Tipping Guide by Country
Tipping norms vary widely. In some countries a tip is part of the server's wage; in others it can be considered rude. This guide gives you a quick benchmark for restaurants and taxis in the places people travel most, plus practical notes to help you avoid awkward moments.
Quick reference
| Country | Restaurant | Taxi |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 18–22% | 10–15% |
| Canada | 15–20% | 10–15% |
| United Kingdom | 10–12.5% | Round up |
| France | Service compris | Round up |
| Germany | 5–10% | 5–10% |
| Italy | Coperto + 5–10% | Round up |
| Spain | 5–10% | Round up |
| Japan | No tip | No tip |
| Australia | 0–10% | Round up |
| Mexico | 10–15% | Optional |
| Brazil | 10% included | Round up |
| India | 5–10% | Round up |
Country notes
United States
Tipping is part of the wage structure. Standard is 20% on the pre-tax total at sit-down restaurants. Round up for taxis and rideshare.
Canada
Closer to US norms. 15% is acceptable for casual service, 18–20% for good service.
United Kingdom
Many restaurants add a discretionary service charge — check the bill before adding a tip.
France
Service is included by law. Leaving a few extra euros for great service is appreciated but never expected.
Germany
Tell the server the total you want to pay when handing over money, rather than leaving cash on the table.
Italy
Many restaurants charge a per-person 'coperto' cover. Extra tips are a small bonus, not an obligation.
Spain
Tipping is light. Locals often just leave coins or round up to the nearest euro.
Japan
Tipping can be considered rude. Exceptional service is the standard; great service is recognised, not paid for.
Australia
Hospitality workers are paid a higher minimum wage. Tips are appreciated for excellent service but not expected.
Mexico
10% is standard, 15% for great service. Hotel staff (bellhops, housekeeping) typically expect small cash tips.
Brazil
A 10% service charge ('serviço') is usually included on the bill. Adding more is optional.
India
Many restaurants add a service charge — it's discretionary and can be removed on request.
Tipping for other services
- Food delivery: 10–15% in the US, or a flat $2–5 in countries where tipping is uncommon.
- Hotel housekeeping: $2–5 per night, left daily rather than at checkout (different cleaners work different days).
- Bellhops & porters: $1–2 per bag in the US, €1 per bag in most of Europe.
- Hairdressers & barbers: 15–20% in the US, round up in most of Europe.
- Bartenders: $1 per drink or 15–20% on a tab in the US; round up elsewhere.
This guide is a general reference for travelers. Local customs change over time, and individual establishments may have their own policies — always check your bill for an included service charge before tipping on top.