Money & Currency
In the Republic of Ireland, the Euro (€) is used. In Northern Ireland, the Pound Sterling (£) is used.
Republic of Ireland (Euro)
- Credit cards: Almost universally accepted — Visa and Mastercard. Contactless (Tap to Pay) is standard, even for small amounts
- Cash: Less frequently needed, but sometimes still necessary in small rural pubs. ATMs available everywhere
- EC card (girocard): Works at some ATMs (Maestro), but not for payments in stores. A Visa/Mastercard debit card is recommended
Northern Ireland (Pound Sterling)
- Only the Pound is valid in Northern Ireland! Euros are not accepted in stores (some tourist attractions accept Euros at a poor rate)
- ATMs: Available everywhere. Withdraw Pounds at the ATM — exchange offices have poor rates
- Note: Northern Irish banknotes (from Ulster Bank, Danske Bank, Bank of Ireland) look different from Bank of England notes and are sometimes not accepted in England!
- Credit cards: Universally accepted, contactless is standard
Tipping
- Restaurant: 10–15% if no service charge is on the bill
- Pub (Bar): No tipping at the counter. If food is served at the table: 10%
- Taxi: Round up to the next Euro
- Hotel: 1–2 € for porters, housekeeping optional
