If you’re from the U.S., you’re used to tipping 15–20% everywhere you go.
But in France, the tipping culture is totally different. Not understanding it can cost you money… or cause a little embarrassment.
Don’t stress though.
This complete guide will break down exactly how tipping works in France — so you can relax, save your cash, and enjoy your trip like a local.
What You Must Know First: “Service Compris” Explained
In France, you’ll often see “service compris” printed on restaurant menus or bills.
It literally means “service included“.
Here’s the deal:
By law, restaurants and cafés must include a 15% service charge in your final bill.
This covers the wages of the waiters.
So you’re not expected to add a 20% tip like you would back home.
✅ Important:
The staff actually earn a livable salary because of this. They’re not relying on tips to survive, unlike many U.S. service workers.
So Should You Still Leave a Tip?
Yes, but it’s optional.
If you had amazing service — like a server who patiently explains the wine list or accommodates your complicated gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free request — then leaving a small pourboire (tip) is a nice gesture.
Think of it like saying “merci” (thank you) — just with a few euros.
How Much to Tip in France: Quick Table
| Service Type | How Much to Tip | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants (seated meal) | Round up or 5–10% for excellent service | Only if service was notably good |
| Cafés / Bars | Round up €1–2 | Especially if seated at a table |
| Taxis | Round up to nearest euro, or 5–10% | If helpful or friendly |
| Hotels | €1–2 per bag for porters, €1–2/day for housekeeping | Discretionary |
| Tour guides | €5–10 per person for great tours | More for private tours |
| Delivery drivers | €1–3 depending on distance and difficulty | Small pourboire appreciated |
Tipping in Restaurants and Cafés
If you’re just grabbing a quick coffee at the counter, you don’t need to tip.
A cheerful “merci!” is enough.
But if you sit down for a meal, get full table service, and linger over your espresso for an hour… it’s polite to leave a small pourboire.
When to tip more:
- Server goes out of their way (special requests, English translations)
- You dine in a tourist area and get excellent local recommendations
- Service during busy hours still feels personal and attentive
How to tip:
Just leave a few coins on the table after you pay.
There’s no need to hand it directly to the server — French tipping is discreet.
Taxis: How to Tip Like a Local
Taxi drivers don’t expect a big tip either.
Normal tipping for taxis:
- Short rides: just round up to the nearest euro
- Longer rides or help with heavy bags: add about 5–10%
Example:
Your fare is €13.20? Give €14 or €15 if the driver was particularly helpful.
Uber drivers in France? Same story — you can tip in the app, but it’s optional.
Hotels: Who to Tip and How Much
In France, hotel staff are paid reasonable salaries, but a small pourboire is still a nice gesture.
- Bellhop: €1–2 per bag
- Housekeeping: €1–2 per night (leave on the pillow)
- Concierge: €5–10 if they pull off something big (like last-minute dinner reservations)
Again, keep it casual and discreet. No need for a dramatic handoff.
Tour Guides and Day Trips
Tour guides love a pourboire if they gave you a fun, lively, insightful tour.
✅ Guideline:
Tip about €5–10 per person.
If it’s a private guide who spent all day with you? Bump it up to €20.
They usually won’t expect it, but they’ll appreciate it big time.
Delivery Drivers: Don’t Forget Them
If you order food or groceries delivered to your Airbnb or hotel, it’s polite to tip the driver.
Small tip = big thank you
- €1–3 is perfect, depending on the weather, distance, and stairs.
Hand it over with a smile and a “merci beaucoup!”
Where You Should NOT Tip
Tipping is weird or unnecessary in these spots:
- Self-service places (grab-and-go bakeries, coffee counters)
- Fast food (McDonald’s, etc.)
- Train station cafés (where you carry your own tray)
Giving a tip here might just confuse the staff.
How French Tipping Etiquette Varies by Region
Paris is more used to tourists tipping.
In smaller towns and rural villages, tipping is even less expected.
A sincere “merci” often means more than a few euros.
If you’re deep in the French countryside, don’t stress if you don’t tip — locals generally don’t either.
The Importance of Saying “Merci”
In France, genuine appreciation goes a long way.
A warm “merci,” eye contact, and a smile can mean just as much as a pourboire.
✅ Pro Tip:
If you do leave a tip, do it discreetly.
Slip coins under your coffee cup or leave them on the bill tray.
Waving money around or loudly announcing a tip is seen as tacky.
Cash or Card? (Here’s the Catch)
If you want to tip, use cash whenever possible.
When you pay by card, there’s often no easy way to add a tip on the machine. And even if you could, it’s not guaranteed the server gets it.
So… always keep a few euros handy for tips.
Common American Mistakes About Tipping in France
- Over-tipping like in the U.S. (20% is not normal here)
- Forcing a tip where it’s not expected (like in a bakery)
- Handing over tips too obviously (keep it lowkey)
Remember: tipping is modest and discreet in France.
It’s about appreciation, not obligation.
Final Thoughts: How Much to Tip in France?
To wrap it up:
Tipping in France is optional and modest.
Focus on service quality, show gratitude with a small pourboire or a heartfelt “merci,” and enjoy your trip without stressing over percentages.
Trust me, the French will appreciate your effort to respect their culture.
And your wallet will too.