Ireland (IE)
Ireland is a parliamentary republic and island nation on the western edge of Europe — the only English-speaking country in the Eurozone — celebrated for its warmly welcoming culture and legendary pub life, dramatic Wild Atlantic Way coastline and emerald green rolling countryside, a remarkable literary tradition from Joyce to Beckett, and its role as the European headquarters for the world's leading technology companies including Google, Apple, Meta, Microsoft, and LinkedIn.
Currency & Money
Practical money tips for living in Ireland.
Denominations
Coins: 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, €1, €2. Notes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500.
Payment Culture
Ireland is strongly card and contactless-payment oriented. Visa and Mastercard debit/credit cards are accepted virtually everywhere. Contactless payments are ubiquitous and Apple Pay and Google Pay widely accepted. Cash is still used in some rural pubs and at markets — it is wise to carry €20–40. Some small businesses add a card surcharge for purchases under €10.
ATM Tips
ATMs are widely available from Bank of Ireland, AIB, and Permanent TSB. Foreign Visa and Mastercard debit cards work at all ATMs. Revolut and N26 have no ATM fee within limits. Avoid dynamic currency conversion at ATMs — always choose to pay in EUR.
Exchange Tips
Use Wise or Revolut for international transfers — rates are far superior to high-street banks. Bureau de change at Dublin Airport offer poor rates; use an ATM instead. Irish banks charge significant fees for international SWIFT transfers.
Pro tip: Best apps for expats
- • Wise — Send money internationally at near-interbank rates
- • Revolut — Multi-currency account, free ATM withdrawals (limits apply)
- • N26 — German IBAN, free account, good for EU residents