Free walking tours are a great way to explore a new city and learn everything there is to know about it in a short period of time. They are especially popular with solo travelers exploring the world on a budget, but can you really join one without spending a dime?
Even though the name of this popular activity suggests that free walking tours will cost you nothing, that’s not usually the case. Tipping your guide is an unspoken rule of free walking tours and most guides will point out that the tour is tip-based at the very beginning.
It’s up to you how much you’re going to tip, based on the guide’s knowledge, useful local tips, and overall enjoyment. Tips in the range of $10 are the most common, but there’s nothing wrong with leaving less if you’re on a tight budget.
You might be tempted to walk away without tipping, but keep in mind that most guides don’t do this as a hobby. Tips are usually their main source of income because tours are advertised as free, and it’s bad etiquette to leave without tipping.
Some free tours will also include portions that you need to paid for, regardless of the tip. You might have to buy bus tickets, pay entrance fees, or pay for local foods and drinks. So, take these expenses into a consideration before joining a free walking tour.