Tipping in Mexico City: Complete Tourist Guide
- Rodrigo Hernandez
- Dec 16, 2025
- 3 min read
Tipping can be confusing when you visit a new city, especially one as vibrant and diverse as Mexico City. Knowing when and how much to tip helps you avoid awkward moments and shows respect for the local culture. In this guide, I’ll share everything I learned about tipping in Mexico City, so you can enjoy your trip without second-guessing your etiquette.
How Tipping Works in Mexico City
Tipping in Mexico City is expected in many service situations, but the amount and when to tip can vary. Unlike some countries where tipping is optional or minimal, here it is a significant part of workers’ income. Most service workers rely on tips to supplement their wages.
Restaurants and Cafes
In restaurants, tipping is customary and usually ranges from 10% to 15% of the total bill. Some higher-end places expect closer to 15%, while casual spots may be fine with 10%. If the service is exceptional, you can tip more.
Check if the bill already includes a service charge (propina incluida). If it does, no extra tip is needed unless you want to reward outstanding service.
For cafes or small eateries, rounding up the bill or leaving a few pesos is appreciated.
When paying by card, you can add the tip on the receipt or leave cash on the table.
Bars and Nightlife
Bartenders typically receive tips of 10% to 15%. If you order drinks at a bar, it’s polite to tip a few pesos per drink or 10% of the tab. For bottle service or VIP areas, tipping more generously is common.
Hotels
Hotel staff such as bellhops, housekeeping, and concierges expect tips, but the amounts vary:
Bellhops: 20 to 50 pesos per bag
Housekeeping: 20 to 50 pesos per day, left daily
Concierge: 50 to 100 pesos for special services or help with reservations
Taxis and Ride-Sharing
Taxi drivers in Mexico City do not always expect tips, but rounding up the fare or adding 10% is a nice gesture. For ride-sharing apps like Uber, tipping is optional but appreciated, especially if the driver helps with luggage or provides excellent service.
Tour Guides and Drivers
If you take a guided tour, tipping your guide 10% to 15% of the tour price is standard. Drivers who assist during the tour usually receive smaller tips, around 50 pesos per day.
Practical Tips for Tipping in Mexico City
Carry Small Bills and Coins
It’s best to carry small bills and coins for tipping. Many workers prefer cash tips even if you pay for services by card. Having 20, 50, and 100 peso notes handy makes tipping easier and more precise.
Learn Basic Spanish Phrases
A simple “gracias” (thank you) when you tip goes a long way. If you want to be polite, say “para usted” (for you) when handing over the tip.
When Not to Tip
Fast food counters or street food vendors usually do not expect tips.
Self-service places like supermarkets or convenience stores do not require tipping.
If the service is poor, you can leave a smaller tip or none at all, but it’s polite to explain why if possible.
Examples of Tipping Situations in Mexico City
To give you a clearer picture, here are some common scenarios and how much to tip:
| Service Type | Typical Tip Amount |
|-----------------------|-----------------------------------|
| Restaurant waiter | 10% to 15% of the bill |
| Bartender | 10% of the tab or a few pesos/drink |
| Hotel bellhop | 20 to 50 pesos per bag |
| Housekeeping | 20 to 50 pesos per day |
| Taxi driver | Round up or 10% |
| Tour guide | 10% to 15% of tour price |
Cultural Insights About Tipping in Mexico City
Tipping is more than just money here; it reflects respect and appreciation for service workers. Many people in the service industry depend on tips to make a living wage. When you tip well, you contribute to their livelihood and encourage good service.
At the same time, tipping is not about pressure or obligation. Most locals tip according to their means and the quality of service. As a visitor, showing you understand and respect this custom will enhance your experience and interactions.
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