Tipping Around the World: Etiquette in 15 Popular Countries

Tipping is one of the easiest ways for a traveler to feel out of place. Leave too little in New York and you may get a cold look. Leave money on the table in Tokyo and a server may chase you down the street to return it. Customs vary widely, so it pays to check before you go.

The guidance below reflects common practice in each country, but norms differ between cities, between casual and upscale places, and over time. When in doubt, look at the bill for a service charge and watch what locals do. For a quick-reference table covering more countries, see our tipping guide by country.

The Americas

United States

Tipping is expected almost everywhere there is table service. Plan on 18% to 20% at restaurants, $1 to $2 per drink at bars, and 15% to 20% for taxis and rideshares. See our full US tipping guide for other services.

Canada

Very similar to the US. Around 15% to 20% at sit-down restaurants is standard, and tip prompts on card machines are everywhere.

Mexico

About 10% to 15% at restaurants is customary, a bit more for excellent service. Tip in pesos when you can. Small tips are also usual for baggers at supermarkets and for attendants at gas stations.

Brazil

A 10% service charge is usually printed on restaurant bills and covers the tip. Extra tipping is not expected, although rounding up is a friendly gesture.

Europe

United Kingdom

Many restaurants add an optional service charge of around 12.5%. If there is none, leaving 10% to 12.5% is common. Tipping at the bar in a pub is not expected.

France

By law, service is included in menu prices ("service compris"). Locals often leave a little change or round up, and 5% to 10% is generous for a special meal.

Germany

Rounding up or adding 5% to 10% is typical. Instead of leaving money on the table, tell the server the total you want to pay when they bring the card reader or take your cash.

Italy

Many restaurants charge a "coperto", a per-person cover charge for bread and table setting. It is not a tip. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving a few euros for good service is appreciated.

Spain

Tipping is modest. Leave small change at cafés and bars and around 5% to 10% for a good restaurant meal.

Asia

Japan

Tipping is not part of the culture and can cause confusion. Excellent service is considered part of the job. The main exception is a private tour guide, and even then a small gift or cash discreetly handed over in an envelope is the polite way.

South Korea

Tipping is not expected. Upscale hotels may include a service charge on the bill.

Thailand

Not required at casual places, but leaving small change is common. At nicer restaurants without a service charge, 10% is appreciated.

India

Check whether a service charge has been added. If not, 10% at restaurants is a common and appreciated tip.

Middle East and Africa

Morocco

In cafés and casual eateries, people usually round up the bill and leave the change. At sit-down restaurants, around 10% is customary. Small tips in dirhams are also usual for guides, porters and anyone who helps you with directions or luggage.

United Arab Emirates

Restaurant bills in Dubai and Abu Dhabi often include a service charge. Staff do not always receive it, so an extra 10% in cash for good service is common practice.

Practical tips for tipping abroad

• Read the bill first. Look for "service", "servicio", "service compris" or "gratuity" so you do not tip twice.
• Carry small notes and coins in the local currency for porters, housekeeping and drivers.
• Cash is often best. In several countries, tips added to a card payment may not reach the server.
• Use a calculator that speaks the currency. Our tip calculator lets you switch currency, so the results look the way you will pay.
• When unsure, ask. A hotel receptionist or a local friend can tell you what is normal in seconds.