Dublin Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Staying Connected

Mobile providers and internet access details for travelers.

Communication Options

Local SIM Cards: Vodafone, Three, Eir at airport/shops.
eSIM offers digital data plans. Explore Airalo.
Portable Wi-Fi from Solis Wi-Fi is an option.

Language & Etiquette

Language Insights

English is universally spoken.
Irish (Gaelic) is an official language.
Language learning with Rosetta Stone.

Useful Phrases

Learning a few basic Irish phrases demonstrates appreciation for the local culture.

Common Greetings

Dia dhuit (Dee-a Gwit): Hello.
Go raibh maith agat (Guh rov mah ag-at): Thank you.
Sláinte (Slawn-cha): Cheers/Health.

Postal Services

Ireland's national postal service, An Post, offers convenient mail services.

Mail & Stamps

Post offices across Dublin.
Send postcards or packages.
Stamps available at post offices and newsagents.

Internet Access & Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi Availability

Widely available in Dublin.
Hotels, hostels, cafes, pubs offer free Wi-Fi.
Dublin City Council provides public Wi-Fi in central areas.
Reliable 4G and 5G mobile data coverage.

Mobile Data Coverage

Excellent mobile data coverage throughout Dublin.
Most of Ireland has reliable 4G/5G.
Some very remote areas may have limited signal.
Staying connected on the go.

Language Tip

While English is spoken everywhere, learning a few Irish phrases is a reflective gesture. Road signs are bilingual (Irish and English) outside Gaeltacht regions.

Business Hours & Schedules

Knowing typical opening times for businesses and services.

Retail Shops

Generally 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Mon-Wed, Fri-Sat), later on Thursdays.

Banks

Most operate 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (Mon-Fri), some extend on Thursdays.

Restaurants

Lunch AROUND 12:00 PM - 2:30 PM. Dinner 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM.

Pubs & ATMs

Evening entertainment and cash access points.

Timings

Pubs generally 10:30 AM - 11:30 PM (Mon-Thurs).
ATMs widely available on streets, banks, supermarkets.
Some late bars and clubs have extended licenses.

Attraction Hours

Cultural sites and points of interest.

Operating Times

Most open 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM.
Closing between 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM.
Always check individual attraction websites.

Public Holidays

Official Holidays

New Year's Day (The START of the new year).
St. Patrick's Day (March 17).
Easter Monday.

Bank Holidays

First Monday in May, June, and August.
Last Monday during The month of october.
Christmas Day & St. Stephen's Day.

Seasonal Adjustments

Some smaller, seasonal attractions, especially outdoor or rural ones, may close or have reduced operating hours during winter. Always check websites or call ahead to confirm.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Navigate Dublin's social landscape with these insights into local customs.

Social Interactions

Easy greetings and common courtesies are appreciated.

Greeting Customs

Informal "hello" or "hi" is common.
A handshake is typical for introductions.
"Please," "thank you," and "sorry" are frequently used.

Dining & Dress Codes

Guidelines for meals and suitable attire.

Practices

Wait to be seated in restaurants.
Casual and comfortable clothing for most situations.
Smart casual for mid-range to upscale restaurants.

Photography Ethics

Respect privacy and observe restrictions when taking photos.

Considerations

Ask permission before photographing individuals.
Observe "no photography" signs.
No flash pictures where prohibited.

Religious Site Etiquette

Show respect when visiting churches or cathedrals.

Guidelines

Dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered).
Maintain a quiet demeanor.
Photography without flash generally acceptable (check signs).

Sensitive Topics

Discussion Points

Approach politics and Northern Ireland with caution.
Respect religious beliefs and practices.
Steer clear of using "Top of the Morning" - it's not local.

Cultural Missteps

Avoid strong opinions on complex history.
Listen more compared to you speak on certain subjects.
Be mindful of local identity hints.

Gender Considerations & LGBTQ+

Inclusivity in Ireland

Progressive views on gender equality.
Same-sex marriage is legal.
Discrimination based on sexual orientation is illegal.

Social Acceptance

Generally welcoming and open environment.
Modern, Western European country.
Open conversations are common.

Tipping Guidelines

Tipping 10-15% for good service in restaurants. Round up for taxis. Pub staff do not expect tips for drinks at the bar.

Accessibility Information

Information for travelers with mobility challenges in Dublin.

Accessible Infrastructure

Dublin's accessibility undergoes continuous improvement, especially in newer facilities and transport systems.

Accessibility Features

Most Dublin Bus services feature low-floor access.
All Luas trams and stops are fully accessible.
Major attractions with ramps and lifts.

Services for Impairments

Support for travelers with visual or hearing impairments.

Assistance Available

Some public transportation and attractions offer audio guides.
Tactile maps available in certain locations.
Assistance dogs are generally welcome.

Resources & Organizations

Information and support for accessibility planning.

Helpful Tools

DisabledGo (AccessAble) provides detailed guides.
Irish Wheelchair Association for information.
Access Earth app/website for user-generated data.

Challenges & Solutions

Recognizing potential difficulties and how to get around them.

Points to Note

Older districts feature cobblestone streets (e.g., Temple Bar).
Some older buildings and pubs present challenges.
Airport services like Priority Pass enhance travel.

Flight Compensation

For unexpected flight disruptions, services exist to assist.

Delayed or Cancelled FlightsPotential for compensation.

Denied Boarding situationsClaim assistance available.

Service helps customers receiveCompensation for disruptions.

Explore CompensairFor claims.

Cobblestone Street Caution

Older areas like Temple Bar feature cobblestone streets, presenting mobility challenges for some travelers. Plan routes accordingly.

Dublin Travel Tips