Tipping & Etiquette
The Dutch are known for their frugality (zuinigheid) — and this is reflected in their tipping culture:
- Restaurants: Tipping is not mandatory but customary. 5–10% of the bill or rounding up to the next whole amount. 15–20% as in the USA would be unusual.
- Cafés/Bars: Small change in the tip jar or rounding up to the next euro. Rounding up a beer from 5.50 € to 6 € is typical.
- Taxis: Round up to the next euro or 5–10% for long rides.
- Hotels: Bellboy: 1–2 € per suitcase. Room cleaning: not customary, but 2–5 € is appreciated.
General Etiquette
- Punctuality: The Dutch are punctual — even more so than Germans. Being late is considered rude.
- Greeting: Three kisses on the cheek (right-left-right) among acquaintances. On first contact: handshake.
- Shoes on: Unlike in Scandinavia, you keep your shoes on in Dutch homes — unless the host asks otherwise.
- "Going Dutch": Everyone pays for themselves — even when dining with friends. Split bills are the norm, not rudeness.
- Conversation topics: Politics, football, weather, travel — all okay. Talking about money is not taboo (unlike in Germany). Only the question "Do you rent or own?" can be sensitive (real estate prices are a constant topic).
