How Much to Tip Around the World
Tipping is one of the trickiest etiquette questions when you travel — under-tip and you offend, over-tip and you look like a tourist. Here is a clear, country-by-country guide.
United States
Tipping is expected, not optional, because many service workers are paid below minimum wage with tips making up the difference. Restaurants: 18–20% for good service, 15% for standard. Bartenders: $1–2 per drink. Taxis: 15–20%. Hotel housekeeping: $2–5 per night.
United Kingdom & Ireland
Tipping is appreciated but more modest. Restaurants: 10–12.5%, often added as a "service charge" — check the bill before adding more. Pubs do not expect tips at the bar. Taxis: round up.
Continental Europe
Service is usually included. Restaurants: round up or add 5–10% for good service. In France, "service compris" on the bill means service is included. In Italy, watch for "coperto" (cover charge) — that is not a tip.
Japan
Do not tip. Tipping can be seen as confusing or even rude. Great service is the cultural baseline, not something you pay extra for.
Quick reference
| Country | Restaurant tip |
|---|---|
| US, Canada | 18–20% |
| UK, Ireland | 10–12.5% |
| France, Italy, Spain | 5–10% (often included) |
| Germany, Netherlands | 5–10% |
| Japan, South Korea | None |
| Australia, New Zealand | None or small |
Once you've decided the percentage, use our tip calculator to work out the amount and split it across your group.