Things Not to Do in Ireland (My Advice to You as a Local)
Irish culture is unique, to say the least. And there are customs that are only practiced in Ireland, and you should know about them before visiting Ireland. For example, the different counties have different expressions that they use constantly – in Cork, “I will yeah” means I won’t, and in Dublin, “deadly” means amazing. So, try to learn a couple of these key phrases before coming here.
In Ireland, we take our friendliness very seriously, and we will try to strike up a conversation at any given opportunity, be it in the queue for the store or while passing you in the street.
Oh, and you should never miss your turn paying for a round at the pub.
In this article, you’ll learn what not to do in Ireland and what mistakes to avoid when visiting our lovely Emerald Isle.
Common tourist mistakes and etiquette slip-ups to avoid in Ireland
1. Don’t skip your round at the pub
This one explains itself really, if you’re out with a group of Irish people in a pub – it’s common to go on rounds. Which means each person will take their turn buying a round of drinks for the table. Please don’t leave before it’s your turn – or you will never be invited out again (us Irish always remember).
2. On that note, don’t just drink Guinness
While Guinness is our most famous export, don’t limit yourself to just the black stuff. Ireland boasts a burgeoning craft beer scene with innovative breweries dotted across the country (we really rate Blacks Brewery in Kinsale and Franciscan Well Brewery).
You should also try a creamy pint of Murphy’s if you’re visiting Cork or a refreshing Galway Hooker when you’re on the west coast. We locals will appreciate it. And if beer isn’t your thing, sample some of our fine whiskeys – Slane, Redbreast, and Teeling are just a few of the local favorites.
3. Tip for great service – it’s appreciated not mandatory
In Ireland, tipping is as laid-back as a Sunday morning. Unlike in the States, where tipping is practically an art form, the Irish approach is more “go with the flow.” A tip is not a must-do, but it’s like giving a friendly nod to good service. At restaurants, leaving around 10% is the norm if you’re happy with your meal. But do keep an eye on the bill – sometimes a service charge sneaks in for bigger groups.
When it comes to pubs, tipping is as rare as a unicorn sighting. If you’re feeling generous, rounding up to the nearest euro or leaving a bit of change can be a nice touch. For taxi drivers, a small tip or rounding up the fare is a way of saying, “Thanks for the ride!” Hotel staff might earn a few euros for helping with luggage or going above and beyond.
In Ireland, tipping is more about showing appreciation and spreading a little cheer rather than fulfilling an obligation.
4. Calling the Republic of Ireland part of the UK
I could write a whole other blog post on the history between Ireland and the UK, but to put it in simple terms – it’s complicated and a sore subject for many. The Republic of Ireland (it has 26 counties, including Dublin, Cork and Galway) is NOT part of the United Kingdom.
The 6 counties in Northern Ireland are part of the UK, and they use British pounds (GBP) as their currency, and it is under the jurisdiction of the UK, with its own devolved government handling local matters. The six counties in Northern Ireland include Armagh, Antrim, Derry, Down, Fermanagh and Tyrone. Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland, is located in the county of Antrim.
5. Calling it St Pattys Day
It is St Patrick’s Day or Paddy’s Day – please don’t call it ‘Patty’s Day ‘; that makes us think of burgers 🙂
Saying Patty instead of Paddy is one of my top mistakes to avoid when visiting Ireland.
6. Don’t skip the local lingo
Try not to get flustered by our local lingo. We love a good chinwag, and you might hear phrases that make you scratch your head. For instance, if someone says, “I’m off to the jacks,” they simply mean they’re going to the restroom. And if you’re told to “give it a lash,” it means to give something a try.
Embrace the vernacular, and you’ll find yourself blending in with us locals in no time!
7. Avoid sticking to the beaten path
It’s tempting to stick to the tourist hotspots like the Cliffs of Moher or Dublin’s Temple Bar, but Ireland is brimming with hidden gems. Venture off the beaten path and explore the lesser-known spots like the enchanting Glendalough in County Wicklow or the quaint lakeside spot Gougane Barra in County Cork. You’ll discover the true spirit of Ireland in these tucked-away treasures.
8. Don’t underestimate the weather
Ah, the Irish weather – a topic we never tire of discussing. It’s a well-known fact that Ireland can experience all four seasons in a single day. Don’t make the rookie mistake of assuming the sun will stick around. Always pack a raincoat and a sturdy pair of shoes, even if the sky looks clear when you leave your accommodation. As us locals say, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing!”
P.S. You can check out my fool-proof Ireland packing guide here.
9. Don’t misjudge Irish hospitality
Irish hospitality is world-renowned, and for good reason. We love a good chat and are always up for making new friends. Don’t be shy about striking up conversations with locals in pubs or on the street. Just remember, the Irish are masters of storytelling, so take everything with a pinch of salt!
10. Always say ‘Thank You’
Politeness is a prized trait in Ireland, and a simple ‘thank you’ can go a long way. Whether you’re hopping off the bus, paying for your pint, or receiving directions, a warm ‘thank you’ will always be appreciated. And if you’re feeling particularly courteous, throw in a ‘cheers’ – it’s the Irish way of expressing gratitude.
11. Don’t neglect the local cuisine
While Ireland isn’t always known for its culinary delights, our food scene has blossomed in recent years. Don’t miss out on trying some traditional Irish fare. A hearty bowl of Irish stew or a plate of fresh mussels will do wonders for the soul. And of course, try a full Irish breakfast at least once – it’s the perfect fuel for a day of exploration.
12. And don’t forget to enjoy the craic
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy the craic. The Irish word ‘craic’ (pronounced ‘crack’) is all about having a good time. Whether you’re laughing over a pint, dancing to traditional music, or simply soaking in the stunning views, let yourself be swept up in the magic of Ireland. After all, it’s not just a place; it’s a feeling.
Thanks for Reading!
So, there you have it, a local’s guide to things not to do in Ireland. Follow these tips, and you’re sure to have an awesome time in Ireland.
You might also like to read –
Best Souvenirs & Things to Buy in Ireland
Understanding Irish Place Names (The Gaelic meaning of Irish towns and cities)
Visiting Ireland in the Winter: The Best Places to Visit in Ireland in Winter
