Tipping in Canada
Tipping expectedService Breakdown
Notes by Service
15% is standard; 18–20% for excellent service.
$2–5 per night for housekeeping; $1–2 per bag for porters.
15% is standard for taxis and rideshares.
15–20% is expected for spa services.
$1–2 per drink or 15% of the tab.
15–20% is standard.
$10–20 per person for day tours.
$3–5 minimum or 15% is common.
About Tipping in Canada
Overview
Canada's tipping culture closely mirrors the United States — 15% is the broadly accepted minimum at sit-down restaurants, with 18–20% for good service. Unlike Europe, many Canadian hospitality workers earn lower base wages with the expectation that tips will make up the difference.
When to Tip
Tip at sit-down restaurants, taxis, rideshares, hotel staff, hairdressers, and delivery services. Counter-service and fast-casual spots now display tip prompts on card readers, but these are optional; the social pressure around tipping is strong only in full-service settings.
How to Tip
Restaurant receipts and card terminals show suggested tip percentages — usually 15%, 18%, 20%. In Quebec, the custom is to tip on the pre-tax amount; elsewhere, tipping on the post-tax total is common. For hotel housekeeping, leave cash daily rather than at checkout since staff rotate.
Cultural Context
Quebec's French cultural heritage creates a slightly more European attitude to tipping — expected but with somewhat lower amounts than English Canada. In cities like Toronto and Vancouver, leaving less than 15% on a full meal is socially noticeable. Taxi apps auto-prompt for tips and many Canadians tip more readily through apps than with cash.