Turkey changed an important restaurant habit on 30 January 2026. The Ministry of Trade says restaurants, cafes, patisseries and similar businesses may not impose mandatory service, table, cover or similarly named fees. Unrequested cover items cannot quietly become another charge. A tip, or bahşiş, remains welcome when the guest chooses it.
Start with the 2026 rule
A percentage is a tool, not a command
Turkey has no single compulsory national tip percentage. At a full-service restaurant, a modest round-up or about 5-10 percent can recognise good service. At a counter-service cafe, bakery or quick takeaway, no extra is needed. Choose an amount that fits the service and today's bill rather than repeating an old recommendation for a few lira.
Separate the bill from the thank-you
Taxi arithmetic should stay simple
For a normal metered ride, round up a convenient small amount when the trip was smooth. More can recognise luggage help, waiting or exceptional assistance. Confirm the payment screen and currency before tapping; a driver's helpfulness does not make an unwanted home-currency conversion useful.
Hotels and guides reward actual work
A porter handling several bags, attentive housekeeping or a concierge solving a substantial problem can receive a direct cash thank-you. For a guide or driver, consider length, group size and quality of service rather than using one universal number. Check whether a tour price already describes gratuities.
Cash makes the recipient clear
A tip added to a card may follow the business's distribution system. If it matters that one person receives it, a small cash amount handed directly is the clearest route. Ask before adding a card tip when the terminal does not make the process obvious.