Decoding the Tipping Etiquette in Greece: A 2024 Guide

Navigating a new country's tipping culture can be tricky. To help you avoid any faux pas and ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Greece, we've compiled this comprehensive guide to tipping in 2024.

The Greek Perspective on Tipping

Unlike countries like the US or Canada, tipping in Greece isn't mandatory. Service workers receive a regular salary and benefits, so a tip isn't considered an obligation. Instead, it's seen as a kind gesture of appreciation for excellent service.

Think of it as a way to say "thank you" for going above and beyond, rather than a fixed expense.

Tipping in Restaurants and Tavernas: From "Kouver" to Generous Gratuities

• Restaurants: High-end restaurants may include a service charge, but it's still customary to leave an additional 10% tip, or even 20% for exceptional service. For Michelin-starred experiences, opt for banknotes instead of coins.
• "Kouver" Charge: Don't be surprised to find a "kouver" charge on your bill. This covers the bread and dips served at the beginning of your meal. If you'd rather skip it, politely inform your server.
• Tavernas: These traditional eateries are generally more casual. Leaving a few euros (around 1-2) per person is a thoughtful gesture, especially if you're impressed with the service.

Cafes, Bars, and Beyond: When a Euro or Two Speaks Volumes

Tipping isn't expected in casual settings like cafes, bars, bakeries, or kiosks. However, rounding up your bill to the nearest euro is a common practice and a polite way to show appreciation.

Taxis, Transfers, and Tours: Recognizing Exceptional Service

• Taxis: Tipping taxi drivers within a city isn't necessary, but rounding up the fare is a nice gesture.
• Private Transfers: For airport transfers or private rides with luggage assistance, a few euros are appreciated.
• Private Tours: If you've enjoyed a fantastic private tour, a tip of €10-20 per person for a full-day excursion is a generous way to show your gratitude.
• Tour Guides: Tipping your tour guide isn't mandatory but is customary, especially for free tours or exceptional service. A tip of €5-10 per person for half-day tours and €10-20 for full-day tours is a good benchmark.

Hotels: Showing Appreciation for Hospitality

• Family-Run Hotels: Tipping isn't expected in smaller, family-run establishments where the owners are actively involved in the day-to-day operations.
• Larger Hotels: A tip of €5-10 is customary for porters who handle your luggage, especially in Santorini and other hilly islands. Leaving a tip of €20 for housekeeping at the end of your stay (up to 7 days) is a thoughtful gesture.

Sailing Trips: Acknowledging Your Skipper's Expertise

Sailing in Greece is considered a luxury experience. It's customary to tip your skipper at the end of your trip. A tip of €120-150 for a skippered vessel or €200-300 per skipper per passenger is standard.

Other Situations:

• Green Markets: Tipping isn't expected unless you receive exceptional service, such as having your produce cleaned or prepared.
• Home Delivery: For small deliveries (under €20), a €1 tip is sufficient. For larger orders, €3-5 is appropriate.

The Bottom Line: Tipping with Confidence in Greece

Tipping in Greece is about recognizing and rewarding exceptional service. While not mandatory, a small gesture of appreciation goes a long way in expressing your gratitude and ensuring a positive experience for everyone.

This guide provides a general overview of tipping etiquette in Greece. Ultimately, the best approach is to be observant, use your best judgment, and enjoy the warm hospitality this beautiful country is known for.

On this day in 1902, the Antikythera Mechanism was discovered