Currency: The Republic of Ireland uses the euro (€). Northern Ireland uses the pound sterling (£). ATMs are widely available throughout the Republic, including in smaller towns. Cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted almost everywhere, including in rural pubs and small shops. American Express is less reliably accepted.
Electricity: 230V/50Hz, using the standard UK-style three-pin rectangular plug. US and most European visitors need an adapter. American devices with dual-voltage capability just need an adapter; single-voltage 110V devices need a converter as well.
Phone and internet: The dialling code for the Republic of Ireland is +353. Mobile coverage is good in cities and along main roads; it gets patchy in rural areas, particularly in Connemara and parts of Donegal. Wi-Fi is available in virtually all hotels, hostels, and cafes. EU roaming rules do not apply (Ireland is not in the EEA roaming zone), so check your plan before traveling if you need data.
Language: English is the primary language everywhere in practice. Irish (Gaelic) is an official language and is spoken as a community language in the Gaeltacht regions (parts of Donegal, Galway/Connemara, Kerry, and a few other areas). Road signs in Gaeltacht areas are in Irish only, which can occasionally cause confusion.
Opening hours: Shops generally open Monday–Saturday 9am–6pm, with many staying open later on Thursday. Sunday trading is common in cities but variable in smaller towns. Pubs can legally stay open until 11.30pm Sunday–Thursday and 12.30am Friday–Saturday. Many restaurants stop serving food by 9.30–10pm, earlier outside the cities.
Tipping: Not obligatory but customary in restaurants — 10–15% if service is not included. Taxi drivers do not expect a tip but it is appreciated. Tipping in pubs is unusual.
Health: No vaccinations required. EU citizens should carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for access to public healthcare. Non-EU visitors should have travel insurance. Pharmacies (chemists) are widespread and can advise on minor ailments.
Safety: Ireland is a safe country by any measure. Take normal urban precautions in Dublin city centre, particularly around Temple Bar late at night. Rural Ireland presents essentially no security concerns.
Tourist offices: Fáilte Ireland (failireland.ie) is the national tourism agency. There are visitor information offices in Dublin, Galway, Cork, and other cities. The website ireland.com is also useful for planning.