Tipping in Spain: Complete Guide to Spanish Tipping Etiquette (2026)

Looking for tipping advice in Spain? If you are heading to Spain and wondering about tipping etiquette, you are not alone.

We host friends and family from abroad almost every month in Malaga, and the question of tipping in Spain comes up constantly. How much do you tip? When should you tip? Is it rude not to tip?

If you are coming from a place like the US, where tipping is second nature and expected, Spanish tipping culture can feel confusing.

But do not worry. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know so you can confidently enjoy your trip like a local.

Should You Tip in Spain?

The short answer is that it is not mandatory but appreciated.

Unlike in the US, where tipping is an essential part of a service worker's income, in Spain, tips (called "propina") are seen as a way to show gratitude for excellent service rather than an obligation. Spanish service workers earn a proper wage, so tips are a bonus rather than a necessity.

You will not offend anyone by not tipping, but leaving a little something is a kind gesture that goes a long way. Most locals leave small change or round up the bill, which is the standard practice across the country.

How Much to Tip in Spain

Here is a breakdown of tipping practices for different situations you will encounter.

1. Restaurants

Casual dining and tapas bars: At local tapas bars or casual eateries, it is common to round up the bill or leave small change. A few coins or 5-10% of the total is typical.

Mid-range restaurants: For meals between 40-80 euros, leaving 3-8 euros is a nice gesture for good service.

Fine dining: At high-end restaurants, leaving up to 10% is a nice touch for outstanding service, but it is still not expected. Even at Michelin-starred restaurants, tipping is optional.

Service charge included: Some restaurants automatically add a service fee ("servicio incluido"). In this case, tipping is entirely up to you, but most locals do not add extra.

2. Hotels

Porters and bellhops: If someone helps you with your luggage, 1-2 euros per bag is a thoughtful tip.

Housekeeping: Leaving 1-2 euros per day in your room is appreciated but not expected. Leave it each day rather than at the end of your stay, as different staff may clean your room.

Concierge: If the concierge goes out of their way to assist you, such as securing a hard-to-get reservation or arranging special experiences, a 5-10 euro tip is a kind gesture.

Room service: If there is no service charge on the bill, 1-3 euros is appropriate.

3. Cafes and Bars

For a quick coffee or a drink, it is typical to leave small change (around 20-50 cents). Many cafes have tip jars where you can drop coins.

If you are at a bar enjoying tapas, rounding up the total is a friendly nod to the staff. For counter service, tipping is optional and minimal amounts are fine.

4. Taxis and Rideshares

Tipping taxi drivers is not required, but rounding up to the nearest euro is common practice. For example, if your fare is 12.40 euros, you might give 13 euros.

For airport transfers or if the driver helps with heavy luggage, adding 1-2 euros extra is appreciated. The same applies to Uber and Cabify drivers.

5. Tour Guides

Group tours: Tipping 5-10 euros per person is a common way to show appreciation for a good tour.

Private guides: Consider tipping 10-20 euros or more for a half-day private tour, depending on the length and quality of the experience.

Free walking tours: These are not actually free.

The guides work for tips, so 10-20 euros per person is expected and appropriate. These tours are popular in cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville.

6. Spas and Hairdressers

Tipping at spas is not common in Spain. If you receive exceptional service, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10 euros is a nice gesture, but it is not expected.

At hairdressers, tipping is also optional. Independent salons appreciate small tips (2-3 euros), while chain salons rarely expect anything.

7. Delivery Drivers

For food delivery, tipping 1-2 euros is appreciated, especially if you pay in cash. Many delivery apps now include an option to add a tip when paying by card.

What Do the Locals Do?

In Spain, tipping is more understated than in some other parts of the world.

Locals often round up the bill or leave small change, especially at casual spots. The Spanish even have a word for it: leaving the "monedillas" (small coins) on the table.

While tourists might feel inclined to tip more, do not stress about matching tipping customs from home.

Embrace the laid-back Spanish approach. No one will judge you for leaving a few coins, and no one will be offended if you leave nothing at all.

Cash vs Card Tipping

Cash is preferred for tipping in Spain. When you tip in cash, you can be sure the money goes directly to the staff member who served you.

Some restaurants now offer the option to add a tip when paying by card, but this is not universal. If you do tip by card, be aware that the money may go to the business rather than directly to your server.

Practical tips:

• Carry small change and 5 euro notes for tipping
• If paying by card, ask if you can leave a cash tip separately
• Watch what locals do if you are unsure

Where You Do Not Need to Tip

There are several situations where tipping is not expected at all:

• Fast food restaurants: No tip needed unless staff bring food to your table
• Self-service establishments: Buffets, cafeterias, and counter service
• Public transport: Buses, metro, and trains
• Petrol stations: Even if an attendant helps you
• Shops and supermarkets: Never expected

Final Thoughts

Tipping in Spain is not complicated. Think of it as a polite thank-you rather than an obligation.

Whether you are sipping coffee at a charming plaza cafe, enjoying fresh seafood at a chiringuito, or taking a scenic taxi ride, a small tip is a nice way to show appreciation. But remember, Spanish service workers are paid a fair wage, so tipping is truly optional.

When in Spain, tip like the locals: casually, kindly, and without stress. You will connect with the warm and welcoming spirit of this passionate country.

Buen viaje.