Currency and Money

The Euro (€) is now the currency of 12 of the EU countries including Ireland. Notes and coins came into circulation on 1 January 2001. Northern Ireland still use the Pound Sterling (£) but many places will accept the Euro. The Euro comes in denominations of:

Coins:1¢, 2¢, 5¢, 10¢, 20¢, 50¢, €1, €2. Notes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500.

The coins have a map of Europe on one side and the national symbol on the other, Ireland's is the harp, but it can be used throughout the 12 participating EU states. The notes have a map of Europe, and the is of Bridges, and Windows. Foreign exchange and travelers cheques can be converted in banks throughout the country.

ATMs

ATMs (Automatic Teller Machines or Bank Machines) will accept cards from many countries. Check with your bank before going.

Credit Cards

Major Credit Cards - particularly Visa, MasterCard, and American Express - are widely accepted though some B&B's will only accept cash. You can also use them to withdraw cash from Ireland's many ATMs.

Security

Security should not be too much of a problem in Ireland, but it is always sensible to take precautions against robberies; for example, by not carrying large sums of money, etc.

Tipping

Tipping is accepted in Ireland, 15% is usual; but generosity never goes out of fashion.