Currency in Ireland: EUR Send & Spend FX Guide
Resources for Expats, Travelers, and Entrepreneurs Navigating Life and Trade in Ireland with the Euro.
What's in this Ireland currency guide?
What currency is used in Ireland?
The official currency of Ireland (country code: IE) is the Euro, with symbol € and currency code EUR.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What currency should I use in Ireland?
The domestic currency in Ireland is the Euro.
What is the Euro currency code and symbol?
The three letter currency code for the Euro is EUR — symbol is €.
What doe the Euro look like?
Here is an example Euro banknote:
Which countries use the Euro?
It is the domestic currency in Eurozone, Aaland Islands, Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, France, French Guinea, French Southern Territories, Germany, Greece, Guadeloupe, Vatican City, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Martinique, Mayotte, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, Portugal, Reunion, Saint Barthelemy, Saint Martin, Saint Pierre and Miquelon, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia and Spain.
Is the Euro a closed currency?
No, the Euro is freely available and convertible. See guide: What is a closed currency?
What are equivalent amounts of USD and EUR?
Here are some popular conversion amounts for USD to EUR (US dollar to Euro)*.
*Converted at the current USDEUR interbank exchange rate. Calculate actual payout amounts for Send Money and Travel Money exchange rates.
Things to know about the Euro
The euro (ISO: EUR) is involved in slightly more than 30% of all foreign exchange deals, and as such, is the world’s second most traded currency, behind the US dollar.
The euro is the currency of the eurozone (officially called the ‘euro area’), which consists of 19 of the 28 member states of the European Union, and is used by almost 350 million Europeans. It was introduced in January 1999.
Of all the thousands of exchange rates that exist in the world, the euro-to-US dollar exchange rate is the most actively traded, or most ‘liquid’.
Since its introduction, the euro’s lowest value against the dollar came in October 2000 when EUR/USD hit lows of 0.8231. The currency was strongest in July 2008, shortly before the worst stage of the 2007-2009 financial crisis, when EUR/USD reached 1.6038.
There are currently more than twenty nations and territories which peg their currencies to the euro, the largest of which is Denmark.
The euro banknotes and coins
The Euro is issued in banknotes of €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500, and in coins of 1 cent, 2 cents, 5 cents, 10 cents, 20 cents, 50 cents, €1, and €2.
The banknotes feature images of historical and cultural figures from across the European Union, while the coins depict each member country's unique design. The design of the Euro banknotes and coins is intended to be easily identifiable and difficult to counterfeit.
Travel money for Ireland
Using Wise for Euro travel money is a smart choice for savvy travelers. With its competitive exchange rates and low fees, Wise allows you to convert and manage multiple currencies effortlessly.
Be careful when using your own bank's Debit/Credit Card, as your bank may also charge an extra 3% as an “Overseas Transaction Charge” plus “Overseas ATM” fees for withdrawing cash on top of the standard Visa/Mastercard 2.5% from market mid-rate.
For card purchases, if you are offered a choice of currencies always select to Pay in Euro otherwise you will typically get much worst dynamic currency conversion (DCC) exchange rates.
If you really want Euro cash before departure, you can save money by ordering online. You generally get better rates and can pick up the EUR cash locally or even on travel day at the airport.
Ireland: Travel Guide
Traveling to Ireland requires careful financial planning to ensure a smooth and cost-effective experience. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate currency considerations and manage your money effectively during your visit.
Ireland, known as the Emerald Isle, offers travelers a rich tapestry of landscapes, history, and culture. To ensure a seamless journey, consider the following practical tips:
- Entry Requirements: Citizens from the EU, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand can enter Ireland visa-free for stays up to 90 days. Ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your visit. For detailed information, consult the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS).
- Currency and Money: Ireland uses the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, with contactless payments prevalent. ATMs are accessible in cities and towns; however, be mindful of potential foreign transaction fees. Tipping around 10-15% in restaurants is appreciated but not obligatory.
- Transportation: Driving is on the left side of the road. Renting a car is ideal for exploring rural areas; an International Driving Permit is recommended if your license isn't in English. Cities like Dublin, Cork, and Galway have extensive bus networks, with Dublin also offering the Luas tram and DART rail services. Intercity travel is facilitated by Bus Éireann and Irish Rail, with advance bookings often more economical.
- Accommodation: Ireland provides a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts. Unique experiences include staying in historic castles or traditional cottages. Booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak tourist seasons and major events.
- Food and Dining: Savor traditional dishes like Irish stew, soda bread, and seafood chowder. Pubs often serve hearty meals accompanied by live music. Vegetarian and vegan options are increasingly available, particularly in urban areas.
- Cultural Tips: Engage with locals, who are known for their friendliness and storytelling. Respect local customs, such as queuing and punctuality. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and adhere to any specific guidelines.
- Top Attractions: Explore the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, and the Giant's Causeway. Cities like Dublin offer attractions such as the Guinness Storehouse and Trinity College's Book of Kells. The Wild Atlantic Way showcases stunning coastal scenery.
- Festivals and Events: Ireland hosts numerous festivals, including St. Patrick's Day in March and the Galway International Arts Festival in July. Local events, such as traditional music sessions and agricultural fairs, provide cultural insights.
- Packing Essentials: Prepare for variable weather by packing layers and waterproof clothing. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring both urban and rural areas. A universal power adapter is necessary for electronic devices.
- Safety and Health: Ireland is generally safe, but standard precautions apply. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112 or 999. Healthcare facilities are of a high standard; travel insurance is recommended to cover any medical expenses.
- Practical Apps: Utilize apps like Transport for Ireland for public transport information and Google Maps for navigation. Weather apps provide up-to-date forecasts to help plan daily activities.
- Shopping Tips: Popular souvenirs include Aran sweaters, Irish whiskey, and handcrafted jewelry. Markets and local craft shops offer unique items. Tax-free shopping is available for non-EU residents; inquire about refunds at the point of purchase.
By staying informed and respecting local customs, your journey through Ireland will be both enjoyable and memorable.
Ireland: Events in 2025
Ireland's 2025 calendar is brimming with cultural, sporting, and musical events that cater to a wide array of interests. Here's a curated selection of notable happenings:
Cultural and Music Festivals:
- St. Patrick's Festival: Centered around March 17, this nationwide celebration honors Ireland's patron saint with parades, music, and cultural performances. Dublin's festivities are particularly renowned.
- TradFest Temple Bar: Scheduled for January 22–26 in Dublin, this festival showcases traditional Irish music and culture, featuring performances in various venues across the city.
- Galway International Arts Festival: Typically held in July, this event brings together artists from around the globe for performances in theater, music, and visual arts.
- Galway Christmas Market: Running from November 8 to January 5, this festive market features over 50 wooden chalets, a carousel, Santa’s Grotto, and a German Bier Keller.
Sporting Events:
- The Open Championship: From July 17–20, Royal Portrush Golf Club in Northern Ireland will host the 153rd Open Championship, marking its return to Irish soil since 2019. Golf enthusiasts can anticipate world-class competition.
- GAA National Leagues: Commencing on January 25, the Gaelic Athletic Association's National Football and Hurling Leagues feature county teams competing across divisions. Highlights include a rematch between Galway and Armagh in Division 1 of the NFL at Pearse Stadium.
Concerts and Tours:
- Oasis Reunion Tour: The iconic band Oasis is set to reunite for the "Oasis Live '25" tour, with performances across the UK and Ireland starting in July. Dublin is among the anticipated stops, offering fans a chance to experience the band's return after 16 years.
- Dublin Concerts: The city will host a variety of artists throughout the year, including Christy Moore at Vicar Street on January 5 and 12, and James Bay at the 3Olympia Theatre on February 10.
Additional Festivals:
- Winterval Waterford: Ireland’s largest Christmas festival, taking place from November 15 to December 23, transforms Waterford into a winter wonderland with markets, light displays, and family-friendly activities.
- Pan Celtic Festival: Celebrating Celtic culture, this festival features music, dance, and language events, typically held in April.
Please note that event dates and details are subject to change. It's advisable to verify specifics closer to the time of each event to ensure the most current information.
USD/EUR Market Data
The below interactive chart displays the USD/EUR change and UP📈 DOWN📉 trends over the past 1 Year.
Send Money to Ireland - Best Rates
To get a good (and fair) exchange rate when sending money to Ireland you need to find and compare exchange rates for International Money Transfers (IMTs).
The available FX rates for sending money abroad can be very different to the mid-market (wholesale) rate which you see reported online and in the News.
You should especially compare your own bank's exchange rates to those available from Money Transfer specialists to see how much you can save - we make that calculation easy in the below table.
Get a better deal for foreign transfers to Ireland
When sending money to Ireland it’s important to compare your bank’s rates & fees with those we have negotiated with our partner money transfer providers. To get a better deal you should follow these 4 simple steps :
- Open an account with a BER reviewed FX provider (id docs may be required)
- You specify the local or Euro amount you want to transfer
- Make a local currency domestic transfer for the requested amount to the provider's bank account in your country
- Once your funds are received by the provider the converted EUR amount will be transfered to the recipient account you specify in Ireland.
Use the above calculator to compare the exchange rates of FX specialist providers rates versus your bank's standard rates you can hopefully save around 5% and maybe more - end result is more Euro deposited into the recipient bank account and less margins and fees kept by the banks!
Managing money while living and working in Ireland
Managing your money effectively while living and working abroad can be challenging, but there are several steps you can take to ensure that your finances are in order.
Understand Euro currency exchange rates: Exchange rates can have a big impact on your finances, so it is important to keep an eye on the EUR exchange rate and consider using a money transfer specialist or a credit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees to get the best exchange rate.
Use a local Euro bank account: A local EUR bank account can make it easier for you to manage your finances and pay bills while you are in Ireland. It may also be more convenient to use a local EUR bank account to make purchases and withdraw cash.
Research local laws and regulations: It is important to understand the local laws and regulations that apply to financial transactions in Ireland. This can help you avoid legal issues and ensure that you are complying with local requirements.
Consider the tax implications: It is important to understand the tax implications of living or doing business in Ireland. This can help you plan your finances and ensure that you are paying the correct amount of tax.
Seek financial advice: If you are unsure of how to manage your finances in Ireland, it is a good idea to seek the advice of a financial professional who is familiar with the local financial system. This can help you make informed decisions and avoid financial pitfalls.
We have put together some key points to help managing your money effectively, you can reduce financial stress and enjoy your experience living or doing business in Ireland.
How is the expat life in Ireland?
The expat life in Ireland is generally good. There are many opportunities to meet other expats and make friends. There are also many activities and events to get involved in.
What is doing business like in Ireland?
The business environment in Ireland is stable and conducive to doing business. The country has a pro-business government that is supportive of foreign investment. Ireland is a member of the European Union and the Eurozone, providing businesses with access to a large potential customer base. The country has a skilled workforce and a well-developed infrastructure. Taxes are relatively high, but the corporate tax rate is lower than in many other countries.
How is the economy in Ireland?
The economy in Ireland is considered to be strong. Ireland has a low unemployment rate and has experienced strong economic growth in recent years.