Spain: You don’t gotta. In nicer restaurants, it’s appropriate to leave 5-10%, but skip it at bars and such (the management often keeps the tips). If you feel bad not tipping, just some extra change. A Euro or less will still be more than totally sufficient.

Italy: You won’t see the locals do it, and you don’t need to do it at a bar or cafe, but in restaurants, it’s good to leave a few Euro for the server. Two Euro for lunch, three for dinner - that’s been my M.O.

Got tipping advice for a specific country or region? Let me know, and I’ll add it to the list!

Wednesday, October 31, 2007 | travel tips