricing across most businesses. The culture does not revolve around tipping, and workers do not rely on it for income.
Icelandic service is straightforward, helpful, and honest qualities the locals take pride in. Whether in a Reykjavik café or a rural guesthouse, you’ll be treated well regardless of tipping.
12. Denmark
Danes are paid well due to strong unions and labor laws. In Denmark, it’s unusual to tip in restaurants, taxis, or hotels. If someone does leave a tip, it’s more of a personal thank-you than an obligation.
Excellent service is a cultural expectation, and Danish hospitality reflects a sense of equality and professionalism.
13. New Zealand
In New Zealand, tipping is not part of the service model. Locals don’t usually tip, and businesses don’t expect it either.
Service staff are paid a decent wage, and hospitality is generally warm and genuine. Tourists may tip out of habit, but locals are more likely to offer a “thank you” than extra cash.
14. Australia
Australia has strong labor protections and a relatively high minimum wage. Because of this, service industry workers earn a fair income without depending on tips.
While some patrons in upscale restaurants might leave a small gratuity, the majority of Aussies don’t tip regularly and yet service remains attentive, friendly, and efficient.
15. Singapore
Singapore is a country where discipline and courtesy are highly emphasized. Tipping is not expected and is sometimes discouraged.
Most establishments automatically add a 10% service charge to the bill. Service in Singapore is consistent and reliable, and employees strive to maintain the country’s reputation for excellence regardless of tips.
16. Taiwan
Tipping isn’t a standard practice in Taiwan, though it may occur in luxury hotels or with private tour guides. Most restaurants and services include any fees in their pricing. What you’ll find instead is a culture of politeness, attentiveness, and effort, with workers delivering great service as part of their role, not in exchange for a tip.
17. Switzerland
Switzerland mandates fair wages for service workers, and tips are minimal or already included. The Swiss are known for efficiency and precision, and this extends to their service industry.
Rounding up is appreciated, but staff do not rely on tips and won’t treat you any differently based on what you leave behind.
18. Belgium
In Belgium, service charges are often factored into the bill, especially in restaurants and cafes. Locals may round up or leave a euro or two, but tipping isn’t expected.
You’ll still receive courteous and professional service whether or not you leave extra money. Belgian culture places value on respect and proper conduct across all professions.
Alicia Richards