Tipping Guide

Tipping in Spain: What You Actually Need to Know

Confused about tipping in Spain? Neither 10% nor nothing is the full story. Learn the real tipping etiquette for restaurants, taxis, hotels, and more.

Piggy bank representing savings and gratuity in Spain

Some visitors arrive in Spain thinking they need to tip 10% like back home. Others have heard that Spaniards never tip at all. Neither is quite right.

Unlike the United States, waiters in Spain receive an actual wage with a contract. They don't depend on tips to make a living. This fundamentally changes the dynamic: tipping is appreciated but not expected or mandatory.

That said, leaving a small tip for good service is a common practice—especially in sit-down restaurants. The key difference is that nobody will judge you if you don't, and service staff won't chase you down the street.

Person looking confused about what to do — Don't stress—Spanish tipping is flexible

The general guideline at restaurants is 5-10% of the bill for good service. At tapas bars or casual spots, simply rounding up or leaving small change is perfectly acceptable.

For a €30 meal with good service, leaving €2-3 is generous. For a €15 lunch, leaving the small coins from your change shows appreciation without overthinking it.

5-10%

Restaurant tip for good service

€1-2

Per person at group dinners

Round up

For taxis and bars

Cash

Preferred payment method

One important detail: tips are almost always given in cash. Credit card machines in Spain typically don't have a tip option, and adding a tip by card can create confusion. Keep some coins handy if you want to show appreciation.

Different situations call for different approaches. Here's a quick reference for what to tip—or whether to tip at all—in common scenarios you'll encounter in Spain.

Situation	Recommended Tip	Notes
Fine dining restaurant	10%	For exceptional service
Casual restaurant	5-10% or round up	Not expected, but appreciated
Tapas bar	Leave small coins	Round up to nearest euro
Coffee at a café	Nothing or small coins	Not expected at all
Taxi	Round up the fare	e.g., €8.50 → €9
Hotel porter	€1-2 per bag	Optional but common
Hotel housekeeping	€1-2 per day	Leave at end of stay
Tour guide	€5-10	For multi-hour tours
Hairdresser/Barber	Round up or 5-10%	Depends on service level
Delivery driver	€1-2	Optional, appreciated

Tipping Guide for Different Situations

Spanish restaurant terrace scene — Tipping culture in Spain is relaxed compared to other countries

Carry Cash

Card machines rarely have tip options. Keep coins and small bills handy.

Check for IVA

The 10% IVA on bills is a tax, not a service charge. It goes to the government.

Don't Overthink It

Spaniards tip casually. A few coins or rounding up is enough in most situations.

Groups Can Split

For group meals, €1-2 per person is a standard contribution to a tip.

The bottom line? Tipping in Spain is simple once you understand the culture. It's not about hitting a specific percentage—it's about showing appreciation when service genuinely impresses you.

If you're settling into life in Spain, you'll quickly pick up on the relaxed approach. Observe what locals do, keep some coins in your pocket, and don't stress about getting it exactly right.