Tipping in Switzerland can be a bit of a minefield for tourists and expats alike. Unlike in some other countries where tipping is an integral part of the service culture, in Switzerland, it’s not always expected. However, it’s still a way to show appreciation for good service. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate Swiss tipping etiquette.
Have you ever traveled to Switzerland? What was your experience with tipping there? Feel free to share your stories and tips in the comments below!
Tipping in Restaurants
When dining out in Switzerland, you’ll notice that service charges are often included in the bill. This means you’re not obligated to leave an additional tip. However, if you’ve received excellent service, it’s customary to leave a small tip. The amount usually ranges from 5% to 10% of the total bill. For instance, if your meal costs 100 CHF, you might leave a tip of 5-10 CHF. Alternatively, you can simply round up the bill to the nearest significant amount. For example, if the bill is 66 CHF, you might leave a 4 CHF tip to make it 70 CHF.
Tipping in Cafés and Bars
In cafés or bars, the tip can be smaller than in restaurants. For smaller bills, it’s usually enough to tip 1 to 2 francs or round up to the next significant amount. If you’re enjoying a particularly fancy café or bar where the coffee preparation is exceptional or you receive outstanding service, you’re welcome to give more. Bartenders who craft extravagant or unusual cocktails may also appreciate a tip.
Tipping in Hotels
Tipping in Swiss hotels is not mandatory, but it’s appreciated for certain services. For housekeeping, leaving a tip of 1-2 CHF per night is considered polite. Bellhops or porters who assist with luggage typically expect a tip of 1-2 CHF per bag. If you receive concierge services, a tip of 5-10 CHF is a nice gesture, especially if the concierge helped with securing reservations, tickets, or provided useful recommendations during your stay. For longer stays, you might consider rounding up the bill amount by 2-5%. For shorter stays, it’s sufficient to tip less or reward individual employees separately for their service.
Tipping Taxi Drivers
Swiss taxi drivers don’t expect large tips since they’re well-compensated for their services. However, it’s still customary to round up the fare or leave a small tip if the service was good. For example, if your fare is 18 CHF, you could round up the fare to 20 CHF, leaving the extra 2 CHF as a tip. If the taxi driver helps with luggage or provides useful local information, a tip of 5-10% is appropriate.
Tipping Tour Guides
Tour guides generally have a good salary, but a tip is a nice gesture, especially after longer or private tours. For a group tour, you can give around 5 to 10 francs. For a private tour, you can give between 10 and 50 francs, depending on your satisfaction. Even for free tours, tour guides will appreciate a small tip. Instead of money, tour guides will also be happy to receive a positive review or recommendation via the internet or social media.
Tipping in Other Services
For hairdressers, spa treatments, or similar services, you can simply round up to the nearest franc or tip around 5-10% – depending on the bill amount. Sometimes there’s a tip jar available. Pizza or food delivery personnel are usually tipped 1-2 francs. If you order heavy deliveries to your home, such as from the supermarket or a furniture store, a small tip of 5-10 francs can show your gratitude. For larger orders or if the delivery person has to carry items to a higher floor or assemble furniture, you can increase the tip accordingly.
Additional Tips
– In Switzerland, tips are usually given in Swiss Francs (CHF). Euros are accepted in some tourist areas but not everywhere. If you pay in a foreign currency, expect to receive change in Swiss Francs.
– When paying by card, some places offer the option to choose the tip percentage, usually 5%, 10%, or 15%. Alternatively, you can enter an amount of your choice. However, the option to skip the tip is sometimes hard to see. If paying with cash, you can directly give the waiter the amount including the tip.
– Tipping is seen as a small token of appreciation rather than an obligation. So if you forget to tip, there’s no need to worry.
In summary, tipping in Switzerland is not as emphasized as in some other countries. While not mandatory, leaving a small tip for good service is a nice gesture that can enhance your interactions and experiences in this beautiful country. Whether you’re rounding up the bill or adding a percentage, your appreciation will be well-received.
