Tipping can be a tricky subject, especially when it comes to knowing how much to tip a Viator tour guide. What’s the appropriate amount? When is it customary to tip? Is gratuity ever included in the tour price? What if you’re traveling with children? And what if you had a less-than-stellar experience? Does the length of the tour influence the tip amount?
These are all valid questions. With experience working with numerous local tour guides in popular tourist destinations, this guide aims to clarify the nuances of tour guide gratuities. Consider this a helpful guide, as tipping is ultimately at your discretion. Whether you’re touring with Viator or another company, this information should help you navigate tipping etiquette with confidence.
Let’s delve into the most frequently asked questions about tipping tour guides (including a few you might not have considered). First, let’s define what gratuities are.
Understanding Gratuities for Tour Guides
A gratuity is a voluntary sum of money given to service workers as an expression of gratitude for exceptional service.
It’s typically a fraction of the overall service cost, often calculated as a percentage or a fixed amount. The term “gratuity” originates from the Latin word gratus, meaning thankful.
While tipping is common in the restaurant and hospitality sectors (think cab drivers, bartenders, hair stylists, and valets), it’s less common for professionals like accountants or plumbers. Tour guides, who lead us on exciting travel experiences, often receive tips for their services.
Is Tipping Expected for Your Tour Guide?
Generally, tipping your tour guide is expected. While there may be exceptions if gratuities are already included in your tour package or if you had a truly unsatisfactory experience, tipping your guide at the end of the tour is customary.
Tipping Customs: U.S. vs. Europe
Tipping culture differs significantly between the United States and Europe. Tipping is much more common in the U.S. for a wide range of hospitality services.
In Europe, tipping is less prevalent. For example, restaurant servers often earn a standard wage and don’t depend on tips as a major source of income.
Tipping tour guides isn’t mandatory in either region, but it’s more anticipated in the U.S. When given in Europe, tips are typically smaller. A few euros after a great 1-2 hour walking tour is often enough. For longer or more expensive tours (including ticketed attractions), you might consider tipping around 5%-10% of the tour cost per person.
Globalization has made tipping more familiar to European tour guides, particularly in Western European countries with many American tourists. While not always expected, a tip is a great way to acknowledge exceptional service.
Determining How Much to Tip a Viator Tour Guide
This is often the most challenging question. You enjoyed your tour, your guide provided local insights, kept you entertained, and enhanced your overall experience. What’s the right tip amount?
Ultimately, it’s at your discretion. But here are some guidelines based on feedback from tour guides and operators:
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Excellent Service: 15-20% of the tour cost
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Good Service: 10-15% of the tour cost
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Average Service: 5-10% of the tour cost
These ranges provide a practical benchmark that most tour guides would appreciate. Remember that tipping can be more or less depending on your experience.
When to Provide the Tip
Tipping usually occurs at the end of the tour. As you’re bidding farewell to your guide, you can simply hand them the tip.
“A tip shows that I did an outstanding job, that I exceeded guests’ expectations, especially here in Europe where it’s less common that in the U.S.”
Cristina Carrisi, Barcelona tour guide
While some prefer a discreet hand-off, a straightforward presentation is also perfectly acceptable.
Alternative Payment Methods
Many travelers no longer carry cash. Most tour guides are aware and offer alternative payment methods like Venmo or Zelle. Some may even have a QR code for easy scanning.
Don’t hesitate to ask about accepted electronic payment methods. Most guides will have a cashless tipping option available. However, in Europe, cash remains the preferred method, so consider bringing some if you plan to tip.
Tipping Bus Tour Drivers
Tipping practices can vary on bus tours. Drivers often have a designated jar or box for tips near the front of the bus.
For U.S.-based bus tours, consider tipping $5-$10 per guest to cover both the guide and the driver. The guides typically share their tips with the driver. In Europe, tipping the bus driver is customary, with 5%-10% of the tour price being a general guideline.
Although bus tours are often longer, the tip amount aligns with that of a 90-minute walking tour because buses tend to be more crowded. As always, larger tips are greatly appreciated.
Private Tour Guide Tipping
Tipping for private tours is similar. Although some assume it’s not necessary, tipping is a thoughtful way to thank your guide, especially if they went the extra mile to personalize the experience.
Since private tours are often more expensive, tips are usually higher, as gratuity is often a percentage of the total service cost. Longer private driving tours might warrant a $50-$100 tip, which averages to about $10 per person for a group of eight.
Tipping on Free Tours
“Free” walking tours aren’t truly free. Local guides offering these tours expect tips, so include this cost in your budget.
Some tours might state “no tips accepted.” These tours may be sponsored by a tourism organization. In those cases, the tour is genuinely free.
Is Gratuity Included in the Tour Price?
Gratuity is generally not included in the tour price as it is optional. Some tour operators might include gratuities for multi-day excursions with room and board, but this will be stated clearly. When in doubt, ask before or after booking.
Reputable tour operators will transparently communicate whether gratuities are included.
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{width=250 height=250}When Not to Tip
If you didn’t enjoy the tour, you are not obligated to tip. A gratuity is a gesture of appreciation for a positive experience.
Not tipping communicates your dissatisfaction with the tour.
Tipping for Groups, Including Children
Does the tip amount vary based on your group size? Tips are usually calculated per person. While infants don’t need to be factored in, children often require the guide’s attention, so they are usually considered when calculating the tip amount.
Large families may consider using a sliding scale that they are comfortable with.
Asking About Tipping in Advance
Even after consulting this guide, you may still have questions. In that case, simply ask! The Emily Post Institute suggests inquiring about tipping protocols in advance. Contacting the tour operator beforehand can address any concerns and allow you to prepare accordingly.
The Value of Tips for Tour Guides
As mentioned, tipping expresses appreciation. It informs the guide whether you enjoyed the tour. Here’s what a few guides had to say.
“It is very appreciated when we receive tips,” said Jonathan Mannato, a tour guide in NYC. “For example, there was a tour I gave in pouring rain… A family of four at the end generously tipped me for my work, and it made me as a guide feel valued.”
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{width=250 height=250}“A tip shows that I did an outstanding job, that I exceeded guests’ expectations, especially here in Europe where it’s less common that in the U.S.,” said Cristina Carrisi, a tour guide in Barcelona.
Making Tipping Easier
Hopefully, this guide has clarified how, when, and how much to tip your tour guide. Understanding tipping norms reduces anxiety, allowing you to fully enjoy your trip. Now you know how to tip your Viator tour guide.
