Are cards accepted in small Irish towns and rural pubs, or do I still need cash?
Cards are the norm now, in small towns as much as in cities. Visa and Mastercard are taken in most pubs, cafes and shops, and contactless covers up to 50 euro a tap; paying by phone often goes higher. Cash still earns its place in a short list of spots: some rural pubs, market stalls, honesty boxes at country sights, coin parking meters and the odd B&B that prefers it. Carry 60 to 100 euro in notes and some coins, top up at ATMs in the bigger towns, and never rely on American Express as your only card. It is accepted in far fewer places outside the cities.
Useful pages: Money and tipping in Ireland · Shopping in Ireland · Packing checklist · Travel notices · Healthcare and emergencies · Irish weather · Festivals and events · Dublin · Ireland dos and don'ts · Solo travel in Ireland · First time visitor tips
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