Tipping in Uruguay
UYULast reviewed · Apr 2026
Tipping is customary but not mandatory in Uruguay. Around 10% is typical in restaurants for good service, while rounding up or leaving a small extra is more common in bars, taxis, and other everyday situations.
Tipping customaryMost common situations
Restaurant
Standard:10%
Exceptional:10-15%
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+10% is typical for good service
+"Cubierto" is a cover charge, not a tip
+Many places now let you add the tip when paying by card
Bar
Standard:Round up
Exceptional:Small extra
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+Round up for casual service
−No fixed percentage expected in most bars
Taxi
Standard:Round up
Exceptional:Small extra
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+Locals often do not tip taxis beyond rounding up
+A small extra is mainly for luggage or especially helpful service
−No tip expected for short rides
How to tip in Uruguay
•Leave around 10% in restaurants for good service
•If paying by card, many places can add the tip to the payment
•Outside restaurants, rounding up is usually enough
Quick tips
Tipping is customary, but not mandatory
"Cubierto" on the bill is not the same as a tip
Small fixed cash tips are more common than large percentages outside restaurants
Other situations (8)
DeliveryRound up
Hairdresser / BarberRound up
Spa & MassageRound up
Hotel Staff20-40 UYU
Tour guides10-20%
Valet ParkingSmall cash tip
Airport ServicesSmall cash tip
Car Services / UberRound up
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Tipping questions in Uruguay
Tipping Terms Glossary
- Service charge
- A mandatory fee added to the bill by the establishment, separate from optional tips.
- Round up
- To increase the total bill amount to the nearest convenient whole number or denomination.
- Exceptional service
- Service that exceeds standard expectations, often warranting a higher tip percentage or amount.
- Cash preferred
- A preference for cash tips over card tips, often because card tips may not reach staff directly.