Tipping customs can be tricky, and in some parts of the world, they work in ways that might surprise travelers. There are countries where tipping works completely differently—sometimes it’s included in the bill automatically, other times it’s seen as unnecessary, and in a few places, it can even be considered rude. Understanding these cultural norms is more than just good manners; it can help avoid awkward situations and show respect for local traditions.
With these destinations, knowing the local tipping etiquette before you go can make dining out, taking taxis, or using other services far smoother. It also helps travelers budget more accurately and interact with service staff in a way that’s both polite and culturally aware. See which countries have their own rules when it comes to tipping, and make sure you’re prepared for anything from generous rounding up to not leaving extra money at all. Your trip will feel much more seamless when you get it right from the start.
Japan
In Japan, tipping is not customary and can even be seen as disrespectful. Exceptional service is viewed as a natural part of the job, and staff take pride in their work without expecting extra money. Attempting to leave a tip may cause confusion, as it can be mistaken for an accidental overpayment. Instead of cash, a genuine thank-you, a bow, or a small gift from your home country is more appropriate. Many restaurants and hotels already include service in their prices. When visiting, respect the local approach by enjoying excellent service without feeling obligated to add extra money.
South Korea
Tipping is not part of South Korea’s everyday culture, and locals generally don’t expect it. In restaurants, cafés, or taxis, attempting to tip may result in the money being politely returned. In higher-end hotels, a small gratuity might be accepted, but it’s still uncommon. Many service workers are paid a set wage without reliance on tips, and some bills include a service fee automatically. The most appreciated gesture is showing respect and gratitude, such as a sincere thank-you or a polite bow. When in doubt, follow the lead of locals and skip tipping unless in tourist-heavy or luxury settings.
China
Outside of tourist areas, tipping is uncommon in China and in some places may be refused outright. In many parts of the country, excellent service is expected as part of the job, not something to be rewarded with extra money. High-end hotels or guided tours catering to foreign visitors might accept tips, but these are exceptions rather than the rule. In smaller towns or local restaurants, attempting to tip could cause awkwardness or confusion. Instead, express appreciation through politeness and respect. If tipping is appropriate, such as in major tourist destinations, it’s best to do so discreetly.
France
In France, restaurant bills legally include a service charge, so there’s no pressure to add a separate tip. However, leaving small change or rounding up the bill is common and seen as a polite thank-you. For example, leaving an extra euro or two in a café or bar is a nice gesture. In taxis, rounding up the fare is appreciated but not mandatory. In hotels, a small tip for housekeeping or porters is welcome but not expected. Overall, tipping is less about percentages and more about small acts of appreciation, done at your discretion and without obligation.
Italy
Italy doesn’t follow a strict tipping culture, and many restaurants add a “coperto” or cover charge to the bill, which is not a tip but a seating fee. This charge is common and printed on the menu. Locals rarely tip beyond this, though rounding up the bill or leaving small change is a polite gesture. In cafés, it’s normal to leave coins on the counter. For taxis, rounding up is appreciated but not expected. In hotels, a small tip for exceptional service may be given, but it’s never an obligation. Travelers are encouraged to check bills before adding any extra amount.
Australia
In Australia, tipping is not a standard practice. Service staff are paid higher wages compared to many countries, so gratuities are viewed as optional. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving a few dollars for excellent service is appreciated but never expected. The same goes for cafés, bars, and taxis. For hotel porters or housekeeping, small tips are fine but not customary. Locals often show appreciation verbally rather than financially. Visitors can focus on enjoying their experience without worrying about calculating percentages or feeling pressure to tip, knowing service charges are already built into the overall pricing.
Want to save this?
We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later when you're planning your trip!
New Zealand
Tipping in New Zealand is entirely voluntary and mostly reserved for service that stands out. Restaurant staff earn regular wages, so gratuities are not built into the culture. If you do choose to tip, rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount is a generous gesture, especially in tourist-oriented businesses. In cafés and casual eateries, tip jars are present but rarely emphasized. For taxis, it’s common to round up the fare. Hotel staff may accept tips, but it’s not a routine expectation. The focus is on enjoying your visit and expressing thanks in a way that feels genuine.
Switzerland
In Switzerland, service charges are included in restaurant, café, and hotel bills, making tipping unnecessary. Locals often round up the bill or leave a few extra francs as a courteous gesture. For example, if a meal costs 48 CHF, paying 50 CHF is common practice. Taxi drivers may be given a small rounding up, and hotel staff might receive a few francs for extra help. The emphasis is on fair wages already built into the cost rather than supplementing income with tips. Visitors can participate in this custom by keeping tipping modest and straightforward, without feeling any social obligation.
Iceland
Iceland does not have a tipping culture, and service charges are included in the prices you pay. Restaurant and hotel staff are compensated through their wages, so gratuities are not necessary. If you feel inclined to tip for exceptional service, rounding up the bill is appreciated but never expected. Tour guides catering to international visitors may accept tips, though locals often skip them entirely. Taxi drivers typically don’t expect tips either. This approach allows travelers to enjoy their meals, tours, and stays without calculating percentages. The focus remains on straightforward transactions and genuine interactions with the people serving you.
Brazil
In Brazil, a 10% service charge is commonly added to restaurant bills, which goes directly to the staff. This means there’s no need to add more unless you feel the service went above expectations. In bars and cafés, the same practice applies, and tipping beyond the included charge is optional. Taxi fares are usually paid as stated, though rounding up is acceptable. For hotels, a small tip to porters or housekeeping is fine but not required. Because the service charge is clear on the bill, visitors can relax knowing that staff are already compensated without needing extra calculations.
United Arab Emirates
In the United Arab Emirates, most restaurants and hotels include a service charge in the bill, so tipping is not mandatory. However, it’s common for people to leave a small cash tip—around 5–10%—in higher-end venues or for exceptional service. Taxi drivers don’t usually expect tips, but rounding up the fare is courteous. For hotel porters and housekeeping, small amounts are appreciated but optional. In casual eateries or markets, tipping is rare. Visitors can follow the local approach by tipping discreetly when they feel it’s warranted, without feeling pressure to add extra in every situation.
Top 10 Shockingly Cheap Countries To Live In
Want to travel internationally without breaking the bank? Living abroad doesn’t have to cost a fortune. In fact, some countries are so affordable that you might find yourself living better for less. Whether you’re dreaming of vibrant cities, laid-back beach towns, or scenic mountain retreats, there are places where life can be great without blowing through your budget.
Read More Here: Top 10 Shockingly Cheap Countries To Live In
Top 10 Most Expensive Places to Live in the World
A trip to the most expensive places. Some places in the world come with a very high price tag, and knowing the top 10 most expensive places to live can help us understand why. These locations often have sky-high real estate prices and costly living expenses, making them popular spots for wealthy residents and visitors alike. By exploring these cities, we can see not just how much they cost, but also the unique lifestyles and opportunities they offer to those who call them home.
Read More Here: Top 10 Most Expensive Places to Live in the World
