Do You Tip In Dublin? (To Tip or Not to Tip in Ireland)

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Absolutely! While tipping is not mandatory, it is generally acceptable in most parts of Dublin and Ireland. However, do it at your discretion, especially to appreciate great service.

As a visitor to Ireland, you may find that cities such as Dublin are more open to tips, unlike the countryside folk.

Although not everyone will expect a tip, it is a kind gesture that goes a long way.

Here is a detailed guide to how and when to tip in Dublin. 

How To Tip In Ireland

In America, tipping is a culture ingrained into almost every part of the hospitality industry.

how to tip Dublin
How to tip in Ireland

It is a kind way to say thank you for going over and beyond expectations.

Compared to Ireland and Dublin in particular, it is a new culture that is becoming popular. It is perfectly fine when you visit Dublin and want to appreciate good service but can’t afford it. Sometimes travelers are on a strict budget, and tipping for every service may be impossible.

The Irish will not frown for not receiving a tip and will be happy that you acknowledge their effort.

On the other hand, should you want to tip in Dublin, there are various ways to do it.

  • First, always ask the person serving you if it’s okay to leave them a tip. Most people will be happy to receive it, while others may decline. Do not be offended if some say no, as it is common, especially in small towns.
  • Always ask if tips are allowed if paying by card, as some establishments will collect card tips and not pay the servers. In such instances, you can tip using cash if you have some.

Other times, you may not need to ask. Just leave extra money when you pay your bill. 

Can You Tip In American Dollars In Ireland?

Tipping for anything in dollars will be pointless as the local currency is Euros and Pounds in North Ireland.

Always convert any cash you have for ease of tipping. Should you wish to pay via card, most establishments that take tips will have the amount you want added to your bill.

How Much Should I Tip In Dublin?

Generally, a tip in Dublin ranges between 10-20%, depending on location, type of service, and total amount.

For instance, tipping a cab driver may be cheaper than in a restaurant or hotel. You may spend 8 Euros for a trip from the airport, and a 10% tip will be small.

On the other hand, at a hotel or restaurant where tips are usually higher, for a total bill of 150 Euros, paying 15 to 20 Euros is fine.

Sometimes the kitchen staff and waiters share the tips at the end of the shift, but this is unique to some establishments. 

Since there is no fixed amount on how much you can tip in Dublin, leave any amount that appeals to you. If unsure, assume it is similar to the States and leave at least 10% of your purchases.

Can You Pay A Tip Using A Card In Dublin?

Tourists prefer to tip via card, especially when they run out of cash. While it is acceptable in most of Dublin, sometimes the staff may not receive the money.

To ensure your tip gets to the right person, have a few Euros in small denominations for such situations. 

Which Services Should I Tip In Dublin?

In Dublin, there are places where it is customary to tip than in others.

Tipping in Dublin guide
Tipping in Dublin

Of course, only pay when you receive excellent services. Should you have a bad experience or a service charge is included in your bill, do not tip.

Some of the services where you may tip in Dublin include the following.

Taxi Drivers

Although short cab trips in Dublin may not warrant a large tip, it is generally expected for long trips.

Some local cab drivers will also help you with your luggage and gladly give you a few pointers on navigating Ireland.

In short, they will be the first people to welcome you to their country. So leave a 10% tip above your fare in appreciation.

Hotel Porters

Once you arrive at your hotel, a porter will help you carry your luggage to your room.

In this case, there is no minimum or maximum amount to tip. Most people give anywhere from 2 to 5 Euros, especially where one has several bags.

Waiters in Restaurants 

For restaurants in Dublin, it is standard for even the Irish to tip for good food and exceptional service.

Most places will take a 10% tip, but consider leaving at least 20% of your total bill if you are a large group.

Servers in Pubs

Tipping servers in Dublin pubs
Tipping servers in Dublin pubs

Most people will not tip the bartender, but it is kind, especially if the service is good and the drinks are to your liking.

If the pub has food and table service, a 10% tip at night’s end is a good gesture. 

Hotel Room Service

Sometimes we check in to hotels later than expected, maybe due to flight delays or traffic situations.

Whatever the reason, if you get room service at a hotel, tipping the staff any amount is appreciated. 

Read before you go to Ireland 📖

Housekeeping in Hotels

Some people prefer to leave housekeeping tips at the end of their stay.

However, different people may attend to your room every day. It is only polite to tip them nightly. 

Local Tour Guides

In Dublin, tipping local tour guides is on a need basis.

Most tour guides will include a service fee for the total cost of a tour.

For instance, if you book a 6-day tour at 3000 Euros, paying 300 Euros as a tip is costly. Therefore, you can pay tips for short bus tours or day trips, and the amount is also up to you.

Barbers and Hairdressers

Hairdressers and barbers are easy to come across in Dublin.

If they do a good job, leave a tip. It is common practice, even for the Irish. In addition, leave a good review so future visitors to Dublin can stop by for their services. 

Conclusion

If you must tip in Dublin, then it is only in restaurants. The other places may expect a tip, but it is understandable if you do not.

Rewarding people for their kindness and going over and beyond to make your visit comfortable is selfless. Ensure you leave a 10% tip when and where you can.

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