A Guide to Tipping Etiquette Around the World

When dining out in the United States, leaving a 15 to 20 percent tip for your waiter or waitress is just par for course. However, this same routine isn’t always the norm when traveling throughout the world. In fact, some cultures consider tipping to be an offensive gesture. Read our quick guide to proper tipping etiquette in popular cities around the globe:

Paris, France

A 15 percent service charge is included in the price of the menu items. If you feel inclined, an extra tip of a few euros is considered a nice “thank you” to your server.

Tokyo, Japan

Tipping is not a common practice in Japan and can even be considered rude in some situations. Instead, thank your server with a polite “gochisousama” which is similar to saying “that was delicious.”

Rome, Italy

Tipping is not expected in Italy as it is in the United States. However, leaving a few euros (no more than 10 percent of the bill) is considered polite.

London, United Kingdom

After receiving your bill in London, check to see if a service fee has already been added. If it has not, add a tip of 10 to 15 percent to the bill. If dining in a pub, no tip is needed.

Hong Kong, China

A 10 percent service charge is typically added to any restaurant bills in Hong Kong, and, therefore, leaving an additional tip is unnecessary.

Istanbul, Turkey

Tipping in Istanbul is dependent on the expensiveness of the restaurant. In less expensive establishments, leaving a tip is not necessary but is appreciated. In pricier or popular tourist restaurants, it’s expected that customers leave a 10 to 15 percent tip.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

When you receive your bill in Dubai, check for a service charge. If one has not been added, leave a 10 percent tip for your server.

Bangkok. Thailand

Tipping in Thailand is not necessary, but it is customary to leave a few baht (one or two US dollars) on the table when you leave.

Prague, Czech Republic

Tipping is becoming a standard practice in tourist-heavy areas in Prague. If no service fee is included in your bill, leave a 10 percent tip behind.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Similar to Paris, most restaurants in Amsterdam include a service charge in the menu prices. However, it is still polite to leave a small tip of 5 to 10 percent for good service.

Barcelona, Spain

Like many other large European cities, a service charge is typically included in the prices of menu items. Tipping is not expected, but if you feel you received excellent service, leaving a 10 percent tip is polite in higher-end restaurants.

Seoul, South Korea

Tipping is not common practice is most Seoul restaurants. However, in more westernized establishments, leaving a small tip behind is still appreciated. You may also notice a 10 percent service charge on the check at some restaurants.

Vienna, Austria

Leaving a 5 to 15 percent tip is customary at restaurants in Vienna. When deciding the amount to leave, try to round up the check to a convenient number. Include this tip when you pay the bill instead of leaving it behind on the table.

Budapest, Hungary

Add a 10 to 15 percent tip to your check at restaurants in Budapest. However, check for an added service charge before doing so.

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