Ireland uses the Euro (EUR) as its official currency.3 This guide helps you understand how money works in Ireland, from notes and coins to using cards and ATMs. You will learn about card acceptance and cash habits.6
Updated 2026-10-26. Numbers carry a small link to their source. Fees and rules change, check the screen or the form before you pay.
Download on theApp StoreComing soonFree. No ads. Ever.Mid-market rate, refreshed in your browser. The booth and the ATM will give you less than this: the difference is their fee.
Updated 2026-10-26
Download on theApp StoreComing soonThe official currency of the Republic of Ireland is the Euro (EUR).3 One Euro is made up of 100 cent. Euro banknotes come in denominations of €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500.4 Euro coins are 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, €1, and €2.5
Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted across Ireland.6 American Express is accepted in some places but not all.6 Ireland uses a 'chip and pin' system for card transactions.8 You can use contactless 'tap' payment for purchases up to €50.7 Many places accept cards, but it is good to have some cash for smaller shops or markets.
Download on theApp StoreComing soonCurrencies other than the Euro are rarely accepted in the Republic of Ireland.10 This means US dollars are not typically accepted for payments in shops.10 It is best to exchange your money to Euros before you need to pay for things.
ATM machines are found at most banks and in cities, towns, and villages.9 They accept most credit and debit cards.9 ATMs usually offer a better exchange rate than airport kiosks or hotels.11 Exchange offices and hotels often add hidden margins to their exchange rates instead of clear fees.11
If you are a non-EU tourist, you may qualify for a VAT refund on goods bought for private use and exported outside the EU.12 The standard VAT rate is 23%.14 Each export voucher must be for at least €75.13 You must export the goods by the last day of the third month after purchase.15 For goods under €2,000, you do not need to validate your tax-free form with Customs at Dublin, Shannon, Cork, Kerry, or Ireland West airports.16 Goods of €2,000 or more must be shown to a Customs Officer.16 Some items, like fuel for private planes, are not part of the VAT refund scheme.17
Tell your bank about your travel plans to Ireland. This helps prevent your card from being blocked for unusual activity. Check if your bank charges foreign transaction fees. Consider carrying a mix of cash and cards. Having some Euros on arrival is helpful.
Euro banknotes come in €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500 denominations.4
Euro coins are 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, €1, and €2.5
Exchy helps you convert currencies and check ATM fees on your phone. Get Exchy on Google Play.
ATM fees for the country you land in, a booth check and a converter with no ads. Ever.
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