Tipping cheat sheet
- Transfer driver (private): €3-5 in cash for normal service; €5-10 for late-night or extra-helpful
- Restaurant waiter: 5-10% of bill, rounded to the nearest 5 TL
- Bartender: 10-15 TL per round of drinks
- Hotel housekeeping: 20-50 TL left on the pillow at end of stay
- Hotel porter: 20-30 TL per heavy bag (€2-3 equivalent)
- Tour guide (group): €5-10 per person per day
- Tour guide (private full day): €15-25 per person
- Hammam masseur: €3-5 cash after the foam massage
- Taxi (yellow): round up to nearest 5 TL (not a separate tip)
Currency for tipping
Euros and TRY both fine. USD/GBP accepted but slightly awkward. Drivers and porters will exchange your tip at their own bank.
When NOT to tip
- Service-charge already on the bill (some hotel restaurants add 10%)
- Staff who explicitly refuse (rare but happens at family-run pensions)
- Counter staff at fast-food or self-service