Is tipping expected?

Tipping in Poland is welcome but modest, and never at the level expected in the United States. For good service in a restaurant, rounding up or leaving about 10 percent is normal. It is not compulsory, and there is no need to tip for a quick coffee or a counter meal.

The "dziekuje" trap

Here is the one thing to get right. When you hand over cash or a card and say "dziekuje" (thank you), it is often understood as "keep the change". So if you want change back, do not say it yet; if you are paying by card, tell the server the total amount you want charged, tip included, before they enter it. Many card terminals also let you add a tip on screen.

Rough guide

• Restaurants: around 10 percent for good service, or round up.
• Cafes and bars: round up the coins, nothing more expected.
• Taxis: round up to the nearest few zloty.
• Hotels and guides: a small note for genuinely helpful service.