Is tipping a regular practice in Switzerland? If so, what is the appropriate amount?
Also, are there any behaviors, etc. the Swiss would find offensive that I want to avoid?
Posted by
Florida
1450 posts
Tipping small amounts for good service, as you would in France, seems to be the norm in my experience.
Otherwise, observe all the normal rules courtesy and you will be fine.
Posted by
Basel, Switzerland
8889 posts
No, it is not "regular" to tip. If you, for example are in a restaurant or café and have a bill for CHF 18.50, you could hand over a 20 and tell them to keep the change. That is not universal, some do, most don't.
You will notice that restaurant and café staff carry around a large leather hip-wallet (on a belt), full of coins and small notes, so they can give the exact change.
Do not tip anywhere else. You are never wrong if you don't tip.
Further points about paying.
- Do not assume a café, restaurant or shop takes credit cards, most do but some don't, or have a minimum amount (CHF 10 or 20)
- Do not worry about CHF 100 notes. That is normal money and you will have no problem paying with them. There are also CHF 200 and CHF 1000 available.