Money | Ireland.com (2024)

FAQs

Should I get euros before going to Ireland? ›

The Euro is the currency in the Republic of Ireland. Because most places you visit will be able to take your credit or debit cards, you don't need to take much cash. In fact, you don't really need to get Euros before you leave the US (unless you really want to).

Most US, UK and Australian debit and credit cards should be usable in Ireland. Visa, Mastercard (Cirrus and Maestro) and American Express are all widely accepted. However, you may have a little more trouble using a Diner's Club card, and Discover isn't often accepted in Ireland.

U.S. dollars are not legal tender in Ireland and are not an accepted form of payment. There are limited locations to exchange U.S. dollars when in Ireland, should you travel with cash. Payment by credit card and Apple pay is widely accepted throughout Ireland.

Being offered to pay in your own currency at an ATM is a sneaky trick and causes many travellers to pay more than they need to. Always choose to pay in the local currency - in this case, euro - to cut your costs and get the best rates available.

Making purchases while traveling in Ireland is relatively easy. Cash is the most immediate form of payment and accepted everywhere, but major credit cards are also widely accepted.

1. Use a travel credit card instead. Instead of looking for ATM machines and withdrawing cash to pay for your purchases, consider using a travel credit card that waives foreign transaction fees. That way, you can skip ATM fees and not need to worry about carrying a lot of cash around with you.

Credit and debit cards

Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted throughout the island of Ireland; American Express is accepted in some places but not all. Credit cards can be used for purchases and also to withdraw cash from ATMs (although this usually is accompanied by a fee).

If you use your debit card to make a payment abroad or withdraw cash, you'll be charged a 2.99% Non-Sterling Transaction Fee. Remember that if you're given the option, it's almost always cheaper to make the payment in the local currency.

Tipping in Ireland in restaurants & bars

Plan to tip around 10-15% in Irish restaurants.

What documents do I need to enter Ireland? ›

Preparing for entering Ireland

You must have a passport or recognised travel document if you are coming from a country outside the EEA. You may also need to have a visa. You should have proof of the reasons you are coming to Ireland. The documents you need depend on the purpose of your trip.

Yes you can use your credit card in many pubs. But don't buy just one drink with that card. I know many of us Americans tend to do this.

In general, yes – Ireland is a fairly expensive place to visit as a tourist. Between the sky-high costs of accommodations and rental cars in the summer and the high overall prices in western Europe, a trip to Ireland can end up being rather expensive.

It's completely up to you whether you exchange money before you travel to Europe, or get your euros when you arrive. The only thing to bear in mind is that you have more control and more choice if you do it in advance.

Yes, it is expensive but our capital has so much to offer in terms of history, things to do and culture. It would be a shame to miss it. I just recommend carefully planning your trip to ensure you spend as little money as possible while exploring.

It's not usually a good idea to exchange currency at the airport, or even at your hotel. These places are definitely convenient, but you're likely to pay a premium for it. Commission fees can be high and exchange rates unfavorable. So, it's worth avoiding it unless you're really stuck.

Head to your bank or credit union before you leave to avoid paying ATM transaction costs. You may even receive a better exchange rate. Credit unions and banks will exchange your dollars into a foreign currency before and after your trip when you have a checking or savings account with them.

Best place to exchange currency: Your bank or credit union

Many banks offer currency exchange to their customers. Though there may be a small fee if you exchange less than a certain amount, your bank or credit union will almost always be the cheapest place to exchange currency.

What is the cheapest way to get euros in the US? The cheapest way to buy euros in the US is usually online. You'll have a couple of options, depending on what suits your needs: Choose a specialist provider which has multi-currency accounts to support international spending - like Wise or Revolut.