Currency & Banks

The Republic of Ireland uses the Euro, the common European currency, while Northern Ireland uses UK Sterling. However, most large stores in Northern Ireland accept Euro as well. Bank opening times are generally: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday banks are open 10am-4pm.Thursdays 10am-5pm in Dublin (and some other regions). 

Banks in smaller towns generally open until 5pm one day a week. In small towns and rural areas, banks may close for lunch between 12.30pm and 1.30pm. 

In Northern Ireland, most banks open 9.30am-4.30pm Monday-Friday, with some opening longer hours and on Saturday.

Any credit cards that bear the Visa or MasterCard logo will be widely accepted in Ireland. Visitors with other cards, including ones with the American Express symbol, should ask in advance if it will be accepted.