Planning a trip to the Emerald Isle and wondering about the local currency? You’re not alone! Understanding the currency situation in Ireland is essential for smooth travels and budgeting. If you’re asking yourself, “Does Ireland Use Gbp Or Euro?”, the answer is a bit nuanced and depends on where exactly you are in Ireland.
This guide will break down everything you need to know about Irish currency, ensuring you’re financially prepared for your adventure, whether you’re exploring bustling cities or charming coastal villages. We’ll cover which currency is used where, the best ways to handle your money, credit card usage, tipping etiquette, and budgeting tips to make the most of your trip to Ireland.
Euro vs. Pound Sterling: Understanding Ireland’s Currencies
The island of Ireland is politically divided into two parts: the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. This division also extends to currency:
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Euro (€): The Republic of Ireland uses the Euro (€). This includes popular tourist destinations like Dublin, Cork, Galway, Kilkenny, and the stunning Wild Atlantic Way. If your Irish adventure focuses on these areas, Euro is the currency you’ll primarily need.
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Pound Sterling (£): Northern Ireland, being part of the United Kingdom, uses Pound Sterling (£), the same currency as the rest of the UK. Cities like Belfast, Derry/Londonderry, and attractions such as the Giant’s Causeway operate using GBP.
Key Takeaway: For most tourist itineraries in the Republic of Ireland, the Euro (€) is the currency you will need. Pound Sterling (£) is only necessary if you are specifically visiting Northern Ireland.
Exchanging Currency for Your Ireland Trip
Converting your currency to Euros (or Pound Sterling if venturing to Northern Ireland) is a key step in your travel preparations. Here’s how to approach it:
Converting Before You Travel
The most recommended approach is to exchange currency before you arrive in Ireland. Converting money locally in your home country, whether at a bank or a reputable currency exchange, generally offers better exchange rates and lower fees compared to airport exchanges.
Currency Exchange in Ireland (and What to Avoid)
If you find yourself needing to exchange currency upon arrival in Ireland, be mindful of where you do it.
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Avoid Airport and Tourist Area Currency Desks: These locations are notorious for offering less favorable exchange rates and often tack on hefty commission fees.
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ATM Withdrawals: ATMs are a convenient way to obtain Euros (or Pounds in Northern Ireland). Using your debit or credit card at ATMs will dispense local currency. However, be aware of potential fees levied by both the ATM operator and your bank. It’s wise to contact your bank before traveling to understand international withdrawal fees.
Important Note: Irish banks and post offices are generally not recommended for currency exchange for tourists. Recent regulations in Irish banks often require you to be an account holder to exchange currency. Post offices typically do not offer dollar-to-euro exchange services.
For up-to-date exchange rates, websites like XE.com are useful resources. Keep in mind that the actual rate you receive may vary slightly and include fees depending on the exchange service.
Credit and Debit Card Usage in Ireland
Good news for card users! Credit and debit cards are widely accepted throughout Ireland, particularly in tourist areas, cities, and larger towns.
Card Compatibility
Irish card payment systems are generally compatible with both chip-and-PIN and swipe-and-signature cards. Contactless payments (‘tap’) are also very common. Inform service staff if you are using a less common card type or are unsure how to proceed with payment.
Card Acceptance Limitations
While card acceptance is widespread, some exceptions exist. American Express (AMEX), Diner’s Club, JCB, and Discover cards are not as widely accepted in Ireland compared to Visa and Mastercard. If you primarily use American Express, it’s advisable to bring a Visa or Mastercard as a backup.
“Pay in Dollars” – Should You?
When paying by card, you might be offered the option to “pay in your home currency” (e.g., dollars). Always choose to pay in the local currency (€ Euro or £ Pound Sterling). Opting to pay in your home currency usually results in a less favorable exchange rate determined by the merchant’s payment processor, costing you more in the long run.
Cash vs. Card in Ireland: Finding the Right Balance
Deciding between using cash or cards in Ireland is often a matter of personal preference and travel style. Both have their pros and cons:
Situations Where Cash is King
While cards are widely accepted, there are still instances where cash is more practical or even necessary:
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Tipping: While you can often add tips to card payments in restaurants, cash is still preferred for tipping tour guides, for smaller services, or in situations where card payments are less common.
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Smaller Establishments and Rural Areas: In smaller towns, villages, and off-the-beaten-path locations, particularly those visited on tours, card acceptance might be less prevalent.
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Optional Activities: Certain optional activities or experiences offered on tours might require cash payment (see examples below).
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Markets and Street Vendors: Cash is typically needed for purchases at farmers’ markets, craft stalls, food trucks, and for buskers (street performers).
Benefits of Using Cards
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Convenience and Security: Cards are convenient to carry and generally safer than carrying large amounts of cash.
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Widespread Acceptance: Cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions, especially in urban areas.
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Tracking Expenses: Using cards can help you track your spending during your trip.
Cash Backup is Wise
It’s generally a good strategy to have a combination of both cash and cards. Having some cash on hand is useful for situations where cards are not accepted or for smaller transactions, while relying on cards for larger expenses and convenience.
Important Reminder: Inform your bank about your travel dates to Ireland (and the UK if visiting Northern Ireland) before you depart. This helps prevent your card from being blocked due to unusual international transactions. Also, inquire about international transaction fees associated with your card.
Optional Activities Where Cash May Be Needed:
- Black Cab Tour in Belfast
- Dingle Folk Concert
- Kinsale Walking History Tour
- Slieve League Boat Trip
- Surf Lesson in Spanish Point
- Horseback Riding in Dingle
- Traditional Rowing in Dingle
- Bike Hire in Killarney
- Guided E-Bike Tour in Connemara
- Surf Lesson in Donegal
- Sea Kayaking in Donegal
- Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride
- Walking Tour of Derry/Londonderry
- Horseback Riding in Mayo
Budgeting for Your Ireland Trip: How Much Money to Bring
Knowing how much spending money to budget for your Ireland trip depends on your travel style and planned activities.
Tour Packages and Inclusions
If you’re on a guided tour, like those offered by Vagabond or Driftwood Tours, many of your major expenses are already covered. Typically, tour packages include:
- Accommodation (hotels, guesthouses)
- Breakfasts
- Transportation
- Guided services
- Entrance fees to core attractions
This means your primary spending money will be for:
- Lunches and Dinners: Allow for daily meals outside of breakfast.
- Optional Activities: Factor in the cost of any optional excursions or experiences you wish to participate in.
- Souvenirs and Shopping: Budget for gifts, crafts, or mementos you might want to purchase.
- Drinks: Consider the cost of beverages throughout the day, including alcoholic drinks.
Sample Daily Budget (Excluding Accommodation & Main Tour Costs)
The following is an example of a moderate daily budget per person, assuming you plan to eat well, participate in some optional activities, and buy some souvenirs:
| Expense Category | Estimated Daily Cost (€) |
|---|---|
| Lunch + Drink | €25 |
| Dinner + Drink | €35 |
| Optional Activity (Avg) | €25 |
| Souvenirs | €30 |
| Total Per Day (Approx) | €115 |
Note: Optional activity costs can vary. €25 is an average based on participating in a range of activities over a longer tour. Some days you might spend more, some less.
Dublin Spending Example (Per Person, Per Day – Excluding Hotel if already booked)
If you’re spending time in Dublin before or after your tour, here’s an example of potential daily costs, excluding pre-booked accommodation:
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (€) |
|---|---|
| City Center Hotel (per night, single occupancy, can be lower if sharing) | €125-€175+ |
| Taxis (2 fares) | €25 |
| Dinner & Wine | €60 |
| Lunch | €30 |
| Dublin Pass (1-day, optional) | €74 |
| Total Per Day (Approx) | €314-€364+ |
Note: Dublin hotel prices can fluctuate, especially during peak season or events. The Dublin Pass can offer savings if you plan to visit many attractions.
Tipping in Ireland: What’s Expected?
Tipping customs in Ireland differ somewhat from places like the US or Canada. It’s not as deeply ingrained, but it is appreciated for good service.
Restaurants
- 10-15% is customary for good service in restaurants. It’s not mandatory, but it’s a nice gesture to acknowledge attentive service. For exceptional service or larger groups, you might consider tipping slightly above 15%.
Pubs and Bars
- Tipping bartenders per drink is not expected in Ireland. If you’re buying a round of drinks, ordering complex cocktails, or have been served exceptionally well over a longer period, a small tip is appreciated. You can also simply round up the total when paying.
Taxis
- Tipping taxi drivers is not mandatory. However, if your driver has been friendly, helpful, or gone the extra mile, rounding up the fare to the nearest €5 or €10 is a common way to show appreciation.
Hotels
- Tipping hotel staff is not generally expected, except for porters. If a porter assists you with luggage, a small tip of a few euros is appropriate.
Tour Guides and Drivers
- Tipping tour guides and drivers is customary and appreciated. This is often done at the end of a tour as a collective tip from the group. The amount is at your discretion and depends on the length of the tour and the quality of service. A general guideline is around €10-€15 per person per day for excellent service.
Important Tip: Always check your restaurant bill to see if a service charge has already been included. If a service charge is present, you are not expected to add an additional tip.
| When To Tip | It’s Up To You… | When NOT To Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants (10-15% for good service) | Taxis (round up) | Bars (per drink) |
| Hotel Porters (a few euros) | Cafés (loose change) | Most hotel staff (except porters) |
| Tour Guides/Drivers | Pub/bar table service |
Irish Sales Tax (VAT) and Tax-Free Shopping
Value Added Tax (VAT) is included in the prices you see on goods and services in Ireland. Unlike some countries, the price displayed is the final price you pay at the till.
VAT Refund for Non-EU Visitors
If you are a non-EU resident, you may be eligible to claim back VAT on purchases you make in Ireland. VAT rates in Ireland can be as high as 23%.
To claim a VAT refund:
- Shop at stores participating in the Retail Export Scheme. Look for “Tax-Free Shopping” signs.
- Spend over a minimum amount in a participating store (minimum amounts vary, so inquire at the store).
- Request a VAT refund form from the store at the time of purchase and present your passport or proof of non-EU residency.
- Have the form stamped by customs when you leave the EU (at the airport or port).
- Claim your refund – you can typically do this at refund kiosks at the airport or by mailing the stamped form back to the refund company.
Enjoy Your Financially Savvy Trip to Ireland!
Understanding the currency situation in Ireland, along with these budgeting and money management tips, will help you navigate your trip with confidence. Whether you’re using Euros in the Republic or Pounds in the North, being informed ensures you can focus on enjoying the stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality that Ireland has to offer.
