How Much to Tip in Argentina in 2025? (Essential Guide for US Travelers)

---

Traveling to Argentina? You might be wondering: how much should you actually tip?
Well, you’re not alone. Tipping etiquette in Argentina is different from what you’re used to in the US, and if you wanna avoid awkward moments, this guide’s gonna be your best friend.

Let’s dive straight into it — with real examples, quick tables, and everything you need to feel confident tipping like a local.

---

Understanding Tipping in Argentina vs USA: Key Differences

First off, tipping in Argentina (propina) isn’t mandatory the way it feels in the United States.

• In the US, service workers often depend on tips because their base wages are super low.
• In Argentina, workers do appreciate tips a lot, but they aren’t as “expected” or legally required to survive. Base wages are slightly higher (even if inflation eats into them).

That said, it’s still seen as polite and respectful to leave a tip when you’ve received good service — especially in places tourists frequent. And it feels good to reward someone’s hard work, right?

Tipping in Restaurants and Cafés: What You Should Know

How Much Should You Tip?

✅ A 10% tip is the standard in most restaurants and cafés.
✅ Always tip based on the total amount before taxes (pre-tax) unless you feel extra generous.
✅ If the service was truly exceptional, leaving 15% will absolutely make your server’s day.

Quick examples:

• Good service at a café = 10%
• Exceptional service at a nice restaurant = 15% or even a bit more
• Mediocre or rushed service = maybe 5% or just rounding up

What’s This ‘Cubierto’ Charge?

If you see a line on your bill labeled “cubierto,” don’t panic.
Cubierto is a small cover charge — like a fee for the table setting, bread, and service basics.

• It’s usually between AR$400 to AR$800 (depending where you are).
• Important: The cubierto fee does NOT go to the waitstaff. It goes straight to the restaurant.
• You still tip separately for good service.

Knowing this saves you confusion — many travelers wrongly think cubierto is the tip. Nope!

Tipping in Hotels and Lodging: Be Generous

Argentina’s hotel staff work hard — just like in the US.

• Bellhops: Give around AR$500 to AR$1000 per bag.
• Housekeeping: Leave around AR$1000 per night in your room (preferably in pesos, not coins).
• Concierge: If they pull off a special request for you (last-minute dinner reservation, tickets, etc.), tip AR$3000-AR$5000 depending on the favor.

The higher-end the hotel, the more generous you should be. In smaller boutique hotels, even small tips are deeply appreciated.

Tipping Taxi Drivers and Ride-Hailing Services

Taxis don’t expect a huge tip.

• Round up to the next 100 or 500 pesos. (Like if it’s AR$2700, just give AR$3000.)
• For longer rides, like from the airport, you can tip around 5-10%.

For Uber and ride-hailing apps like Cabify:

• You can tip within the app after the ride.
• However, not everybody does, and drivers don’t expect it as much as in the US.

That said, a small tip still goes a long way and builds goodwill.

Other Situations: Guides, Salons, and More

• Tour Guides: Tip 10-20% depending on the quality and size of the tour.
• Hairdressers and Barbers: 10% is polite.
• Spa Treatments: Same — 10%, unless the service was out of this world.

Again, small, genuine gestures are valued more than “big American-style” tipping.

Tipping in Less Touristy or Rural Areas

Outside major cities like Buenos Aires or Mendoza, tipping expectations drop.

• People in smaller towns might not expect tips at all.
• A simple round-up or a few coins will be seen as incredibly generous.

If you’re unsure, follow the locals’ lead. Watch what other diners or guests do before tipping.

Can I Tip in US Dollars in Argentina?

Short answer: Yes, but it’s not ideal.

• Argentine pesos are preferred almost everywhere.
• In tourist-heavy spots like Buenos Aires, guides or hotel staff might accept small USD tips (especially crisp $1 or $5 bills).
• Just know they’ll have a harder time exchanging coins, so avoid tipping in US coins.

Best advice? Exchange a small stash of pesos when you arrive and use those for tips.

Summary Table: Quick Tipping Reference for Argentina

Handling Poor Service: Should You Still Tip?

What if the service sucks? It’s rare — but it happens.

• If service was rude or grossly negligent, it’s okay to leave little or no tip.
• Still, locals might leave a few coins out of courtesy, even for bad service.
• You won’t cause offense by tipping less if it’s truly justified.

Just trust your gut. Good service deserves a good tip. Poor service doesn’t.

conclusion:

Argentina’s tipping culture is more relaxed than the US — but being polite and generous will always be appreciated.

Key things to remember:

• Stick to 10% for restaurants.
• Cash is king for tipping.
• Pesos are preferred over dollars.
• Always check if cubierto is on your bill.
• Use common sense — if service made your day better, tip accordingly.

Disclaimer: Economic conditions in Argentina can shift fast (thanks to inflation and currency changes). Always check local customs when you arrive to stay updated!