Polish tipping norms are simpler than many countries but differ from Western European standards. Here's the definitive guide.
Restaurants: 10% is the standard tip at sit-down restaurants. At higher-end restaurants, 10-15% is appreciated for excellent service. Most restaurants do NOT include service charge automatically. When paying by card, tell the server the total amount including tip (e.g., "120 PLN please" on a 108 PLN bill) or leave cash on the table. Many card terminals now offer a tipping option — use it if available.
Cafes and bars: rounding up is the norm. On a 37 PLN tab, pay 40. At cocktail bars, tipping 5-10 PLN per round is appreciated by the bartender. At budget bars and milk bars, tipping is not expected.
Taxis and rideshare: round up to the nearest 5 or 10 PLN. On a 42 PLN fare, pay 45 or 50. Bolt and Uber allow in-app tipping.
Tour guides: for free walking tours, tip 20-50 PLN per person based on group size and quality. For paid tours, 10-20 PLN is a nice gesture. For private guides, 50-100 PLN is appropriate.
Hotels: 5-10 PLN per bag for porters, 10-20 PLN per day for housekeeping (left in the room with a note), 10-20 PLN for concierge services.
Spa and wellness: 10% of treatment cost.
Where tipping is NOT expected: fast food, self-service, market vendors, shop assistants, museum staff, and public transport.
Found this useful? Share it: