Ireland Travel Tips

Ireland is a very tourist friendly nation. The people especially are extremely kind and helpful. But even though you a lot about Ireland and its people it is always better to know some travel tips Ireland on a safer side.

• Language

English and Gaelic are the two official languages of the Republic of Ireland. The sign boards on the street and road are all bilingual. In Gaeltacht region, Irish is spoken on a daily basis; however, everyone also speaks English. In Northern Ireland, English is the official language.

• Currency

The Euro is the legal tender of the Republic of Ireland. One Euro comprises of 100 cent.
Notes available are of following denomination: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200 and €500. In Northern Ireland, sterling is the local currency. A single pound sterling consists of 100 pence. Notes are of following denomination £50, £20, £10, £5. And coins are £2, £1, 50p, 20p, 10p, 5p, 2p, 1p.

• Credit Cards

Credit cards that have the Visa, MasterCard or American Express icon are accepted anywhere in Ireland. Any other card you need to make enquiry.

• Banks

Banks in Ireland commonly open by around 9.30am and close about 4.30pm throughout the week. Except on Thursday when banks close down by 5pm. ATMs are sited at most banks.

• Smoking etiquettes

The Republic of Ireland has initiated a ban on smoking in all work places to promote public health and reduce the incidences of smoking-related infections. Smoking is forbidden in public areas within the Republic of Ireland – this incorporates all nightclubs, bars and restaurants.

• Telecommunications

Only digital phones with GSM subscriptions and a roaming agreement will function on the islands of Ireland. Visitors should consult with their provider before departure. Pre-paid phone cards are commonly obtainable both in the Republic and Northern Ireland.

• Time Zone

Ireland is on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and, in compliance with daylight saving, clocks are ahead one hour mid-March and back one hour at the end of October. During summer it remains illuminate until as late as 11pm but on the contrary by mid-December it can be dingy by 4pm.