TRAVEL TIPS FOR FRANCE 2026
Every week, the Masterworks Newsletter will contain a brief “Tip” about Paris, the French language, words to practice, getting around, money, paying for food, tipping, etc. Many of these ideas are distilled from a series of
YouTube videos by Les Frenchies, a French/American couple. For more detailed information, these videos cover many topics of interest to American travelers in France, especially Paris. They are fun to watch and very informative.
3. Tips: The tipping culture in France is different from what we have in the US. The 20% tipping culture of the US does not exist. Tips
are always optional and are for exceptional or special service, not a mental addition one needs to make when estimating a bill. A service charge of 15% is built into the price by law. Look for “service compris” meaning service included on the menu or bill. The phrase will not always be evident, but the amount is always included.
In restaurants, waiters are considered professional and are paid a living
wage with benefits. The French will round up or give 1 to 5 euros in cash to the waiter. 5% to 10% is considered generous and is appropriate if the waiter spends a lot of time helping you decipher the menu or choose your order. Unlike in the US, the credit card machines are not generally programmed to add a tip that will go to the server. The price you see on the menu is the price you will be charged. If you are in a “tourist” cafe or restaurant, the waiter may suggest
that the tip is not included, but they would never make such a request to a Frenchman. Tipping in cafes or restaurants should be in cash. The same rules apply to a bar. Generally, just rounding up the bill is sufficient.
Tipping for other services is again optional. For example, it is common to round up the fare for the taxi driver. If extra service is provided such as handling bags or providing
information, a 10% tip is appropriate. In a hotel, tip the bellman 1-2 euros per bag if they help you carry bags to your room. For housekeeping, 1-2 euros per night is appreciated. If the concierge helps with dinner reservations or a tour schedule, 2-5 euros is appropriate. You will not be asked to tip the employee who hands you a coffee or pastry in a shop. Guides for a normal tour might be given 5 euros per person or more depending on how long you were with the
guide. Tips should be in cash, which is why you need some small bills or coins available.
Watch what the locals are doing. Overtipping or not being discreet about your tip may be seen as flashy or inappropriate. Remember, tipping is not mandatory, but it is a nice way to show appreciation.
