Short answer: tipping in Amsterdam is welcome but never obligatory. Service is already included in the price, so a tip is a genuine thank you for good service rather than a duty, and the amounts are much smaller than you might be used to. For a good restaurant meal, round up or leave about 5 to 10 percent. For a coffee, a beer or a quick lunch, simply rounding up is plenty.
How much to leave, by situation
| Situation | What’s normal |
|---|---|
| Restaurant (good service) | Round up, or about 5 to 10 percent |
| Cafe / bar | Round up, leave the small change |
| Quick lunch / coffee / takeaway | Nothing expected; round up if you like |
| Taxi | Round up to the nearest euro or two |
| Hotel housekeeping / porter | Optional; a euro or two is a nice gesture |
Tipping by card
Most places are card first. Some terminals will ask if you want to add a tip or let you enter the total you’d like to pay. If the terminal doesn’t offer it, just tell the staff the amount you want to pay including the tip, or leave the extra in cash on the table. Either is completely normal.
The one thing to remember
You will never be chased for a tip here, and staff are not paid on the assumption of one. Tip when the service was good, keep it modest, and don’t feel awkward leaving nothing for a quick coffee.
FAQ
Do you tip in Amsterdam? It’s not obligatory. Service is included by law, so a tip is a thank you for good service, not a duty, and amounts are smaller than in the US.
How much do you tip in restaurants? For good service, round up or leave about 5 to 10 percent. There’s no expectation of 15 to 20 percent.
Do you tip taxi drivers? Rounding up to the nearest euro or two is common, or roughly 5 to 10 percent on a longer ride.
Do you tip in hotels? Optional. A euro or two for housekeeping or a porter is a kind gesture, never expected.
How do you tip by card? Many terminals let you add a tip or set the total; otherwise tell the staff the amount including the tip, or leave cash.