"Do I Tip the Hotel Concierge?" A Traveler’s Guide to Tipping with Confidence

Whether you’re planning a luxury getaway in Europe, a river cruise through France, or a beach escape in the Caribbean, it’s natural to want to get things right—especially when it comes to tipping etiquette. One of the most common questions I get from clients is:

“Do I tip the hotel concierge, and if so, how much?”

Let’s break it down so you can feel confident wherever your travels take you.

Yes, You Should Typically Tip the Hotel Concierge

The concierge’s role is to enhance your stay—whether by securing restaurant reservations, finding tickets to a sold-out show, arranging private tours, or adding a personal touch to your room. A tip is a way to recognize their effort and show appreciation for personalized service.

A recent personal experience comes to mind:

While staying at a hotel in London, our concierge went above and beyond. He provided thoughtful restaurant suggestions, detailed directions for navigating the Tube, and genuinely took an interest in making our visit feel special. One evening, after returning from the theater, we were surprised to find sweet treats in our room—along with a signed playbill from the show we had just seen. It was a thoughtful touch that made our stay feel even more personal.

This kind of exceptional service is exactly why tipping a concierge is both appropriate and appreciated.

How Much Should You Tip a Concierge?

Tipping amounts vary based on the level of service and destination, but here’s a general guideline:

• Basic requests (directions, simple recommendations): Tipping is optional, but $2–$5 is a nice gesture if they were especially helpful.

• Restaurant or tour bookings: $5–$10 per request, especially for high-end or hard-to-secure reservations.

• Special favors or exceptional service: $20+ for concierge assistance that significantly enhances your stay—like securing last-minute show tickets or arranging a custom itinerary.

• Long stays or ongoing assistance: If you stay at the same hotel for several days and receive consistent help from the concierge, consider a larger tip at the end of your stay ($25–$50 total), along with a heartfelt thank you.

When Don’t You Need to Tip the Concierge?

If you haven’t interacted much with the concierge or they simply pointed you toward a brochure rack, tipping isn’t necessary.

In some all-inclusive resorts or luxury hotels, gratuities may already be included in your stay, but extra is always appreciated for standout service. If you’re unsure, ask at the front desk whether gratuities are included—or simply follow your instincts.

How Are Concierges Paid?

Most hotel concierges are salaried employees, but in many countries—including the U.S., Canada, and much of Europe—tipping is an expected supplement to their income.

However, in regions like Japan or Scandinavia, tipping isn’t as common. That said, even in countries where tipping isn’t expected, a small token of appreciation is always welcome when offered politely.

Tipping Varies by Destination

One of the trickiest parts of travel is that tipping customs change depending on where you go.

That’s why I always provide destination-specific travel tips when planning trips for my clients—including what’s customary for tipping guides, drivers, porters, and concierges. Knowing the local etiquette ensures you’ll never feel unsure or uncomfortable.

Tipping is a simple way to show gratitude for great service, and a thoughtful tip can make someone’s day. More importantly, it fosters the kind of personal, connected travel experiences that make your journey even more memorable.

If you have any questions about tipping etiquette or want more travel insights, I’m happy to help. The goal is to make sure every part of your trip—from logistics to etiquette—feels effortless and enjoyable.

Ready to plan your next adventure? Let’s make it happen!