NOTE: Updated on February 3, 2023.
The questions about tipping guides and restaurant staff in Spain and Portugal far surpass any other questions travelers have. With reason. In the US tipping is both obligatory and viewed as a reflection on the service.
In Spain and Portugal tipping is viewed differently. In many restaurants a service charge is included in the bill, and tips, while appreciated, are not required. Tips, when given, tend to be 5 to 10% of the bill. In a café or tapas bar normally only a few coins (under 1€) are left.
Tipping private guides and drivers is based on your satisfaction with the guiding or driving service. Hotel staff can be tipped a Euro or two for porterage, room service and maid services.
Here's a brief guide to tipping in Spain and Portugal.
Restaurants
Tipping 5% - 10% in restaurants is standard, although tipping is only done if you are happy with the service. No tip is expected for a cup of coffee or a drink, although some people will leave the change rounding up from the nearest Euro. For high level or Michelin star restaurants, a 10% tip is standard. Note: It is almost always necessary to leave a cash tip because you usually cannot add the tip to credit card payments.
Private Guides
For a half or full day guide, anywhere between 20 and 50€ is fairly standard. For multi-day guiding services, 20 to 100€, or more, depending on the number of tours or days, is common.
Drivers
For drivers 2 to 5€ per person per day is appropriate.
Hotel Staff
For help with luggage: €1 per suitcase is standard. Room service: A few Euros. Maid service: 1€ per day, left daily.
Taxis
Tips to taxi drivers are not expected or required.