What to say when tipping in Germany?

Tipping in Germany: A Simple Guide to Showing Your Appreciation

Tipping in Germany isn’t as fraught with unspoken rules and complex calculations as it can be in some other countries. While not mandatory, it’s a common and appreciated way to acknowledge good service. The key is to keep it simple, clear, and integrated into the payment process.

Forget about calculating percentages. In Germany, tipping is typically done by rounding up the bill to a convenient amount. Let’s say your meal costs €18.50. You could round up to €20, giving a €1.50 tip. Or, if you felt the service was exceptional, you could round up to €22. The beauty of this system is its flexibility. You determine what feels appropriate based on the quality of service.

The most important aspect is clear communication. When handing over your payment, clearly state the total amount you intend to pay. For example, if giving €20 for an €18.50 bill, you would say “Zwanzig” (twenty). This prevents any confusion and ensures the server understands you’re including a tip.

Alternatively, you can use the phrases “Stimmt so” (that’s right) or “Passt so” (that’s fine). These phrases, paired with handing over the rounded-up amount, indicate that you’re happy with the total and don’t need any change back. They’re concise, polite, and widely understood.

Here are a few examples to illustrate:

• Scenario 1: Your bill is €7.80. You want to give a €0.20 tip. Hand over €8 and say “Acht” (eight).
• Scenario 2: Your bill is €23.30. You want to give a €1.70 tip. Hand over €25 and say “Fünfundzwanzig” (twenty-five).
• Scenario 3: Your bill is €12.20. You want to give a €0.80 tip. Hand over €13 and say “Stimmt so” or “Passt so.”

While cash is still king in many German establishments, card payments are becoming increasingly popular. When paying by card, you can usually add a tip after the total is displayed on the card reader. If this option isn’t available, you can still round up by telling the server the total you wish to charge to your card. For instance, if the bill is €38.50 and you wish to pay €40, you would say “Vierzig” (forty).

Remember, tipping in Germany is a gesture of appreciation, not an obligation. By using these simple phrases and rounding up your bill, you can confidently navigate tipping etiquette and show your gratitude for good service.