Am I expected to tip in Portugal?

There is no obligation to tip at restaurants, hotels, bars, or spas in Portugal, but how much should you tip for exceptional service? Since it is not customary, there is no hard and fast rule about the amount that should be given in each circumstance. You, however, can’t go wrong by leaving a little extra when service exceeds your expectations. This could be as simple as rounding up to the nearest euro.

When dining out, skip the tip at cheaper restaurants and leave up to 10 percent when service exceeds expectations in upscale dining establishments. Be aware, however, that some restaurants include service in the final bill, so keep an eye out for that language at the bottom of the receipt before tipping extra. It is common for servers not to receive tips included on a credit card, so try to leave cash whenever possible.

Cafe server: If there is a tip jar, it’s a nice gesture to leave the change. For exceptional table service, round up to the nearest euro.

Restaurant server: It is not customary to tip at a cheaper restaurant, but a tip of up to 10 percent is acceptable at more upscale establishments. The tip is sometimes included in the final bill, but not always. Check the bill first for these inclusions before deciding what to tip.

Bartender: It’s not necessary to tip a bartender, but you can round up to the nearest euro for exceptional service. Table service is considered to be separate than the bar, and it is considerate to round to the nearest euro for great service.

Tour guide: Had a wonderful time on your tour? Tip 5 EUR per half-day tour and 10 to 15 EUR for a full-day tour. If taking a free tour, tip 5-10 EUR for a short tour, as this is the only way the guides make money.

Taxis: Tipping in Portugal taxis isn’t expected, but is appreciated. A good rule of thumb is to round up to the nearest 5 EUR or up to 10 percent of the final fare for outstanding service.

Airport shuttle: It is not necessary to tip your driver, but feel free to give 1 EUR per bag if they help with your luggage.

Doorman: Gratitude is always welcome when a doorman assists with luggage or hailing transportation. A simple thank you is appreciated, but feel free to offer 1 EUR for extra help.

Bellhop: It is customary to tip 1 to 2 EUR per bag, depending on size, but no more than 5 EUR.

Housecleaning: Feel free to leave 1 EUR per night for a spotless stay.

Concierge: If the concierge goes above and beyond with helping you book reservations, giving you directions, and providing insider recommendations, it’s considerate to tip 5 to 10 EUR.

Spa service provider: A tip isn’t expected, and may be refused, but you can leave up to 10 percent for anything that goes above and beyond your expectations.

10 Curious Facts for Travelers

1. Tipping is not strictly required in Portugal, but locals usually leave around 5-10% at restaurants.
2. For exceptional service at high-end restaurants, bartenders, etc., tips up to 15% are appreciated.
3. Rounding up the bill or leaving your spare change is a simple way to tip smaller amounts.
4. If paying by credit card, cash tips are still preferred since servers pay taxes on credit card receipts.
5. Most restaurants include a "serviço" charge on bills, but that doesn't all go to the server so leave an extra cash tip.
6. Tip hotel cleaning staff a few euros per day and porters 1-2 euros per bag.
7. It's customary to tip hairdressers and barbers 10% and taxi drivers 5-10% of the fare.
8. Tipping at cafés and beach bars is less expected, though small change is welcomed.
9. Tour guides on bus tours, museum visits, etc. expect tips of around 10 euros per person.
10. Don't feel obligated to tip more than you can afford, as most Portuguese understand different tipping customs.