Tipping In Ireland

Tipping in Ireland: A Complete Guide

Tipping in Ireland is not as customary as it is in countries like the United States, but it is appreciated for good service. Here's a breakdown of when, where, and how much to tip in different situations during your trip.

1. Restaurants

Sit-Down Restaurants: Tipping at restaurants in Ireland is generally expected for good service. A tip of 10-15% of the total bill is standard, but check if a service charge is already included, especially for larger groups.

Cafés and Casual Dining: Tipping is less common in cafés or casual dining spots, but leaving €1-€2 is a nice gesture if you received good service.

2. Pubs

Pubs and Bars: In traditional Irish pubs, tipping bartenders is not expected when ordering drinks at the bar. However, if you have table service, it's polite to leave a tip of €1-€2 or round up the bill slightly.

3. Taxis

Taxi Drivers: Tipping is not required for taxis, but rounding up the fare to the nearest euro is a common practice to show appreciation. For longer trips or excellent service, you might tip 10% of the fare.

4. Hotels

Porters and Housekeeping: It’s polite to tip porters €1-€2 per bag and leave a small tip for housekeeping, usually €1-€2 per night.

Concierge: Tipping the concierge for special assistance or recommendations is not required but appreciated—about €5-€10 depending on the service provided.

5. Tours and Guides

Tour Guides: For guided tours, tipping is generally expected. The usual amount is €5-€10 per person for a day tour, depending on the quality of the tour.

Bus Drivers: On longer trips, tipping the bus driver €1-€2 per day is a kind gesture, especially if they assist with luggage or go out of their way to ensure a smooth trip.

6. Hairdressers and Salons

Tipping in Hair Salons: It is common to tip hairdressers and beauticians in Ireland. A standard tip is around 10% of the total bill.

7. Spas

Spa Services: While not obligatory, leaving 10-15% of the bill as a tip for spa therapists is appreciated, especially if the service was exceptional.

Conclusion

In Ireland, tipping is generally reserved for situations where you’ve received good or exceptional service. While not mandatory, it’s a thoughtful gesture that’s always appreciated. Remember to check if a service charge is already included in the bill to avoid double tipping.