Tipping

The French have a clear idea of when they should be tipped. Bills in bars and restaurants include a service charge incorporated into the price, but it's customary to round out your bill with some small change unless you're dissatisfied. The amount varies: anywhere from €0.20, if you've merely bought a beer or coffee, to €1–€3 (or more) after a light meal—but leave 5%–10% in an expensive restaurant. Tip taxi drivers 5% and hair stylists 5%–10%. In some theaters and hotels, coat-check attendants may expect nothing (if there's a sign reading "pourboire interdit," or tips forbidden); otherwise give them €1. Washroom attendants usually get €0.50, though the sum is often posted.

If you stay in a hotel for more than two or three days, it's customary to leave something for the chambermaid (€1.50–€2 per day). In expensive hotels you may well use the services of a parking valet, doorman, bellhop, and concierge. All expect a tip. Expect to pay €2 (€1 in a moderately priced hotel) to the person who carries your bags or hails a taxi for you; if the concierge has been helpful, leave a tip of €5–€20 depending on the service; in hotels that provide room service, give €1–€2 to the waiter (this does not apply to breakfast served in your room).

Museum guides should get €1–€1.50 after a tour. For other kinds of tours, tip the guide or excursion leader 10% of the tour cost; it's standard practice to tip long-distance bus drivers about €2 after an excursion, too. Other tips will depend on how much you've used a person’s services—common sense must guide you here.