Travelling to Argentina in 2022 and wondering whether you will need to tip or not?
You have come to the right place.
This is the complete guide to tipping in Argentina in 2022. We’ll run you through tip etiquette for Argentinian hotels, restaurants, bars and more.
Let’s get started!
TIPPING IN ARGENTINA
PICTURE this. You have just finished eating at one of Argentina’s many fine steak restaurants, the waiter has arrived with the bill, and all of a sudden, you’re feeling like a fish out of water.
“Hang on, I’m in Argentina. Do I need to tip the waiter?”
“How much should I tip a waiter in Argentina?”.
“If I leave a tip, will the amount be considered a cheap insult?”
The simple fact is that tipping culture varies by country. And when you’re travelling to far-flung destinations around the globe, keeping up to date with a country’s tipping etiquette is the last thing on your mind!
But worry no more! This complete 2022 guide to tipping in Argentina will answer all of your questions.
Argentina – Essential Travel Tips
- Try the famous Argentinean beef.
- Take a walk in the Recoleta Cemetery.
- Explore Buenos Aires by going on a tango show tour.
- Enjoy the scenic views of the Andes Mountains.
From the bustling city of Buenos Aires to the wide open plains of Patagonia, Argentina has something for everyone looking for an unforgettable vacation experience.
In terms of accommodation, Argentina offers travelers everything from high-end resorts to rustic camping sites and everything in between.
The food scene in Argentina can be summed up by one word: incredible. You can find everything from pizza to sushi to traditional Argentine fare.
Argentines have some of the best beef and wine in the world, so make sure you don’t miss out on trying it!
The capital city, Buenos Aires has many museums and cultural centres, so whether you’re interested in art or history, you’ll have your pick.
Outside the cities, many outdoor activities like horseback riding or hiking are available. For those who love adventure!
If you are travelling from a country where everyday tipping or the custom of leaving a gratuity is common practice, then you may be wondering whether you will need to do the same in Argentina.
This is your 100% accurate and extensive guide to tipping in Argentina. Updated for 2022!
Tipping at Restaurants in Argentina
Argentina has a well-earned reputation for its great cuisine, and the Argentinians’ genuine love for food is reflected in that. Argentines usually eat a lighter breakfast than most travellers from the west may be accustomed to.
Lunch is typically the biggest meal of the day in Argentina. This means travellers should be aware that dinner is sometimes served much later in the evening.
The food in Argentina is diverse, with influences from Italian, Spanish, and French cuisine. It’s also influenced by the many regions in Argentina as well as its history of immigration.
This means that you can find a huge variety of dishes to try and eat when travelling to Argentina.
Popular food in Argentina
The most popular dish is Asado, which is a large piece of meat cooked on an open grill with vegetables and spices. It’s usually served with chimichurri sauce, which can be made from garlic, parsley, oregano, olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice.
Another popular dish in Argentina that has been adopted by many other countries is empanadas. These are meat pies filled with beef or chicken that are deep fried and served with tomato sauce on top. They’re usually eaten for breakfast or lunch, but they’re also great for dinner!
Some other popular dishes include choripan (a sandwich made with grilled sausage) and dulce de leche (a sweet caramel sauce).
Argentina is best known for its steak and wine, something which travellers should definitely try while in the country. Food in Argentina consists of many varieties of meat-centric dishes. Pasta and pizza restaurants are also popular.
For most travellers to Argentina, eating out in restaurants and food, in general, will be a lot less expensive than what they are used to.
A steak and wine pairing is one of the greatest culinary delights you will find in Argentina. In most western countries, this type of meal would usually be an expensive indulgence. However, in Argentina, it is extremely affordable.
But before you cut into your steak and sip your wine, it is best to know whether you need to tip your restaurant waiter in Argentina. Read on to find out.
Do you tip at Restaurants in Argentina?
✅ Travellers do need to tip at restaurants in Argentina ✅
Tipping at restaurants in Argentina is not mandatory, but it is still something that many travellers choose to do. Tips are greatly appreciated, and a small tip of 10% is enough for great service.
If you encounter exceptional service, feel free to leave more than 10%, but just remember that tipping is not mandatory in restaurants.
Be sure to tip your waiter or waitress directly to ensure that they do end up receiving your tip.
Do you tip at Bars in Argentina?
✅ Travellers do need to tip at Bars in Argentina ✅
It is not a mandatory custom to tip at bars in Argentina, but many travellers still choose to leave a small tip at bars in Argentina to show their appreciation.
If you do choose to tip, 1 to 5 Pesos is a decent amount and will be greatly appreciated.
Tipping at Hotels in Argentina
Argentina has a wide range of different types of accommodation to suit all budgets.
For those staying in the capital Buenos Aires, luxurious options include the Four Seasons Hotel Buenos Aires, Alvear Palace Hotel and Hilton Buenos Aires.
If you’re looking for a comfortable hotel in Buenos Aires that won’t break the bank, the Bristol Hotel de Buenos Aires is a great choice.
Do you tip at Hotels in Argentina?
✅ Travellers do need to tip at hotels in Argentina ✅
While tipping in Argentina is mostly optional, many travellers choose to tip hotel staff.
For tipping at hotels in Argentina, a general rule of thumb to follow is to tip 1 to 5 Pesos.
You can give the doorman or porter/bellhop 1 Peso per bag.
Give the maid a few pesos for each day you are staying. This will ensure that your room is cleaned beyond the normal service.
Tipping Taxi Drivers in Argentina
The cost of getting around in Argentina is relatively cheap, thanks to the low cost of taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber.
Many first-time visitors to Argentina feel uncomfortable using public transportation. Further, carrying a lot of luggage while using public transportation can be a hassle.
The flexibility and convenience of taxi and share-ride services can help you arrive at the airport for your flight on time.
It goes without saying that if you take a taxi in Argentina, it is important to know whether or not a tip is customary.
Do you tip Taxi Drivers in Argentina?
❌ Travellers do not need to tip Taxi Drivers in Argentina ❌
You do not need to tip taxi drivers in Argentina.
Many travellers choose to leave any leftover change for their driver, however, this is not a mandatory custom in Argentina.
If your taxi driver delivers over and above service, such as helping to carry bags or giving excellent local sightseeing suggestions, then you may want to leave a small tip. In this case, a couple of Pesos is an acceptable amount.
Is there Uber in Argentina?
Yes, Uber is available in Argentina.
As an alternative to taxi services, Uber is one of the best transport options available to tourists and expats in Argentina. It is a super convenient and stress-free way to explore and navigate Argentina and its capital Buenos Aries.
Uber is readily available in Argentina’s main cities and throughout the whole country. It operates 24/7 and holds a high standard of safety. You’ll find comfortable cars and bikes with an extra emphasis on cleanliness and sanitation.
Uber in Argentina is used by both locals and travellers.
As a frequent world traveller, I like to use ride-share services such as Uber as much as possible.
If you have never used Uber before, you can download the Uber app to use on your phone from the Apple App Store or the Android Play Store.
Uber in Argentina
Uber is a transportation network company that connects drivers with passengers. It is available in Argentina for travellers, as well as in many other countries around the world.
Uber has been operating in Argentina since October 2016. It’s available for both locals and foreigners who are visiting the country. The company offers UberX, UberBlack, and UberSelect services to its customers.
To use the service, users need to download the app on their smartphone and register an account. Once they have created a profile, they can order an Uber by selecting a nearby driver on the map or by entering their address into the app’s search bar.
Do you tip Uber Drivers in Argentina?
❌ Travellers do not need to tip Uber Drivers in Argentina ❌
No, you do not need to tip your Uber driver in Argentina.
In the exact same way that tipping a taxi driver is not required in Argentina, travellers also do not need to tip Uber drivers either.
Tipping Tour Guides in Argentina
The country of Argentina is a land of contrasts. It stretches from the Andes Mountains to the Atlantic coast and is home to a diverse range of attractions that are sure to please any traveller.
Argentina has a rich history and culture, which can be seen in its landmarks, museums, and architecture.
Buenos Aires, Argentina’s capital city, is built on the Río de la Plata estuary, which opens up into the Atlantic Ocean. The city’s most famous landmark is the Obelisco de Buenos Aires – a towering monument that was created in 1936 by architects Alberto Prebisch and Juan Kurchan.
Argentina’s National Parks are some of its most popular attractions; they’re home to many different types of wildlife, including pumas, llamas, tapirs, monkeys, armadillos and sloths.
Tours are a fantastic way to get out and see all that Argentina has to offer.
Tour guides can help travellers discover aspects of a country that might otherwise be inaccessible without their knowledgeable guidance and expertise.
Day tours from Buenos Aires include the Gaucho Day Trip to Santa Susana Ranch. This tour is perfect for those with an interest in horse riding.
Do you tip Tour Guides in Argentina?
✅ Travellers do need to tip Tour Guides in Argentina ✅
If you go on a paid tour in Argentina, it is generally good etiquette to tip around 10 to 20% to your tour guide.
If the tour that you are on is free, then a small tip of a few Pesos is sufficient
Tipping at Spas in Argentina
Spas and massages are a great way to relax, unwind and enjoy your time in Argentina.
From high-end spa resorts through to day spas, travellers will find exactly what they need to relax after a day of exploring.
There are many spas and massages to choose from in Buenos Aires, with some of the most popular being the Ahín Wellness & Spa, Faena Hotel Spa and Hotel Home Spa. You can also find spas and massages at all of the big hotel chains in Buenos Aires like the Hilton or Marriott Plaza.
Tip: Travellers should be sure to make an appointment beforehand and arrive about 20 minutes early.
Do you tip Massage Therapists in Argentina?
✅ Travellers do need to tip Massage Therapists in Argentina ✅
At spas in Argentina, it is good etiquette to tip your massage therapist 20%.
Massages and spa treatments are less expensive in Argentina compared to most western countries. Spending time at a day spa is a great way to relax during your travels in Argentina, and best of all, won’t break the bank.
Spa workers and masseuses usually earn more money through tips than their base wages. So, it’s a great idea to tip, especially if your massage was especially relaxing.
However, if you are not pleased with your massage then there is no harm in not leaving a tip. Nevertheless, it’s always nice to end on a good note.
