Luxembourg consumer rules require restaurants, cafes, hotels and bars to display prices inclusive of taxes and service. The general VAT rate is 17%, with reduced rates applying to some goods and services.
A complete Luxembourg bill
The menu is consumer information
Prices must be written clearly in euros and include VAT and other applicable taxes. Restaurants and cafes must also show their prices outside when their premises are open to the public, so you can check before taking a table.
Service included is not service forbidden
You can still leave something for an excellent meal or unusually thoughtful help. The difference is psychological and practical: you are rewarding the service, not completing an unfinished wage line.
Keep the gesture modest and readable
Card terminals can still ask a question
A tip prompt does not rewrite Luxembourg's service-included rule. Choose zero without embarrassment for counter service or an ordinary transaction, and add only what matches the experience.
Know what 17% actually means
Luxembourg's standard VAT rate is 17%, but reduced rates of 14%, 8% and 3% apply to specified categories. Travellers do not need to calculate these at the table because consumer prices must already include the applicable tax.
