In short: tipping in Amsterdam is appreciated but not required. Dutch service workers are paid fair wages, so tips are not obligatory — but leaving a small tip for good service is common in restaurants and taxis.
- What is the Tipping Culture in Amsterdam?
- Tipping in Amsterdam by Situation
- Tipping in Restaurants in Amsterdam
- Tipping in Amsterdam Taxis
- Tipping in Amsterdam Hotels
- Is Tipping a Thing in Amsterdam? Let’s Set the Record Straight
- Cultural Insights on Tipping Etiquette in Amsterdam
- Tipping Etiquette in Amsterdam Restaurants
- Tipping in Amsterdam Netherlands: Summary Table
- FAQ: Tipping in Amsterdam
- Bonus Tip: Don’t Let Luggage Slow You Down
- Should You Tip in Amsterdam?
What is the Tipping Culture in Amsterdam?
Amsterdam, like most of the Netherlands, doesn’t have a strong tipping culture. The Dutch are known for being practical and transparent — this is reflected in their approach to tipping. While it’s not expected, tipping is often seen as a gesture of appreciation for great service.
Is There a Tipping Culture in Amsterdam?
Yes, but it’s quite relaxed. Service charges are usually included in the bill. However, locals may round up or leave a small extra amount in certain situations.
Tipping in Amsterdam by Situation
| Service | Is Tipping Expected? | Typical Tip | Notes |
| Restaurants | Not required, but appreciated | 5-10% | Round up small bills |
| Bars | Not expected | Round up | Leave coins |
| Taxis | Not mandatory | Round up or 5-10% | Helpful for heavy luggage |
| Hotels | Optional | €1–€2 per service | For housekeeping, concierge |
| Tours | Appreciated | €5–€10 per person | Especially for private tours |
| Hairdressers | Optional | €1–€2 | For excellent service |
Tipping in Restaurants in Amsterdam
Is Tipping Customary in Amsterdam Restaurants?
Tipping in restaurants in Amsterdam is customary but not compulsory. If the service was good, locals often leave a tip of 5%–10% of the bill. For small meals or coffees, rounding up is the norm.
Most restaurants already include VAT and service charge in the bill. However, if you’re paying by card, you may need to ask to add a tip, as some terminals don’t have that option.
- Tip: Always check if service charge is included. Look for “inclusief servicekosten” on the receipt.
Tipping in Amsterdam Taxis
Tipping Taxi Drivers in Amsterdam
Tipping in Amsterdam taxis is not required, but if the driver helps with luggage, takes a faster route, or is particularly friendly, rounding up the fare or adding €1–€2 is a kind gesture.
Use reputable taxi services such as TCA or rideshare apps like Uber to avoid scams.
Tipping in Amsterdam Hotels
Is Tipping Common in Amsterdam Hotels?
Yes, especially for services like luggage assistance or housekeeping. Here’s a quick guide:
- Bellhop: €1–€2 per bag
- Housekeeping: €1–€2 per night
- Concierge: €5–€10 for special help (like securing reservations)
Most hotels in Amsterdam do not expect tips, but they are appreciated.
Is Tipping a Thing in Amsterdam? Let’s Set the Record Straight
Here’s a breakdown addressing the most common tipping-related queries:
| Question | Answer |
| Is tipping normal in Amsterdam? | Yes, but not obligatory |
| Is tipping required in Amsterdam? | No |
| Is tipping expected in Amsterdam? | Not always, but appreciated |
| Is tipping a thing in Amsterdam? | Yes, in specific situations |
| What is tipping culture in Amsterdam? | Casual and modest |
| Is there tipping in Amsterdam? | Yes, especially in hospitality |
| Is tipping customary in Amsterdam? | For good service, yes |
| Is tipping common in Amsterdam? | Yes, in restaurants, taxis, and hotels |
| Tipping protocol in Amsterdam? | Round up or 5–10% for good service |
Cultural Insights on Tipping Etiquette in Amsterdam
Understanding the Dutch mindset helps:
- Salaries are decent: Employees don’t rely on tips to survive.
- Equality-focused culture: Excessive tipping might feel out of place.
- Politeness matters: A sincere “dank je wel” (thank you) can go a long way.
Tipping Etiquette in Amsterdam Restaurants
If you’re enjoying a fine-dining experience, tipping 10% is appreciated. In casual eateries, rounding up to the nearest euro or leaving small change is more than enough.
Tipping in Amsterdam Netherlands: Summary Table
| Location | Tip Amount | Method |
| Café | Round up | Cash preferred |
| Mid-range Restaurant | 5–10% | Cash or card |
| Luxury Restaurant | 10–15% | Card (ask server) |
| Taxi | Round up or €1–€2 | Cash |
| Hotel Staff | €1–€2 | Cash |
| Tour Guides | €5–€10 | Cash |
FAQ: Tipping in Amsterdam
1. Is tipping mandatory in Amsterdam?
No, tipping is optional. It’s a gesture, not a requirement.
2. Can I tip with a credit card?
Sometimes. Ask your server — some card machines don’t allow adding tips.
3. What do locals do?
Locals often round up or tip modestly. Excessive tipping is rare.
4. Is it rude not to tip in Amsterdam?
Not at all. Staff don’t expect tips, but they do appreciate them.
5. Should I tip tour guides?
Yes, especially for private or long tours — €5–€10 per person is appropriate.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Let Luggage Slow You Down
Radical Storage: Your Travel Ally in Amsterdam
Exploring Amsterdam’s beautiful canals, museums, and cafés is much more enjoyable without dragging a suitcase behind you.
That’s where Radical Storage comes in.
- 100% Secure: All locations are verified
- Flat Daily Rate: No hourly charges — around €5 per bag/day
- Insurance Included: Up to €3000 coverage
- Available Everywhere: Over 3,000 locations worldwide
- Easy Booking: Book in 2 minutes via app or website
Whether you’re visiting Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House, or just killing time before your flight, drop your bags at a nearby Radical Storage spot and enjoy Amsterdam hands-free!
Should You Tip in Amsterdam?
Tipping in Amsterdam is not required, but always appreciated. Understanding the tipping etiquette in Amsterdam — from restaurants to taxis to hotels — helps you show appreciation without overdoing it. Keep it simple: tip when the service is good and round up when in doubt.
And remember, travel light — not just metaphorically. Use Radical Storage to drop off your bags and fully enjoy your Amsterdam adventure!
Helpful Links
- I amsterdam – Official Amsterdam Tourism
- Amsterdam Public Transport (GVB)
- TCA Taxi Amsterdam
- Radical Storage Amsterdam Locations
