Where In The World Should You Not Tip?

Tipping is a complicated affair. If you don’t leave a tip while in the US, you will be greeted with a look of disdain; equally you’d get a similar response when giving the waiter a few extra Yen in Japan. So, where should you not tip? Here we’ve outlined eight countries where not tipping is not necessary, exploring the unique tipping culture by country and helping you navigate these no-tip countries with confidence. 

Spain

This addition might be a little shocking to some. However, if you don’t leave a tip in this country of sun, sand, and sangria, it is considered completely normal. Yes, of course, upon receiving excellent service a few extra euros left on the table will not go amiss. Yet, keep in mind that sometimes a 10 percent service charge is included (servicio incluido). This is usually for more fine-dining establishments and, unfortunately, is very rarely given to staff. 

For other circumstances like taxi rides, hotel services etc. don’t ever feel obliged to part with your cash unless they’ve done something remarkable when visiting Spain. Even then, it may seem a little patronising.

Japan

Unlike Spain, Japan is a country where you should not tip at all; it’s actually offensive. In the majority of Japanese restaurants a bill is not brought to the table. Instead, payment is accepted at the bar, so even trying to leave a tip for the waiter can be tricky. 

In other situations outside of a restaurant setting—i.e taxi rides, haircuts etc.—good service never warrants a tip. Instead, a sincere thank you and a bow show appropriate appreciation in Japan. In spite of this no-tipping culture, Japanese service is one of the best in the world.

China 

Barring Hong Kong, tipping is a strange concept in most of mainland China. Saying this, due to the ever-growing influence of western tourism, China may not make this list in the near future. In hotels and restaurants tips are becoming increasingly more common. The difference here, however, is that it doesn’t need to be money. Alternatively, a small gift from your own country is a more heartfelt gesture to show your appreciation.

Important warning: in some regions of China tipping the taxi driver is illegal. Therefore, remember that insisting on tipping could land the recipient in hot water. 

Denmark 

Somewhat surprisingly, Danish law decrees that service charges in restaurants have to be included in the price. This may seem a little harsh to outsiders; however, the majority of hospitality workers here pocket a good salary. 

Alongside this, benefits include maternity and paternity leave, childcare, disability coverage, and paid vacation from the government or their employer. Just like Japan, even without monetary incentives Denmark’s hospitality industry figures amongst the world’s best in terms of quality. 

Brazil

In Brazil tipping is relatively unheard of. As with the majority of places on this list, giving extra isn’t an offence; equally, it’s not considered necessary. Many bars and restaurants impose a 10 percent service, although the service staff rarely get this. 

If that wasn’t bad enough, minimum monthly wage in Brazil is just over £250. For this reason, we feel that giving a tip while visiting Brazil is a good way to express your gratitude. Additionally, it adheres to our tips on responsible tourism. 

Belgium

The tipping etiquette in Belgium is reserved for exceptional cases. Most bars and restaurants include a 10–15 percent tip and—especially in comparison to the US—receive a good salary. As a whole, leaving a tip is uncommon in Belgium. Although, it does vary in different parts of the country. In Wallonia (south) tips are more common; in Flanders (north) it is less common. Still, locals in either region rarely leave a tip. 

Australia

The general consensus in Australia is that workers in the hospitality industry earn well. Consequently, Australians refrain from tipping. When staying at a fancy hotel the porter will not charge a service fee—and neither will anyone for that matter. 

Instead of tipping, a genuine “thank you” is the customary way to express appreciation in Australia. So, unless you’re particularly wowed by someone, do as the Aussies do while on a trip Down Under. 

New Zealand

Maybe due to its traditional British roots, New Zealand has resisted the trend of tipping. Similar to the other more developed countries on this list, fair wages are common across the board. After drinking in the delights of its dramatic landscapes, you may feel like you owe extra, but tour guides won’t be opening their hand at the end of trips. Instead, sharing your positive experience or writing a good review is the best way to show appreciation in this no-tip country.

South Korea

South Korea is another Asian country where tipping is not customary and can even cause confusion. Korean service staff are well-paid and don’t accept tips. In restaurants, you’ll typically pay at a counter rather than leaving money on the table 

If you try to tip in a taxi or at a hotel, don’t be surprised if the driver or staff member runs after you to return your “forgotten” money. Instead of tipping, showing verbal appreciation and respect through polite language is the preferred way to acknowledge good service.

Switzerland

Switzerland rounds out our list of countries where tipping is not necessary. With some of the highest wages in the world for hospitality workers, tipping is simply not part of Swiss culture. Service charges are already included in your bill by law, and staff wouldn’t expect additional payment. However, it’s common practice to round up the bill to the nearest franc or leave small change as a gesture of appreciation.

The Swiss value quality service as a matter of professional pride rather than for monetary rewards, making their tipping culture distinctively different from many Western countries.

Understanding tipping culture by country

When travelling internationally, researching tipping etiquette should be part of your pre-tip planning. What’s considered generous in one country might be offensive in another. The ten countries we’ve covered represent diverse regions where the expectation of tipping differs significantly from places like the US.

At Exoticca, we’re passionate about helping travelers experience authentic cultural immersion while abroad. We curate extraordinary travel experiences across the globe. We offer expertly designed trips that take care of all the planning while giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. 

Do you plan to visit no-tip countries like Japan and Denmark, or destinations with different tipping customs? Our local expertise ensures you’ll navigate cultural nuances with confidence and respect.