In the U.S. tipping is customary and expected for everything from lackluster to outstanding service. It is an etiquette which is ingrained in all trades, from wait staff at restaurants to our baristas, valets, cab drivers, porters, and many more trades. Tipping in Tunisia is discretionary but usually expected, quite similar to most of Western countries. The question `when?` or `how much?` can leave some travelers confused, as the practice varies.

This guide attempts to cover most situations that you, as a tourist, will encounter. Hopefully using these `tips` will provide a smooth experience when interacting with locals in restaurants, bars, hotels, tour operators, and taxis.

Currency: Can I pay in U.S. dollars, or should I use Dinars?

The currency of Tunisia is the Tunisian dinar (TND). US dollars are not accepted. You can exchange your foreign currency at banks, bureau de exchanges, hotels and post offices across Tunisia. The exchange rate is fixed by the government so there shouldn't be any difference between your rates, wherever you choose to exchange your money. Be sure to bring your passport along with you too, as it might be required for you to change your money.

Make sure to exchange enough money so that you don't need to rely on using your debit or credit card when you're out and about - you might find that stores and restaurants don't accept cards and only operate in cash.

Restaurants, Cafes, and Bars: When should I tip? How much is customary?

The Tunisian public is generally sympathetic to the fact that waiters are poorly paid. With most of these workers being students and fresh graduates, people often tip them.

In a coffee shop, you should usually leave a tip of a few hundreds of millimes or 2-3 dinars. This of course depends on what you are ordering. In bars, tipping is not usually expected. Occasionally (and in some ‘tourist-trap’ places) service is automatically taken by the waiter. Be sure to keep an eye open for this and ask for money back if you’re not looking to tip.

A regular tip for a waiter in Tunisia is 12%. If service is simply acceptable, tip 10%. Good service is usually tipped at 15% and above.

Drivers: Should I tip?

Taxi drivers in Tunisia do not generally expect to be tipped, and will generally return change to you without even asking if you would like it.

Remember that any taxi you take within a Tunisian city should be based on a metered fare, and between cities, there is an official price list, although different vehicle sizes and timings mean that this can vary.

Tour Guides: Is a tip required?

When joining an organized tour in Tunisia, it is polite and encouraged to tip both your driver and your guide. Depending on the service that is given, the length of the tour, and the number of days spent with the guide, the amount can vary. On average, $5-10 USD is the minimum to offer the guide, but if they have given outstanding service, tipping more generously is encouraged.

Final Thoughts:

Tipping other services in Tunisia, such as porters or delivery drivers is expected, but how much to tip is less formulaic than with other services. In general, if a person is providing a service and they go above and beyond, a tip is always welcome.

Note: It is highly advised to only tip with Tunisian Dinars.