🧾 How tipping in Greece generally works

In countries like the US, tipping is a core part of staff income. In Greece things are different. Tipping in Greece is not mandatory, but it does show appreciation. You usually leave a small percentage or simply round up the bill, and that is enough for staff to understand that you were happy with the service.

For example, in cafés and tavernas a 5–10% tip is completely normal. In taxis you just leave some coins on top of the fare, while in hotels 1–2€ per day for housekeeping is more than fine. In other words, small amount, big courtesy.

🍽️ Tipping in Greece in tavernas & cafés

Tavermas are where travellers usually feel the most confused. If the bill is 32€, it is perfectly OK to leave 2–3€ extra. When the experience was just “fine”, you can simply round up to 34€. If the service was truly great, you can of course leave a bit more.

If you pay by card, you can leave the tip in cash on top of the bill. You can also ask whether it is possible to add a small tip to the POS payment. If you want more details on how the whole taverna experience works, check my guide Greek taverna: ordering & prices .

🚕 Tipping in Greece in taxis & transfers

In taxis things are simpler. If the meter shows 7.60€, you can say “make it 8€” or “keep 9€” if the driver was very polite or helped with luggage. This shows that you appreciated their attitude, without feeling pressured to leave a large tip.

On longer routes, like airport or port transfers, a 5–10€ tip is perfectly fine if you were very happy with the service. To organise your local transport in general, you can also check the guide Buses & taxis on the islands: when they make sense .

🏨 Tipping in Greece in hotels & housekeeping

In hotels, tipping in Greece is more relaxed and personal. You can leave 1–2€ per day in the room for housekeeping, especially if you stay for several nights. If you do not like doing it daily, you can leave one total amount at the end of your stay.

When someone helps you with your luggage or goes the extra mile for you — for example offering a late check-out — 3–5€ is a kind gesture. It is not mandatory, but hotel staff genuinely appreciates it and often remembers it.

⛵ Tipping in Greece on boat trips & day tours

On day trips, especially by boat or mini bus, tipping in Greece works as a “thank you bonus”. Usually 5–10€ per person for the guide or the skipper is great if you had a good time and felt looked after. It is not an obligation, but it can really make their day.

If you book activities online — for example boat tours or excursions from Santorini, Paros or Naxos — remember that the ticket price covers the service itself, not the tip. So a small tip at the end is always a pleasant surprise for the crew. Below you can see a few ideas via GetYourGuide.

If you want inspiration for boat trips and day tours in Greece, you can browse a few handpicked options from GetYourGuide below and book the one that fits your schedule.

👛 Wallets & coins for tipping in Greece

To be able to tip easily in Greece, it really helps to always have a few coins and small notes on you. A travel-friendly women’s wallet makes it easier to separate cards, cash and documents, especially when you are island hopping. This way you are not hunting for change at the last minute at the till.

For evenings out, a smaller option like a compact women’s wallet fits easily in a small bag. And for loose coins, a simple coin purse stops your change from disappearing at the bottom of your tote. This way you always have something small ready to leave as a tip, without stress.