Tipping culture can be confusing, so let us give you an overview of tipping in Ireland.
Tipping culture can vary greatly around the world. Some countries tip for everything while other countries do not tip at all. So, it can certainly be a bit confusing when travelling abroad, when it comes to knowing how it works in that particular destination.
A tip can also be considered as gratuity and is generally known around the world as a percentage of a total bill or an extra sum of money that people pay to certain service workers, for a provided service, most often in restaurants, hairdressers or taxis.
However, each country has a different attitude towards tipping. While some expect it, others can sometimes be offended by it. A lot of countries appreciate it when they receive a tip, so let us tell you where Ireland fits in with all of this.
Tipping in Ireland – what to tip
If you are coming from a country that generally tips for most services, such as the US, you want to familiarise yourself with tipping in Ireland and what is expected and not expected.
While you might be accustomed to tipping as a general rule, it is worth noting that in Ireland, there are no set rules for tipping.
This means that tips are not expected, but they are appreciated. We Irish pride ourselves in our service, so we always appreciate a tip that reflects the service given.
With that being said, you can definitely tip when you feel like it is deserved. However, it is worth doing a little inside research into the kind of places where tipping is accepted and, of course, not accepted. So let us give you an overview.
When you should tip – restaurants, cafes and taxis
Yes, tipping in Ireland can be a little daunting if you are not accustomed to the culture. So, by getting an overview of the tipping culture here, it can save you a lot of confusion and perhaps red faces.
In Ireland, it is generally accepted, but not expected, to tip in a restaurant or café, but not in a pub. In a taxi, it is worth noting that the drivers don’t expect tips, but you can, of course, round up the cost if you like and it’s always greatly appreciated.
Many restaurants and hotels have rates that factor in all the costs, and you may even see a ‘service charge’ on your bill, which means that no tip is necessary. However, if the service was exceptional, you can add a little extra.
If you see a tip jar, generally in pubs or cafes, know that this is an optional tip, and you can put in as much or as little as you would like if you would like.
It is a very easy-going tipping culture in Ireland, but you might still be wondering how much is an acceptable tip. So let us delve into that side of things.
How much you should tip – 10% standard
In Ireland, for example, if your meal was €35, it would be standard to add a 10% tip or even round it up to €40. 10% is the standard tipping rate around cafes and restaurants, and hairdressers as well. You can always add a little more if you had exceptional service.
Unlike some countries where tipping might be expected, wages in Ireland are relatively high, including for waiting staff, so you don’t need to tip if you don’t want to. However, it is always a nice nod to good service.
If you have a treatment in a spa, there might be a ‘service charge’ already included in your bill, but if not, you can tip 10% to 15% if you found the service to be great.
It’s hard to know who and when you should tip in Ireland. So, you might be confused about small tips and how much to give for certain other services.
For instance, if a driver at a hotel helps you with your bags, or if a doorman or cleaner goes out of their way for you, you could definitely leave a small tip which would be greatly appreciated.
There are no real right or wrong answers when it comes to tipping in Ireland. However, in general, most people tip when they have received good service. Plus, we’re confident you will!
Other notable mentions
Northern Ireland: The tipping culture in Northern Ireland is exactly the same as the rest of Ireland! Across the island of Ireland, tipping is appreciated but not entirely expected.
Larger restaurant chains: It is not customary to tip in larger restaurant chains like McDonald’s or KFC. However, if you’re sitting in somewhere like Nando’s, it’s still appreciated to tip if you had good service.
FAQs about tipping in Ireland
When should I tip in Ireland?
It’s always appreciated to tip 10% in a restaurant or a cafe, especially if you’ve received good service. You can tip a taxi driver by rounding up to the nearest Euro.
Should I tip the barman in Ireland?
Bartenders will not expect you to tip per drink, as is customary in other countries. They won’t be expecting a large tip, but if you received great service and bonded with the bar staff it’s always a nice gesture.
Can I tip with a card in Ireland?
Yes! You can. In most places across Ireland, you can leave a tip on card. However, one thing to note is that in some establishments, the tip goes straight to the restaurant or bar, not to the individual, so be sure to make sure.
