Planning a trip to Israel? One of the most common questions US travelers ask is: “How much should I tip in Israel?” The short answer: it depends. But don’t worry—we’re breaking it down for you in the simplest way possible. This guide gives you exact amounts in Israeli Shekels (ILS), real-life examples, and practical tips, so you never feel unsure about tipping while abroad.

💡 Quick Tipping Overview (With Real Shekel Examples)

Here’s a handy cheat sheet for quick reference:

These are general guidelines. Actual tips may vary depending on service quality, friendliness, or your overall experience.

🍽️ Restaurants & Cafes: The Most Common Tipping Scenario

In sit-down restaurants and cafes, tipping is expected. While Israeli servers earn a basic wage, tips are still an essential part of their income—just like in the US.

• How much?
  Tip 10% for average service, 15% (or more) for great service. If you’re at a high-end place with attentive staff, go closer to 20%.
• Currency tip:
  For a 100 ILS bill, a 10–15 ILS tip is typical. For a 300 ILS meal, leave around 30–45 ILS.
• Why tip here?
  Restaurant staff juggle multiple tables, deliver custom orders, and often go out of their way to accommodate tourists.
• Important tip:
  Always check the bill. If it says “Service not included,” that means you should tip—just like in the US. And try to tip in cash, even if you pay the bill by card. That ensures the tip goes directly to your server.

🏨 Hotels: Small Tips Go a Long Way

Hotel tipping in Israel varies depending on the type of accommodation. While it’s not mandatory, it’s very much appreciated—especially in places where staff actively support your comfort.

• Housekeeping Staff:
  • Budget hotels: 5–10 ILS per day is fine.
  • Luxury hotels: 10–20 ILS per day.
    Leave it on the pillow or somewhere obvious with a small note, if possible.
• Bellhops / Porters:
  • 5–10 ILS per bag is standard.
• Concierge Service:
  If they go out of their way—like booking dinner reservations or getting last-minute tickets—tip around 20–40 ILS.
• Why tip here?
  These people work behind the scenes to make your stay smooth, clean, and comfortable. A small tip is a big “thank you” in their world.

🚖 Taxis: Tipping Isn’t Required—But It’s Polite

Taxi tipping in Israel isn’t mandatory, but it’s a kind gesture to round up the fare.

• How much?
  If your fare is 87 ILS, just pay 90 ILS. For longer airport runs or really helpful drivers, add 5–10 ILS.
• Why tip here?
  While fares are regulated, tipping can show appreciation for good driving, helping with bags, or even offering local travel advice.
• Quick note:
  Most Israeli taxi drivers prefer cash. If you’re using apps like Gett, some tipping features may be built-in, but check and confirm.

🧭 Tour Guides: Where Tipping Really Counts

This is one category where tipping feels less transactional and more like a way to say, “Wow, you made my trip incredible.”

• Private tours:
  Tip 50–100 ILS per person for a full-day tour, depending on how engaging, informative, and helpful your guide was.
• Group tours:
  A 20–40 ILS tip per person is the norm. If it’s a free tour, consider tipping even more to show appreciation.
• Why tip here?
  These guides don’t just recite history. They translate culture, manage logistics, keep everyone engaged, and often act as your first line of safety and support. Tipping here is a recognition of effort and expertise.

💳 Should You Tip with Cash or Card?

Always tip in cash whenever possible. Here’s why:

• Credit card tips often don’t reach the staff or get held until payroll.
• Cash tips are immediate and go directly to the person who served you.

Keep small denominations of ILS (Israeli Shekels) handy. Coins and small bills go a long way.

🙋 Still Unsure? Here Are Some Example Scenarios:

Let’s make this more real. Here are some common tipping moments:

• You have a great dinner in Tel Aviv, total bill is 220 ILS → Tip 30 ILS.
• You’re staying at a boutique hotel in Jerusalem for 3 nights → Leave 30 ILS for housekeeping.
• Your guide leads a 6-hour walking tour, answers all your questions, and gives you restaurant recs → Tip 60–80 ILS.
• Taxi from Ben Gurion Airport to your hotel costs 170 ILS → Pay 180 ILS.

📝 Final Thoughts: Tipping Is Appreciation, Not Obligation

Israel’s tipping culture is generous, but not aggressive. No one will chase you down if you forget—but tipping remains a meaningful gesture of respect.

So if you’re coming from the US, yes—tipping in Israel will feel familiar, but slightly more flexible. Use this guide as your base, adjust based on service quality, and you’ll be just fine.