Tipping Around the World: A Region-by-Region Guide

It comes down to how service workers are paid and whether service is built into prices. In the U.S., many restaurant workers earn a lower base wage and rely on tips, so tipping is effectively part of the price. In much of Europe and Asia, wages and service charges cover the work, and a tip is a small thank-you rather than an obligation.

At sit-down restaurants, 15–20% of the pre-tax bill is typical, with 18–20% common for good service in major cities. Bartenders typically get a dollar or two per drink. Hotel housekeeping typically gets a few dollars a night, left daily since staff change; bellstaff a couple of dollars per bag; and taxi or rideshare drivers 15–20%.

Tour guides and private drivers are usually tipped at the end of the day or trip. Check whether a service charge or automatic gratuity has already been added, especially for larger groups.

In France, menu prices include service by law (“service compris”), so a tip is optional: leaving small change or rounding up for good service is typical. In Germany and Austria, rounding up or adding around 5–10% is common, often by telling the server the total you want to pay. In Italy, the coperto is a per-person cover charge, not a gratuity.

In the U.K., check the bill: many restaurants add a discretionary service charge, which you can ask to have removed if service was poor. Business travelers will find more on local customs in business travel etiquette around the world.

In Japan, the national tourism organization notes that it isn’t common to tip at bars, cafés, restaurants, taxis or hotels; good service is simply expected. If you want to thank a private guide, place the gift discreetly in an envelope. South Korea follows similar norms, and in Australia and New Zealand tipping isn’t expected, though rounding up for excellent service is appreciated.

In French Polynesia, tipping isn’t traditionally part of local hospitality. Nobody will expect it, but a tip for an outstanding guide or lagoon excursion is always welcome.

On safari, tipping is customary and an important part of staff income. Guides and trackers are usually tipped individually at the end of your stay, and a communal box covers lodge staff. Many lodges and camps provide suggested amounts; follow them and adjust for the quality of the experience.

Bring cash in small denominations and a few envelopes. U.S. dollars are commonly accepted in East Africa’s safari areas, while local currency is often preferred in South Africa. Our first safari guide covers what else to pack.

Cash in local currency is usually best, since it goes straight to the person and avoids card-terminal issues; in some countries, card tips may not reach staff at all. On cruises, many mainstream lines add automatic daily gratuities, while many luxury lines include them in the fare; see our first cruise guide. For business travel, check your company’s policy on reimbursable tips.