Last updated: June 2025

Tipping Etiquette Around the World: Country-by-Country Guide

Tipping customs vary dramatically from country to country. What is considered generous in one culture may be unnecessary or even offensive in another. Whether you are planning a holiday, travelling for business, or simply curious, understanding local tipping norms helps you navigate social expectations with confidence. This guide covers the most visited countries and regions, with practical advice you can use immediately.

United States

The US has the strongest tipping culture in the world. Tips are not just customary — they are a critical part of service workers' income. The federal tipped minimum wage is $2.13 per hour, which means servers rely on tips to earn a living wage. Standard restaurant tips are 18–25%, with 15% considered the minimum for acceptable service. Bartenders receive $1–2 per drink or 15–20% of a tab. Taxi and rideshare drivers expect 15–20%. Hotel porters receive $2–5 per bag, and housekeeping receives $2–5 per night. For a detailed breakdown, see our complete tipping guide.

United Kingdom

UK tipping is more moderate than the US. Restaurant tips of 10–15% are standard, but a growing number of establishments add a 12.5% discretionary service charge automatically. If the service charge is on the bill, no additional tip is necessary. Pub tipping is informal — offering the bartender a drink is traditional. Taxis: round up to the nearest pound. Hotels: £1–2 per bag. Read our detailed UK tipping guide for more on service charges and the 2024 tips legislation.

France

In France, a service charge (service compris) is included in all restaurant prices by law. This means the listed price already includes a 15% service fee. However, it is common to leave a small additional amount — rounding up the bill or leaving 1–5% in cash — particularly for good service. In cafés, leaving small change is appreciated. Taxi tips: round up. Hotel porters: €1–2 per bag.

Germany

Tipping in Germany is expected but modest. Restaurant tips of 5–10% are standard, often accomplished by rounding up the bill. When paying, tell the server the total you wish to pay (including tip) rather than leaving money on the table. For example, on a €28.50 bill, you might say "make it thirty." Taxi tips: round up. Hotel porters: €1–2 per bag.

Italy

Italy has a "coperto" (cover charge) of €1–3 per person that appears on most restaurant bills. This is not a tip — it covers bread, table setting, and service. An additional tip is not expected, but leaving small change or rounding up is a nice gesture for exceptional service. In tourist areas, tips may be more expected. Taxi: round up. Hotels: €1 per bag.

Spain

Tipping in Spain is modest. In restaurants, leaving 5–10% or rounding up is appreciated but not required. In bars and cafés, leaving small change is common. Taxi: round up to the nearest euro. Hotel porters: €1 per bag.

Japan

Japan is one of the few countries where tipping is not just unnecessary but can be considered rude. Excellent service is a point of pride and is included in the price. If you try to leave a tip, your server may chase you down to return the money. The only exception is at traditional ryokan inns, where a monetary gift wrapped in a special envelope may be given to the staff, though even this is becoming less common.

China

Tipping is not customary in mainland China and may cause confusion. In international hotels and restaurants frequented by foreign visitors, small tips may be accepted but are not expected. In Hong Kong, a 10% service charge is common in restaurants, with an additional small tip sometimes left for good service. In Macau, tipping follows a similar pattern to Hong Kong.

Australia

Australia does not have a strong tipping culture because service workers receive relatively high minimum wages. Tipping is appreciated but optional. In restaurants, 5–10% for excellent service is generous. Taxi: round up. Hotels: $1–2 per bag for porters, but not expected.

Canada

Canadian tipping customs are similar to the US, with restaurant tips of 15–20% being standard. Bartenders receive $1–2 per drink. Taxi: 15–20%. Hotel porters: $1–2 per bag. As in the US, tips form a significant part of service workers' income.

Common Mistakes When Tipping Abroad

• Applying US tipping norms everywhere — 20% tips in Japan or France are unnecessary and sometimes unwelcome.
• Not checking whether service is included (France, Italy) before adding a tip.
• Tipping with foreign currency instead of local money.
• Assuming that all European countries have the same customs — they vary significantly.
• Not carrying small bills or coins for tips in countries where cash tips are preferred.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I tip in countries where it is not customary?

Follow local customs. In countries like Japan, tipping can cause embarrassment. In countries where it is optional (Australia, much of Europe), small tips are appreciated but not expected. When in doubt, observe what locals do.

How do I tip when I do not speak the local language?

In most countries, you can simply leave cash on the table or round up when paying. In Germany, state the total you wish to pay. In Japan, do not tip at all. A smile and a "thank you" are universally appreciated.

Is it better to tip in cash or on card when abroad?

Cash in local currency is generally preferred, as it goes directly to the server. Card tips may be subject to processing or management distribution. In countries with strong worker protection laws (like the UK since 2024), card tips are now legally protected.

What about cruise ships?

Most cruise lines add an automatic daily gratuity ($15–20 per person per day) to your bill. This covers dining, cabin stewards, and other staff. Additional tips for exceptional service are at your discretion. Check your cruise line's policy before boarding.

For guidance only. Tipping customs vary by region and establishment.