If you are wondering how many top tips are in Bali restaurants, this article will help you. Tipping in Bali isn’t mandatory, but it’s a kind gesture to show appreciation for great service. Most locals don’t expect it, yet it’s always warmly received. Generally, you can tip around 5–10% of the total bill at restaurants or spas if there’s no service charge included, or simply round up the bill for exceptional service.
Always give your tip in Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) to make it easier for staff, as foreign coins or small notes like $1 USD can’t easily be exchanged. In this 2025 guide, we’ll break down the tipping etiquette in Bali, especially for restaurants, cafes, and other services across the island.
Do We Need to Tip in Bali?
Tipping in Bali isn’t something you have to do, but it’s a thoughtful way to show appreciation for great service. While it’s not mandatory, leaving a little extra can mean a lot to those working in Bali’s tourism and hospitality scene.
Some restaurants, especially fine dining venues, already include a service charge in the bill, usually around 5–10%. In that case, tipping isn’t necessary unless you feel the service went above and beyond.
How Much to Tip in Bali?
When it comes to tips in Bali, there’s no fixed rule but leaving a little extra is always a kind way to appreciate good service. From a tip hotels to a taxi or villas in Bali, even small amounts make a difference to local staff.
1. Tipping in Bali for Taxis
For taxis, rounding up the fare is common. Leaving around 10,000 Rupiah is a good tip for short rides, while 50,000 to 100,000 Rupiah suits longer trips or particularly helpful drivers. It’s not mandatory, but drivers always appreciate the gesture.
2. Tipping in Bali for Housekeeping
Tipping isn’t required, but leaving 20,000–50,000 Rupiah per day for housekeeping is a thoughtful way to thank them for great service. Always leave it in cash with a small note to make sure it reaches the right person.
3. Tipping Villa Staff in Bali
At villas, service is more personal, so tipping a bit higher feels right. Around 50,000 to 100,000 Rupiah per person per day is ideal, especially for attentive staff. You can hand it directly to them, use a tip box, or give it to the manager for fair distribution.
A simple 10,000 Rupiah tip for small services or 100,000 Rupiah for exceptional care shows genuine appreciation and supports Bali’s culture of warm hospitality.
4. Tipping Massage Therapists in Bali
When visiting a spa, tipping around 15–20% of the total bill is appreciated. For instance, if your massage costs IDR 200,000, leaving about IDR 30,000–40,000 is considered fair.
If you’re especially pleased with the therapist’s skill or service, you can always tip more.
5. Tipping at Restaurants in Bali
In many restaurants across Bali, a 5–10% service charge is already included in the bill. If that’s the case, you don’t need to tip again unless you’d like to reward exceptional service.
If no service charge is listed, adding a small cash tip is thoughtful, especially when you’re happy with the food and menu types offered.
6. Tipping at Hotels in Bali
For tips in Bali hotels, the amount is flexible but usually between IDR 20,000 and 100,000, depending on the service. It’s polite to tip directly to the staff who assist you, such as the bellboy, concierge, room service, or housekeeping, after the service is completed.
If multiple people are involved, adjust the amount accordingly as a fair tipping guide gesture.
7. Tipping Tour Guides
Giving a tip to your tour guide is not required, but it’s a thoughtful way to show appreciation for great service. A good tip in Bali is usually around 15–20% of the total tour cost, depending on how knowledgeable and engaging the guide is.
If you’re joining a private or full-day tour, 50,000 IDR is a good tip in Bali for basic service, while $10 or more can be considered generous for exceptional experiences. The key is sincerity, tip based on how much you enjoyed the tour.
8. Musicians & Entertainers
For live performers at restaurants, bars, or cafés, leaving a small normal tip in Indonesia goes a long way. Most musicians rely on tips, especially during quieter nights.
Around 20,000–50,000 IDR is a kind gesture, or you can offer a little extra when making song requests. A simple tip not only shows respect but also supports local artists who bring Bali’s nightlife to life.
Tip with Wisely and Kindness
Knowing how much to tip in a Bali restaurant really comes down to kindness and appreciation rather than strict rules. A small tip can go a long way in showing gratitude for Bali’s warm hospitality, whether you’re dining in a local café or an upscale venue.
If you’re looking for a truly memorable dining experience, don’t miss Seven Paintings Ubud, an interactive fine dining experience that blends art, storytelling, and exquisite cuisine. It’s one of Ubud’s most unique culinary journeys, and definitely worth the visit and a well-deserved tip for the amazing staff!