Although the Azorean people do not require tips, they welcome small gestures of gratitude as a polite custom. This article tells you how, when, and where to tip correctly in the islands so you can respect the local etiquette and still have a great vacation.
Is Tipping Expected in the Azores?
People in the Azores don’t strictly require or expect tips, but they welcome them. Unlike in countries where businesses automatically charge tips or where service workers rely heavily on them, Azoreans treat tipping more informally, just like on mainland Portugal. Instead of calculating a percentage, locals usually round off the bill or leave change to say thank you.
Most people in smaller towns or local cafés don’t assume you’ll tip. However, staff in tourist-oriented areas or upscale restaurants have grown increasingly accustomed to receiving tips from international visitors. You won’t offend anyone if you choose not to tip, but locals always appreciate it when you leave a small amount for good service.
How Much Should You Tip in the Azores?
People in the Azores consider tipping a modest gesture, and they adjust it based on the type of service they receive. There are no rules, but here are suggestions to guide you in making tips during your stay:
- Restaurants: Customers commonly leave a 5% to 10% tip if they are satisfied with the service, but in more casual eateries or local tasquinhas, they typically round up the bill or leave a few small coins.
- Cafés and Bars: Customers don’t need to tip, but many choose to leave €0.50 to €1 for a coffee or drink as a nice gesture, especially when the service is friendly or attentive.
- Tour Guides: In case of guided tours or excursions, it is usual to tip the guide between €5 and €10 if you consider the tour an entertaining and educational experience.
- Hotels: When the Hotel assistance helps out with hotel reservations or any special request, a tip of €5 to €10 is a special way of saying thank you.
While tipping amounts vary depending on the service, people in the Azores warmly welcome any sign of appreciation.
Tips for Tipping
- Do round up the bill: In many casual settings, like cafés or small restaurants, it’s common to simply round up the total, for example, paying €20 for an €18.60 bill. People appreciate this gesture, and it helps avoid putting pressure on staff.
- Do tip in cash when possible: Although most places accept card payments, people usually give tips in cash, since card machines don’t always process them. Having a few euros in coins or small notes makes spontaneous tipping easy.
- Do reward exceptional service: If someone goes out of their way to improve your experience, like a hotel receptionist arranging a last-minute tour or a waiter giving local recommendations, a small tip is a great way to say thank you.
Conclusion
Tipping in the Azores is a matter of personal choice rather than obligation. While not expected, small tips are a thoughtful way to show appreciation for good service, whether at a local restaurant, in a taxi, or during a guided tour. A few euros and a genuine thank you can go a long way in making your experience, and someone else’s day, even better.
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FAQs
While euros (€) are the official currency in the Azores, some tourist-heavy places may accept small tips in dollars or pounds. Locals always prefer and find it more practical to receive tips in euros.
No, people don’t consider it rude. They see tipping as a kind gesture rather than an obligation. Locals usually don’t tip regularly, so no one will judge you for not leaving a tip, especially in informal settings.
Yes, but modestly. Locals tend to round up bills or leave coins in cafés and restaurants. Generous tipping is more common among tourists than residents.
Most restaurants in the Azores do not include a service charge in the bill. When it is included (rarely), it will be clearly indicated. Otherwise, tipping is left to your discretion.
You don’t need to tip during whale watching or outdoor tours in the Azores, but if your guide offers valuable, fun, or informative service, you can show your appreciation by tipping €5 to €10 per person.
In most places, tips are not processed through the card machine. It’s best to carry some cash in euros to tip directly. Smaller businesses and rural areas may only accept cash.
