TIPPING IN LITHUANIA

In the U.S. tipping is customary and expected for everything from lackluster to outstanding service. It is an etiquette that is ingrained in all trades, from wait staff at restaurants to our baristas, valets, cab drivers, porters, and many more trades.

The questions `when?` and `how much?` that surround tipping can leave some travelers confused, as the practice varies. This guide attempts to cover most situations that you, as a tourist, will encounter. Hopefully using these `tips` will provide a smooth experience when interacting with locals in restaurants, bars, hotels, tour operators, and taxis.

In Lithuania tipping is quite a new trend that was brought by tourists and international businesses in late 90’s. So it isn’t very common and there are no standard rules. But it can show your appreciation of good service you just received. Read on to learn tipping etiquette in Lithuania.

Currency: Can I pay in U.S. dollars, or should I use the Euro?

The currency of Lithuania is the Euro, US dollars are not accepted. In Lithuania there are plenty of ATMs in and around the country to withdraw cash. Citadele Bankas, Lithuania`s Amex representative, exchanges currency.

Restaurants, Cafes, and Bars: When should I tip? How much is customary?

It’s common to tip even for the locals. However, you should always check if service is already included on the bill. If it isn’t, then you should tip 10-15% for good service.

In bars or cafes tips are welcome, but there are no standard rules. Most of the times you may see a tip jar on the counter to throw change in, so you don’t need to tip bartenders or baristas directly. The only exception might be expensive, luxury bars where you are expected to tip the barman directly.

Hotel Staff: Who should I tip?

Tipping hotel staff isn’t common, but definitely appreciated. More and more international hotel chains are opening their branches in Lithuania in recent years. And if the majority of tourists staying there are from Western world, staff is already accustomed to western style tipping culture. So, you should follow common tipping rules.

If you are staying at a cheaper mid-class local hotel, there are no standard rules. Variety of people visit Lithuania and some of them don’t tip at all and it’s considered to be OK.

Taxi Drivers: Should I tip?

Tipping a taxi driver isn’t common or expected. Especially today, when most of taxi companies have apps to hail cars and use non-cash transactions (Using an app is also a good way to make sure a driver is not overcharging you, since the price of the ride is shown before you even request a ride). If you decide to pay cash, you can round up to make things easier.

Another way to show appreciation of good service is to leave a 5 star review - which is possible through the same apps.

Guides: Should I tip?

Tips are always expected in free tours - your tip is the only earning guides get. They are not getting paid by the city or other entities on top. However, there is no standard rule for what to tip. We suggest tipping about 10 euros per person.

For regular payed tours or private ones, tips are always appreciated. Especially, if you really enjoyed it and learned lot’s of new things, but there are no standard rules. Final Thoughts:

Overall, tipping is not very common and there are no standard rules. But it can show your appreciation of good service you received. Also keep in mind, that hospitality sector in Lithuania is not the highest paying in terms of monthly salaries, so in some cases your tip might mean more than you think!