So, you’re heading to Paris! Get ready for amazing food, beautiful sights, and maybe a little confusion about tipping. Tipping in Paris is a bit different than in the United States. It’s not as mandatory or as high, but it’s still good to know the customs so you can be a savvy traveler.
Understanding the Basics of Tipping in Paris
The good news is that in France, service is almost always included in the bill. You’ll usually see “service compris” on your restaurant check, which means the service charge is already factored into the price. This is a big difference from places where you’re expected to add a significant tip on top of the bill. However, even with the service included, there are still situations where a small extra tip is appreciated.
Think of it like this: the service charge covers the basic work of the server. Any extra tip is a way to show appreciation for exceptional service. It’s a gesture of goodwill for someone who went above and beyond to make your experience enjoyable.
When to Tip (and How Much) in Different Situations
Restaurants
As mentioned, “service compris” usually appears on the bill. If you see this, you don’t have to leave an additional tip. However, if you thought the service was particularly good, it’s common to leave a small amount. This could be rounding up the bill to the nearest euro or leaving a few extra euros on the table. For example, if your bill is €47, you might leave €50. If your bill is €72 and you received truly excellent service, leaving €75 would be a generous and appreciated gesture. There is no need to calculate a percentage.
If, by some chance, you don’t see “service compris” on the bill (this is rare, but can happen), you should ask your server if the service is included. If it’s not, a tip of 10-15% would be appropriate.
Cafés
Similar to restaurants, service is usually included at cafés. If you’re just having a coffee or a quick drink at the bar, rounding up to the nearest euro or two is perfectly acceptable. If you’re sitting at a table and receiving more attentive service, you could leave a slightly larger tip, maybe €1-€2 per person, depending on the service.
Taxis
Tipping taxi drivers in Paris isn’t mandatory, but it’s a nice gesture for good service, especially if they helped you with your luggage. Rounding up the fare to the nearest euro or two is common. If the driver was particularly helpful or friendly, you might add a bit more. For example, if the fare is €17, you could round up to €20.
Hotels
Tipping hotel staff is also not obligatory, but it’s appreciated for certain services. If a porter helps you with your luggage, a tip of €1-€2 per bag is standard. For housekeeping staff, you can leave a small tip at the end of your stay, maybe €2-€5 per day, depending on the quality of the service. For concierge services, a tip depends on the help they provide. If they simply give you directions, no tip is needed. If they secure hard-to-get reservations or arrange special services, a tip of €5-€20, or more, depending on the complexity and success of their efforts, is appropriate.
Other Services
For services like hairdressers or spa treatments, tipping is not expected, but it’s becoming more common. If you’re very happy with the service, you can round up the bill or leave a small tip of around 5-10%.
How to Leave a Tip
In restaurants and cafés, you can leave the tip in cash on the table when you leave. If you’re paying with a credit card, it’s not usually possible to add the tip to the card payment. So, it’s always a good idea to have some small bills and coins on hand for tipping. For hotel staff, you can hand the tip directly to the person providing the service or leave it in the room for housekeeping, clearly marked.
Important Things to Remember
- “Service compris” means service is included.
- Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service.
- Small bills and coins are useful for tipping in cash.
- Don’t feel pressured to tip excessively.
Common Misconceptions About Tipping in Paris
One of the biggest misconceptions is that you need to tip as much as you would in the United States. This is simply not the case. French workers are paid a more liveable wage than tipped employees in the US, so the pressure to tip is significantly less. Another misconception is that if you don’t tip, you’re being rude. While a small tip is a nice gesture for excellent service, it’s not considered rude to not tip if the service was just average or if you’re on a tight budget. It’s always better to be polite and appreciative, regardless of whether you leave a tip or not.
Alternatives to Tipping
If you’re uncomfortable with the idea of tipping, or if you’re simply not sure how much to leave, there are other ways to show your appreciation. A sincere “merci” (thank you) and a smile can go a long way. You can also leave a positive review online, mentioning the specific staff member who provided excellent service. This can be very helpful for their career and is a great way to show your gratitude.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to tip in Paris?
No, tipping is not mandatory in Paris, as service is usually included in the bill. However, a small tip is appreciated for exceptional service.
How much should I tip in a restaurant?
If the service was good, rounding up the bill or leaving a few extra euros is sufficient. There’s no need to calculate a percentage.
Is it possible to add a tip to my credit card payment?
Usually not. It’s best to have cash on hand for tipping.
What if the service was bad?
If the service was truly bad, you are not obligated to leave a tip. However, try to address the issue with the manager before you leave.
Is tipping expected at bars?
Rounding up to the nearest euro or two is sufficient at bars.
Navigating the nuances of tipping in a foreign country can feel daunting, but in Paris, it’s relatively straightforward. Remember that service is usually included, and any extra tip is a gesture of appreciation, not an obligation. Relax, enjoy your trip, and don’t stress too much about the tipping etiquette. A smile and a sincere “merci” will always be appreciated!
