When did Ireland stop using pounds?


When did Ireland stop using pounds? The Irish pound ceased to be legal tender on 9 February 2002. This brought down the final curtain on a monetary regime which had its origins some 75 years earlier with the introduction of the Saorstát pound in 1927.


What do I do with old Irish pounds?

You can exchange old IR£ pound banknotes and coins into euro. The exchange rate is IR£1 = €1.269738. You can also exchange damaged old Irish IR£ pounds. Examples of damaged banknotes include those that are partially burnt, cut or decomposed.


What is the tipping culture in Ireland?

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.


Is it better to use cash or credit card in Ireland?

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.


Is tipping common in Ireland?

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.


Is Ireland cheap or expensive?

At a country level, the cost of living in Ireland, including housing, is only 10% lower than the cost of living in the USA. However, the United States has many cities that are cheaper to live in than similar cities in Ireland.


Can I use my American debit card in Ireland?

Most US, UK and Australian debit and credit cards should be usable in Ireland. Visa, Mastercard (Cirrus and Maestro) and American Express are all widely accepted. However, you may have a little more trouble using a Diner's Club card, and Discover isn't often accepted in Ireland.


Should I bring cash to Ireland?

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.


Do I need to get euros before my trip?

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.