A Very Short Introduction to Tipping Etiquette in Turkey
Visiting Turkey on a holiday? Got that uneasy feeling when the bill arrives? What to do? How much to tip? Read on my friend!
Americans tend to give big tips to Turkish. That is why American tourists are expected to give out huge gratuities. Customarily, tips are very modest in the country. It is only a few percent of the price paid. Turkish tourism industry workers are used to getting big tips from Americans that they can’t help but wonder why there are others that give them less.
Generally, Turkish prefer that they be given Turkish liras. Nonetheless, you can still give them any currency as long as it is paper money. Never give them non0-Turkish coins because these cannot be exchanged for Turkish liras.
In the restaurant setting, small tips (equivalent to 5 to 10% of your total bill) are really not expected from you but are greatly appreciated. This is if you are in inexpensive establishments. However, if you are in a luxury restaurant, then it is the same in the United States. You tip 10 to 15% of the total bill.
For porters, they are already satisfied with 2 to 3 Turkish Liras for each bag that they carry. This is the same with the guides who give you personal tours of the city. As for taxi drivers, you do not have to give them tips. Just round the fare upwards. For example, your fare amounted to TL9.70. Then you can just hand him TL10. If the amount is TL10.30, your cab driver can accept just TL10.