Though it may appear simple, it is not as simple as it seems. Ireland is actually divided into two parts: the Republic and Northern Ireland. The Euro, denoted by the symbol € and currency code EUR, is the official currency of the Republic of Ireland. Northern Ireland, on the other hand, uses the pound sterling (represented by the symbol £ and the currency code GBP) since it is part of the United Kingdom. In border regions, you may be able to use both currencies interchangeably, but this should not be assumed to be the case everywhere. Shops that accept foreign currency will use their own exchange rate to make a profit (which can sometimes be quite favorable). You'll receive change in the currency of the country you're visiting.

Ireland’s official currency is the euro (EUR), which is the only legal tender for everyday transactions across the country. Coins and banknotes issued by the European Central Bank and the Central Bank of Ireland are widely accepted in shops, restaurants, hotels, and public transport. While some tourist-focused businesses in major cities may accept British pounds (GBP), especially near the Northern Ireland border or in airports, this is not common practice, and exchange rates are usually less favourable. Credit and debit cards are widely used, with Visa and Mastercard being the most accepted. Digital payment methods like Apple Pay and Google Pay are also popular. For travellers, carrying euros in cash is useful, but electronic payments dominate daily spending.