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Tipping in France

A Guide to Tipping in France

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When planning a trip to France, many travelers dream of the simplicity of sitting at the terrace of a sidewalk cafe in Paris and drinking a glass of wine while watching passers-by. But then comes the check and the questions that can be so fraught with difficulties: to tip or not to tip, and if so, how much?

Ultimately, tipping is a demonstration to express satisfaction for the service provided and Americans have a reputation for tipping well. This is why there is often an expectation in France that visitors from the U.S. will leave good tips. However, tipping in France is entirely up to you and is rarely expected in most situations.

Guidelines for tipping in France should be based on customs but also the quality of your experience, and they are not strictly followed everywhere in France . In some parts of the country, your tips will be considered a mark of generosity on your part as the standards of living there are not as high as in Paris.

Tipping at hotels in France is not mandatory, but it can be a nice gesture if someone goes out of their way to help make your stay extra special.

• If a bellhop brings your bags to your room, a tip of 2-3 euros per bag is the norm—and a bit more if they are very pleasant and helpful.
• For a spotless stay, you can leave 1-2 euros per night for the housekeeper.
• If the hotel concierge provides an extra service, like making reservations or booking tickets, you can tip anywhere between 8 and 20 euros, depending on how upscale your hotel is.

Restaurants

Unlike in America, cafes and restaurants in Paris and the rest of France include a 15 percent service charge in the check, which is required by French law. The words service compris indicate that the tip has already been included, so take a good look at the bill when it arrives.

• If you'd like to tip on top of the service charge, a small amount is a nice gesture. Anything between 5 and 10 percent is considered generous.
• If there is a coat check at the restaurant , or anywhere else, it is customary to tip 1 euro for every large item when you come back to pick up your belongings.
• If you order a drink at a bar or cafe, a tip of 1 to 2 euros per drink is optional if you receive good service.

Transportation

In France, cab drivers don't make a lot of money, so you should consider tipping even though it's not expected. You can either offer to round up your fare or tip 5-10 percent on the total.

Whether you're on a multi-day bus tour through the countryside or an hour-long tour in a museum, it's good etiquette to tip your tour guide when in France.

• For a regular tour guide on a day tour, you can tip between 2 and 5 euros per day when the tour is over.
• If your tour has a driver, who is not also your guide, you should tip 1 to 2 euros per day for every person in your party.
• If you have a guide at a museum, show your appreciation with a tip of 1 to 2 euros.

There was a time, not so long ago, when ushers at theaters were not paid at all by theater operators and lived on tips only. This is no longer the case, but it is still customary to give 1 to 2 euros to the ushers if attending a night at the Opera, who also get paid on sales of evening programs. If you visit a movie theatre with an usher, you should give them 1 euro.

Tipping at spas in France varies depending on the spa you go to, so ask the reception desk when you check in for your treatment what's appropriate. If tipping is encouraged, you should tip between 10-20 percent.

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Do You Tip in France? Sometimes—Here’s When and How Much to Give

Tipping in france is fairly straightforward. follow these handy tips when you order a café crème..

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Keep a few euros handy when you’re out and about.

Photo by Alex Harmuth/Unsplash

You’ve just finished lunch at a charming French café and received the bill. Your hand hovers over your wallet ... should you leave a tip in France? Yes, actually—if you had especially good service.

According to the unspoken rules of French tipping culture, gratuity is not expected for wait staff in restaurants, taxis, and hotels because service fees are already calculated and included in any final bill; all employees are paid a living wage by employers and do not rely on tips for their livelihoods. In France, hospitality workers, from servers to bellhops, earn a decent minimum wage and enjoy benefits like paid holidays. That said, customers can still choose to show their appreciation for an exceptional experience with a small tip, the amount of which varies on the type of establishment and service.

Use these helpful guidelines to navigate tipping etiquette when traveling in France, which will universally apply throughout the nation, whether you’re visiting Paris or the countryside.

Always try and keep a few euros handy when you’re out and about.

Photo by montatip lilitsanong/Unsplash

Tipping in French restaurants and cafés is not required

Whether you’re at a local café or a Michelin-starred restaurant, 15 percent is automatically included as a service charge in French restaurants by law. This fee is usually indicated on the menu or the final bill with the phrase “ service compris.” Nevertheless, if you have a friendly or efficient waiter, you can leave a small gratuity ( un pourboire ), but this is by no means required.

In more touristy restaurants, you might come across audacious waiters who try to tell you that a gratuity isn’t included. Technically they’re right; service is included—a gratuity is not. Regardless, you are not obligated to leave them anything.

For a simple beverage, you can round up to the nearest euro or leave 20 to 50 centimes per drink. For a meal at a casual café or restaurant, you could leave one to two euros per person. For a fine-dining establishment, where the service is much more attentive, you may want to leave 5 to 10 percent.

It’s best to have some change or small bills for tipping because there isn’t the option of leaving a tip on French credit card slips (service is included in the price). You can ask the waiter to add a tip before he punches in the total amount on the credit card terminal; however, with this method, you can’t be sure that the tip is paid to the staff. So, it’s a good idea to keep a few loose euros on hand.

While it’s not a requirement to tip taxi drivers, it’s a nice gesture—especially if they’ve helped you with a heavy bag.

Photo by Diego Fernandez/Unsplash

Tipping taxi drivers and private chauffeurs

Tipping taxi drivers isn’t required; however, locals often round up to the nearest euro or leave up to 5 percent. If the driver helps you with your bags (particularly if they’re large), it’s customary to tip one or two euros per bag.

For a private car service, such as a prebooked airport transfer or full-day car tour, you could tip 5 to 10 percent. When it comes to Uber, there will always be an option to tip your driver, and the same rules apply: If the experience was good, you can add gratuity through the app.

Depending on the type of hotel you stay at France, gratuity might be a good idea.

Courtesy of Château d’Estoublon

Tipping at hotels

Depending on your hotel and what you request from the staff, there are a range of services for which you might want to leave a gratuity.

• Luggage handlers: One or two euros per bag A couple of euros is a small price to pay for help with your bags through lobbies, into elevators, and along corridors.
• Doormen: One or two euros Feel free to pass on a few notes to those hailing cabs or providing a valet service.
• Room service waiters: A few euros It is courteous to give a couple of notes or coins to the staff who bring your meals. Ask for change or directions to the nearest ATM when you check in.
• Housekeeping staff: Two to four euros per day More unsung heroes who help our trips go smoothly. You can pass on the money directly or sometimes leave it in an envelope in the room or at the reception desk.
• Concierge: Five to 20 euros If you’ve asked your concierge for a restaurant reservation or to arrange other services, then you should tip five to 20 euros, depending on what they’ve helped you with. For example, recommending the best tour guide and setting up your experience deserves a larger tip than a quick call for a dinner reservation.

It’s customary to tip people who work in the beauty industry in France.

Photo by Uby Yanes/Unsplash

Tipping in French spas or beauty salons

In France, you should tip hairdressers, beauticians, massage therapists, or other wellness professionals 5 to 10 percent, so you may want to slip this into your pocket beforehand.

Gratuities for theater ushers

Although ushers are likely paid a salary, in private theaters it’s customary to tip a euro or two. So, if you’re going to the opera, a classical concert, or play, have some coins handy.

During “free” tours in France, it’s especially important to guides.

Photo by Unsplash/Getty

Tipping for tours, classes, and other tourism services

This is where tipping can get a little fuzzy in France. If you book a private tour, class, or excursion directly with a guide or instructor, you’re usually charged a flat fee, and thus tipping is not expected. If you book via an online booking platform, a tour company, or your concierge, you could leave a 10 to 20 percent gratuity if you’re happy with your experience. If you have any doubts, check your booking confirmation; information about tipping is usually included in the fine print.

In recent years there has been a proliferation of “free tours” in major cities. Although advertised as “free,” the guides have to pay a set amount (about two euros) to the tour company for each person who shows up at the beginning of the tour—even if some inevitably drop off along the way. Therefore, if you take one of these tours and you enjoy your guide, consider leaving at least five to seven euros per person so the guide can, in turn, tip the waiter at their local café.

Are there any situations where tipping is offensive?

In general, French people will always appreciate a tip if they’ve provided a service. But there is one big no-no when it comes to French tipping etiquette: A giant tip isn’t always better. In French culture, flashy displays of wealth are seen as unsightly, including the act of leaving a massive tip post-dinner. So while there isn’t a situation in which a tiny gratuity won’t be appreciated, leaving €100 on the table after a €25 Parisian café stop—even if the server gave you some great travel tips—won’t be received warmly.

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A guide to tipping in France: It’s not as much as you think!

How much do you tip in France? Discover the ins and outs of tipping in France with our comprehensive guide: When, where, and how much.

Tipping in France isn’t rocket science, but it can be confusing for tourists who are not familiar with tipping etiquette and social norms in France.

So, if you’re wondering whether or not you should tip that French taxi driver or the super-friendly French waiter, read on.

After reading this guide, you may want to read about Why French tipping culture is so confusing and arbitrary .

Jump to section ↓

Facts about tipping in France and French tipping etiquette

Do You Tip In France or is it rude?

Yes, you can tip in France, and you won’t offend anyone if you do, but if you leave too big of a tip, you may embarrass someone or get puzzled looks. 

And if you don’t tip in France, no one will call you bad names under their breath or come chasing after you because no one expects a tip. 

Think of tipping in France almost like an unexpected gift and kind gesture rather than an obligation to supplement an underpaid worker.

How much do you tip in France?

In France and many European countries, tipping is more of a nuanced practice that varies by situation.

When someone does leave a tip, it’s usually a euro coin or two euro coins, and not based on a percentage. And when someone does give a tip, it’s nowhere near 10%, 15%, or 20%, like in the US or Canada. 

This simple concept confused me at first because it’s not a black-and-white answer.

Why are tips in France so much lower than in other countries?

If you’re wondering why tips are so much less than what you may be accustomed to, it’s because French service industry workers are paid a living wage.

A liveable wage in France is minimum wage and above. As of 2022, the minimum wage in France for a 35-hour work week is 1645.48 euros/month (1 302.64 euros net).

Minimum wage in France is called  SMIC  which is an accronym for “ S alaire  M inimum  I nterprofessionnel de  C roissance” (guaranteed minimum growth wage).

This is in stark contrast to service industry workers in other countries, such as the United States, where workers rely on tips because they earn below minimum wage, i.e. a liveable wage. For example, in some U.S. states, waiters and waitresses can earn a salary as low as $2.13 per hour . Without tips, they couldn’t survive.

Still, the minimum wage is never a huge sum of money if you consider the cost of living , so tips are very much appreciated, especially if you’re raising a family.

Why Some French People Don’t Tip In France?

As the old saying goes, different strokes for different folks. Some French people don’t tip. I neither condone nor condemn this practice. I’m just stating a fact. The reasons why someone might not leave a tip in France are wide and varied, but here are some possible scenarios.

• Some people don’t believe tipping is necessary if a 15% service charge (service compris) is added to the bill. (This service charge is actually not a tip. It goes directly to the owner, who uses it to partly pay a liveable wage to all employees.
• Credit card machines in France are not built to add tips automatically. So, if someone has no cash in their pocket, they won’t leave a tip.
• Sometimes people are cash-strapped or cheap.
• Young people often forget to leave tips.
• If you receive bad service, the belief is you should never leave a tip in France. Not even a one-centime.

Tip with cash, not a debit or credit card

In North America, it’s easy to tip with a credit card. There is even a space for you to write in the tip amount, which can be added at any time.

In France, you can’t do this. Once your server swipes your card, you can’t ask them to add a tip.

They have to first cancel the transaction. Then, you have to tell them how much you want to tip so they can key it in manually and re-swipe your card with the tip added to the total.

That’s why it’s better to have a few coins or cash on you at all times so that you can leave a tip.

Another thing to keep in mind is it may take several weeks for the owner to disperse the credit card tips to the servers.

Who and how much do you tip in France?

Now that you’re familiar with the basics of tipping etiquette in France, here are some suggested tipping amounts for different situations.

Keep in mind, unlike in North America; there are no hard and fast rules about how much to tip. It’s more of a personal discretion. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

*These are just suggested amounts.

For more information on France’s tipping etiquette and culture, please read part one of this series, France Tipping Culture: Why it’s so Confusing And Arbitrary , which explains why tipping is more subjective and arbitrary in France than in other countries.

Tipping in restaurants, cafes, and bars

In North America, when the waiter drops the restaurant bill at your table, most people will automatically calculate the tip based on a percentage, usually 15 to 20 percent.

As I mentioned earlier, tipping in France is more nuanced or intuitive.

For example, if your bill at a French restaurant is around 13 to 25 euros, it’s pretty normal to leave a one-euro or two-euro coin. There’s no hassling with percentages.

If you’re dead set on leaving a tip in French restaurants based on a percentage, you can do that, too.

• 2% to 5 % for good service.
• 10 % for great service.
• 15 % to 20 % in nicer restaurants where someone has given you exceptional service, but not if the service was terrible.
• If you’re with a large group, a small tip of one euro from everyone in the group is an easy way to express gratitude for serving so many people.

Tipping In touristy Paris Restaurants:

Tipping in Paris is just like tipping anywhere else in France.

However, Paris is a big city, and tipping occurs more often in bigger cities.

Also, because so many tourists, especially Americans, leave big 20% tips in touristy restaurants (especially in touristy Parisian restaurants and cafés), some French waiters have grown accustomed to bigger tips.

But just because someone expects a big tip doesn’t mean you should.

My Parisian friend scolded me when I left a 10 euro tip for a 65 euro bill at a popular Paris restaurant. She grabbed the ten euros from the table, put five back in my purse and left 5 euros on the table for the server. She said it was too much for average service, bordering on bad, and giving servers such a big tip sets a bad precedence for locals.

You might be interested in reading:  Ordering Steak in France: Rare, Medium Rare, to Well-done Steak in French .

Tipping At A Café Terrace

Having an aperitif or espresso coffee at a restaurant terrace is a quintessential part of French culture.

Most people agree that it’s a “keep the change” situation where you leave some of the small change you get back when paying with cash or round up to the nearest euro.

For example, if your coffee and croissant cost 2.50, you could leave.

• 10 centimes (4%)
• 20 centimes (8%)
• 50 centimes (20%) if you’re feeling generous.

You might be interested in reading What Is A Brasserie, Bistro, Café & What’s The Difference? A France Dining Guide

Do You Tip Bartenders In France?

Leaving some small change behind after paying in cash is a nice gesture to show appreciation.

 But again, in my experience, it’s not uncommon for people to not leave a tip, especially if paying with a card. 

You might be interested in reading   27 After Dinner Drinks: The French Love To Drink (Digestifs / Digestives)

You might be interested in reading   77 French Apéritif Drinks Explained: A Mini Guide to Pre-dinner Drinks .

Do You Tip In France For Take-Out Or Fast Food-Type Restaurants?

In a casual restaurant where you order your meal and take it to your seat or to go, you may see a tip jar sitting on the counter.

If I have some coins in my pocket, I’ll usually drop in some change, but not always.

Tipping hotel staff

Tipping housekeeping, the porter, bellhop or other hotel staff, might be common in the U.S., but it isn’t always automatic in hotels in France.

Still, it is always a nice gesture to tip a few euros to hotel staff, especially if they’re accustomed to receiving tips from other tourists and if they went over and above the line of duty.

You might be interested in reading :  11 Places to Store Your Annoying Luggage Before Check-in & After Check out While Sightseeing

Hotel Housekeeping?

Housekeeping always gets the least amount of love and tips. Out of sight, out of mind.

If you want to leave a gratuity for their hard work and effort, leaving a tip of 1 to 2 euros per day is a nice gesture, especially if you were a slob or left a huge mess. If you threw up all over the bathroom, you might want to leave a 20 euro tip for housekeeping with an apology letter.

Did you know it’s better to tip housekeeping daily rather than at the end of your stay so that the person who actually cleans your room will get the tip? If you tip at the end of your stay, the last person who cleaned your room will get the entire tip

Tipping Hotel Porter / Bellhop

A tip of 1 to 2 euros per bag is about the going rate.

If you’re in a super deluxe hotel, maybe 2 to 3 for the first bag and an extra euro for each additional bag or suitcase.

It’s also nice to leave a tip to the hotel staff when you store your luggage at a hotel before you check-in or after you check in.

Tipping The Valet

Tipping the valet a few euros to run and fetch your car isn’t commonplace in France.

However, if the valet went above and beyond the call of duty, for instance, he/she ran to get your car, fetched your luggage, loaded it in the boot of your vehicle and turned on the A.C. or heat for you, giving 5 or 10 euros is a generous tip.

Do You Tip For Room Service?

Tipping for room service in France is a little like tipping a delivery person or a restaurant waiter. You can give one or two euros, but again, it’s really up to you. 

Tipping delivery people in France

With pizza delivery and food delivery services like Uber Eats, you can tell them to keep the change or give them a tip of one or two euros, especially if your place is difficult to access.

Many food delivery apps like Uber Eats in France allow customers to leave a tip from within the app based on a percentage.

Tipping Furniture Delivery Workers

If the furniture delivery person sweats blood and tears carrying your new refrigerator or couches up two flights of narrow stairs on their back, you may want to leave a generous tip: 5, 10, or 20 euros, depending on the difficulty of the job. They will be surprised to get one but very appreciative.

Other tipping situations

Tipping the hairdresser or barber.

At a hair salon or barber, you can leave a small tip of a euro or two.

Your tip will go directly to the person who cut your hair, or it might get shared with other staff.

Tipping the Masseuse Or Esthetician

A tip of 15% to 20% at a health spa or esthetician is considered very generous. Some businesses have a small envelope for you to leave a tip where you can write the name of the person who helped you.

Tipping The Washroom Attendants

If you see a tip jar in a washroom where there is an attendant, you can leave some change as a tip.

Especially if the bathroom was clean, fully stocked with paper towels, and the bathroom attendant was helpful.

Tipping The Cloakroom Attendant

At concerts, nightclubs, and theatres, you can tip the cloakroom attendant around one euro.

However, if you had to pay for the cloakroom, the tendency is not to leave a tip.

Tipping An Usher

A decade ago, it was customary to give ushers tips because it was well-known that they survived solely on tips.

However, more and more ushers now have salaries; usually, minimum wage and the custom of tipping ushers is slowly disappearing.

If ushers are paid solely on tips, you should see a sign saying so.

Michelle, who works as an usher at Théâtre de la Michodière (a private theatre), says a tip of 50 cents is too small . One euro is good, but several euros is better. Not having change is no excuse because ushers can give you change—her words, not mine.

Be careful; only tip ushers in a private theatre. Giving tips at a public theatre is not permitted in France.

Tipping Taxis And Other Drivers

When it comes to tipping taxi drivers, Uber drivers and limo drivers, no one can ever decide how much to tip drivers in France.

Here are a couple of scenarios.

• You can leave 1 to 5 euros, depending on the length of your ride.
• You can also round up to the nearest euro or tell the driver to keep the change.
• If the driver performed a miracle or went above and beyond: helped you with your bags, opened your door, had water waiting for you in the car, or did something out of the ordinary like got you to the airport in record time, then you may want to give a little bit more based on a percentage of around 5% to 15%.

Tipping Tour Guides In France

Tipping tour guides is not automatic for most people, especially in France.

However, if you feel like your tour guide did an exceptional job, or the tour was long and thorough in a good way, you could always leave a few euros or 10% of the total price of the tour.

When You See A Tip Jar

Sometimes, you may see a tip jar in unexpected places.

For instance, in some small French shops, such as bakeries and butchers, the workers will put out a small tip jar. It’s okay to leave a few coins or whatever you have in your coin purse.

You might be interested in reading Pocket dictionary: 200+ types of French shop names in France, businesses services, too

Where, who, and when not to tip in France

Don’t Tip When You Receive Bad Service!

In some cultures, when you experience bad service, you leave a smaller tip or leave a coin. “Yeah, that’ll teach them a lesson for giving me bad service.” Not so in France.

No one will even blink if you leave a tip of 1 Euro instead of 15%. The server might even be pleased. 

So don’t leave a tip if you received terrible or rude service.

Just be careful; what you may consider lousy service may be considered good service in France, so learn the customs.

Don’t Tip Health Professionals.

You do not leave a tip for people in the health industry.

This includes dentists, acupuncturists, sports therapists and physical therapy.

Don’t Tip If You See A Sign That Says “Pourboires Interdits.”

In rare cases, you might see a sign that says “Pourboire Interdit” or “Pourboires Interdits,” do not leave a tip. This means that tips are not permitted. 

Tipping theatre performers

Unlike in some other countries, such as the United States, where tipping is a customary practice, French tipping etiquette doesn’t usually involve tipping for theatre performances.

So do not leave a tip in public theatres, including municipal theatres, national stages, and cultural centers especially if they are subsidized. 

Tipping at restaurants and for different services in France doesn’t have to be complicated.

Here is a summary of the important cultural nuances of French tipping practices in France

• If you don’t leave a tip in France, no one will bat an eye or spit in your food the next time they see you.
• Although not expected or required, you can leave a small gratuity to show appreciation for good, great, or exceptional service.
• A service charge called “service compris” is automatically added to all bills at restaurants, cafés and bars (usually 15%). This service charge IS NOT A TIP . It goes directly to the owner and allows employers to pay staff a liveable wage.
• Because servers receive a liveable wage, there’s a lot less tipping in France . People who tip tend to leave smaller tips compared to their North American counterparts.
• The amount you give as a tip is at your own discretion. Everyone seems to have their own equation about who and how much to tip in France.
• You don’t have to feel guilty if you don’t leave a 20% tip.

Disclosure : This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a 'petite commission' at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through my links. It helps me buy more wine and cheese. Please read my disclosure for more info.

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Annie André

About the author

I'm Annie André, a bilingual North American with Thai and French Canadian roots. I've lived in France since 2011. When I'm not eating cheese, drinking wine or hanging out with my husband and children, I write articles on my personal blog annieandre.com for intellectually curious people interested in all things France: Life in France, travel to France, French culture, French language, travel and more.

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Tipping In France - A Complete Guide

Quick guide.

🍽️ Restaurant - Service Fee + Optional Round Up

🍹 Bar - None or €1-2

🚕 Taxi - None or Round Up

🛎️ Porter/Bellhop - €1/Bag

🛏️ Housekeeping - €1/Day Left on Pillow

📸 Tour Guide - €2-5/Day

🎭 Theatre Usher - €1-2 Expected

Tipping in France is generally an optional, modest gesture so show your appreciation for good service. Just keep an eye out for signs reading “pourboire interdit ” (or “tipping forbidden”) which you might see in some situations.

Calculate a culturally appropriate tip for France using the calculator below and read on for more detail on tipping in Restaurants, Bars, Taxis, Hotels, Theatres etc.

France Tip Calculator

Good Price For France

Total With Tip

Split Bill By

Tipping in Restaurants

In France, you’ll often see “ service compris ” on your bill. This isn’t a tip, it’s just the part of your bill that pays for the staff. Tipping on top of this amount is optional given French servers get living-wage salaries, paid vacations and other benefits.

If you want to show your appreciation for a job well done, you can leave a tip or “ pourboire” by rounding up your bill to the nearest 1 or 2 Euros. However, don’t be guilted into tipping if you’ve had bad or rude service.

Tipping in Bars

Unlike in some other countries, tipping at the bar isn’t as common in France. However, if your bartender has been particularly prompt or friendly, a small tip of €1-2 is considered a kind gesture.

Tipping Taxi Drivers

Tipping your taxi driver isn’t customary in France. However, if you want to express your gratitude for a safe and comfortable ride you can round up your fare to the nearest euro.

Tipping The Porter/Bellhop

If you’re staying in a hotel and a porter or bellhop assists you with your luggage, consider tipping around €1 per bag.

Tipping Housekeeping

Tipping your housekeeper €1 per day is a considerate way to show your gratitude if your room is kept clean and tidy throughout your stay. Just leave your tip on the pillow.

Tipping Tour Guides

When you’re on a guided tour in France, it’s common to tip the tour guide €2-5 per day, depending on the length/quality of the tour and the tour guide’s expertise.

Tipping Theatre Ushers

You’ll often find ushers in French theatres. Tipping them around €1-2 is a polite way to say thank you for good service.

Which Currency To Use

When in France, you’ll be using the Euro (€). Cash is still widely preferred, especially in smaller establishments. Larger restaurants and hotels will likely accept credit cards but it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for tipping in various situations.

Bon Voyage! 🇫🇷 🥐🍷

Andrew Young is a full-time blogger and web developer who has been building a portfolio of successful websites, blogs and online tools in the money and travel niches since 2017.

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Tipping in France: The France Tipping Guide

Kate H. Knapp

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Tipping in France isn’t a common practice across the country. There is, however, a time and place for tipping in France.

Tipping in France

Knowing when and what to tip can be confusing when visiting a foreign country, especially one that includes the tip in the final price ( service compris , in this case). It may seem like this means you shouldn’t leave anything, but that’s not always the case. To make tipping in France simple, basically tip on the level of service you receive and whether or not you want to acknowledge that service with a monetary tip of the hat, if you will.

Tipping in France, however, isn’t required, and there is no set-in-stone rule for how much to tip. It is solely up to you what you leave in addition to the final bill, but do try to tip in cash versus on a credit card. The amounts below are simply suggestions based on what is considered standard practices for different services.

How To Tip In France

Café Server:

When paying for a café au lait (or other beverage), it is considerate to leave the change or round up to the nearest whole figure on the total bill.

Restaurant Server :

The tip is included in the final bill ( service compris ), but if the service exceeded your expectations, round the bill up to the nearest whole figure or leave 5 to 10 percent to show your gratitude. Another option is to leave €1 to €2 per every €20 spent in all but the finest restaurants .

Coat Check Assistant :

In nicer restaurants, €1 is a considerate when checking a coat.

Bartender :

Say cheers by leaving the change or round up to the nearest whole figure on the total bill for drinks.

Tips are not expected, but you can round up or offer 5 percent of the final fare if the driver helped with your luggage and/or provided a swift and safe ride.

Airport Shuttle Driver:

No tip is required, but it is customary to tip €1 to €2 per bag.

Feel free to tip €1 if the doorman helped hail a cab or brings in your luggage.

It is customary to tip €1 to €2 per bag, depending on size.

Housecleaning:

Depending on the cleanliness of your room each day, you can tip anywhere from €1 to €2 per day. This one is often overlooked, but is definitely a considerate way to say thank you for keeping your temporary living space in order.

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.

Once you look and feel tres chic, give your stylist a 10 percent tip of the total cost.

Theater Usher :

It is customary to give an usher €1 per person after being helped to your seat(s).

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More from smartertravel:.

• Tipping: How Much to Tip Tour Guides, Taxis, Hotel Maids, and More?
• Does the Hotel Maid Look Through Your Stuff?
• Hotel Tipping—Do You or Don’t You?

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Home > Tipping in France – Quick Guide by Locals

Tipping in France – Quick Guide by Locals

Tipping culture in france.

When you travel, it can be hard to know the etiquette for certain things. Behaviors that are normal or expected in your home country might not be normal in others. This applies to tipping as well. In countries like the US, tipping at hotels, restaurants, and other places is expected and even essential. However, it’s a different story when it comes to tipping in France.

Do you tip in France? Who and how much should you tip in France? If you’re about to take the trip of a lifetime to Paris or France, then here’s what you need to know about tipping culture in France.

Tipping in France is not mandatory so there are no written rules about it to share. This post is based on our experience as locals in Paris, our trips around France, and the invaluable feedback from the users of our France Travel Facebook Group .

READ MORE – How Much Does a Trip to Paris Cost?

Tipping in France – Restaurants

Generally speaking, tipping in France’s restaurants isn’t expected or essential. Waiters and other staff in restaurants are paid a decent salary for their work and don’t rely on tips to get by.

However, if you enjoy particularly good service or are feeling generous, then tipping waiters in France is allowed. A normal tip would be between 5-10% of your bill, while 15% is a very generous tip and saved for truly exemplary service.

If you prefer to pay by card, you can ask the waiter to round up the bill in the payment terminal or to add the gratuity you wish to your bill.

Just in case you’re wondering, you don’t have to tip in France in restaurants if your service is rude, slow, or bad in any other way.

Tipping in France – Hotels

Tipping in France’s hotels isn’t mandatory or necessary, but it can be a good way to reward someone who gives you extra good service or goes out of their way to be helpful.

This doesn’t have to be extravagant. Tipping etiquette in France allows you to tip a bellhop around 2-3 euros per bag for taking your bags to your room, or around the same for a housekeeper who keeps your room spotless.

In luxury hotels, tipping is expected. If you stay at a luxury hotel, a valet or bellman may help transport your bags for you, or a concierge may book a restaurant or snag you hard-to-get tickets for you in which case you’ll want to tip them. Consider a minimum of 5 o 10 euros – more if you are feeling generous – , in luxury hotels, depending on what service they provide. The consistent rule across luxury hotels: Bring cash.

Tipping in France – Taxis, Private Transportation

Cab drivers don’t make a lot of money, so tipping in France’s taxis is a good thing to do. Often all you have to do for this is round up your fare or add 5-10 percent onto the total.

The etiquette for tipping drivers in France also applies if you have a personal driver while you’re visiting. This is especially important if your driver has gone the extra mile for you during your stay. Again, you should tip around 5-10 percent for this, but you can add more if you’re feeling generous.

Tipping in France – Tour Guides

Tipping tour guides in France is another issue you need to think about when considering tipping in France. Tour guides will usually expect a tip at the end of your time together. This is especially important if you’re taking a free tour of the city, where there isn’t an official fee, but the idea is that you tip your guide at the end of the tour if you’re satisfied.

In France, tipping guides in galleries and museums is recommended if you enjoy your time with them.

Tipping tour guides in France doesn’t have to be expensive. You can tip between 2 and 5 euros a day for a day tour guide and 1 to 2 euros for a museum or gallery guide. Don’t forget to tip the driver if you have one in addition to the tour guide on your trip.

For free city tours, it depends on the length of the tour, how other people are on the tour and how satisfied you are after the tour, but it’s common to tip anywhere from 5-20 euros per person.

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Quirky parisian explorer with a preference for lesser-known sights, i am continuously looking for new ideas and tips to bring you the best of the city of light read more about me ., i am elisa, the travel blogger behind world in paris. quirky explorer with a preference for the local side of my city and its lesser-known sights, i am continuously looking for new ideas to enjoy the best of paris & around . do you want to go beyond the louvre museum or the eiffel tower keep clicking for first-hand information & my best tips learn more.

Tipping in France: When to do it (and when not to do it)

If you’re planning a trip to Paris or to France – or if you’re already here and making plans for the day – you may be wondering how big a tip you’ll need to leave your waiter, taxi driver, or tour guide.

After all, it would be a shame to have spent so much time learning French only to make a bad impression because you misunderstood French tipping rules.

So tipping in France, yay or nay? Let’s find out!

Tipping is not required in France (although there are a few exceptions).

As a general rule, tipping is neither expected nor required in France.

There are some exceptions. Tipping is  expected in hair and nail salons, spas, when ordering room service or having a porter bring your bags to your hotel room, and for tour guides. You can find out more about tipping in these situations a little further on in the article.

But in general, leaving a tip is not required or expected in France. This includes tipping for deliveries, taxis, and restaurants.

You don’t need to tip French waitstaff because they get a living wage and benefits.

Unless a restaurant is hiring workers illegally, its waitstaff is being paid a living wage and has benefits, as well. So tips aren’t a crucial part of a server’s income in France. Plus, if you look at your receipt after a meal, you’ll see that a 15% service charge ( service compris ) was automatically added.

This is good for you if you’re on a budget, but on the other hand, it explains why French servers tend to be less attentive to diners than their counterparts in tipping countries like the United States.

It is NOT considered rude to tip in France.

I’ve occasionally come across people who worry that since tipping isn’t expected in France, it’s considered rude. Not so! After all, who doesn’t like getting extra money?

It’s common (but not required) to leave a small tip at French restaurants

Although tipping isn’t required or expected, customers often leave a tip of a few coins after they have a drink, or a few euros after a meal. This is usually done if they feel the service was good, but it may even be systematic.

For instance, if my husband and I go out for dinner at a typical brasserie here in Paris, we’ll usually leave a euro or two as a tip, unless the service was really terrible. And if I have a coffee at a cafe, I’ll leave a few coins behind as a tip.

Although most people do this in France, it’s absolutely not the expectation or required in any way. But I’m sure the server appreciates a little extra something.

There is no standard percentage for tips in France.

If you do want to leave a tip in France, there’s no hard and fast rule about how much you should leave.

As I wrote previously, for instance, when dining out, people often tip with some change for a small order like a coffee, or a few euros for a meal.

So, if my coffee costs 2 euros and 70 centimes, I might leave 30 centimes as a tip.  

But since tipping isn’t required at all, you don’t have to follow any particular rules – or leave anything.

The same rule goes for taxi rides. You are not expected or required to tip a taxi driver in France, and to be honest, most of the time I don’t. But if you do, just a few euros should do the trick.

Big tips are considered strange or flashy in France

Barring some exceptions – like, say that taxi driver drove you through the night from Paris to Nice — if you do leave a tip in France, it should generally be a small amount.

I’m sure anyone would be thrilled to get a big tip, but it could come off as  a flashy display of wealth, which is a huge etiquette no-no in France, so it’s common to keep tips on the low end.

You usually can’t include the tip when paying with your credit card in France.

In some places, including the US, when you get your bill, there’s a separate line that lets you write in an amount you’d like charged to your card to cover a tip.  Although there may be some exceptions, as a general rule, this is not how it’s done in France.

In general, tipping in France is always done with cash. For instance, in a restaurant, you pay your bill (this will either be when the server brings you the credit card reader or tray where you can leave money, or you’ll go up to the counter to settle the bill) and leave the tip on the table, in the form of cash.

The one exception to the tipping-in-cash rule is taxis. If the taxi company lets you pay by credit card, you could tell them the amount you’d like to pay, adding the tip to your total.

So for instance, if a taxi ride comes to 43 euros, I could give the driver my card and tell him, Mettez 45 euros et gardez la monnaie.  (Put 45 euros on the card and keep the change.)

If you don’t want to do math, though, you could just as easily hand the driver a tip in cash. And again, this is not required!

So, as a general rule, make sure you have some change on you, if you’re planning to tip in France!

In restaurants, leave your tip on the table

In restaurants in France, you’ll usually leave your tip on the table. This may mean you have to hurry back from the register to the table you just left, if you needed change. But it’s how it’s done.

You can leave the coins discreetly tucked beneath the saucer of your coffee or tea, or openly on the table (although it’s more common to place it in a spot that’s easy for the server to notice but still somewhat discreet). People often leave the tip on the tray where the server placed their bill and receipt.

Exceptions to French tipping rules

There are some exceptions to the French rule of “no tips required”.

The places and situations where you should  expect to tip in France include:

• Hair and nail salons
• When ordering room service
• Having a porter bring your bags to your hotel room
• The valet who parks your car
• Theater ushers (although this one isn’t technically required, it’s generally expected)
• Tour guides
• Fine dining establishments with attentive waitstaff.

As a general rule, you could tip anywhere from a euro or two to the usher who seats you at the theater, to 5-10% for a meal or service like hair or nail care. But there are no set rules regarding tip percentage in France the way there are in places like the US.

You can learn more about these exceptions  to the French tipping rules in this interesting blog post about tipping in France — although I will say that none of the French people I know tip housekeeping staff at a hotel.That’s just a nice thing to do if you feel like they’ve done a great job, and if you can afford it, I’m sure it would be appreciated.

This article also has some good advice about tipping in France , including in some of these exceptional situations.

Some useful French tip-related vocabulary

Here are a few words related to tipping in French:

• un pourboire  – a tip
• donner un pourboire/laisser un pourboire  – to leave a tip
• service compris  – a fee charged to diners that covers what would have been the tip
• Vous pouvez garder la monnaie.  – You can keep the change.
• C’est pour vous.  – This is for you. Use this if a server or someone else who normally wouldn’t see you leave a tip, sees you, or if you give them back change as a tip.

Knowing when to tip (and when not to) is a great first step but nothing will make locals happier than you you using their language. If that’s something you would like to do before your trip or because you already live in France, give French Together a try! It will teach you conversational French and help you become the confident French speaker you have always wanted to be.

• What are the best French learning apps in 2024?
• The 16 best websites and apps for French conversation practice
• Duolingo French review: The good, the bad and the ugly

Alysa Salzberg

Alysa Salzberg is an American writer, worrier, teacher, and cookie enthusiast who has lived in Paris, France, for more than a decade. She has taught English and French for more than ten years, most notably as an assistante de langue vivante for L'Education Nationale. She recently published her first novel, Hearts at Dawn , a "Beauty and the Beast" retelling that takes place during the 1870 Siege of Paris. You can read about her adventures here , or feel free to stop by her website .

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The Guide to Tipping in France

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France is one of the most visited countries in the world by tourists, so its not surprising that you're daydreaming of touring the Eiffel Tower, Versailles and Côte d'Azur with a baguette in hand.

If you’re crunching the numbers for an upcoming trip to France (maybe for the 2024 Summer Olympics?), you likely want to know whether or not you should plan for tipping. The short answer is that you don’t need to budget extra for gratuities, as most service charges are already included in the bill. That said, there are a few instances where tipping is customary.

Let’s take a look at when and how much to tip in France.

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Do you tip in France?

Tipping in France, as is the case in many Western European countries, is not expected. Service workers like waiters, baristas and bartenders get paid a living wage and have health insurance, so there’s no need to flex your mental muscles and calculate a 20% tip after a sit-down meal.

Despite it not being the norm, outstanding service and one-off services might warrant a tip.

Tipping in French restaurants

Having spent all day sightseeing in Paris, Nice or Strasbourg, you’re exhausted and all you want is a nice meal to round out the busy day. You order a French onion soup (or, as they call it in France, onion soup or soupe a l'oignon gratinée), some escargot and perhaps a chocolate souffleé, wash it all down with a glass of chardonnay and start feeling pretty good about life. Until the bill comes, that is.

First of all, it’s in French. Second, there are things on it, like “TVA” and “service compris,” that you know for sure you didn’t order. And third, this is the moment your palms start sweating wondering whether to tip or not.

TVA, or Taxe sur la Valeur Ajoutée, is value added tax. This is a general consumption tax and is included in the menu price of each item.

“Service compris” means “service included” and is usually 15% of your total bill. It’s included in all restaurant checks by law, even if it isn’t clearly indicated on the bill. This is true for small corner cafes as well as Michelin-star restaurants.

How to tip at restaurants in France

Let’s say you’ve had exceptional service and would like to leave a tip anyway. Feel free to add something called a “pourboire” (translating to “to have something to drink” or simply, a gratuity). A few euros in cash, even on a large check, would be considered a nice gesture.

At a high-end restaurant, 5% of the total amount will be more than enough to show appreciation for excellent service.

It will be difficult to pay for a tip on a credit card, so make sure to carry small bills for this very occasion.

» Learn more: The best airlines to fly to France

Tipping in French coffee shops or bars

One peculiar thing about ordering hot drinks or a glass of wine at a café or a brasserie in France is the prices are not the same for drinks consumed at the bar versus at a table. If you take your drink to the table, the price will be a bit higher than if you were to drink it while standing at the bar. The price difference should be noted on the menu.

How to tip for drinks in France

Whether drinking espresso or alcohol, tipping just a few coins is acceptable. For example, if your coffee was 2.70 euros, you can leave 3 euros and tip 30 cents.

Tipping in French hotels

You might be compelled to thank a luggage porter or housekeeping staff for attending to your needs during your stay in France. A euro or 2 per bag will suffice for luggage handlers who deliver bags to your room. As for housekeeping, a couple of euros per night per guest will be appreciated.

Tipping taxi drivers in France

Do you tip taxis in France? Tipping taxi drivers in France isn’t required. As is the case with cafes, rounding up the bill to the nearest euro is acceptable. Say, your cab ride cost 29.30 euros. Simply hand the driver 30 euros and exit the car.

Tipping tour guides in France

Tours and excursions in France are where the tipping rules deviate a little from the norm. It’s considered good etiquette to tip tour guides. Expect to tip 2 to 5 euros per day for a multi-day tour guide. If a driver is involved, factor in another 1 to 2 euros per day.

If you take free walking tours, which have become popular in many major cities in France, be aware that these tours aren’t technically free. They’re tip-based, meaning you’re free to decide how much a tour was worth to you.

Normally, walking tour guides have to pay out some of their earnings to the company running the “free” tour. If the guide was engaging, informative and fun, we recommend leaving 5 to 10 euros per person at the end of the tour.

Tipping theater ushers in France

This is another one you might have not thought of right away. When going out to a theater to see an opera, a classical music concert or a play, it is customary to tip their usher 1 to 2 euros for helping them find their seat.

Tipping in France recapped

As discussed, service industry workers in France get paid a salary, meaning they don’t rely on tips to survive. If you’d like to leave a tip nonetheless, there’s no harm in doing so. A small gratuity will be unexpected but appreciated.

However, remember to tip your tour guides to let them know you enjoyed the tour. And if you really want to live like a local while traveling, don’t forget to give theater ushers a couple of euros. They can actually use it.

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Tipping in France: A Comprehensive Guide

Published: October 23, 2020

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Rina Bernardo

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Tipping, or giving gratuities, is something most tourists should should take note of when visiting a country. Like basic phrases and certain table manners, it’s important that one would take the time to get to know the country’s tipping culture. Since the tipping policy varies per country, you wouldn’t want to get off on the wrong foot and unintentionally offend a waiter by giving a tip, or none at all. For example, tipping in France isn’t required nor expected. But in Mexico, there may be places where gratuities are expected.

If your next destination is the romantic city of Paris or  Cannes , here’s everything you need to know about tipping in France, who to tip as well as how much you should give.

Is Tipping Expected in France?

Photo by Sam Dan Truong on Unsplash

As in most countries, tipping in France is uncommon, and there are certain places and times where it’s alright to tip. They are also considered as a gesture instead of an obligation. Additionally, waiters are paid a living wage so they don’t depend on additional gratuities. Like the tipping culture in Mexico , giving someone a tip is a form of appreciation of good service. As a general rule, if the service is unsatisfactory or subpar, tip less, or none at all. 

Take note that if you will be tipping in France, it is better to tip in Euros than in other currencies like dollars or pounds. However, if you’re out of Euros and dollars are your last option, do give bills instead of coins since most money changers don’t accept coins.

Service Compris

Sometime in 2008, the French government signed a law that will require most restaurants, cafes, and establishments to add a 15% service charge to the bill. This is locally known as the service compris . The service compris also covers miscellaneous benefits like vacation, retirement, and health benefits of the restaurant staff. Since most restaurants include the service compris in the bill, tipping is not mandatory. 

If the service charge is included, you can see the words “service compris” in the bill or on the menu. Other indicators may include taxes et services compris (STC) or prix nets/toutes taxes comprises (TTC), meaning that prices include the service charge. On the other hand, if the service charge isn’t included, you can find the words service non compris (SNC).

However, take note that not all service charges are distributed among waitstaff despite the new law. In other words, to make sure that your server receives a tip, you may have to shell out extra cash.

Guide to Tipping in France

Tipping in restaurants and cafes .

Photo by Paul Rysz on Unsplash

Generally speaking, restaurants, cafes, and bars in France have a 15% service charge added, so tipping may not be necessary. When paying, make sure to look for the “service compris” on your bill or on the menu/price list. The service compris also includes various benefits for its workers, and on top of that, servers and waiters are paid a fixed amount so they don’t rely heavily on tips for additional sources of income.

Restaurants

Unlike in most American restaurants, restaurants in France include a service charge in the bill. However, if you’d like to tip on top of the given service charge, a small amount goes a long way. 

There are no strict rules when tipping in restaurants in France, although it is nice to leave at least a few Euros for your waiter or server. Any gratuity between 5% and 10% of the total bill is generous enough. For fine dining restaurants, you can leave 1 or 2 EUR for every 20 EUR spent. So if your bill is around 60 EUR, you can give a 3 or 6 EUR as a tip. On the other hand, for simple eateries, you can leave 1 or 5 EUR for your waiter.

Grabbing a cup of café au lait and a couple of pastries is part of the everyday scene in France. If you’re heading to a cafe for a morning or afternoon coffee, remember that you’re not obliged to tip. However, if you received good service, it won’t hurt to leave a tip as a small token of appreciation.

If you’re paying in cash, you leave a few coins as a tip or round up the total bill. You can also leave 1 or 2 EUR as a gratuity. Take note that if you received bad or subpar service, you don’t have to leave a tip.

Bars and Clubs

Like the tipping policy in cafes and restaurants, it’s not mandatory to leave tips at bars and clubs since the bill includes in the service charge. Most bars and clubs are full and the bar staff are busy, so they might not be able to accept your tip. In some cases, they might misunderstand your intention and think that you’re buying another drink.

However, if you feel generous and would like to tip, you may round up the bill. For example, if your total bill amounts to 6.50 EUR, you can leave 7 EUR. Others also prefer giving a 1 EUR tip for every round of drinks as long as the service is commendable.

Fast food Joints

Like in Mexico and most areas in the world, tipping in France’s fast food joints isn’t necessary. In some cases, they may be even hesitant or refuse to receive a tip.

Tipping in Hotels and Resorts

Photo by Clovis WOOD on Unsplash

Tipping in resorts and hotels like the Marriott Champs Elysees Hotel isn’t mandatory, but you can do so as a form of appreciation and gratitude. Unlike servers or waiters, most hotel workers don’t earn much, so they rely on tips for additional income. It wouldn’t hurt to tip the staff for keeping your room spotless or the concierge for helping you book tickets.

Housekeeping

While tipping the housekeeping staff isn’t required, it’s a nice gesture to give a tip for their hard work and effort. If you think they did an exceptional job and if they managed to tidy up what was once a messy room, you can leave 1 to 2 EUR per day. Take note that it’s best to leave a tip daily instead of giving it on the last night of your stay since most staff work on rotation.

If the doorman helped hail a cab, feel free to give 1 EUR. Additionally, if they went out of their way to assist you or help you bring in your luggage, you can give 1 to 2 EUR as a form of gratuity.

You can also give a 1 or 2 EUR tip to the bellhop for each bag he brings to your room. If the bag is heavy or bulky, or if he has to climb several floors, it’s customary to tip more.

If the concierge or desk staff goes the extra mile and provides cafe or restaurant recommendations, directions, or helps you book reservations, you can leave a tip. A 5 to 20 EUR tip is generous enough depending on the type of hotel you’re staying in.

Tipping Taxi Drivers in France

Photo by MichaelGaida on Pixabay

Tipping the taxi drivers in France taxis isn’t expected, but you can give one since most cab drivers don’t make a lot of money. You can book a taxi through the hotel concierge, apps like Uber, or by calling the taxi company directly. If your driver helped you load your luggage, or was kind enough to wait while you buy something, you can give a 1 to 3 EUR tip. Similar to the tipping culture in London , you can round up your fare and let the driver keep the change as a tip. Additionally, you can also tip 5% to 10% of the fare.

Tipping Tour Guides in France

Photo by Alexander Kagan on Unsplash

If you had the best Seine River cruise or you learned more about the history of Paris on a sightseeing tour through your tour guide, it’s best to reward him or her with a tip. This isn’t mandatory, but your guide will appreciate this after a long day out despite the kind of tour you joined. If your tour also includes a driver, don’t forget to tip them as well. When joining group tours, expect that one of the members may ask around for collective gratuities.

For a day tour, you can give a tip of 2 to 5 EUR to your guide when the tour ends. Some tourists also prefer giving 10% of the tour price as a tip. If your museum visit includes a guide, give 1 or 2 EUR especially if you learned a lot from them. Meanwhile, if your day tour includes a driver, tip him 1 or 2 EUR as well. 

Tipping for Other Services

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Tipping in spas depends on the place you visit, so make sure to check with the reception staff the appropriate amount to tip. Most spas also have the service charge included in the bill. But if you think your therapist deserves extra credit, you’re free to leave an extra tip. Normally, people tip around 10% to 20% of the total bill. As far as tipping in France goes, it’s better to leave the gratuity at the reception instead of giving it to the therapist or esthetician directly.

If you’re pleased with your new haircut, you can leave a tip at the end of your session. For a simple haircut, your stylist will appreciate a 5% to 10% or a 2 to 3 EUR tip. However, if you go to a more upscale salon, you may want to shell out more since you’ll get a more high-quality level of service.

Delivery Riders

It’s not necessary to tip takeaway or delivery riders. However, if it’s raining outside or you have a complicated address or order, you can leave a couple of Euros. While most delivery apps include the delivery charge, some people go the extra mile and give an extra tip to the delivery riders.

Street Performers

Street performers like singers and pantomimers are not paid by the local government, so they also rely on daily gratuities. If you happen to stop by and watch them perform, you can tip a Euro or two. As a general rule of thumb, the longer you stay to watch a performance, the more you tip. 

Ushers and Cloakroom Staff

If you are going to visit the Palais Garnier or any other concert and entertainment venue, it is customary to tip the usher or usherette. You can simply give 50 cents to 1 EUR for guiding you to your seat. Back then, ushers and usherettes weren’t paid by theater operators so they relied heavily on tips. Although this isn’t the case today, small gratuities given to them are highly appreciated. 

Additionally, most of these concert halls have a cloakroom where you can leave your bag, coat, and other items. For cloakroom staff, you can give a 1 EUR tip for every large item. Additionally, it is customary to tip 1 EUR for every large item at cloakrooms in fine dining restaurants.

To Wrap Things Up…

Unlike the tipping culture in America, tipping in France is not required. It is more of a gesture to reward someone’s work and service.Other than the fact that the French government has put into law that a 15% service charge should be included in restaurants and cafes, most waitstaff is paid a living wage. 

When tipping in France, always remember that the amount given entirely depends on how someone served you. Likewise, it’s not something given just because. Large tips, despite how sincere your thought may be, can be considered ostentatious and may cause misunderstandings between you and the server. If you’re not sure how much to tip, you can always ask around for the appropriate amount. 

Lastly, take note that giving gratuities in France isn’t mandatory and is a form of gratitude. You don’t really have to stress yourself over giving someone a tip and you just have to go with your gut feeling. Consequently, if the service given to you is unsatisfactory or subpar, you’re free to tip less or not at all.

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Tipping in Paris: Your Guide to Who, How Much and When to Tip

One of the top questions we get, hands down, is about tipping in Paris. It comes up all the time in our Facebook group , and clearly there’s a lot of confusion about this topic. So we’re going to walk you through it. There are different expectations with different services, too, so we’ve included some things to think about beyond restaurants and cafés. 

Understanding Tipping Culture in Paris

Before we delve into the specifics of Paris tipping, let’s first look at the cultural differences. In the US, tipping is expected, a regular part of going out to eat. In fact, tips are factored into how restaurant wait staff get paid – tipping is a vital part of their income. In France, it works differently. Waiters here earn a living wage with benefits. So they are not depending on tips to get by. That doesn’t mean that tipping is nonexistent. So let’s see how it works in typical services you might experience while in Paris. 

Tipping in Restaurants and Cafés

In Parisian restaurants and cafés, the service charge is included in the bill. Period. Full stop. It is built into the price of the meal. The bill may say service compris , which means service included. But even if it doesn’t say that explicitly, an amount is built into the pricing to pay staff. That’s by law. 

So, technically, you don’t have to tip. 

That said, it’s customary to leave a small amount if you receive exceptional service. What is exceptional? Well, if your waiter took time to explain the menu to you, that could count. Or if someone at your table had food allergies and the waiter made sure the meal came out ok for that person, that could count. Or maybe they made it a really fun experience. That counts too. 

What Parisians do is to round up the bill or leave a tip of around 5-10% of the total amount. For example, if your bill is €38, rounding up to €40 and leaving a €2 tip would be appropriate. For planning purposes, if your server went the extra mile for you, a 5 to 10€ (or around 5%) tip will show your gratitude. 

Remember, tipping is not mandatory. But it is a nice way to show your appreciation for a job well done.

Tipping in Bars and Clubs in France

When it comes to tipping in bars and nightlife establishments in Paris, the rules are similar. While the service charge is always included in the bill, leaving a little bit extra is appreciated for exceptional service. And we mean exceptional service. If the bartender is simply handing you over a beer, you don’t have to tip anything. Just like in a restaurant, you can round up the bill. If the bartender goes above and beyond to make your experience enjoyable, consider leaving a slightly larger tip to say merci for a larger order. (€5 to €10 would be considered good)

Tipping for Other Services in Paris 

The majority of the questions we get are about restaurants, but we want to make sure you’re covered in other situations. So here is our guide to tipping for a whole range of services you might use on a trip to Paris. 

Hotel Services

Tipping in hotels is a common practice in Paris, especially if the staff goes out of their way to make your stay comfortable and memorable. For concierge services, a tip of €2-€5 is appropriate for their assistance with restaurant reservations, travel recommendations, or other special requests. If a bellman helped with your bags, give them €1-€2 per bag. For housekeeping services, leaving €1-€2 per night is customary. 

Taxi and Transportation 

When using taxi services in Paris, you don’t have to tip the driver. However, rounding up the fare to the nearest euro is common practice. For example, if your fare is €9.50, you can give the driver €10. Tipping is particularly appreciated if the driver has helped with luggage or provided extra services. If you use a ride sharing app like Uber, the tipping option is built into the experience, usually with options for how much to tip. 

Tipping for Tour Guides and Sightseeing Services

If you take a guided tour in Paris, like the ones we recommend , it is customary to tip the guide at the end of the tour. Plan on a  tip of around €5 per person, depending on the length and quality of the tour. If you had an exceptional experience or received personalized attention, a slightly larger tip is a nice way to show your appreciation.

Spas and Salons

Visiting a spa or salon in Paris is a treat, and tipping the staff is a way to express your satisfaction with the services provided. Similar to other service industries, tipping in spas and salons is not mandatory but appreciated. A tip of 5% of the total bill is customary. As always, if you had an exceptional experience, feel free to give a larger tip to show your gratitude.

Tipping Scams to Watch Out For

While tipping isn’t mandatory, sometimes people try to take advantage of foreigners who may not know that. This is especially true in restaurants. Most – especially the ones we recommend – are run by honest, hard working people. But occasionally a waiter may try to finagle a little extra out of you from certain places. 

Waiters love Americans because of how well we usually tip, and some may tell you that the service is not included in the bill. Simply not true. They may point to the VAT (Value Added Tax) and tell you that’s a tax, not a tip. That is true. But don’t fall for it. You can simply say that you understood that the service is automatically included to the price of the meal by law.

Some restaurants even print “tips not included,” in English, on the receipt, trying to confuse visitors. But now you know, so you don’t have to fall for this trick. Don’t be bullied into leaving a tip! The reason they write it in English and not French says it all. 

For more tips, you might want to watch our video on restaurant scams .

Helpful Tipping Chart for Paris & France

Conclusion: Being Mindful of Tipping Customs in Paris

As you enjoy all the wonderful experiences Paris has to offer, just remember this simple rule of thumb: tipping is optional, but always welcome. Whether you’re dining out, staying in a hotel, or enjoying a tour, a small tip is a gesture of gratitude that will be appreciated by the hardworking people who make your experience memorable.

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What You Need to Know About Tipping in France (by a local)

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 8th January 2024

Categories France , Paris

Last Updated on 8th January 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

Wherever you go in the world, tipping can be a confusing part of the meal because it’s so different in every country (and, sometimes, in every region of the country!) In this guide, we’ll run through everything you need to know about tipping in France , including where you should tip, how you should tip, and when you should tip.

Whenever I visit a new place, I often find that while tipping remains one of the most confusing aspects of visiting a new destination (language barriers aside) and there is often little to no information in guidebooks about how to navigate this aspect of eating out. In this guide I’m going to try and breakdown everything you need to know, but do leave me a comment below if you require any more information!

If you’re new to this site then, hi! I’m Sophie and I’ve spent a large part of my twenties living in Paris. I’m even married to a local and much of this site is dedicated to helping navigate travel in France.

If it’s your first time in France, then be sure to check out our top France travel tips ! If you’re looking for more inspiration on dining out, then check our our article on how to order in a Parisian restaurant .

Tipping is probably one of the most confusing parts of travel because every culture has a different notion as to what a tip should look like (or shouldn’t as the case may be) and so it’s definitely one of the more stressful parts when dining out while travelling.

Do you have to tip?

Tipping is usually not expected in France, and it may surprise many visitors, but it’s not even considered the norm! This is the case in restaurants, bars, taking a taxi, and most other services. If you pay by card, then there is no way to leave a tip unless you have cash on you.

Basically, it’s never expected nor mandatory to tip and no one will shun you if you don’t. Indeed, most of the French people I know never leave a tip when dining out, and if they do, it’s typically a small tip of around 5% of the total bill.

However, tips can still appreciated and are not considered rude. As such, you can add a tip of around 5% – 15% if you particularly enjoyed the service/ experience (but this is in no way expected).

As a basic rule of thumb, here is what you can tip per service you receive:

• Restaurant- you can leave nothing or between 5-15% of the bill if you would prefer to leave a tip. Tipping is never expected in casual dining situations or small transactions such as a coffee on a terrace or buying food to go.
• Luxury hotel- you can leave a euro per bag if you are helped to carry your bags, €10 for the parking valet
• Taxi- you can round up to the nearest euro or tell your driver to keep the change. Please note that there are fixed fares to travel to/ from the different Paris airports into/ out of the city.
• Getting your nails/ hair done- Unlike in most other establishments, if you’re getting your hair done, getting your nails done, or going to a spa, then tipping is typically expected. You can tip around 5-10% of the total charge.
• Tour guides- it’s not expected that you’ll give a tip but it is much more common to tip such a service than dining out in a restaurant. You can tip around 5-10% of the total charge.
• ‘Free tours’- over the past decade or so, free tours have become pretty common all across Europe. While these walking tours are indeed free, it’s the expectation that you will generously tip €10- €20 per person who goes on the tour.

Why isn’t tipping the norm in France?

In a restaurant, when you are presented with your final bill, it will say “service compris” which means “service included”. Unlike in some destinations, service is included as part of the final bill and so you literally can’t be asked to leave a tip. In fact, as part of the bill, each menu item will already include a 15% tip when it’s listed.

For example, if a coffee costs €3 then this is the final price, and the €3 already includes the 15% service charge. This is the case in all restaurants, cafés, and bars. In France, it is the law to present you with a bill that includes everything.

Since 1985, France has passed a law that means that all employees have to be paid at least SMIC (mandatory minimum wage). Prior to this, it was common practice for the French to leave a tip/ service charge.

Servers in France are paid a living wage that includes time off, sick leave, etc. They don’t rely on tips as part of their wages. No one will be annoyed/ upset if you don’t leave an extra tip after you’ve paid ‘l’addition’ (the check).

What is un pourboire?

Un pourboire is a gratuity and is different from service. Pour boire literally means ‘to drink’ and if you ask a French waiter if the gratuity is included, they will say no. This is because service is different from gratuity, but you’re still not expected to pay.

However, a pourboire is not expected but can be a few euros extra on top of your bill if you particularly loved the service. I personally rarely leave an extra tip in France when dining out, which is completely different than when I visit somewhere like the USA where I leave around 18-20% on each meal!

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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David Yates

Tuesday 19th of March 2024

Down here in Haute Savoie ski resort I’ve noticed this year that when paying by card an extra screen comes up with ‘tips’ with suggested rates often very high. Until this year I’d always expected as your article (which was very helpfully clear). I’ve also noticed that ‘service compris’ is not usually written on the bill nowadays. Is there a formal change to account for this, or is it just that people are adapting to the ubiquitous and generally tip-free contactless payment by card?

Sophie Nadeau

Saturday 23rd of March 2024

Service is still included but this is slightly different from a 'gratuity' which is a tip. I've noticed the 'tip prompt' becoming increasingly frequent with card readers all over Europe (including for takeaway coffee which I find pretty egregious). I would definitely not tip if asked to by an extra screen in France and I know for certain that none of my French friends would either.

Tipping in Paris – How to Do it Right (+cheat sheet)

Tipping in Paris often sparks debates on social media. In fact, there is barely a week where not a lengthy thread pops up with everyone chiming in.

Essentially, there are two camps: those who firmly believe that there’s no need to tip since service charges are included in France, and those who advocate for generous tipping as a show of appreciation for excellent service.

Salut, I am Lena – travel planning expert and parisienne since 2006 🩷

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So, what’s the right approach to tipping in Paris? As someone who has called Paris home for 17 years, I am here to shed light on what locals really do when it comes to tipping.

I am married to a Parisian, with whom I eat more than I care to admit in restaurants . From simple brasseries to Michelin star establishments, I have gathered quite a bit of practice when it comes to tipping in Paris.

So join me as we unravel the nuances of this age-old debate and discover the authentic customs and unwritten rules that govern tipping in Paris.

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Tipping in Paris: Decoding the Etiquette

I genuinely understand that “ do you tip in Paris ” is a common question, though. Because no one wants to offend or be cultural or customary tone depth. Especially not when you travel abroad. But you would rather not be taken advantage off, neither.

But as much as I wish it was as easy as in Japan, where tipping is downright rude, and you just don’t do it, it’s a bit more complicated in Paris. Let’s start at the beginning.

Service Compris : Service included?

When eating out or taking a coffee or a drink in a bar, your ticket states, “service compris”. Many believe that this is the tip, that is included in the price.

Hence, making it unnecessary to leave a tip. You find this information all over the internet and many so-called experts repeating it.

However, it is not true. Service compris is NOT a tip.

I repeat: Service Compris is NOT a tip.

It is a service charge that you pay to the restaurant owner to help them cover salaries, benefits, and social charges for their employees . The server and wait staff are not seeing a cent from it. It goes 100% to the business owner.

In other words, the salary of your waiter is included in the price of your food. It’s not a gratuity for good service.

But the server is getting a fair and regular salary thanks to this service charge, doesn’t he?

Yes and no.

⇨ Yes , because it is correct, that, compared to many other countries, the service staff gets at least the minimum salary in France . This is fixed by the government and is obligatory to receive for every employee in France.

It’s called SMIC and lies in 2023 at 1353,07€ (after tax and charges).

⇨ No because even though many service employees earn luckily a bit more than €1353,07, it is either way not a sum that grants you much luxury. In fact, the SMIC covers on average the rent of a 1-bedroom apartment in Paris.

I let you do the math here.

Good to know: the price on the menu is the final price you pay. It includes taxes and service charges.

Do You Tip in Paris?

Tipping in Paris in not an obligation, and there are many Parisians who don’t always tip. However, most do leave a tip when eating out or enjoying a drink on a terrace.

But contrarily to many other countries, there is no rule over the amount you should tip in Paris. And most importantly: you are not rude, if you decide not to leave a tip.

Leaving a tip in Paris is always an appreciated gesture, like a bonus. But tipping is not a French custom that you have to respect to blend in. Tipping in France is polite, though.

Note: If you liked the service and the food, and enjoyed your experience, feel free to leave a tip. However, don’t guilt yourself if you don’t have cash on you or if the service was bad.

How Much do you Tip in Paris?

A tip in France is called a pourboire , literally “ for drinking “. And this gives already away how much you should tip.

Because there is no set amount or percentage of how much you should be tipping in Paris. Even modest tips are acceptable and, of course, appreciated.

However, refrain from leaving copper coins. It’s easily perceived as insulting or condescending.

As a rule of thumb, leave 5%, and you can’t do anything wrong.

A tip of 15%, 20% or even 25% is very much of an overkill in France. It is just not a thing to tip that much. Most Parisians simply round up or leave €2-€3 per person on the table for dinners in casual restaurants.

But don’t overthink it. If you are dining out in a group of 4 and 2 of you don’t have change, that’s perfectly fine.

If your experience was outstanding and the service excellent, with staff that went out of their way for you, feel free to leave up to 10%.

However, there are is an exception to this rule: fine dining

If you eat in a fine dining restaurant or are even lucky enough to get a table in a Michelin Star Restaurant, you are expected to tip. 5%-15% are appropriate.

How do you tip in Paris?

The most common way to tip in France is simply to leave a few coins on the table when leaving . If you have no spare coins on you, then don’t tip and that’s fine. This counts for cafés, bars and casual restaurants.

Just make sure not to simply empty your wallet and leave all the copper coins, that’s insanely rude.

Tipping by Credit Card

Since quite recently, it has become more and more common to add the tip to your credit card. You won’t find a menu for that on the machine, though. Nor a dedicated line on your bill. Just tell the waiter what amount you wish to pay, and they lock the amount in.

I know that many sources on the internet state that you can’t tip by credit card. I don’t find that to be true, and during the past year, my husband and I often tipped like that.

However, it is only an option for me if I liked the service and don’t have cash on me. Because you never know how much of that tip the waiter really sees. But I figure it’s better than not tipping good service at all.

Here’s how I tip in Paris

Everyone’s take on how to tip in Paris is a bit different, I get that. There’s no rule, no unspoken expectation, and of course, everyone has a different take on how to treat service staff.

Personally, I like to leave a tip and I do it whenever possible.

I worked in customer service for years, and I know a thing or two about the s*** you have to take in those jobs. It’s hard. I simply don’t want to be part of the problem, and rather be nice and show my gratitude and appreciation by leaving a small tip.

So, here’s what I do : I leave coins on the table whenever I have coins on me. It’s usually €1 minimum, and €3 at max, when eating alone.

When I am eating out with my husband in a midrange restaurant, we typically leave around €5.

A few examples for your cheat sheet:

Paris Tipping: Scams & Frauds

Also see me post about the most common scams in Paris

I hate to admit it, but if you are eating or taking a drink in a bar or restaurant close to sights and mostly frequented by tourists, you have to watch out.

I heard all too often reports about waiters asking downright the patrons how much tip they want to add to their bill . Especially when the guest is from the US, as they know about the generous American tipping culture.

Most will just pay and, at best, shrug it off. But many feel taken advantage off, and rightly so.

It even happens that the waiter tries to make the guest believe that tipping in France is customary and that it’s expected. IT.IS.NOT! It is actually illegal according to French law to request a tip.

Tipping is not obligatory, expected or customary but absolutely up to your discretion. Don’t let anyone pressure you in leaving a tip.

10% TVA – is it a Scam?

I see rather frequently on Facebook and other social media pages that visitors feel scammed because of a byline on their bill stating 10% TVA included. Or even 20% TVA included. (TVA: Taxe sur la Valeur Ajoutée, or Value Added Tax)

It’s easy to believe that this is a tip that was automatically added to their bill. Hence, they feel scammed. But TVA it is not a scam.

10% TVA is a consumption tax that is paid by the restaurant to the French state for the meals that were consumed in their establishment.

20% TVA is the consumption tax that is paid for consumed alcoholic beverages.

Both are already included on the price that you see on the menu. They are not added to your bill on top of the price of your food item.

But the restaurant is obliged to state on the bill the amount of tax they are declaring to the fiscals. Not all do it, though.

Tipping Culture in Paris: Taxis

However, bars and restaurants in Paris are not the only place where you might wonder if you need to leave a tip.

When visiting Paris , you might want to opt for traveling in a taxi from time to time. And here we come back to the old question: Tipping taxis drivers in Paris, yes or no?

You can tip them and they certainly appreciate it. But here, as well, you don’t have to. Personally, I make it depending on two things:

• The lengths of the ride. If it’s a quick 10-minute ride, I usually don’t tip more than simply rounding up to the next € to avoid hassle with change.
• If there is something extra: nice driver, helpful, making respectful conversation, providing a cable to charge my phone, a longer ride etc. I might add a tip of €2 or round up.

For a long ride from the airport to Paris and with gate pick-up, it happened that I gave a particularly pleasant driver €10. But this is really an exception.

With Uber and G7 you can easily add the tip through the app, if you don’t have change on you.

Tipping Tour Guides, Concierges & Hotel Staff

When it comes to tipping hotel staff and tour guides in Paris, we slightly move away from the rule that tipping is not expected. Because it somewhat is.

However, tipping is still not obligatory and up to your discretion. Don’t feel pressured into tipping if you are not satisfied with the service or the tour.

Tipping Tour Guides in Paris

However, if you are happy with your tour guide, show your gratitude by leaving a tip. You are not expected to tip overly much, though. A usual tip for a tour guides would be 5% – 10% of the tour price per person.

If you are joining a free tour in Paris, your tip is the only salary your tour guide makes. Consider €5 to €20 per person, if you enjoyed it.

Tipping Hotel Staff in Paris

The Concierge at your hotel was extremely helpful? Thank them with a pourboire .

Depending on what they did to facilitate your stay and the price range of your hotel, give accordingly. Personally, I wouldn’t start below €5, yet, I often stay in lower midrange hotels. Give more if their service was great.

It is also customary to leave a small tip for housekeeping, and bellhops. Consider €1 to €2 per day, service, or bag.

Voilà, know you know how locals handle the tipping in Paris. Tipping service staff, drivers, and waiters is greatly appreciated and, in my opinion, recommended, but absolutely not obligatory.

Don’t get pressured into tipping and, most important, don’t feel guilty if you don’t leave a tip as high as you would do at home. 5% is always enough.

Parisienne since 2006 🩷

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PS: Check out these posts, they will help you plan your trip to Paris

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FAQ Tipping in Paris

In Paris, tipping is optional. Service charges are included in bills, but those are NOT tips. A small sum, on average 5% of the total, for exceptional service is appreciated, but not obligatory.

In Paris, it’s not considered rude to skip tipping, and many Parisians don’t always tip. However, leaving a small amount for exceptional service is a kind gesture.

Yes, while not obligatory, it’s a kind gesture to leave a small tip for hotel maids in France, usually around 1-2 euros per day. It shows appreciation for their service.

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Tipping in France: A Comprehensive Guide for Travelers

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Introduction

When traveling to a new country, one of the most common questions that arise is about tipping practices. Tipping in France is no exception. Understanding the appropriate customs and norms regarding gratuities is essential to show respect to the locals and enjoy a positive experience. In this guide, we will delve into the intricacies of tipping in France, providing you with valuable insights and practical tips to navigate this aspect of French culture seamlessly.

Tipping in France: Understanding the Culture

France, known for its rich history, exquisite cuisine, and charming cities, also boasts unique tipping customs. While tipping is not as deeply ingrained in French culture as it is in some other countries, it is still practiced, especially in the hospitality industry. Here are some key points to consider:

1. The Service Charge Predicament

In many French restaurants, the bill includes a service charge, known as service compris . This amount typically ranges from 10% to 15%. Before tipping additionally, always check your bill to see if this service charge has been included. If it has, leaving extra is not obligatory, but it is appreciated for exceptional service.

Key points:

• French restaurants often include a service charge in the bill, called service compris .
• The service charge is usually between 10% and 15%.
• Remember to check your bill for the service charge before deciding to tip extra.
• If the service charge is included, additional tipping is not mandatory but is a gesture of appreciation for exceptional service.

2. Tipping in Cafés and Bars

In cafés and bars, tipping is less common than in restaurants. However, leaving small change or rounding up the bill is a courteous gesture. For instance, if your coffee costs €2.50 , rounding up to €3 would be considered polite.

3. Hotel Gratuity

When staying at a hotel, it is customary to tip the hotel staff, especially the concierge and housekeeping. Leaving a few euros per day for housekeeping and €5 to €10 for the concierge, depending on the level of assistance provided, is a thoughtful way to express appreciation.

4. Taxi Tips

Tipping taxi drivers in France is not obligatory , but it is common to round up the fare to the nearest euro. For exceptional service, you may choose to add a small additional tip.

5. Tipping Tour Guides

When participating in guided tours or excursions, tipping the tour guide is appreciated but not mandatory. A tip of €5 to €10 per person for a half-day tour and €10 to €20 per person for a full-day tour is a reasonable guideline.

6. Tipping in Upscale Restaurants

In more upscale restaurants, where the service charge may not be included, tipping becomes more common. A gratuity of 5% to 10% of the total bill is appropriate for excellent service.

Tipping Etiquette in French Restaurants and Cafés

When it comes to tipping in restaurants and cafés in France, there are some important things to understand. Unlike the United States, where tipping is customary and often expected, France has a different approach to gratuity. Let’s dive into the details to clarify the tipping culture in French establishments.

The Myth of Mandatory Tipping

First and foremost, it’s essential to recognize that tipping is not obligatory in French restaurants or cafés. Unlike in the United States, where waitstaff heavily rely on tips to supplement their wages, French servers receive fair compensation. They are paid salaries, receive benefits like paid vacations and health care, and earn living wages. This means that leaving a tip is not a requirement and workers won’t be upset or offended if you choose not to do so.

Understanding the “15% Service Compris”

To avoid any confusion, let’s explore the concept of the “15% service compris” that you’ll often find on the bill. This phrase means that a 15% service fee is already included in the price of each item on the menu. This amount goes toward paying the staff’s wages and is not an additional tip. In the past, the French used to leave a 15% tip on top of this service charge, but the law has since changed to ensure that employees receive at least the minimum wage (known as le SMIC in France). As a result, tips are now optional, and customers can decide whether or not to leave a little extra for the server.

When Should You Tip?

While tipping is not obligatory, it is considered a gesture of appreciation for excellent service. If you’ve received exceptional service and wish to express your gratitude, rounding up to the nearest euro or leaving a small tip is a polite gesture. French diners often leave a few euros as a token of their satisfaction. For instance, even in upscale restaurants, it’s not uncommon to round up the bill to show appreciation for a pleasant dining experience.

Considerations for Generous Tipping

Some situations may warrant a more generous tip. For example, if you’ve been a demanding client or haven’t spoken much French, leaving a slightly larger tip can be a sign of respect and understanding. However, remember that tipping is entirely at your discretion, and you should only do so if you genuinely feel inclined to reward outstanding service.

Embrace the Joy of Tipping

Unlike the confusion and pressure associated with tipping in some other countries, tipping in France should be a positive experience. Instead of feeling obligated, embrace the joy of rewarding great service. It’s a chance to show your appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the restaurant staff. Whether you choose to leave a small tip or a more substantial amount, know that it’s the thought that counts.

Exploring Regional Tipping Norms

1. parisian tipping etiquette.

In the bustling capital of France, Paris, tipping customs are similar to those in other regions. Service charges are often included, but additional tips are appreciated. The key is to assess the level of service received and tip accordingly.

2. Tipping in the French Riviera

The French Riviera, with its glamorous reputation, has slightly different tipping norms. While service charges may still be included, the amounts can vary. Rounding up the bill or leaving a small gratuity is common in this luxurious region.

3. Normandy and Brittany Tipping Customs

In the picturesque regions of Normandy and Brittany, tipping practices are more modest. Rounding up the bill or leaving a few euros is customary in restaurants and cafés.

4. Tipping in the Alps and Pyrenees

In mountainous regions like the Alps and Pyrenees, hospitality staff greatly appreciate tips due to the physically demanding nature of their work. Showing gratitude through a small tip is a kind gesture.

Common Misconceptions About Tipping in France

1. tipping for poor service.

Unlike some cultures where tipping is solely based on the level of service, in France, tipping is more about appreciation and respect for the staff. Even if the service is not exceptional, a small tip is still expected.

2. Mandatory Tipping

Tipping in France is not obligatory, and you won’t be frowned upon if you choose not to tip. However, showing appreciation for good service is part of French etiquette.

3. Tipping Tourists vs. Locals

There is no discrimination when it comes to tipping in France. Whether you are a tourist or a local, the same tipping customs apply.

FAQs about Tipping in France

Q: are tips taxable in france.

A: Yes, tips are considered taxable income for hospitality staff in France.

Q: Can I tip using a credit card?

A: While it is possible to tip using a credit card in some places, it is generally preferred to tip in cash to ensure the staff receives the full amount.

Q: How can I express gratitude without tipping?

A: Apart from tipping, a simple “merci” (thank you) and a smile can go a long way in showing your appreciation for excellent service.

Q: Are there any situations where tipping is not appropriate?

A: Tipping is not expected in fast-food establishments or self-service restaurants.

Q: Is it considered rude to tip too much?

A: While leaving a generous tip is generally appreciated, excessively large tips may be seen as unnecessary.

Q: Can I tip in foreign currency?

A: It is best to tip in euros to avoid any confusion or potential issues with exchange rates.

Tipping in France is an art of showing appreciation and respect for the services provided. While not obligatory, tipping is a kind gesture that can enhance your travel experience and foster positive interactions with locals. Remember to assess each situation individually and tip accordingly. By following the insights shared in this comprehensive guide, you will navigate tipping customs with confidence and embrace the charm of France’s hospitality.

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Tipping In France: A Guide to French Tipping Customs

Jarrod Suda

A writer and editor at Monito, Jarrod is passionate about helping people apply today’s powerful finance technologies to their lives. He brings his background in international affairs and his experiences living in Japan to provide readers with comprehensive information that also acknowledges the local context.

Links on this page, including products and brands featured on ‘Sponsored’ content, may earn us an affiliate commission. This does not affect the opinions and recommendations of our editors.

One aspect of the travel experience that often surprises travelers is the local attitude toward tipping. In some countries, it's an everyday practice, while in others, it's a cultural faux pas. Then there are those countries where tipping falls somewhere in between, leaving you wondering what's expected.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the tipping etiquette of France to help you navigate your visit smoothly. Additionally, we'll offer valuable tips on how to get EUR in cash in France, so you can focus on soaking up the sights, sounds, and flavors without the stress of financial hiccups.

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Our Guide to Tipping Etiquette In France

• 01. Is tipping expected in France? scroll down
• 02. Tipping at restaurants in France scroll down
• 03. Do you tip at hotels in France? scroll down
• 04. Tipping tour guides and taxis in France scroll down
• 05. Practical tips for tipping in France scroll down

Is Tipping Expected in France?

Tipping in France is not as common as in other countries, especially since service charges may already be included in the bill. It's not expected, but leaving a small tip for exceptional service is an appreciated gesture.

Tipping in Restaurants, Bars, and Cafes

When dining out in France, service charges are often included in the bill at 15% as "service compris". However, if exceptional service is provided or if you're dining in a more upscale establishment, you can leave a small cash tip or a gratuity of 5-10%.

When visiting bars and cafes, rounding up the bill is a nice gesture. Feel free to do so if the service was attentive.

Do You Tip Hotel Staff in France?

For hotel staff in France, tipping is not expected. However, if you experience excellent service, it is a nice gesture to tip porters €1 per bag, €1 to valet, or a few euros to other helpful staff.

Tipping Taxis and Tour Guides in France

For taxi drivers in France, tipping is common, although not mandatory. If you experience good service, you can round up to the nearest euro. For private car services, it is polite to leave around gratuity of 5%.

Tour guides in France may expect a small tip for walking tours, especially if the tour was informative and enjoyable. It is not a hard and fast rule, since pricing rules will vary by each provider. However, a 10% to 20% tip is polite if you enjoyed your experience. On free walking tours, you should tip €5 to €10 euros per person.

Practical Tips for Tipping in France

By following these tips, you'll optimize your cash transactions in France, minimize fees, and enjoy a smoother travel experience:

• Withdraw Cash With a Travel Debit Card: Choose a travel debit card without international transaction fees that allows you to hold local currency and withdraw cash like a local. These cards typically offer fee-free ATM withdrawal allowances, making them a convenient and cost-effective option for accessing cash while traveling in France.
• Stay Within Fee-Free Allowances: Many travel debit cards provide fee-free ATM withdrawal allowances per month. To avoid additional fees, try to stay within this allowance when withdrawing cash.
• Opt for Local Currency Transactions: When making purchases or withdrawing cash in France, you'll be prompted to pay in EUR or your home currency. Always choose to pay in the local currency (EUR) rather than your home currency to avoid dynamic currency conversion (DCC) fees . DCC will result in terrible exchange rates and additional charges, so opting for local currency transactions ensures you get the best exchange rate.
• Avoid Credit Card Cash Advances: Steer clear of using credit cards for cash withdrawals, as they incur cash advance fees and higher interest rates (APR). Cash advance APR is also higher than purchase APR.

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Compare the best travel debit cards without international transaction fees for your trip to France:

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Your International Tipping Guide For France

The Parisian cafes and bars are a mere slice of France’s cultural wealth. From the metropolitan Marseille and the French Riviera to Bordeaux and Nice, it’s little wonder why people flock to its every corner year on year. 

Once settled into your abode, whether that be Paris, Lyon, Lille or Corsica, it is time to head out. Exploring, dining out and journeying in any French city may leave you wondering about tipping. 

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Gratuity in France

Whether you are staying for a short city break, being whisked away on a romantic weekend or you are looking to take a month-long vacation, France is ideal. Like many European destinations, it is primed and ready for tourists. 

Hospitality in France is a big deal. Coq au vin may be one of the most famous foods in the world, but the service accompanying it will likely compete. 

Dining out in France is an experience like no other, but tipping at the end of your meal can seem tricky. To know when and how much you should tip in restaurants, cafes, bars, taxis and hotels, our guide is on hand to help. 

A Quick Guide

Tipping in restaurants in france.

No trip to France is complete without sampling the national cuisine. Soups, entrees, wine and the customary fromage all combine for a rich, delicious and memorable experience. 

France – like many of its European neighbours – does not have a tipping expectancy. 

The best way to tip in France is to consider the service. If you are impressed, try to leave somewhere in the region of 15-20% of your bill in tips. This is a sizeable enough contribution to make your enjoyment clear. If the service was not up to standard, your lack of tip will not be hounded. 

How much tip tip in cafes

Cafes are an integral part of the city and townscapes across France. While sipping on cafe au laits and munching on croissants, you will receive your bill in the same way as a restaurant. 

A little more informal, cafes and their staff are often busy serving a number of people at one time. Rounding up your bill after a morning spent at a café will leave your server with a bonus for their hard work. They are certain to be grateful for the gesture. 

Your Bill in France

Beware not to use hand signals when asking for the bill in France. It is considered rude to wave or beckon a server to the table for the bill. A simple ‘excusez moi’ will suffice to get their attention to ask for the bill. 

Just like in our Italian tipping guide – your bill explains everything. In France you will sometimes receive your bill as you are finishing or have just finished eating. Don’t worry, they are not trying to force you out, the restaurant may just be very busy! 

A service charge is sometimes added to the bill as ‘service compris’ and is usually 15%. This slice of money goes directly to the restaurant owner who is in turn able to pay the servers a salaried wage. If you feel the service deserves more, tipping on top of this will find the pocket of your servers directly. 

It is always worth carrying cash for your bill. While many restaurants and cafes are equipped with card machines, you may find it harder in smaller establishments. 

Tipping for taxi journeys in France

Travelling to Paris’ best destinations may be easy on the metro, but some areas of France demand taxi journeys.

It is important to agree a fee with your taxi driver before the ride. This ensures you are not paying over the top. As tipping is discretionary in France, there is no pressure to leave your taxi driver with a couple of extra euros. 

However, some taxi drivers will go the extra mile. If they carry your bags to the car or give you recommendations for restaurants near your hotel, you may feel they are deserving of a tip in addition to the fare. 

Tour guides and tipping in France

The staple of any city break is the tour. Hop on hop off buses, bike tours, walking tours and even wine tours are prevalent across France. 

Paid and free tours differ in terms of tipping. When do I tip my walking tour guide? How much do they want? 

Free walking tours in France are available in cities across the country. The tour guides are usually English speaking natives or people that have lived in the city for a while. They rely solely on their tips – and it should be noted beforehand that they don’t walk around with card machines, so bring cash.  

Many tour guides – and their websites – will give you an idea of how much their standard tip is. Go above or below depending how you feel the tour was, but also do not feel obliged should the guide not be up to standard. 

Should I tip my hotel staff?

Your hotel is the chance to rest and recharge your batteries. Its bar, restaurant and the various staff you meet during your stay give you plenty of chances to tip. 

Again, these opportunities are not obliged. You do not need to tip, but if the service deserves it go for it. If someone goes out of their way to help you, this may be cause for a tip. Housekeepers for longer stays may be deserving of a few euros as a tip.

Tipping when in France’s Atlantic and Pacific Ocean islands

Tipping in France is relatively simple – it’s all discretionary! However, some things do change slightly if you find yourself in one of France’s overseas territories. 

The culture in French Polynesia, for example, means that tipping is not an ordinary practice. The same can be said for French Guiana, Martinique, New Caledonia, Reunion Island and Wallis and Futuna. 

Guadeloupe and St Pierre and Miquelon are slightly different, however. 

In Guadeloupe, hotels and restaurants will often add a service charge. This is between 10-15%. Other than this, you will not be obliged to tip although French expat websites recommend leaving 10% on each bill to support the economies of these overseas territories. 

The latter is situated off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, and therefore most establishments will expect a tip – as is the way in North America. It is generally accepted to add 20% to your bills in restaurants, cafes and bars when in Canada – which is much like the United States tipping wise.

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Tipping Etiquette in France

Tipping in Restaurants and Cafés

Let’s get something straight right away:

• You are not required to tip in restaurants.
• You are not required to tip waiters/waitresses.
• A 15% service fee is automatically included in ALL cafés, restaurants, bars, etc. as part of the price of each item (not on top of the total).
• Servers in France get salaries, paid vacations, health care, and living wages.

Don’t bring your ingrained tipping anxiety — “What percentage is polite?” — with you to France. This is not the United States. No workers are allowed to work for less than a full wage like they are in the US. No one will yell at you or shun you if you pay your bill and leave a restaurant without tipping.

Having said that, it’s always polite to tip when you’ve received good service (wow, what a novelty). The French usually round up to the nearest euro or two. My rather affluent French friend who eats out for every single meal (he’s a bachelor) never tips under €2 or more than €20, even when dining at a Michelin-star restaurant. But if you WANT you can leave more, especially if you’ve been a particularly demanding client (ie: did you even try to order in French?)

Explanation of the “15% service compris”

A lot of the confusion comes from the vocabulary (and yes, even “expat tour guides” quoted in Travel + Leisure Magazin e articles can get it wrong). If you ask the server if the tip is included, they will say no. This is because in France a tip is actually a tip (or “ pourboire “), and what is called “ service ” refers to the part of the total bill that goes towards paying for the staff. Historically the French used to leave 15% for the service PLUS a tip. In 1985 the French government passed a law requiring all employees to be paid at least the minimum wage (known as le SMIC in France), thus outlawing the system of depending on clients to essentially pay servers’ salaries. To make sure the French clients understood this, all menus must state “ 15% service compris ” (which also justified restaurants raising their prices to cover that). This is the LAW in France ( see the official statement from the Ministry of Economy here ), and it clearly states that tips are optional, and their amount is up to the client. French people still leave a small tip if they feel like it, but they know it’s “extra” for the server. In the US what we’re really paying is the service, the server’s wages; not a tip. Which is probably why we feel so bad when we don’t leave the full recommended (or, let’s be honest, obligatory) 20%. Leaving a tip should feel good, not fraught with confusion and bad feelings.

If you pay with a credit card , there is usually no place to add a tip on a printed bill, but more and more restaurants (especially the ones that get a lot of tourists) are starting to use the same kind of tablet payment terminals we see in the US, with the first screen asking you to choose your tip. Don’t be pressured into leaving a tip on there (the server would still prefer a few coins, anyway).

NOTE: The VAT (or TVA en français ) has been lowered to 5.5% for food, but remains 19.6% for wine and some luxury foods, both itemized on your bill, but it’s part of the actual menu item prices, not added on top at checkout like we do in the US for sales tax.

Don’t Tip for Bad Service

If you have had rude service, don’t let them guilt you into tipping. Don’t guilt yourself into tipping for bad service. It brings down the level of service. And we don’t need that in France!

52 Martinis Podcast: Where Heather & Forest Discuss Tipping

Tipping Elsewhere 

It’s customary to tip hairdressers (unless it’s the owner), tour guides (although this isn’t obligatory either), theater ushers (although this is actually illegal, too, if it’s in lieu of minimum wage salary), and parking valets. In hotels it’s customary to tip luggage handlers, room service (except for breakfast) and to leave something on your pillow for housekeeping (especially if you’ve been a slob). In some places (like cloakrooms) you may see a sign that says pourboire interdit (tipping forbidden). I never tip a taxi driver more than a euro, usually I round up to make it easier for them to give me change. AGain, according to French law, it’s actually illegal to require (or even request) that customers tip instead of paying at least minimum wage.

For your building concierge, domestic help, and other household employees, there’s usually a holiday bonus given with a little gift, as these are considered to be employees. It’s illegal for municipal workers like trash collectors to go door to door asking for holiday bonuses, although firefighters and postal workers get around that law by selling calendars. Beware of fraudsters doing this to get into your home; in Paris and other big cities, you should never feel guilty for not opening your door to any strangers claiming they’re collecting tips or selling something (better safe than sorry).

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Tipping in France: what you need to know

Tipping is a common practice in many countries, but tipping habits and cultures vary worldwide. To avoid confusion — and any social faux pas — check out our guide to tipping in France.

While tipping is a common practice in many countries, tipping habits and etiquette can vary drastically worldwide. The expected and appropriate amount to tip depends not only on individual situations, but also on cultural customs. So, to help you navigate French tipping etiquette and avoid making any faux pas , we’ve put together this guide to the intricacies of tipping in France. 

Read on for the lowdown on tipping in France — and to make the most of your trip, don't forget to check out our travel guide to France . It’s packed with tips and tricks for finding the perfect French getaway.

Your travels covered

Is there tipping in France? What you need to know about French tipping culture 

The practice of tipping in France isn’t as common or expected as in some other countries. French tipping culture is unique, and there are nuances that you’ll need to know about in order to avoid any potential faux pas. 

The first thing to know: Tipping in France isn’t mandatory, but it's highly appreciated. But hang on! Before you close this article and walk out of the café without leaving un pourboire (a small gratuity), know that tipping in France is more complex than meets the eye.

Tipping in France: who to tip

In France, tipping isn’t typically expected in restaurants, taxis, and hotels, as the country's hospitality sector includes service charges in its pricing. Unlike in other countries, servers receive a decent monthly wage, paid holidays, and additional benefits. However, customers still have the option to express their appreciation for excellent service by leaving a gratuity. The gratuity amount can vary depending on the establishment and the quality of the service. To navigate tipping in France effectively during your travels, here are some general guidelines.

Tipping in restaurants and cafés

Whether it's a cozy café, the local bistro, or a Michelin-starred establishment, a service charge of 15 percent is automatically included by law in most French restaurants. You’ll see it listed on the menu or your check under “ service compris” (service included). However, if you have an especially friendly and efficient waiter, you can leave a small gratuity (“ un pourboire” in French). It’s a kind thing to do, but not obligatory.

When getting a coffee or an alcoholic drink, French etiquette suggests rounding the check up to the nearest euro, or leaving 20 to 50 centimes per drink. In casual cafés or restaurants, leaving one to two euros per person for the meal is generally appreciated. In fine dining establishments, where service is exceptionally attentive, it’s customary to leave a gratuity of 5-10 percent.

Tipping in hotels

In France, the custom is simple: If you're happy with the service, add a tip. It’s seen as a personal gesture and can vary based on how satisfied you are with the service. In hotels, although not obligatory, it's polite to show your appreciation with a gratuity for the staff in some situations, for example:

• Bellhops and hotel porters: If you need help carrying your bags, tip €1-2 per bag.
• Doormen : For valet services or help with hailing taxis, leave a €1 tip.
• Room service waiters: Add a few euros to compensate the staff for delivering your meals or helping you with other information.
• Concierge: If you had help making restaurant reservations or arranging other services, consider leaving a €5-20 tip.

For travelers on a budget , make sure to add some tip savings if you're planning to eat out frequently! 

Tipping taxis in France

It’s common practice to tip taxi drivers in France. Although not mandatory, locals usually round up to the nearest euro or leave a gratuity of up to 5 percent. If the taxi driver helps you with your luggage, especially if you have large bags, it’s customary to tip €1-2 per bag.

For private car services, such as pre-booked airport transfers or full-day car tours, a 5-10 percent gratuity is typical.

Tipping tour guides and other tourist services

Tipping practices in certain situations can be a bit ambiguous in France. When you book a private tour, class, or excursion directly with a guide or instructor, you’re typically charged a flat fee and tipping isn’t expected.

However, if you book a tour guide or service through an online platform, it’s customary to leave a gratuity of 10-20 percent (if the experience was positive!). If you’re not sure, check the fine print on your booking confirmation — it might have some extra information about tips.

Non-tipping situations: tipping etiquette for tourists in France

The rule of thumb is: If you're happy, leave a tip. However, there are some situations in France where tipping isn’t expected:

• Self-service establishments: In self-service restaurants or cafes where you order and collect your food at the counter, it's fine not to leave a tip, since there isn’t any table service or wait staff.
• Small transactions or casual settings: For a small transaction, like buying a quick snack or a drink at a corner store, you don’t need to leave a tip. 
• Retail stores: Tipping isn’t needed in retail stores or boutiques. The price of the item typically includes any service you might receive from the staff.

As tipping in France isn’t mandatory, it’s pretty much impossible to under-tip. If you're still in doubt, round up to the nearest euro, and you can't go wrong. For more European tipping tips, don't forget to check out our guide. Bon voyage!

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Tippin in France

Is tipping normal in france.

Yes. Even though it isn’t mandatory, rounding up to the nearest euro or adding 5-20 percent is a sign of appreciation for the service and staff.

Will people in France take offense to tipping?

Nope! While tipping isn’t mandatory, it’s always welcome. Returning customers might get less attention, however, if they haven't tipped in the past.

Common misconceptions about tipping in France

One common misconception is that tipping is mandatory in France. In reality, while tipping is appreciated in certain situations, it’s not expected or obligatory in most circumstances. Another misconception is that you need to leave a large gratuity when tipping in France. In reality, modest tips are typically enough to show appreciation for good service. Leaving a few euros or rounding up when you pay your check is generally considered appropriate, and there’s no need to leave huge amounts.

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The Ultimate Country-by-country Guide to Tipping in Europe

Here's how much to tip in Europe, from hotels and restaurants to taxis and tour guides.

The staycations and trip cancellations from the past two years are giving way to a big travel year, and European countries are top of mind for many. Much has changed within the travel space since the COVID-19 pandemic, and among the questions tourists have now is: How much should I tip?

This uncertainty is nothing new, actually. Most travelers are aware that tipping practices differ between the U.S. and Europe. Rick Steves, author, TV host, and expert on European travel, recently told Travel + Leisure , "People overthink tipping in Europe." Steves' website also begins with similar advice: "Don't stress over tipping."

Still, some guidelines can be helpful. Customs change, and there's even some thought that pandemic-related restaurant and hotel shutdowns have created a need for larger gratuities. On that topic, Steves said, "There's really no rationale for bigger tipping because of COVID, in my experience."

We also contacted several Europe-based travel professionals for their insight. According to Simone Amorico , co-owner and CEO of Access Italy , "At restaurants in Italy, an average of 10% to 15% is appreciated. When it comes to drivers and tour guides, it all depends on the experience. Average is 10%, but many leave more, especially post-pandemic." He added, "At hotels, guests may tip the concierge or guest relations, depending on the services requested, as well as housekeeping, but the figure varies."

Richard Nahem, longtime Paris resident and owner of Eye Prefer Paris Tours , said, "The tip is usually included in the bill, and it's sometimes called the service charge. It's perfectly acceptable not to leave a tip, but it's customary to leave 3% to 5% as a courtesy. Most restaurants and cafes are not equipped to add a tip to your credit card bill, so it's best to have some coins with you. Hand the cash tip to the server, rather than leaving it on the table." Nahem added, "It's also customary to tip the concierge at hotels, and for taxis, a euro or two is fine."

Travelers to Europe often take group tours and want to reward an especially entertaining or accommodating guide. For a two-hour walking tour, for example, a tip of two to five euros per person is appropriate, according to Rick Steves. For a smaller group, the tip should be more, and for a private guide, 10 to 20 euros for the group is fine in most cases, unless extra service is provided. At bars in Europe, tips are not customary, but leaving change or a few euros is always appreciated, if not expected. For takeaway food or drinks, counter dining, or stand-up service, tips are also not customary.

Clearly, even the advice from experts varies when it comes to tipping customs, and in many cases, it comes down to personal judgment. However, all would agree that no matter how many euros a traveler leaves, it's most important to treat servers and hospitality workers with courtesy .

Here are a few guidelines on tipping in Europe.

The service charge (servizio) is usually included and noted on the check. If there's no service charge, a 10% to 15% tip is fine. A cover charge (coperto) may be indicated, but that is generally not for the waitstaff. At hotels, tip around two euros per bag, and for housekeeping, one euro per night is appropriate. For taxis, no tip is necessary, but leaving the change for the driver is customary. Tips for tour guides vary, but consider 10% an average.

In restaurants, a service charge is often included, but if not, 5% to 10% is normal. At hotels, tip one to two euros per bag for porters, and the same per day for housekeeping. Taxi drivers expect about 10%, and about the same for tour guides, but you may wish to add more if your guide provides special service.

Service is generally included on restaurant checks, but if not, 10% to 15% is considered generous. No tip is necessary for taxis, but rounding up or leaving the change is fine. One euro per bag is customary for porters at hotels, and one euro per day for housekeeping is appreciated, but not required. Tour guide tips vary, depending on the type of tour. Start at 10%, but offer more for a private tour.

As in most other countries, add 10% to 15% if a service charge is not indicated on the restaurant check. For taxis, leave the change or round up if paying cash. In hotels, leave about two euros per night for housekeeping, and tip porters approximately one euro per bag. Tour guide gratuities should be about 10% as a starting point.

Switzerland

A service charge is typically included in the check, but it's customary to add about 10%, depending on the service. For taxis, rounding up to a few Swiss francs is fine. At hotels, a few francs for porters, doormen, and housekeeping is normal for services provided. Gratuities for tour guides will vary depending on the type of tour, with 10% as a general base.

Iceland and Scandinavian Countries

Tipping in these countries is different from most of the other European destinations in that gratuities are not expected. Most restaurants include service in the bill; at most, round up or leave change if paying in cash. Hotel employees don't expect tips for services, but you may still provide a small amount for extra help. Taxi drivers don't expect tips, either, nor do tour guides. However, for a guide that offers something special, or for a private or full-day tour, you may want to give 10% or so.

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How to get around France: from cycling to traversing by train

May 18, 2024 • 7 min read

A high speed train zips over the Cize-Bolozon viaduct, a combination rail and vehicular bridge over the Ain gorge © Gregory_DUBUS / Getty Images

With cyclists in the French capital outnumbering carbon-spewing motorists and short-haul domestic flights outlawed in 2023, getting around la belle France has never been so green.

In the 1980s the country’s emblematic TGV ( train à grande vitesse or high-speed train) turned heads. Now it is its omnipresent green mobility – spearheaded by an eco-smart capital city stitched from 900-odd miles of cycling lanes and rural landscapes flush with drop-dead-gorgeous hiking, biking and e-biking trails – that trumps. France’s drive to achieve carbon neutrality for land transport by 2050 is fierce.  

Away from cities and towns, motoring remains the most convenient way to cruise through France’s magnificent kaleidoscope of châteaux, farmsteads, wineries and village idylls – albeit at a price. Filling up in France is pricier than the European average and you pay tolls to use the country’s sleek network of autoroutes (highways). Public transport is scarce or non-existent in many rural areas, with buses on school routes filling some gaps on weekdays at least.

Getting around by train – state-of-the-art speedy or gloriously slow – has never lost its edge. In the Alps, Pyrenees and other mountainous areas, a fleet of cable cars and funiculars encourage France curios to scale fabulous new heights. Bon voyage!

Ride the rails to soak up stunning scenery

Cruising the length of the celebrity French Riviera by slow train, lurching sharply up mountain to France’s longest glacier , pulling into Nice aboard a millennial reincarnation of the mythical Bleu Train, or plunging into Pyrenean backcountry aboard an old-world steam train : train journeys in France are invariably breathtakingly scenic.

Frequent, reliable, affordable trains operated by SNCF zip cover much of the country. Principal rail lines radiate out from Paris like wheel spokes: getting between towns on different spokes can be slow or require a laborious change of trainline and gare (station) in Paris. High-speed TGV trains make light work of long-distance routes (count just over two hours from Paris to Bordeaux , three hours to Marseille ) and require an advance seat reservation. Book in advance to bag cheaper fares.

An adventure in itself, you can also catch an Intercité de nuit (domestic night train) from Paris to Nice, Toulouse , Lourdes, Perpignan and Aurillac in cheesy Cantal in central France.

Riding French rails several times a year? Consider a Carte Avantage discount card. Watch for brilliant seasonal and/or regional deals: France’s €49 summer rail pass covers unlimited travel for anyone under 27 in July and August on regional TER and Intercity trains. 

Tip for calculating carbon-saving: Download the SNCF Connect app to consult train schedules in real time, check rail deals and buy tickets. In return, once a year, SNCF sends you an annual tally of your train mileage and CO2 emissions saved by trading car for train.

Follow this itinerary for a car-free day-trip on the Côte d’Azur

Rent a car to get under the skin of rural France

With infrequent or non-existent public transport, a car is the only realistic option for exploring mountainous or overtly rural areas like the French Alps , Pyrenees , Lot, Dordogne and volcano-spawned Auvergne . Many impossibly charming chambres d’hôtes (B&Bs) – in centuries-old farms, renovated oil mills and châteaux – are lost in vineyards or down isolated country lanes.

Pick up wheels at major rental outlets at airports and train stations in major towns; many have electric vehicles. Reserve well in advance during busier periods (July and August, December to March during peak ski season). Cut cost with an online car-rental platform such as Getaround .

Rental vehicles picked up at Grenoble , Lyon and Geneva (Switzerland) airports in winter are automatically fitted with winter tires – required by law in mountainous areas between 1 November and 31 March. Road signs indicate when snow chains in addition are compulsory during snowy conditions.

Once on the road, drive on the right. At automated toll booths on highways (motorways), an illuminated green arrow indicates cash payment, a white card symbol payment by card. Watch out for France’s unique priorité au droite rule whereby traffic entering an intersection from a road on the right has priority. In villages and small towns particularly, beware of motorists suddenly zipping out in front of you from a lane on the right.

Tip for tracking traffic conditions: Dodge bouchons (traffic jams) on larger roads and highways with Bison Futé , an app to check traffic and road conditions in real time, availability of electric-charging stations, etc.

Planning to do some motoring in France? Save these best road trips

Cruise on a budget: rideshare

If you don’t drive or want the hassle of constantly having a car in tow, split fuel costs and motor from A to B with another motorist. Covoiturage (ridesharing) has been around for decades in France and bagging a ride with BlaBlaCar or similar rideshare app is not difficult. Practice your French at the same time!

Many French cities have a public car-sharing scheme; zip around Paris on an electric moped with Cityscoot . Self-service electric cars accessible via the Mobilize Share app are available for an hour, day or week/s in Lyon, Avignon, Nice and dozens more towns. Car-sharing platform Truro unlocks access to all sorts of wheels, 4WD vehicles to tackle off-road mountainous terrain, camper vans, beachy golf carts included.

Make the journey the destination afloat a ferry or boat

It’s worth slotting the Dordogne, Lot or Toulouse into your French itinerary, simply to kick back on deck, glass of chilled rosé in hand, and float beneath a tranquil green tunnel of plane trees along the UNESCO-listed Canal du Midi. Wine-rich Burgundy , the flamingo-specked Camargue , the Loire Valley and Brittany are other popular canal- and river-boating regions with superlative scenery in spades.

Sailing into the Vieux Port of A-lister St-Tropez is the only recommended way to arrive in the celebrity Riviera’s most desired town, a traffic-congested hell in high season; train it to St-Raphaël then hop aboard a boat operated by Les Bateaux Bleus. Dozens more shuttle boats and ferries yo-yo along the Mediterranean coast. Ditto for the Atlantic where the 30-minute Arcachon –Cap Ferret boat ride by way of oyster farms or the trip across choppy waters from ocean-faring Lorient to naturally wild, picture-book Breton islet Île de Groix are particularly memorable.

Tip to sail to paradise: Reserve boat tickets for Med island-idyll Île de Porquerolles, accessible from La Tour Fondue near Hyères, well in advance; this lush "Garden of Eden" paradise island is limited to 6000 visitors a day.

If canal boating in France piques your interest, read more here

Spin between châteaux, wineries and pretty villages on two wheels

Cycling has been huge in France for decades and as electric bikes gain traction, dedicated cycling paths mushroom, and themed cycling itineraries celebrating wine, wildlife, lakes, châteaux and all sorts boom, there really is no excuse not to join the peloton.

In Paris, Lyon, Marseille and other cities, public-sharing bikes and e-bikes make light work of longer urban distances along dedicated cycling lanes. Countrywide, long-distance bike-packing routes like Burgundy ’s Route des Grands Crus (500 miles/800km) and the Atlantic’s breathtaking coastal odyssey La Vélodyssée (807 miles/1300km) break down into convenient day and half-day soundbites, making them accessible to casual cyclists too.

Bike helmets are legally only required for children under 12, but most adults wear them too. If a rental shop doesn’t automatically offer you a helmet (common in laidback beach destinations such as Biarritz ) ask for one. Helmets are included in the rental price. The legal speed limit is 25km/h, including for e-bikes (45km/h for s-pedelecs with number plate). Forget spinning between chateaux to the beat of your favorite tune though, it’s illegal to cycle on roads using headphones or ear-pods.

Tip to trip plan: Source itineraries and download GPX files at France Vélo Tourisme , the definitive digital guide to exploring France by bike.

Accessible transportation in France

Despite the superabundance of cobbled streets, vertical villages teetering atop perilous crags and cafe terraces spilling inconveniently across pavements, inroads are being made to help  those with accessibility issues get around France more easily – even smoothly.

In Paris an excellent network of city buses with retractable ramps to get on board and raised pavements at bus stops compensate for an age-old, largely inaccessible metro; few elevators to access subterranean platforms actually function. Paris’ airports sport an Assistance Mobilité service to assist passengers, as does the country’s national train service SNCF . You can also rent an adaptive car through car-sharing service Wheeliz .

This article was first published Jun 4, 2021 and updated May 18, 2024.

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Find the best cruise for you

Featured cruise deals, cruising guide, why take a cruise vacation.

If you have a place on your bucket list, chances are, a cruise will get you there – provided the destination is along a coastline or inland waterway. Cruises cover the world, taking millions of passengers each year to regions such as the Caribbean, the Bahamas, Alaska, Europe, the Mediterranean and even Antarctica. Cruising offers a tremendous value, with trips that include your lodging, meals and entertainment – all rolled into one. Some luxury cruise lines even offer fully inclusive vacations, which cover drinks and tours ashore. And best of all, cruising means seeing the world conveniently after unpacking only once.

Cruises also provide a wonderful option for families, with many ships offering things like waterslides, mini-golf courses and fun clubs for kids, tweens and teens. While most are free, nursery programs can cost extra. Planning is easy: Pick your destination and the right ship (and line) for your travel style. The cruise line makes it simple, offering packages to help you save on extras like alcohol, shore tours or even airfare.

Travelers say they choose to cruise because cruising often costs less per night when compared with land vacations at a hotel, where they'll have to book -- and pay for -- every extra.

What are Tips for Finding Cheap Cruises?

If you're a flexible traveler, you'll have a better chance of finding cheap cruises. Take a cruise that doesn't sail over the summer or holidays, when prices are highest. Book an inside cabin, or take your chances with a "guarantee cabin," ideal for passengers who aren't picky about their stateroom location but really want the lowest price available. Book cabins on lower decks, which often come with lower prices than those rooms on higher floors – that is staterooms over suites.

Cruise brands such as Carnival Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International offer rates that might drop as low as $75 per person per night -- and sometimes even lower.

If you want a real bargain, consider a transatlantic or repositioning cruise. These cruises are one-way or open-jaw trips, that start in one port and finish at another. You can score a deal sailing from Florida to Europe, for example, or even from New York to Florida. Just be aware, you'll probably have to pay a bit more for airfare to return.

What are Tips to Finding Last-Minute Cruise Deals?

While being flexible date wise will always get you the best last-minute cruise deals, it's particularly helpful if you live near a cruise port and can quickly drive there. That way you'll probably be able to jump on those deals that might pop up just a week or two before the ship is scheduled to sail.

Or if you don't have flexibility with either departure dates or embarkation locations, be willing to compromise on exact destinations. This will allow you to find a wider range of last-minute deals traveling to locations in their off-season or so-called shoulder season.

Do plenty of research and know what your ideal cruise is and costs on average, so both are already on your radar. When you see it drop, pounce! (Many cruise lines update pricing several times per day, so preparation is crucial.)

Best cruises in 2024

There's truly a cruise style and ship for everyone, and that has never been more the case than in 2024, as vessels continue to come in an array of sizes – from riverboats and expedition vessels to the largest-ever mega ships. And it's not an exaggeration to say some are loaded with so many activities that you couldn't possibly enjoy them all in a single sailing.

Families will find plenty of options and activities onboard big ships, which have transformed cruising, making the vessels as exciting as the destinations themselves. The Caribbean is always a great option for families, offering lots of sunshine, great beaches and culture. Alaska, famous for its incredible vistas and abundant wildlife, is also a solid family cruise option. Consider cruise brands such as Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line, MSC Cruises and even Celebrity Cruises and Holland America Line for a great multi-generational voyage.

Or on the smaller side, by comparison, river cruising remains a hot ticket item this year, with exciting routes that send eager guests down the Danube or Rhine rivers in Europe or to lesser-frequented locations, like the Mekong River in Cambodia or Vietnam, or soon the Magdalena River in Colombia. Popular river cruises embark in timeless cities like Amsterdam, Budapest and Lisbon. River cruise lines to consider encompass Viking, AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, Emerald Cruises, Tauck, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises and Riverside Luxury Cruises, as well as American Cruise Lines for a domestic alternative.

If you're an adventurer at heart, an expedition cruise might be best for you. These voyages, often onboard small ships (only a few hundred passengers tops), offer an intimate experience that brings passengers right up next to glaciers, whales, penguins and iguanas. Ships visit tiny spots all over the world – from pole to pole – including the Arctic, Alaska, Australia, Greenland, the Galapagos and, of course, Antarctica. Passengers will spend their time zodiacing, kayaking, hiking, biking and exploring with expert guides and knowledgeable naturalists. Expedition travelers love cruise lines such as Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic, UnCruise Adventures, Silversea, HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions), Ponant and Quark Expeditions, as well as an ever-expanding list that now even extends to Seabourn and Viking.

But for the most decadent form of travel, luxury cruises offer all-inclusive experiences onboard small to median-sized ships (usually under a thousand passengers) with perks like butlers, high-end amenities and personalized, intuitive service, not to mention the finest dining at sea. Ships often feature luxury touches like marble and crystal decor, intimate spaces and beautiful spas. Because luxury ships tend to be on the smaller size, they can often reach off-the-beaten-path destinations bigger ships simply cannot access -- ports like St. Tropez or Guadeloupe. If you're looking for a luxury cruise, consider Crystal, Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Silversea, Explora Journeys, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and upcoming Four Seasons Yachts.

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