Tipping in Bulgaria
EURLast reviewed · Sep 2026
About 10% is the local restaurant tip for good service, and many people simply round up at cafes and taxis. Check the bill for a service charge before adding more. Card terminals in tourist spots may default to 15%. Locals skip that prompt or leave cash at about 10% instead. Cash tips still reach staff more reliably than screen prompts.
Tipping customaryQuick answer
Restaurant
Standard:10%
Exceptional:15%
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+Look for a service-charge line before adding more
+About 15% fits only exceptional sit-down service
−Counter and casual spots only need rounding up
Bar
Standard:Round up
Exceptional:10%
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+Table service may justify more than rounding up
−Counter drinks only need small change
Taxi
Standard:Round up
Exceptional:1-2 EUR
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+Round up to a neat euro amount
+About 1-2 EUR fits airport runs or luggage help
−Most city rides only need rounding up
How to tip in Bulgaria
•Leave about 10% in cash after paying, or say the total including tip
•Skip tourist terminal defaults that push 15%
•Round up taxis and casual cafes in euros
Quick tips
VAT on the bill is not a tip
Cash tips reach staff more reliably than card prompts
Free walking tours rely on tips of about 5-10 EUR per person
More tipping situations (8)
DeliveryRound up
Hairdresser / Barber10%
Spa & Massage10%
Hotel Staff1-2 EUR per bag
Tour guides5-10 EUR per person
Valet Parking2-5 EUR
Airport Services1 EUR
Car Services / UberRound up
Related guides
Travel essentials
Helpful tools for planning your trip to Bulgaria
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