Here is everything you need to know about tipping in Ireland.
For the most part, tipping is at the discretion of the traveler. Unlike the USA or South Africa – which have significant tipping cultures – tipping isn’t mandatory or always expected in Ireland unless you’re sitting down for table service at a restaurant or attending a multi-day tour where the guide is super hands-on.
Nevertheless, tipping is an excellent token of gratitude for those in the service sector and will always be appreciated.
So, let’s break it down by sector:
Table of Contents
At Restaurants
As a general rule, tipping in restaurants is expected. You can tip anywhere from 10 % – 15 % of your bill depending on the service. You can also go higher if you encounter a particularly outstanding meal and impeccable service. Always check if service has been included on your bill before tipping, as some larger tables might incur a higher service charge. If it hasn’t been added and you’re a big group of 20 or so, tip a little higher (usually 20 %)
In Bars and Pubs
Tipping in bars and pubs isn’t usually the norm if you’re simply buying drinks from the bar. However, if you’re using table service and the barperson is coming to your table and taking orders – or you’re ordering a meal – a tip is the norm. You can work on 10 % – 15 % here, much like you would do at a restaurant.
In Hotels
Excessive tipping isn’t expected in Irish hotels, but as always, it’s appreciated. You can tip porters around 1 or 2 euros if they carry your bags, and housekeepers can be tipped around 1 – 2 euros per day. If your concierge goes the extra mile, a small tip at the end of your stay (5 – 10 euros) shows thankfulness for their help.
In Taxis
Tipping in taxis isn’t mandatory or expected, so you shouldn’t feel obliged to leave a tip, as taxi rides are already pretty expensive in Ireland. However, if you experience excellent service, it will be appreciated. In such an instance, you can always round the taxi fare up to the nearest euro for shorter rides or 10 euro for longer ones.
On Tours
If you’re going on a private tour, it’s usually expected to tip your guide around 10 % of the tour price. If you go on a group tour, a tipping basket will usually be handed around at the end of the excursion, and a couple of euros will be greatly appreciated.
A Quick Recap by Industry
Restaurants: 10 – 15 % of your total bill (but always check if service has been included first)
Bars: No tipping needed if you’re going to the bar, 10 – 15 % if you’re getting table service
Hotels: 1-2 euros per bag for the porter and 1-2 euros per day for housekeeping.
Taxi’s: Not mandatory or expected but appreciated if you receive great service. Round up to the nearest Euro.
Tours: 10 % of the tour price for private or semi-private tours and a couple of euros on bigger group tours.
The Lucky Money Tradition
Sometimes, when visiting Ireland, you will experience the Lucky-Money tradition. When you pay for a service, the vendor might hand you back a coin known as ‘lucky money.’ This ensures that you’ll return to them and bring back business. It will usually happen at smaller establishments like family-run cafes or market stalls rather than bigger enterprises.
The Takeaway
Tipping in restaurants and cafes where you receive sit-down table service or day tours is usually a norm; however, tipping in other industries isn’t mandatory. Nevertheless, it’s appreciated in hotels and by taxi drivers. If you experience excellent service and want to share a token of thanks, a tip is always a great way to do so. However, this is entirely at your discretion. If you’re planning to visit, check out this amazing 9 Day Ireland Itinerary!
