Guide to Tipping in Budapest: When, Where, And How Much
I don’t know about you, but navigating tipping culture in other countries always feels a bit like walking a tightrope. We all know it’s never quite as much as the U.S. standard, but at the same time, the last thing I want to do is skip a tip where it’s genuinely appreciated—or expected! So, after some personal sleuthing and my own Budapest travel experience, here’s my Budapest tipping guide. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee, settling up after a meal, or wrapping up a tour, here’s the real deal on tipping culture in Budapest.
Table of Contents
A Quick Note on Hungarian Currency
Hungary is part of the EU, but does not use the euro. In Budapest, you’ll be using the Hungarian forint (HUF). While some very touristy places may accept euros, it’s best to stick with forints to avoid unfavorable exchange rates. Bills come in denominations from 500 to 20,000 HUF, while coins cover smaller amounts. Hungary’s inflation rate is a moving target and exchange rates fluctuate, so use Google’s free currency converter to figure out rates before your trip. ATMs are easy to find around the city (just avoid Euronet ATMs at all costs because of sky-high fees and terrible exchange rates).
Is Tipping Expected in Budapest?
Tips are generally expected in Budapest at restaurants and for “free” tours. Unlike in the U.S., food service staff here do not rely on tips for most of their pay. Tipping for taxis and hotels is more discretionary but still appreciated.
How Much Do I Tip in Budapest?
Here’s a quick guide to handle gratuity in Budapest:
1. Tipping in Budapest Restaurants
At nearly any sit-down restaurant in central Budapest—whether fancy or casual—a service charge (typically 10-12.5%) is included on the bill. You can confirm this by scanning the receipt for words like “szerviz,” “díj,” or “szervizdíj.” If you’re unsure, just ask your server if service is included. If it’s not, a 10-12% tip is customary, which you can add to the total when paying.
2. Tipping in Budapest Bars
For a drink at the bar, simply round up to the nearest convenient number. For example, if your drink costs 3,500 HUF, rounding up to 4,000 HUF (about $1.30 USD extra) works well. With table service, check the bill for a service charge, as it may already be included.
Note: Many central city bars use point-of-sale systems with an automatic tip percentage option that can’t be removed (like Toast which popped up everywhere in the US during covid-times). However, these tips may not go directly to staff, so it’s often better to tip in cash. When in doubt, just ask your bartender; they’ll likely appreciate the consideration.
3. Tipping in Budapest Cafés
For casual coffee orders, rounding up to the nearest convenient number is enough. If there’s table service, some cafés may add a service fee, so it’s worth checking the bill before adding any extra tip.
4. Tipping in Budapest Taxis
Not required, but for good service, rounding up to the nearest hundred is straightforward and appreciated. For instance, if the fare is 2,700 HUF, round up to 3,000 HUF. For rides booked through apps (Uber and Bolt), tipping options are available within the app.
5. Tipping in Budapest Hotels
While tipping in hotels isn’t obligatory, it’s a nice gesture for exceptional service. Consider tipping 500-1,000 HUF (around $1.50-2.75 USD) for help with luggage or 1,000 HUF for a helpful concierge. Most staff won’t expect it, but they’ll appreciate it for special services.
6. Tipping Budapest Tour Guides
For “free tours,” tipping around 4,000-6,000 HUF (about $10-15 USD) is customary, especially for engaging and knowledgeable guides. Despite the term “free tour,” the expectation is that you’ll tip if the guide is good. For paid tours, a 10% tip is recommended if you’re satisfied with the experience.
Tips for Restaurant Tipping in Budapest
- Check for “Szervizdíj”: This one’s important—always check if the service charge is included by looking for “szerviz,” “díj,” or “szervizdíj” on your receipt. If it’s there, no need to leave anything extra.
- State the Total When Paying: If no service charge is included, tell your server the total amount you’re paying, including the tip, when handing over your cash or card. For instance, if your bill is 4,500 HUF and you’re tipping 500 HUF, simply say “5,000, please.” Note that most credit card machines won’t let you add a tip after running your card, like they do in the U.S.
A Practical Tip for Tipping in Budapest
Converting from USD to HUF is not particularly easy math to do in your head (or, at least, not for me). Before your trip, use Google’s free currency converter to convert a few basic tip amounts from USD to HUF (e.g., $1, $2, $5, and $10) and save those in a note on your phone. That way, you can easily reference those amounts without needing to open a currency conversion app each time.
So, Do You Need to Tip in Budapest?
Generally, yes, in restaurants, bars, and cafés if there’s no service charge included and the service was good. In most central city restaurants, however, a 10-12% service fee is added, so you’re not obligated to tip extra in those cases. In bars and cafés where service is not included (which usually won’t be if there is no table service) rounding up to the nearest convenient whole number is appreciated.
For taxis, hotels, and paid tours, tipping is more discretionary based on service, though always appreciated.
Planning a trip to Budapest? Have questions about local customs or tips to share? Let’s hear from you in the comments below!