Tips in Ireland

Tips in Ireland

Tips in Ireland - Canva Pro

Known as "tips", tipping in Ireland is a common practice, but one that can come as a surprise to travelers. Not compulsory, but encouraged, it is supposed to represent 10% of the final bill. A look back at a habit that can quickly add up.

In Ireland, there are some habits that can be confusing for any traveler coming to explore the island. Starting with the custom of tipping. In Ireland, tipping is commonplace: it’s customary to leave a 5-10% tip on top of the final bill. It’s a good habit to get into, especially in restaurants, cabs and special establishments! Let’s take stock!

In Ireland, tipping is all the rage

A method of rewarding service received

Fish and chips with a pint of Guinness in Galway - Wayne Thume - cc

Fish and chips with a pint of Guinness in Galway – Wayne Thume – cc

It’s best to know in advance: in Ireland,tipping is part of everyday Irish life. Although it has become less and less popular in recent years, it is still the order of the day in some sectors, such as transport and catering.

However, bear in mind that tipping in Ireland is not compulsory. Don’t feel obliged to leave a few coins on top of your bill if you don’t want to. It’s a welcome gesture, but you won’t be outraged if you pay for the service you receive.

In general, a tip is calculated at 10% of the final bill. A rather high amount compared to other countries, but one that is still customary in Ireland… and much appreciated!

How tips are calculated in Ireland :

Here’s an example to help you understand:

You receive a bill for €40 in a restaurant. You must therefore add 10% to the final bill, i.e. a €4 tip, for a total of €44.

(40+(40×10%))=44€

Please note, however, that this calculation generally has to be carried out discreetly. Although tipping is practiced in Ireland, it remains taboo for most of the time. Although many people take them for granted, it’s bad taste to bring them up… at the risk of embarrassing your waiter!

So avoid bringing up the subject in front of your interviewer: it’s not done.

Often, the tip can be paid on the side of the bill (in cash, for example, from hand to hand, while the rest has been paid by card). But beware: some restaurateurs actually include service in the overall bill: a practice that may seem aggressive from the outside, but is still common in Ireland.

Our advice: always check the bill and its details before applying a tip. So you don’t have to pay twice!

A practice in force in certain sectors only

Where to tip?

Don’t be fooled. In Ireland, don’t just hand out tips! After all, this practice only takes place in certain circles!

In other words, tipping is essentially :

  • in restaurants,
  • in Irish pubs and bars,
  • in nightclubs,
  • but also in hotels (room service, laundry, etc.).

Tipping in Irish pubs

In Ireland’s Irish pubs, the tipping system is a little different. No percentage calculation here. It’s customary to round up the bill… by the amount you want! This can range from 10cts to several euros. It’s up to you!

Tipping is also customary in pubs. And we recommend that you do. But don’t feel obliged to leave an insane amount: “tips” are a way of “showing your appreciation” of the establishment’s service. It’s a polite gesture that will even get you on your bartender’s good side!

Tips for cabs and hotel services

A cab in Dublin - Raúl Villalón - cc

A cab in Dublin – Raúl Villalón – cc

Here again, tipping is common. Whether you’re taking a cab or staying in a hotel, the arrondissement is considered the most practical way to reward efficient service!

There’s no 10% rule here: you give what you want. Be careful, however, not to give tips that are too low. A tip of 5 centimes, for example, may not go down well with the person you’re talking to, as it’s too small (and therefore potentially insulting).

It’s all a question of balance: choose a reasonable tip, neither too light nor too generous.

It’s always a pleasure, and it allows you to adopt the Irish way of life!



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