The Simple Guide to Tipping in Portugal: What You Need to Know in 2025
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Tipping in Portugal is nothing like tipping in the U.S. If you’re used to adding 20% to every bill, you might be surprised to find that tipping in Portugal is much more relaxed—and often not expected at all.
As an expat family from the U.S., we’ve had plenty of moments where we’ve tried to tip, only to have it politely refused!
So, how does tipping actually work in Portugal? This guide breaks down when, where, and how much to tip—so you can show appreciation without overdoing it.
Do You Need to Tip in Portugal?
Let’s get straight to the point. Unlike in the U.S., tipping in Portugal is not expected, and service workers don’t rely on tips to make a living wage. In fact, most locals do not tip. If they do, they either round up the bill or leave small change as a courtesy rather than a requirement.
That said, tipping is always appreciated, especially in places that cater to tourists. If you receive exceptional service, a small tip is a nice way to say thanks—but there’s no pressure.
In many cases, leaving nothing at all is completely normal, and no one will think twice about it.
How Much Should You Tip?
Tipping in Portugal is usually small and informal. In most cases, a 5-10% tip is generous, and even that is only expected in higher-end restaurants or private services.
If you’re unsure, the easiest approach is to round up to the nearest euro or two. For example, if your final bill is €18.40, leaving €20 is a common way to tip without overthinking it.
A cash tip in euros (€) is preferred, as many businesses don’t have a tipping option on card payments. Foreign currency, like U.S. dollars, isn’t practical since service workers can’t easily exchange it. If you plan to tip, carry a few euro coins to make it easier.
Tipping Etiquette by Service
What you tip in Portugal varies depending on the type of service. While some situations call for a small tip, others don’t require one at all. To make things simple, here’s a breakdown of common services and when—if ever—you should leave a tip.
Restaurants & Cafés
The tipping culture at restaurants and cafés in Portugal depends on the type of dining experience. Locals rarely tip, but if you want to show appreciation for great service, here’s what to expect:
- Cafés & casual eateries: No tip is expected. Some people round up the bill or leave small change, but it’s not necessary.
- Mid-range restaurants: If service was good, 5-10% is appreciated, but not required.
- High-end restaurants: A 10% tip is generous, but always check the bill first—some upscale places may include a service charge (serviço).
- Bartenders: Tipping isn’t common, but if you had great service, rounding up or leaving €1 per drink is a nice gesture.
Hotels
Tipping at hotels in Portugal is not expected, but it’s a thoughtful way to acknowledge good service. If you’d like to tip, here’s what’s common:
- Bellhop: €1-2 per bag if they help with luggage.
- Housekeeping: €1-2 per day for multi-night stays, especially if the service is exceptional.
- Concierge: No tip is needed unless they go above and beyond—such as securing a hard-to-get reservation or arranging a special experience.
- Doorman: Tipping isn’t expected, even if they help with doors or luggage.
Taxis & Ride-Sharing (Uber, Bolt, etc.)
Tipping taxi and ride-share drivers in Portugal is not expected, but rounding up is common.
- If your fare is €9.60, rounding up to €10 is a simple way to tip.
- If the driver helps with luggage, waits for you, or takes an extra-long route at your request, a €1-2 tip is a nice gesture.
Most locals don’t tip taxi or ride-share drivers, so there’s no pressure—but small tips for extra effort are always welcome.
Tour Guides
Tipping tour guides in Portugal depends on the type of tour. While not mandatory, it’s customary to leave something as a thank-you for their time and knowledge.
- Group tours: €5 per person for a half-day tour, €10 for a full-day tour.
- Private guides: 10% of the total tour price is appropriate.
- Free walking tours: Since these guides work on tips, €10-20 per person is standard.
Hair Salons, Spas & Other Services
Tipping for personal care services in Portugal is not expected, but leaving a small amount is a thoughtful way to acknowledge their work.
- Hairdressers & barbers: Rounding up or leaving €1-2 is common.
- Massage therapists & spa services: 5-10% is a fair amount for a well-done treatment.
While tipping isn’t the norm, a small gesture is always welcomed by those who take extra care in their service.
Parking & Other Small Services
For smaller services, tipping is not required but can be a nice way to acknowledge helpful assistance.
- Street parking attendants: If someone helps you park or watches over your car, €0.50-€1 is a common tip.
- Grocery store baggers: Tipping isn’t expected, but if a bagger provides extra help—like packing a large order or carrying bags to your car—€0.50-€1 is a kind gesture.
These tips are typically small, and meant as a token of appreciation rather than an obligation.
Can You Tip with a Card?
Unlike in the U.S., many restaurants and businesses in Portugal do not have a tipping option on card payments. If you want to leave a tip, it’s best to carry small euro coins or bills just in case.
Some higher-end restaurants may allow you to add a tip when paying by card, but this is not the norm. When in doubt, ask if tipping by card is possible—otherwise, having cash on hand ensures you can leave something if you end up choosing to tip.
Final Thoughts on Tipping in Portugal
Tipping in Portugal is not mandatory and, in many cases, not the norm at all. Unlike in the U.S., service workers don’t rely on tips, so there’s no pressure to leave extra. Most locals either round up the bill or leave small change, and even that is optional.
If you do choose to tip, 5-10% is generous, and having some small euro coins on hand makes it easier. But rest assured—no one will expect it, and you’ll receive the same level of service whether you tip or not.
Planning a trip to Portugal? Explore our Destinations Page to start planning your itinerary now!
