Unlike the tip-centric customs of other Western destinations, Skopje adopts a more relaxed approach to tipping, where showing appreciation through tipping is a personal choice rather than a mandatory gesture.
In this article, we explore the essentials of tipping in Skopje, guiding you through the ambient cafes, bustling bars, serene hotels, and the convenience of taxi rides.
Learn when a modest rounding up of the bill or leaving a few extra coins can convey a heartfelt thank you, seamlessly blending into the local way of life.
Tipping is not a common practice in Skopje, and it’s not expected in most situations.
Unlike in other countries, where tipping is a crucial part of the service industry, in Skopje, service charges are often included in the bill.
If you do decide to tip, it’s important to do so appropriately.
In Skopje, it’s common to round up the bill or leave a small amount of change.
For example, if your bill is 460 MKD, you could leave 500 MKD as a tip.
It’s also important to remember that tipping is a personal choice, and there’s no set rule about how much you should leave.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide if and how much to tip based on the quality of service you received.
Tipping Culture in Skopje
Skopje, the capital city of Macedonia, has a unique tipping culture.
While tipping is not mandatory, it is appreciated in certain situations.
Here are some general attitudes toward tipping, as well as specific situations where tipping is expected:
General Attitudes Towards Tipping
In Skopje, tipping is not expected in all situations.
However, it is considered polite to tip in certain situations, such as when receiving excellent service or when the service is not included in the bill.
Tipping is also a way to show appreciation for good service and to reward hardworking employees.
Tipping in Restaurants and Bars
In restaurants and bars, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated.
It is customary to tip around 10% of the total bill, but this can vary depending on the level of service received.
If you receive excellent service, you may want to tip more.
Some restaurants may include a service charge in the bill, so be sure to check before tipping.
Tipping Taxi Drivers and Hotel Staff
Tipping taxi drivers in Skopje is not expected, but it is appreciated.
If you receive good service, you can round up the fare or add a few extra coins.
For hotel staff, it is customary to tip the housekeeping staff around 50 MKD (€0.81, $0.88) per day.
If you receive exceptional service from the hotel staff, you may want to tip more.
How to Tip Appropriately
Understanding Local Currency
Before tipping in Skopje, it is important to understand the local currency.
The official currency in Macedonia is the Macedonian Denar (MKD).
It’s recommended to carry small bills and coins with you as some service providers may not have change for larger denominations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the customary tipping percentage in restaurants in Skopje?
In Skopje, it is not customary to leave a tip in restaurants, but it is appreciated if you do.
How do locals handle tipping in Skopje cafes and bars?
In cafes and bars, it’s not necessary to leave a tip, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.
If you’re a regular customer, leaving a small tip can be a way to show your appreciation for good service.
Should you tip tour guides in Skopje?
If you’re taking a guided tour in Skopje, it’s customary to tip your guide.
A 10% tip is considered very generous, but you can adjust the amount based on the quality of the tour and the level of service provided.
This guide was first published on March 4, 2024 and was last updated on March 4, 2024. For more information, please contact us at contact@skopjeguide.com.
