How much tip do you leave in Spain or France after a restaurant meal?

Tipping Protocol for Restaurants in Spain and France

When dining out in Spain or France, it is customary to leave a gratuity as a token of appreciation for the service received. The standard tip is generally 10% of the total bill before taxes.

Reasons for Tipping:

• Service: Tips recognize good service and encourage attentive and polite staff.
• Gratitude: Tipping demonstrates gratitude for the hospitality and pleasant dining experience.
• Incentive for Good Service: Tips can serve as an incentive for restaurants to maintain high standards of service.

How to Tip:

• Cash: Tipping in cash is the most common method.
• Credit Card: Some restaurants accept credit card tips, but it is important to check with the server first.
• Discreetly: Tips should be given discreetly to avoid making other diners feel uncomfortable.

Additional Tips:

• Excellent Service: For exceptional service, consider tipping 15% or more.
• Poor Service: If the service was poor, you may consider a smaller tip or no tip at all.
• Tour Groups: Larger tour groups may have a service charge included in the bill. Check the receipt to confirm.
• Coffee or Drinks: It is generally not necessary to tip for coffee or drinks at a bar.

Cultural Differences:

Tipping culture varies slightly between Spain and France.

• In Spain, the customary tip is 10% for average service, with higher tips reserved for exceptional experiences.
• In France, the standard tip is also 10%, but it is not as common to leave higher tips.

Respecting Local Customs:

It is important to respect the tipping customs of the country you are visiting. By following the local etiquette, you not only show your appreciation for the service but also contribute to the local economy.