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Tipping In Turkey: How To Tip In Turkey

Currency Information

Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY/TL)

Note: for this Turkish tipping guide, we’ll list the prices in Euros given the drop in value of the Lira, so you do not undertip and reward your Turkish hosts

Denominations: Notes – 5 – 200, Coins – 1 – 50 kurus

Other currencies accepted: In tourist areas, you will be able to use your UK sterling, Euros, and Dollars quite widely; however, you will receive a lower rate as a result. It’s better to change to the local currency if at all possible. There are countless ATMs in major towns, cities, and tourist resorts; however, you will struggle to pay with anything other than Lira if you leave the main cities and resorts. Many vendors will also turn away a 200 Lira note if the amount you’re paying is below 150 lira, so try to have small change if possible.

How To Tip In Turkey

Tipping in Turkey is commonplace; however, if you don’t receive the best service, don’t tip. When dining in high-quality restaurants nationwide and in many other restaurants across Istanbul, check the bill and see if a service charge/fee has been applied. If so, you don’t need to tip, as this charge counts as your tip.

Turkey’s wages are relatively low, and many servers and staff rely on tips to lift their take-home amount. Tips are, therefore, always greatly received.

If a service charge/fee hasn’t been applied, it is customary to tip between 5-10% of the bill, depending upon how much you enjoyed the service you received. If you’re dining somewhere extremely high-end, a tip of between 10-15% is more likely. You should always tip in cash and leave the cash amount in the bill sleeve you will receive or give directly to the waiter.

Tipping Turkish Taxi Drivers

In Turkey, keeping some small bills on hand for tipping taxi drivers is always a good idea. While it’s not required, it’s an excellent way to show appreciation for their service. If you’re unsure how much to tip, a good rule of thumb is to round up the amount to the nearest whole Lira or 10 lira and tell them to keep the change. If your taxi was outstanding, use the standard rule of thumb to tip 10% of the fair.

Tipping Hotel Staff In Turkey

While it’s not required, it’s a nice gesture and will go a long way in making your stay more enjoyable. A little extra money will be greatly appreciated from the bellhop who brings up your luggage to the maid who cleans your room. Just don’t go overboard – a few dollars here and there will suffice.

• Porters, we suggest you tip 1 euro per suitcase for porters
• Housekeepers, for housekeeping staff, if the room is cleaned well, 5 Euro would suit if the room was cleaned very well and you were given good service; if you feel the service wasn’t quality, you’re not obliged to do so

Tipping Tour Guides In Turkey

When it comes to tipping in Turkey, you should keep a few things in mind. First of all, tipping is not required, as we have already said – but if you had a great time on your tour and your tour guide was particularly helpful, a tip is a nice way to show your appreciation.

Secondly, there is no set amount when it comes to how much to tip. It all depends on your budget and how much you thought the tour was worth. A good rule of thumb is to tip 10-15% of the cost of the tour. 

Tipping At The Hamamm In Turkey

At a Turkish Hamam, the very attentive attendants will come to wish you well and to say goodbye before you leave – that will be your cue to pay up around 10 to 15% in tips.

Tipping At Restaurants In Turkey

In Turkey, it is customary to leave a tip at restaurants. The amount you leave is up to you, but it is generally around 10% of the bill. You can leave the tip in cash or on your credit card. If you are paying with cash, the easiest way to leave the tip is to tell the waiter/waitress how much you would like to leave, and they will take care of it for you. If you are paying with a credit card, you can add the tip to your bill when you sign it.

At restaurants, there are often musicians who play for tips. You’ll be expected to pay if they stand by you and play. If you do not wish to, tell them no thanks and wave your hand to signal no; they will not be offended and move on to the following table.

Tipping In Bars And Cafes In Turkey

In Turkey, leaving a small tip in bars and cafes is customary. This is usually done by leaving some change on the table after paying the bill. The amount you leave is up to you, but a good rule of thumb is to leave around 5% of the total bill. If you are pleased with the service, you can leave a bit more.

Now that you know the basics of tipping in Turkey, remember to use the Turkish Lira and to give cash tips whenever possible.