I have a question for all you world travelers and residents of Europe.
Viking River Cruises has advised us, as American travelers, to always tip generously when we dine at local restaurants while in Europe. However, I’ve been told time and again, and have watched YouTube videos that say, “The rest of the world thinks that the American Tip Culture is weird, and servers in Europe actually get paid enough so that they don’t rely on tips.”
My intuition tells me that Viking wants to make sure that the people in European ports stay happy that their cruise line is docking in their city. “Here comes the Americans,” the locals might say. “Expect more money!”
Does Viking advise passengers from other countries to tip well?
If Americans stopped tipping so generously in Europe, would they be less welcome?
Do international relations have to be so transactional?
I’m looking forward to your feedback in breathless anticipation.
Memoirs of an Earthling 
It’s complicated. Rick Steves (link below) says tip a little if service is amazing. My biggest faux pas in France had nothing to do with tipping. We thought we were being helpful by going to our waiter to pay, but it just made him feel pressured and upset. And my other advice is to try to get outside the areas close to where the ship docks.
https://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/money/tipping-in-europe
Bon Voyage!
Speaking for Austria and Germany: The rule of thumb for tip is: 5-10%! It is not a big deal if you tip less, and I feel the rule got relaxed since inflation rate has become so high. Tipping not at all would signal you were an unsatisfied customer.
Tipping also got complicated in Austria thanks to our not leading edge “digital culture” and love of cash. Some restaurants in rural areas cannot handle tip if you pay with a credit card.
I have only been to Europe once, Germany in 2019. It is my understanding that tips there are between 5 and 10 percent. People used to just round up to the next Mark or Euro but it seems American culture is creeping in.