- Mar 7, 2023
- 2 min read

Tipping in Iceland

Updated: Sep 17, 2023

Location: Iceland

Great for: Singles, Couples, Families, Groups, Elopements, and Honeymoons

Person standing at Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach — Basalt Columns at Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach in Iceland

As Americans, we are obsessed with doing the right thing with tipping. Tipping is a question I get all the time. In the US we tip a lot. It is very different in Europe and mostly non-existent in Iceland. Icelanders are paid well so tipping is not expected with only a few exceptions. Don't worry, you won't get stared at if you don't tip!

Okay, ready? Here we go:

Waiter/waitress: Your bill will usually come with a 15% service charge. If it does, there is no need to tip. If it does not, you can leave 10% if you like.

Bartender: It is uncommon to tip a bartender in Iceland

Taxi: No tipping

Room Service: No tipping

Hotel Housekeeper: No tipping but if you had an exceptionally messy evening, you might consider it.

Porter/Bellhop: A tip is not expected but if you have a lot of heavy bags, you can always give them 1-2 Krona

The Blue Lagoon and Spa in Iceland — The Blue Lagoon and Spa

Spa Services: Again, not expected. If you are staying at a spa, check the spa menu for recommendations.

Guided Tours: Tours vary slightly from the norm depending on the type of tour. If you are on a bus tour, your documents will advise you on the recommended amounts to tip the driver, local tour guides, and/ or the tour director.

Photo of Funky Food and Beer Tour. — Funky Food and Beer Tour - No Tipping

Local Tour Guides: They don't expect a tip but may take one if offered. The Funky Food and Beer Tour, pictured here, advised us not to tip.

If you know your will be tipping and want to be extra prepared: Bring your tips already separated and addressed in a sealed envelope for each person/vendor (always carry the cash for tips with you). That way you don’t forget anyone. And bring an extra envelope with extra money, for the unexpected or if you decide to add on a bit for someone who saves the day.

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