Tipping in France: what you need to know in Nice

Updated on 5 August 2026

Good news for travellers: in France, tipping is never compulsory. Service is included in the displayed prices (unlike the USA), and nobody will judge you for leaving nothing. But out of politeness, a few well-understood customs always please. Here's the guide.

At the restaurant

The displayed price includes service (about 15%). A tip is therefore a satisfaction bonus, not an obligation:

• Correct service: round up to the nearest euro, or leave the change;
• Very good service: 5-10% of the bill;
• Poor service: nothing — it's accepted without discussion.

Leave the tip in cash on the table or in the bill folder, or add it to the card payment and mention it to the waiter.

At the bar and café

For a coffee or a drink at the counter, leaving the change (€0.20-0.50) is appreciated but rarely expected. On the terrace, rounding up the bill is enough.

In a taxi

The displayed price is complete. The custom is to round up to the nearest euro (e.g. €32 → €35) for a correct ride. For a big trip (airport, €32), rounding to €35 always pleases.

For guides and tours

For a classic guided tour: €5-10 per person depending on duration and satisfaction. For free walking tours, the tip is the payment: €10-20 per person is the norm (see our guided tours guide).

At the hotel

Hotel customs are flexible: €1-2 per bag for the porter, €1-2 per night for housekeeping in big hotels, nothing in budget hotels. Staff don't systematically expect it.

What NOT to do

• Don't calculate 15-20% like in the USA: service is already included;
• Don't feel obliged to give under a stare: a tip is a thank you, not a due;
• Don't leave €0.10 or derisory small change — better nothing than a humiliating coin.

FAQ