If you find yourself in France, which is one of the most pickpocketed countries in Europe, you might be wondering about tipping. It’s a fair concern to have, especially if you’re coming from North America, where tipping isn’t just a suggestion – it’s a requirement.
Tourists will be pleased to know that tipping in France isn’t really a thing like the United States or Canada. French servers receive livable wages and benefits, meaning tips serve as genuine gestures of appreciation rather than essential income. In French restaurants, a 15% service charge (service compris) is already included in your bill, appearing at the bottom as “prix service compris.” This charge is legally required and goes to the restaurant, not directly to your server.
Restaurant and Bar Etiquette In France
Because a service charge is already included in your bill, you have no genuine reason to tip in France unless you want to! This eliminates any and all pressure to calculate what a tip should be. European servers will always appreciate extra cash and tipping isn’t considered rude unlike Japan.
If you’re genuinely impressed by the service at a bar or restaurant, you’re more than welcome to leave €2-5. Most French folks, however, will find that tip a bit much. If locals find the service they received genuine, then they’ll just round up the bill. For example, if your croissants and wine cost €17.32, it’s normal for patrons to just give €18.
Now, if you received exceptional service at a high-end establishment, you might leave 5-10% of your total bill. As for bars, tipping isn’t expected for each drink like it is stateside. If you’re having several rounds or receive particularly attentive service, leaving €1-2 at the end of your visit is a nice gesture. Cash remains the preferred method for tipping in France. If you’re paying by card and want to leave a tip, tell your server “Je voudrais laisser un pourboire” (I’d like to leave a tip) before they process your payment.
Other Instances Where You Can Tip
Tipping can become a bit more complicated in France once we step out of bars and restaurants. For example, you should give taxi drivers €1-2 for helping with luggage or if they give you particularly good service. At hotels, tip porters €1-2 per bag just as you would in North America.
As for housekeeping, leaving housekeeping €1-2 per day is a nice gesture, but not exactly expected. For food delivery, €2-3 is appropriate, though you can keep it simple by just tipping 10% on your order total. If you’re on a local tour, guides will expect €5 or so per person for group tours. A private tour guide might expect €15-20 depending on duration and quality.
One important note: Overtipping can actually make some people in France uncomfortable, as it may be interpreted as showy or condescending. Remember: this is a country where people are mostly well-paid and enjoy greater resources. The key is to tip modestly and naturally, without making a fuss about it. Before you head to France, be sure to read up on the biggest tourist traps you should avoid in Paris!
