tipping in France
With France being a first choice for many travellers, it's surprising that so many people don't know the tipping etiquette. In fact France is the most popular tourist destination, and with good reason. Good food, great beaches, long cultural history, spas, the Alps and Paris are only a few reasons to visit France more than once.
But should you tip in France? Generally a gratuity is not required but it's good etiquette to leave one. How much money you leave depends on the service and how happy you were with it. This guide will tell you everything you need to know.
tipping etiquette for hotels in France
In hotels tip Good Service if you want
Generally, it is nice to give porters 0.50€ - 1.00€ per bag, housekeepers 1.00€ - 1.50€ per day, and the concierge €8.00 - €20.00 (depending on the level of the hotel) if he provides extra service (reservations, tickets, booking taxi).
tipping in restaurants in France
In restaurants Tip 10% for good service
French laws dictate that a service charge must be included in all prices and tipping is not mandatory, but customary for good service. Tipping the waiter 10% is welcome in return for very good service in a restaurant. At a bar or cafe in France you can leave 1 or 2 Euros as a gratuity. You should not leave a tip if you receive bad service.
tip etiquette at spas in France
In spas in France Tip 10% at the reception
Tipping varies per spa so it is good practice to inform yourself of local customs before you arrive. If tips are accepted, you can tip between 10 and 20 percent. It is best to leave the gratuity at the reception, rather than tipping the therapist directly.
Famous Spas in France
- Le Couvent des Minimes Hotel & Spa.
- The Spa Martinez.
- La Spa de la Ferme Thermale.
should you tip your tour guide?
for tour guides tip €2 - €5 and tip the bus driver
Usually, tour guides are tipped between 2€ and 5€. Tip after the excursion. In France, it is expected that you also tip museum guides between 1.00€ - 2.00€. It's also good tipping etiquette to leave a 1.00€ or 2.00€ gratuity per day, per person for the bus driver.
should you tip your taxi driver?
in france Tip 10% for taxis
It is customary to tip your taxi driver 10%. You can book a taxi through your concierge, or by calling the taxi company directly.