Tipping in Turkey made easy: avoid akward moments with these do’s and Don’ts

Feeling Confused About Tipping in Turkey? You’re Not Alone!

Tipping practices differ widely across the globe, and figuring them out can be a headache, especially when you’re traveling. Turkey is no exception.

When I first arrived here, I found myself constantly puzzled by the proper etiquette. I’d heard that it wasn’t common in Turkey—only to discover that in some situations, it seemed quite expected. It didn’t really add up.

Over the years of living in Istanbul and traveling extensively across Turkey, I’ve come to understand some of the nuances here. It’s not as straightforward as in some other countries, but with a little guidance, you’ll feel confident navigating this cultural aspect.

In this guide, we’ll break down what’s expected, industry by industry, how much to tip, and the signs to look out for.

By the end, you’ll be prepared to handle this like a seasoned traveler and avoid any awkward moments. Let’s dive in and make your trip to Turkey even more seamless!

Some general guides for Tipping

In Turkey tips are called “bahşiş” (bah sheesh). In general, tipping in Turkey is quite modest compared to the American standard.

You can tip for good service and if you’re not pleased with the service, don’t tip. If, however, they did a great job, then it is a great idea.

While most industries outside of tourism don’t expect tips, many within the tourism industry have come to expect them and count on them to help supplement their lower wages.

You can’t go wrong in being generous as long as it is within reason. By this, I simply mean that you won’t want to be so generous that you draw attention to yourself and make yourself a target for a scam or something.

Be wise and generous at the same time. Let’s check out a few of the industry standards.

Tipping according to industry

Each of these industries has different standards but one thing can’t be re-emphasized enough: it is an indicator of the quality of service received.

If you don’t feel like you got great service, feel free to do less. If you had excellent service, feel free to do more.

Also, locals don’t really tip unless it is a large group at a restaurant and it is a big bill. They may round up sometimes but more likely than not, they won’t tip.

Because it is so common in Western culture to tip, they have come to expect it from us. So be generous when appropriate and don’t sweat the small stuff.

It is important to note, however, that tipping in Istanbul, or any of the other major towns, will feel much different than if you go to a smaller village.

You will not be expected to tip in a small village as it is out of the ordinary.

Regarding this chart, it is simply a recommendation. While there are fees in $ it is only because the economy is quite volatile right now.

Always tip using the local currency, the Turkish Lira (tl). If you’re in doubt, %10 is a safe bet. Also if it is something small, you can always just tip 10-15 tl.

tipping in Hotels

While it hasn’t been a part of Turkish culture for long, foreigners have brought the concept with them. More and more it is being expected but mostly in touristy areas and mostly from foreigners.

That being said, hotels will generally have a tip box that you can easily put money into at the end of your stay for the hotel staff in general.

While it is nice to tip the porters who help you with your luggage, it can be reserved for excellent service. Also if you get room service, you can give a small tip for that.

Do you still need a place to stay in Turkey? Check for hotel availability below!

Taxis and tips

In Turkey, no one “tips” per se but the common practice is to round up the fare. So if your taxi fare is 73.50 tl, you can just hand them 75-80 tl and call it good.

If it is a longer ride, to/from the airport for instance and they get you there quickly it is good to tip a little more. I usually do like 3% on a long drive.

I usually tip taxi drivers if I feel comfortable and respected by rounding up.

Dolmus/Public Transportation

You never tip on a dolmus, minibus, or any public transportation. You also don’t tip at government buildings or anywhere not touristy.

Hamams & Spas

This is a place where a tip is expected. Whether you just get a standard scrub or if you add in a massage, it is good to tip 10-15% of the cost to the person who provided the service.

If it was just alright, 10% is sufficient. If it was excellent, 15% is great.

This also goes for spas and salons (kuafors) as well.

Tipping at All-inclusives

If you’re wondering “How much to tip in Turkey at an all-inclusive in 2023” let me break it down.

This is a topic not many write about because although some would say this is an integral part of culture, I would argue that it isn’t.

Perhaps because it isn’t the same as in the States. It is never required or compulsory but always appreciated.

While it isn’t expected at an all-inclusive, you can always add tips to the tip box for general housekeeping and staff around the facilities.

You may also want to tip your server or bartender. If so, 10% of what the meal/drink would cost is adequate. Make sure you give it to them personally.

If you’re at a luxury all-inclusive, you can give closer to 15-20%. But again, in Turkey, this is more tied to quality of service than something that is required.

The one person that would be nice to tip is the bellboy. Roughly $1 per bag is a reasonable tip.

Sometimes it can be hard because they will take up your luggage without you being there as a means of preparing it for you. If that is the case, don’t worry about it.

If you’re looking for an all-inclusive, check out this post on the Haydarpasha Palace!

Tour Guides in Turkey

There are all kinds of tours. You have walking tours, day trip tours, and multiple day trip tours. Each one will be priced quite differently and include such different things.

One of the best tips is to simply go with about 10% of your trip costs as for how much to tip.

Tipping travel guides is one of the more expected tips. If the guide did an excellent job, of course, you can always give them more. Make sure to also include a little something for the driver if there is one.

Side note: if you go to a shop or winery or something of the sort know that whatever you buy, the tour guides in Turkey will also get a commission.

This is another way to get something for yourself and help locals at the same time. But don’t forget to haggle.

Restaurants in Turkey

Generally, a good rule of thumb is 5-10% for a tip at a restaurant. Here especially if you receive exceptional service tips at the upper end.

If you give a tip, give it directly to the waiter.

If you get bad service don’t tip at all or a small tip.

If you get drinks at a bar, make sure you tip directly to the bartender.

If there is a musician or belly dancer walking around you can give them a tip if you want them to play at your table for a minute or graciously wave them away if you’re not interested.

A suitable tip is $3-5 in Turkish lira.

Pro Tip: Some restaurants will add a gratuity to the bill. However, you can always leave an additional tip if you’d like.

Home Delivery

This is the one place I always try to tip. There is one major reason…all the stairs.

In many Turkish buildings, there aren’t elevators. So often if you order something to your home (think meals, food, water) they have to carry it up all the stairs. So I have something that is bigger being delivered, I make sure to tip.

The one caveat to that is I don’t tip when it is cargo being delivered unless, again, it is something large.

Valets

Lastly, we have valets. Cars are a tricky thing in Turkey, especially in Istanbul. If you’re just going for a night somewhere, obviously you won’t give the same amount as someone else.

Also if it is compulsory it is different than if you choose to do it. If you’re staying at a hotel, 10-15 tl every time you pull the car out would be acceptable.

Tips for How much to tip in Turkey

Here are a few tips and things to think about as you adventure your way through Turkey. Hopefully, these tips will help you navigate this topic with ease.

Pro tip: Check XE Currency Converter for the current exchange rate so you know how much you’re tipping.

1. Always use the local currency, the Turkish Lira
   If you want to tip enough that you would use a note in Euros, Dollars, or Pounds then a foreign note is acceptable. What isn’t acceptable is a foreign coin. Best to just give lira notes.
2. Make sure you tip in cash
   There isn’t a spot for writing in a tip on a credit card receipt here. It is best practice to always make sure you have some cash that you can leave a tip with if you want. The bill usually comes in a box of sorts, you can simply leave the cash inside.
3. Check your bill for a service charge
   Some restaurants, especially high-end ones or in super touristy areas, will add in a service charge. If it is there, there is no need to tip unless they just crushed the service. At that point, it is at your discretion.
4. It isn’t customary to tip nor is it compulsory
   If someone doesn’t provide good service, you don’t have to leave a good tip. While it is often expected from foreigners, it isn’t mandatory.
5. Use this Turkish phrase
   Üstü kalsın (oostoo kalsin) – this simply means keep the change. You can say to the taxi or any other service provider to let them know you don’t need change.

FAQs about tipping while in Turkey

Final thoughts about tipping

I hope this has been helpful to you. I know when I got here this was a very confusing topic of conversation, and sometimes it still is.

If you ask 5 different people you will likely hear at least 3 different opinions.

That being said, 10% is a great place to start. More if they excelled at their job and less if they didn’t.

Want to read more about the currency in Turkey? This article will help you understand everything you need to know about the Turkish Lira.