Tipping in Portugal: Everything You Need to Know

Whether you are moving somewhere for an extended period or just visiting, it is a good idea to check the tipping etiquette before you arrive to avoid any social faux pas.

Having lived in Portugal for over a year and still visiting Lisbon regularly, I’ve had ample opportunity to learn how tipping in Portugal works.

Tipping isn’t expected in many European countries. In Lisbon, they’re only now starting to add the option of a 5% tip per default when you go out to eat.

Still, you are not expected to pay; it’s up to you.

Tipping in Restaurants and Bars

Tipping culture in restaurants and bars is generally quite relaxed. Thanks to this culture around tipping, I recommend that you just don’t do it in most cases unless the option is offered.

Cafes and Inexpensive Eateries

In Portugal, tipping at cafes and inexpensive eateries isn’t expected. Locals sometimes leave something, but it’s not normal.

If you receive good service, leaving a small tip of around €1 or rounding up the bill is a kind gesture. These places don’t rely heavily on tips, but the staff always welcomes a little extra.

Some places may have a tip jar to throw a couple of coins.

Even at mid-range restaurants, it’s not common to leave a tip.

Upscale Restaurants

In upscale restaurants, you don’t need to tip either.

These establishments usually provide excellent service, and tips usually reflect the quality of the dining experience, but I would discourage it unless given the option.

Many Portuguese people are against it, which may be seen as off.

Sometimes, a service fee is already added to your bill as well.

Bars and Pubs

Tipping culture at bars and pubs is even less formal.

Some people leave their small change and just round up to the nearest euro when they pay cash.

You may think a few euros are appreciated for larger orders or exceptional service, but it is not mandatory.

Special Occasions and Large Parties

When celebrating special occasions or dining with large parties, it is customary to leave a larger tip in other countries.

Depending on the level of service, some people recommend 10-15% of the total bill as a good practice. This acknowledges the extra effort and coordination required to serve large groups.

Again, this isn’t required and might be seen as odd.

Tipping in Hotels

Tipping suggestions for hotel staff vary from place to place. But in Portugal, even a couple of Euros is too much.

This is the case for all of the staff, including:

• The doorman
• The bellhop
• The concierge
• Room service

I tried to tip once in a 5-star hotel, and they were very surprised. So, rather save yourself and the other parties from the embarrassment of the interaction.

Housekeeping

Leaving a tip for hotel housekeeping is not expected, especially not for short stays.

If you’re feeling particularly generous and don’t want to follow traditional approaches to tipping, €1-2 per day for housekeeping, maybe even €5, is plenty.

A lump sum at the end of your stay is an excellent way to show gratitude for their work.

Valet Parking

Tipping the valet when your car is returned is common in other countries. There is a custom of tipping €1-2 for this service elsewhere.

If you are comfortable tipping and don’t care about the correct practice, you can probably do this without causing any offense.

Airport Shuttle Driver

If your hotel provides an airport shuttle service, a tip of €1-2 per bag is a nice gesture for the driver, especially if they help load and unload luggage.

Locals may sometimes do this, so it won’t seem out of place if you want to make a generous gesture. You don’t need to, though.

Tipping for Tours and Activities

Portuguese workers in the tourism industry can benefit from tips. Free tours are usually the only place people tip every time, as that is how the guides get paid.

Tour Guides

If the tour is already paid for, tip is unnecessary.

But, for a free tour, consider about 10-15% of what you would be willing to pay for the tour as a gesture of gratitude.

This reflects your appreciation for their knowledge and the quality of the tour experience.

Depending on the tour, this should be around €5-20.

Adventure Guides (e.g., hiking, water sports)

Adventure guides often go the extra mile to ensure your safety and enjoyment. But this does not mean that they expect you to tip them.

As long as the activity is already paid for, you don’t need to make a gesture of appreciation through a tip. Rather, thank them verbally.

Museum and Site Guides

Museum and site guides typically receive a tip of €5-10 for their services if they have not been paid for them already.

Their expertise and willingness to interact can significantly enhance your visit, and a tip shows appreciation.

Tipping Transportation Providers

In most cases, tipping transportation providers is not required, but you are welcome to do so if you are in the habit of tipping. This is one area where locals may tip quite often.

Taxi Drivers

Tipping taxi drivers is not mandatory, but if you want to, consider rounding up to the nearest euro or simply forgoing your change, especially for friendly and efficient service.

Ride-hailing services (e.g., Uber)

Tipping is not expected for ride-hailing services, but you can leave a tip through the app if the driver provides excellent service.

Private Drivers

If you hire a private driver, a tip is generally seen as quite odd. If you want to tip, no more than 10-15% would be considered very generous.

Public Transportation Staff

Tipping public transportation staff is not typical or expected in Portugal.

Their services are typically covered by the fare you pay.

Situational Tipping Guidelines

There are some unique situations where you should consider deviating from general tipping guidelines.

Holiday Seasons

Giving a little extra to service providers you regularly interact with during the holiday is not standard. This can include anyone from your hair stylist to your favorite barista.

A small tip or a gift shows appreciation for their service throughout the year, but remember not to go too overboard as this is already unusual.

Special Events and Celebrations

Tipping service staff, such as caterers, bartenders, and event coordinators, for special events like weddings or large celebrations, is not required if the event has already been paid for.

If you want to tip, 10-15% of the service cost is a good guideline.

Business vs. Leisure Travel

When traveling for business, your company may have specific tipping policies. However, it’s generally a good idea to tip as you would on a personal trip.

Standard Tipping Amounts and Practices

As mentioned, you aren’t expected to tip a standard amount in most cases. Instead, consider the quality of the service.

Percentage vs. Fixed Amount

In Portugal, tipping – when it does occur – is often just a little bit of change. Only recently has the option to tip 5% been automatically provided in some establishments.

This is still relatively uncommon, though.

When Not to Tip

Tipping is not expected or necessary when you are already paying for the service or when a service fee has already been charged to your bill.

Public transportation staff, such as bus drivers or train conductors, also do not expect tips.

Tipping with Cash vs. Card

Tipping with cash is preferred in many places, as it ensures the service provider receives the total amount.

Some establishments may allow you to add a tip to your card payment, but it’s always good to check if the staff gets it directly.

Wrap-up

Tipping in Portugal is very relaxed compared to other countries, but it is still a way to show appreciation for good service in the right situation.

While not always obligatory, leaving a tip can positively impact someone’s day and affect their total income.

If you are considering visiting Portugal, specifically Lisbon, check out some of these articles on the best places to stay and my favorite spots to eat.

Frequently Asked Questions