tipping in Portugal
 

How much do you usually tip for taxis and restaurants - thanks

See: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/portugal...on/money-costs

Lonely Planet says 5 to 10% ... no-one ever tips that much in Portugal. Or in southern Europe, for that matter!
Just leave a little cash on the table and never add a tip to you credit card. Your tip will not come into the hands of those who deserve it.

It seems a little generous

Generally, rounding up if paying cash is fine for taxis. Restaurants depend a great deal on what kind of restaurant just like anywhere else. No one tips in McDonald's anywhere in the world for example.

A small village restaurant will probably be happy with you rounding up. An upmarket restaurant in a city will expect more. A restaurant in a busy tourist area will also expect tourists to tip.

The rule is, there is no rule. Tip what you want to tip. No one ever says no. Although I do remember many, many years ago leaving a tip on the table in a chinese restaurant late one night after being out partying with some local friends. As we left, the waiter came running down the street behind us to tell me I had 'forgot my change'. LOL

Tipping in Portugal is much the same as in Spain. Watch what the locals do. Since the crisis hit, tipping has fallen off somewhat, but, leaving a couple of Euros at lunch or dinner is fine, regardless of the restaurant. And as noted, never include a tip on the bill if paying by credit card. Cash works best for the wait staff.

As far as taxis go, if the driver is handling your luggage, a couple of Euros won't kill you, if not, then round up to the nearest Euro, otherwise you'll end up carrying around a lot of small coins.

And as far as hotel workers go, if the maid is cleaning your toilet. a couple of Euros won't kill you.

In rural Italy, where I live, I've twice seen waiters chase a customer who "forgot his change".

I do absolutely believe in tipping those who work hard and tend to err on the generous side, just wanted to understand the local customs. thanks