Tipping customs differ significantly around the world. While some places view tipping as optional or even taboo, there are countries where tipping is expected, customary, and often considered a crucial part of a service worker’s income. Failing to tip in these places can come across as rude or disrespectful.
Whether you’re visiting a restaurant, hailing a cab, or enjoying a hotel stay, understanding these local expectations can make all the difference. Here’s a comprehensive look at 23 countries where tipping is non-negotiable.
1. United States
Tipping in the U.S. is more than a nicety it’s part of the culture. Service workers often receive low base wages, making tips an essential part of their income.
In restaurants, a 15-20% tip is standard. Bartenders, baristas, and hotel staff also expect tips, and skipping out can be seen as highly disrespectful.
2. Canada
Canada closely mirrors the U.S. when it comes to tipping practices. Diners are expected to tip around 15-20% in restaurants.
In bars, salons, taxis, and hotels, tipping is equally customary and sometimes even anticipated before service concludes.
3. Mexico
In Mexico, tipping is a regular part of dining and hospitality culture. While some tourist-heavy restaurants might include a service charge, it’s still customary to tip 10-15% of the bill. Hotel porters, taxi drivers, and tour guides also expect small gratuities for their service.
4. Brazil
Though Brazilian restaurants often include a 10% service charge in the bill, locals still tip extra for excellent service. Tipping is also expected in taxis and hotels, particularly for bellboys and cleaning staff.
5. Argentina
Even though there are regulations discouraging tipping in certain sectors, the custom remains deeply rooted in daily life.
Waiters in particular rely heavily on tips, sometimes earning up to half their income from them. A 10% gratuity is commonly left in restaurants.
6. United Kingdom
In the UK, particularly in London, a service charge of about 12.5% is frequently added to restaurant bills.
When it’s not included, tipping 10-15% is expected. Hotel staff, cab drivers, and salon workers also appreciate modest tips.
7. France
Although French laws ensure that service charges are included in bills, most people still leave a small extra tip, often by rounding up the bill or leaving coins.
This informal gesture reflects appreciation for good service, especially in cafes and casual restaurants.
8. Germany
Germans take a more discreet approach to tipping. A service charge is typically included, but it’s standard to round up the bill or leave an extra 5-10%.
Instead of leaving cash on the table, customers often hand the tip directly to the server when paying.
9. Italy
In Italy, many restaurants charge a “coperto” (cover charge), but it’s still normal to leave a small tip, particularly in tourist areas.
Rounding up to the nearest euro or leaving an extra €1-2 per person is considered polite and appreciated.
10. Spain
While not as rigid as in other countries, tipping is still expected in Spain, especially in tourist hotspots.
Diners commonly leave small change or round up the bill. In higher-end establishments, 5-10% is standard for good service.
11. Portugal
In Portugal, tipping isn’t obligatory but has become increasingly common. Locals often leave 5-10% at restaurants.
Tipping is also customary for taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides who offer friendly or exceptional service.
12. Greece
Tipping is standard in Greek dining culture. A 5-10% tip is expected in restaurants, and it’s customary to leave small amounts for room cleaners, porters, and taxi drivers. Tourists are especially encouraged to tip generously during peak seasons.
13. Turkey
Turkey has a tipping culture rooted in appreciation for good service. In restaurants, a 10% tip is typical. Hairdressers, hotel workers, and cab drivers also expect small gratuities, often handed directly or discreetly placed on the counter.
14. Egypt
In Egypt, tipping referred to as “baksheesh” is almost a way of life. From hotel staff to bathroom attendants, everyone expects a small tip.
Even in restaurants where service fees are added, customers often leave more to show satisfaction.
15. Morocco
Tipping in Morocco is not just appreciated it’s expected. Restaurants usually receive 10%, while other service workers like hotel staff, tour guides, and taxi drivers often rely on tips to supplement low wages. Being generous is a sign of respect.
16. United Arab Emirates
While many restaurants in the UAE include a service charge, tipping an extra 10% for excellent service is customary.
Hotel porters, room service attendants, and even valet drivers also anticipate small tips for their efforts.
17. Saudi Arabia
In Saudi Arabia, tipping is common in most service-related fields. A 10-15% gratuity is standard in restaurants.
In addition, hotel staff and drivers expect tips, particularly in larger cities or luxury establishments.
18. India
India has a deeply ingrained tipping culture. A 10-15% tip is standard in restaurants, even when service charges are included.
Hotel porters, cleaning staff, and drivers often rely on generous tips, especially from international visitors.
19. Thailand
Although Thailand hasn’t traditionally had a tipping culture, the custom is now widespread, especially in tourist-heavy areas. In restaurants, rounding up or leaving 10% is increasingly common. Hotel staff and tour guides also appreciate small tokens of gratitude.
20. Indonesia
Tipping is growing more common in Indonesia. While some restaurants include a service charge, leaving an additional 5-10% is standard.
Hotel porters, drivers, and spa therapists also appreciate small tips, especially in tourist destinations.
21. Philippines
The Philippines embraces tipping, particularly in urban areas. In restaurants, 10% is standard, and small cash tips are welcomed by hotel and airport staff. Even service workers in retail or delivery often expect a little something extra.
22. South Africa
Tipping is a vital part of the service industry in South Africa. Restaurant servers expect 10-15% of the bill.
Hotel staff, gas station attendants, and even car guards depend heavily on tips, which form a significant portion of their income.
23. Australia
Though traditionally tipping was not common in Australia due to higher wages, it’s become more normalized, especially in fine dining and tourism.
A 10% tip for good service is considered respectful. Hotel workers and taxi drivers also expect small tips for quality service.
Alicia Richards