Tipping in France: The France Tipping Guide
Tipping expectedHow much to tip in France
Notes by Service
Restaurant
Hotel / Housekeeping
In hotels tip Good Service if you want
Taxi / Rideshare
Round up the fare; 5–10% is generous.
Spa & Massage
Bar
Round up per drink.
Hairdresser / Barber
A small tip is appreciated.
Tour Guide
Tip for good service.
Food Delivery
A small tip of €1–2 is a nice gesture.
About Tipping in France
Overview
Every French restaurant bill legally includes service — "service compris" means the tip is already built in, usually 15%. An additional tip is not expected, but leaving a small amount (rounding up, or €1–5 in cash) for good service is a warm gesture that servers appreciate.
When to tip
Tipping at restaurants is entirely optional given the mandatory service charge. For taxis, simply round up to the nearest euro or two. Hotel porters, tour guides, and hairdressers all appreciate a small tip but won't be put out if you skip it.
How to tip
The French way is understated: leave coins or a small bill on the table, or tell the server to keep the change. Handing someone an envelope or making a production of the tip is not the style. In a café, leaving the copper coins from your change on the saucer is perfectly appropriate.
Cultural context
France has a long-standing culture of service as a profession rather than a hustle for gratuity. Servers are salaried employees — often unionised — so the economic pressure to tip that exists in the US simply doesn't apply. That said, as Paris grows more international, service staff are increasingly familiar with and grateful for tips from tourists.