Hungary: check the bill for a service charge before tipping
Do
- When paying, first check whether the bill lists a service charge (szervizdíj)
- If it does, you generally don't need to tip extra
- If not, and service was fine, tip about 10%
- Before paying by card, state the total including the tip
- Hand cash tips directly to your server
Don’t
- Don't leave cash on the table and walk away
- If service is already included, you can choose 0 when the card machine asks for a tip
Service charges are typically around 10–15% and count as the staff's payment. Many card terminals can't add a tip afterwards, so say the total first. Leaving cash on the table is uncommon and not secure.
Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: Hungary Unlocked: Tipping in Hungary