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.
