Irish Pub & Culture Guide

Navigate Ireland’s cultural landscape with confidence.

Welcome to Ireland, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern life, and where the art of conversation is elevated to pure poetry. This is a land where strangers are treated as friends yet to be made, and where the local pub serves as both social hub and cultural parliament.

The Irish way of life is characterised by its warmth, wit, and an unhurried appreciation for life’s simple pleasures—whether it’s sharing stories over a perfectly poured pint, joining in impromptu music sessions, or simply passing the time with friendly banter. While Ireland has embraced all the conveniences of modern Europe, it’s still a place where genuine human connection and “having the craic” (good times) remain at the heart of daily life.

This guide will help you navigate the subtle nuances of Irish culture, ensuring you can embrace these cherished traditions with confidence and authenticity.

Pub Etiquette

The pub is central to Irish social life. Follow these customs to fit right in:

Ordering: Order and pay at the bar – table service is rare except in gastropubs.

Rounds System: Groups often take turns buying ’rounds’ for everyone. If you join a round, be prepared to buy one back.

Closing Time: Last orders are typically called 20-30 minutes before closing. Finish up promptly when asked.

Guinness: Don’t rush the pour – it’s normal for a proper Guinness to take several minutes to settle.

Tipping Culture

Tipping in Ireland is more modest than in North America. Here’s what you need to know:

Restaurants: 10-12.5% for good service. Check if service charge is already included.

Pubs: Tipping isn’t expected for drinks at the bar. For table service, rounding up or leaving €1-2 is appreciated.

Taxis: Round up to the nearest euro or add 10% for longer journeys.

Hotels: €1-2 per bag for porters, €2-3 per day for housekeeping.

Cultural Tips & Etiquette

Greetings: A handshake and direct eye contact is normal. Irish people tend to be friendly and informal.

Punctuality: While business meetings require punctuality, social gatherings are more relaxed. “Irish time” can be flexible.

Conversation: Irish people love chat and banter, however politics and religion can be sensitive topics – follow their lead.

Live Music & Trad Sessions

Live music is woven into the fabric of Irish life, from casual pub sessions to formal concerts. Here’s what you need to know:

What’s a Session? A “trad session” is an informal gathering of musicians playing traditional Irish music. These usually happen in pubs and anyone with an instrument and knowledge of the music can join in.

Where to Find Music:

Traditional pubs often host sessions several nights a week – check their schedule boards outside
Popular areas include Dublin’s Temple Bar, Galway’s Shop Street, and Doolin or Dingle towns.
Many tourist offices have listings of regular sessions in their area

Session Etiquette:

Keep conversation quiet when musicians are playing
It’s fine to take photos, but avoid flash photography
Musicians typically aren’t paid – buying them a drink is appreciated
Wait for natural breaks between songs to order drinks or move around

What to Expect:

Sessions usually start between 21:00 and 22:00
Music ranges from lively jigs and reels to soulful ballads
Some venues have scheduled performers, while others host impromptu sessions
Dancing isn’t common at sessions but is welcome at céilís (traditional dance events)

Local Tip: For the most authentic experience, seek out pubs away from tourist hotspots. Local musicians often prefer quieter venues where the music takes centre stage rather than serving as background entertainment.