🇩🇪Germany · Plumber / Electrician / Tradesperson
How much to tip a tradesperson in Germany (2026 Guide)
UnusualCash preferred
€0 — not customary
No calculator for this service in Germany— tipping isn't practiced here in a way that maps to a percentage.
Cultural notes
Handwerker (plumbers, electricians, painters) in Germany do not expect tips — they are trained, certified professionals who invoice the agreed amount. Offering a coffee or cold drink during a long job is the German politeness norm. For a small unbilled extra, €5–10 cash at the end is gracious but distinctly unusual.
Frequently asked questions
Tip a German plumber?
No — pay the Rechnung; offer a coffee.
Bigger job — anything?
A drink or snack during the day is more appreciated than cash.
Tipping other services in Germany
- Sit-down restaurantRound up + 5–10% — state the total verbally before paying
- Counter / takeawayRound up to next euro
- CaféRound up to next euro — say "Stimmt so"
- BarRound up by 50¢–€1 per drink
- Housekeeping€2–5 per night
- Porter€1–2 per bag
- Concierge€5–20 for a real favour
- TaxiRound up + 5–10%
- RideshareRound up via app — €1–2 typical
- Food delivery€1–3 in cash or app
- Grocery delivery€1–2 if you tip at all
- Hairdresser5–10% — round up to the nearest €5
- Spa5–10%, €5–10 typical for a massage
- Tour guide€5 per person group, €10–20 per person for free walking tours, 10% private
- Tattoo artist5–20% optional; not expected
- Valet€1–2 on return
- Airport baggage€1–2 per bag if you use a porter
- Busker€1–3 if you stopped to listen
- Movers€5/hour per mover, or €10–20 each for a longer move
Tipping a tradesperson in nearby countries
Last verified: · Sources: liveingermany.de, iamexpat.de