Whether you're exploring the vibrant city of Paris, heading to a rural retreat, or basking in the sunny South, France is a country that has something to offer everyone. But when it comes to offering back, should you be tipping in France?
Here, you'll find all of the information you need on tipping in France. We'll guide you through who you should and shouldn't leave a tip for, explore average tip amounts, and more.
What is the Tipping Culture in France?
In France, tipping is a common practice and is considered a standard part of the service industry as, unlike some other countries, a service charge is not typically included on the bill. As such, tips are expected as a sign of gratitude for good service in restaurants, cafes, hotels, and more.
Why is Tipping Common Practice in France?
One of the main reasons why tipping is so common in France is because it has long been a part of French culture, and it is seen as a way for customers to express their appreciation for good service. Whether dining in a high end restaurant or grabbing a quick coffee, tipping in France is simply a cultural norm that acknowledges the skill and efforts of the service industry.
Like many other European countries, French servers also receive a lower base wage, so tipping is relied on to supplement their earnings. This means that it isn't only a part of cultural tradition but plays a large role in contributing to some workers' overall income.
Another reason why tipping in France is so common is that it comes with a certain social etiquette that has been developed over time. Failing to leave a tip can be considered rude or inconsiderate and, ultimately, a social faux pas that French people would rather avoid!
When Should You Consider Leaving a Tip?
With tipping being so common place in France, there are several instances in which you should consider leaving a tip, including:
Tipping Wait Staff
In France, it is customary to leave a tip for wait staff in both restaurants and cafes, no matter how small the total bill is. The only exception here is if a service charge has been added to the bill, but this is often completely optional and can be removed in favour of leaving a cash tip.
What is a Fair Tip to Leave Wait Staff in France?
A tip of between 5%-10% of the total bill is typically expected for wait staff. So, should you spend €150 EUR in a restaurant, you'll need to leave a tip of between €7.50-€15 EUR ($12-$25 AUD).
Tipping Hotel Staff
It's also expected to leave a tip for certain hotel staff in France, including hotel porters and housekeepers.
What is a Fair Tip to Leave Hotel Staff in France?
A fair amount for porters would be €1-€2 EUR ($1.50-£3.20 AUD) per bag. For housekeepers, there isn't any guideline amount, but a few Euros left out and labelled each day of your stay would be enough.
Tipping Taxi Drivers
Unlike many other services, it isn't mandatory or expected to tip taxi drivers. However, you may feel the need to if they have provided excellent service.
What is a Fair Tip to Leave Wait Staff in France?
The fairest way of tipping a taxi driver is by rounding the fair up to the highest Euro. So, should your fare come to €17 EUR ($27 AUD), round it up to €20 EUR ($32 AUD) as a way of including a tip.
Tipping in Salons & Spas
Tipping hairdressers, barbers, and massage therapists is also common in France, as it is for other spa and wellness services.
What is a Fair Tip to Leave Salon & Spa Staff in France?
A tip of between 5%-10% is generally appropriate for salon and spa workers, and if you received services from different people in the same visit, be sure to tip everyone individually.
Tipping Tour Guides
Whether you're on a group tour or a private tour, it is customary to tip a tour guide at the end of the tour. You should also go a little higher than the average if you receive a personalised tour catered to what you want to see and do.
What is a Fair Tip to Leave Tour Guides in France?
Tour guides should be tipped between 5%-10% of the tour cost, but this is a basic guideline, and if you feel the tour was particularly good, there's nothing stopping you from giving a more generous tip.
French Tipping Etiquette: How to Give a Tip?
As tipping in France is such a common occurrence, there's no secret or particularly discreet way of doing it. Everything is pretty straightforward, and you can either hand your tip to the recipient in cash or leave a tip on your table for your server to find.
One thing to keep in mind, however, is that service charges are quite rare in France, so don't assume a tip has already been added to your bill. Instead, be sure to provide a tip, and if you'd rather be discreet, you can specify the amount you've tipped by writing it on the bill before handing it over.
Top Tip: Cash is the preferred way of tipping in France, so make sure you have more than just a few Euros on you at all times!
Are There Any Cases Where You Should Avoid Tipping in France?
While tipping is customary for many services in France, there are some instances in which you don't need to tip. The first of these is in fast food restaurants or takeout and delivery services, as these are considered self-service and, as such, no tip is required.
You also don't need to worry about tipping when using public transportation or basic everyday services, such as grocery stores or markets.
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