Why Tipping in Ireland Feels Different (and What Americans Need to Know First)
Tipping in Ireland? Yep, it’s a thing—but it’s not quite what you’re used to back home in the States.
In the U.S., tipping is kinda built into the system. Waitstaff earn low base wages and rely on tips to make up their income. But in Ireland, it’s not like that. Service industry wages are higher, and there’s more of a social safety net. So tipping is appreciated, but not expected in every situation.
So… how much to tip in Ireland? Here’s the simple version to start:
- Restaurants: 10–15% (post-tax)
- Taxis: Round up or tip 10% for longer rides
- Hotels: €1–€2 per night for housekeeping
- Bars: Rarely tipped—maybe buy the bartender a drink
- Tours: €5–€10 per person, depending on length
- Spas/Salons: 5–10% for longer or luxury services
This guide is built specifically for Americans who want to be polite without overdoing it. Let’s break it all down.
Tipping at Restaurants and Cafés in Ireland
Eating out in Ireland is a real treat. Whether you’re having fresh seafood in Galway or brunch in Dublin, the food scene here’s legit. But do you tip your server the way you would in NYC?
Here’s what you need to know:
- Typical tip: 10–15% of the post-tax total
- When to tip: Only if you received good or great service
- Service charge: If your bill already includes a “service charge” (common in touristy spots or larger groups), you don’t have to tip extra.
- When to add more: If your server went above and beyond—like helping with allergies or offering personalized suggestions—a few extra euros is always a kind gesture.
💡 Pro tip: Always check the bottom of the receipt. If you see a service charge of 12.5% or more, you’re good. No need to double-tip unless the service was truly next level.
Bars and Pubs: Understanding the “And One for Yourself” Custom
Now this one throws a lotta Americans off.
In Ireland, you don’t tip your bartender with money most of the time. Instead, there’s this charming thing locals say—“and one for yourself.”
What does it mean?
You’re offering to buy the bartender a drink. Now, they probably won’t actually drink it, especially while working. But they’ll usually take a small tip equal to the price of a drink—around €2–€3.
When’s it appropriate?
- If you’ve been at the bar a while
- If the bartender was particularly friendly or gave you great service
- If you’re part of a big group
🍻 Bottom line: Tipping at pubs isn’t expected, but it’s totally okay to offer a round or say “and one for yourself” if you feel like showing appreciation.
Hotel Tipping in Ireland: Who Gets What?
Hotel service in Ireland is usually warm and genuine—but tipping is not as rigid as in the U.S.
Housekeeping
- Budget hotels: €1–€2 per night
- Luxury hotels: €3–€5 per night
Leave it daily, preferably with a note saying “Thank you.”
Bellhop/Porter
- Typical tip: €2–€3 per bag, especially if they carry them upstairs
- If you’re just handed the bag at reception? No tip necessary.
Concierge
- Typical tip: €5–€10 if they arrange something special (like dinner reservations, transportation, or hard-to-get tickets)
🎒 Note: If you’re staying in a B&B, tipping isn’t really expected, especially if the owner is the one taking care of you.
How Much to Tip Taxi Drivers and Rideshares in Ireland
Taxis in Ireland don’t expect a large tip, but rounding up is common courtesy.
The rule of thumb:
- Short rides: Round up to the nearest euro
- Longer trips (like airport transfers): 10% is appreciated
- App-based rides (Uber, Free Now): Tipping options are usually built into the app
🚖 Example: If your ride costs €9.40, just hand them €10 and say thanks.
Tipping Tour Guides in Ireland
Touring the Cliffs of Moher or exploring the Ring of Kerry? Tour guides here are knowledgeable and often go the extra mile.
Tip amounts:
- Group walking tour (free or low-cost): €5–€10 per person
- Half-day guided tours: €5 per person is good
- Full-day or private tours: €10–€20 per person depending on the experience
🗺️ Quick tip: Always tip the main guide. If there’s a driver and a guide, a smaller tip for the driver (around €5) is polite.
Spas and Salons: When and How to Tip
Getting pampered in Ireland? Spa etiquette is more relaxed here, but you can definitely tip for good service.
- Typical tip: 5–10%, especially for longer or luxury treatments
- Hairdressers and barbers: €2–€5 depending on the service and time spent
💆 Note: Some high-end spas include a service charge. Always check your bill before tipping extra.
Ireland vs USA: Tipping Compared
Let’s get real—tipping culture is just different. Here’s a quick side-by-side:
| Service Type | USA (Standard Tip) | Ireland (Typical Tip) |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurant Waitstaff | 18–25% | 10–15% (if no service charge) |
| Taxi Drivers | 15–20% | Round up or 10% for longer trips |
| Bartenders | $1–$2 per drink | Not expected (offer “one for yourself”) |
| Hotel Housekeeping | $2–$5 per night | €1–€5 depending on hotel type |
| Tour Guides | $10–$20 per person | €5–€10 per person |
| Spas & Salons | 15–20% | 5–10% for longer services |
Quick Reference Guide: Tipping in Ireland
Here’s a cheat sheet you can screenshot for your trip:
| Service | Tipping Amount |
|---|---|
| Sit-down Restaurants | 10–15% (post-tax), only if service is good |
| Cafés/Quick Service | Not expected, maybe €1 for great service |
| Bars & Pubs | Rare, say “and one for yourself” (€2–€3) |
| Taxis & Rideshares | Round up / 10% for longer journeys |
| Hotel Housekeeping | €1–€5 per night depending on hotel type |
| Bellhop | €2–€3 per bag |
| Concierge | €5–€10 for special arrangements |
| Tour Guides | €5–€10 per person |
| Spas & Salons | 5–10% for premium services |
Final Thoughts: Keep It Simple, Be Kind
Tipping in Ireland doesn’t need to be stressful. Locals won’t judge you for tipping less than you would in the States. In fact, many will be surprised and grateful if you do tip at all.
Just remember: if the service felt genuine, a few euros go a long way. Trust your gut, smile, and say thanks—it means more than you might think.