How to tip around the world: Sweden
Whether you’re exploring the picturesque towns along the beautiful coastline or you’re city-breaking in Stockholm, there’ll come a time when you’ll need to know about the etiquette around tipping in Sweden.
To help you figure it out, we’ve created a series of guides for tipping in different places. Read on to find out where, when, and how to tip in Sweden.
Note: Due to the COVID-19 global pandemic, remember to check current travel restrictions before booking travel.
Tipping tips
Service workers are well paid in Sweden, so tipping is not part of the culture. However, if you receive outstanding service, a tip of 5% or more is a nice way to show your appreciation.
Currency: Swedish Krona (SEK)
Restaurants
Generous wages for restaurant staff and sky-high taxes on alcohol mean the bill in restaurants alone can be pricey, and therefore you’re only expected to pay what you owe. But if you insist on tipping in Swedish restaurants for outstanding service, 5% is more than enough.
Bars and pubs
There’s no need to tip in bars in Sweden. If you want to, round up the amount to the nearest krona and make the bartender’s day.
If you’re visiting during winter, be sure to order a glass of delicious Glögg (Swedish mulled wine).
Hotels
A service charge is added to the final bill in most Swedish hotels. Only tip if the service is outstanding.
In terms of how much tip you should leave:
- If the doorman hails you a cab, 5-10 SEK is plenty
- For the porter who helps you carry your luggage to your room, 5-10 SEK
- If your room is pristine, leave 5-10 SEK for the housekeeping staff for each night of your stay
Taxi drivers
When it comes to how much tip to leave in Sweden for taxi drivers, simply round up the fare and leave the change.
Tour guides
Tipping is common in the Swedish tourism industry. Anything between 10-15% of the tour price is the norm.
Should you pay by cash or card?
You’ll need to pay by debit or credit card in Sweden. Most banks have stopped handling cash and many shops, museums and restaurants require plastic or mobile payment.
The main reason you need cash is for tips.