This question is one I get asked by US and Canada visitors almost more than any on our Ireland travel community on Facebook: how do I tip in Ireland? I get it, you want to be generous, show your appreciation, but also not overdo it or, heaven forbid, cause an awkward moment. Well, put your worries aside, because I’m going to walk you through the ins and outs, so you can enjoy our fantastic island without a single worry about your wallet, or offending anyone!

The truth is, our tipping culture isn’t quite the same as what you might be used to back home. But I am finding the habit start to grow more and more in the last few years. Here, tipping is a gesture of appreciation for exceptional service, not an obligation to supplement wages. Our minimum wage for service staff, currently €14.15 an hour for workers aged 20 and over, means that tips are truly a bonus, not a necessity for living. So, let’s clear up the confusion and get you ready to navigate Ireland like a local.

More to Explore

Watch The video

When to Tip & When to Hold Off: The Golden Rules

Understanding when and how much to tip can be a bit of a dance, but it’s an easy one to learn once you know the steps. Generally speaking, if you receive good service, a small token of appreciation is always welcome. If the service is just… grand (average, in other words), then don’t feel pressured.

Restaurants: Dining Out Gracefully

Tipping at Irish restaurants has evolved in the last decade. Here’s how to handle the bill:

  • No Service Charge Included: If your bill doesn’t explicitly state a service charge, a tip of 10% to 12.5% is standard for good service in sit-down restaurants. For outstanding service, you might round up to 15%.
  • Service Charge Included: Always check your bill! Many restaurants, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Dublin, will automatically add a service charge, particularly for larger groups (usually 6 or more). If this is the case, no additional tip is needed.
  • Cafes & Casual Eats: For a quick bite or a cuppa in a cafe, rounding up to the nearest Euro or leaving a euro or two in a tip jar is perfectly acceptable.

PATRICK’S PICK FOR DUBLIN FOOD My go-to spot for the best fish and chips in Dublin, Leo Burdock, is a take-away affair. Just round up a euro or two if you feel like it. For a lovely mid-range experience, The Winding Stair offers fantastic Irish cuisine. If the service is top-notch, 10% is a good shout. And for those truly special occasions, Chapter One, a Michelin-starred gem, 10-15% is customary for their exceptional service.****

Pubs: Sláinte (Cheers) to Good Service!

The pub is the heart of Irish social life, but tipping in pubs is a bit different:

  • No Need to Tip Per Drink: You don’t need to tip the bartender for every round you order.
  • Table Service: If you’re in a pub that offers table service (common in gastropubs or quieter local spots), a tip of €1-€2 per round or a few euros at the end of the evening for attentive service is a nice gesture.
  • Exceptional Service: If a bartender goes above and beyond, perhaps offering local recommendations or engaging in some friendly banter, you might tell them to “get one for yourself” (meaning buy a drink with the tip money) or leave a few euros.

Patrick’s Local Tip: Avoid the overpriced spots in Temple Bar where service charges are rampant! Instead, if you’re heading to Galway, have a pint in a genuine local pub like Tig Cóilí. The atmosphere is mighty, and if you get table service, a euro or two per round is plenty.

Taxis & Transfers: Getting Around

Here’s what to tip in taxis, or private transfers from the airport:

  • Taxis: It’s common practice to round up the fare to the nearest euro or two, especially if the driver is friendly or helps with luggage. For example, if a fare is €12.50, you might give €14 or €15.
  • Airport Transfers: For private airport transfers, a tip of 10% to 15% is standard if you’re happy with the service.

Patrick’s Local Tip: If you’re taking a taxi from Dublin Airport to the city centre, and the driver was great, round up to the nearest €5. For shorter hops around Dublin, you can be more modest. No need to tip on public transport like the Luas tram or Dublin Bus.

Tour Guides: Showing Your Appreciation

Our tour guides are passionate about sharing Ireland’s stories and sights. Here’s what’s appropriate:

  • Day Tours: For a full-day guided tour, a tip of €5-€10 per person is a good guideline, especially if the guide was engaging and informative.
  • Multi-Day Tours: For longer tours, consider €5-€10 per person per day.
  • Free Walking Tours: These tours often rely on tips as their primary income, so a tip of €10-€15 per person is expected and appreciated.

Patrick’s Local Tip: Some of the best experiences come from smaller, local tour groups, especially along the Wild Atlantic Way. If your guide makes the landscape come alive, a tip of €5-€10 per person for a multi-day trip is definitely deserved.

Hotels & Accommodation: A Little Extra for Great Service

For those helping you on the day to day:

  • Porters: For handling your luggage, €1-€2 per bag is appropriate.
  • Housekeeping: While not as common as in the US, leaving a few euros (€2-€5 per night) for excellent housekeeping is a kind gesture.

Patrick’s Local Tip: If you’re staying in central Dublin, (like one of my top picks, The Marker Hotel, the charming Harding Hotel, or the lively Generator Dublin hostel), remember your porters! A €1-€2 tip per bag at these spots is a thoughtful gesture.

Cash vs. Card: What’s Preferred for Tipping?

While card payments are more common now, and how you’ll pay for your hotel or meal, cash is often still king for tips, particularly in pubs and taxis. It ensures the tip goes directly to the individual who served you.

Avoiding Tipping Pitfalls

To make sure your thoughtful gesture doesn’t turn into a tourist trap, keep these in mind:

  • Always Check Your Bill: I can’t stress this enough! Pre-added service charges are common, especially in high-traffic tourist areas.
  • Overpriced Tourist Spots: Places like many of the pubs in Temple Bar often have higher prices and sometimes hidden service charges. You’re better off finding a genuine local spot.
  • Large Group Tours: Be wary of large bus tours that might have an automatic 20% service charge without making it clear upfront. Clarify this when booking.

Final Thoughts From Your Local Guide

Tipping in Ireland is about showing appreciation for excellent service, not adhering to a strict percentage. We value good manners and a friendly word just as much as, if not more than, a few extra euros. So, relax, enjoy the craic, and use these guidelines to make your Irish adventure smooth and stress-free.

Any other questions, just ask! And make sure you’re joining our Ireland travel community on Facebook! Slán go fóill!

Planning your road trip wardrobe? My packing list for Ireland covers everything you need for a comfortable trip.