Should I take cash or card to Dublin?

Ireland's main currency is the Euro. Because most places you visit will be able to take your credit or debit cards, you don't need to take much cash. In fact, there is really no reason to get Euros before you leave the US.



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It's wise to arrive in Ireland with least €300 euros in cash. In the worst case scenario, your debit or credit card might not work upon arrival in Ireland. Or it may get lost. In this unlikely event, you'll need backup.

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Ireland's main currency is the Euro. Because most places you visit will be able to take your credit or debit cards, you don't need to take much cash. In fact, there is really no reason to get Euros before you leave the US.

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Resist the urge to buy foreign currency before your trip. Some tourists feel like they just have to have euros or British pounds in their pockets when they step off the airplane, but they pay the price in bad stateside exchange rates. Wait until you arrive to withdraw money.

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As a general rule, though, it's a good idea to budget at least $100 a day for your vacation. This is just spending money, as hotel costs are likely to have been either paid in advance or settled by card when you check out.

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You could take a large amount of euros with you by going to your local bank or AAA and purchasing them before you trip, but this is problematic for a couple of reasons. First, it is a security risk. Ireland is as safe a country as any, but its never a good idea to carry a large amount of cash with you while traveling.

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Yes! Tipping in restaurants in Ireland (and in cafes/pubs where you've had a sit-down meal) is one of the more common situations where a tip is expected. Once the service has been good and once there is no service charge included, of course. How much to tip: In general, a 10% tip is more than acceptable.

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Buy currency before you travel.
Doing so gives you time to shop around for the best rate. Plus, when you arrive, you won't have to immediately find a bank or currency exchange. Do some research ahead of time to see if US dollars are widely accepted at places you plan to go to.

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Once you've reached your destination, avoid airport kiosks or other exchange houses. Your bank's ATM network is likely the best option. You may be able to withdraw cash in the local currency with competitive exchange rates and low fees (1% to 3%). Use your institution's app to find an ATM near you.

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Though there may be a small fee if you exchange less than a certain amount, your bank or credit union will almost always be the cheapest place to exchange currency. You may be able to order currency at a branch location, by phone, or online to have it delivered to you or to pick up at a branch.

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