Irish Etiquette: Thanking the Bus Driver

If you’ve ever taken a bus in Ireland, you might have noticed something a little different as people get off. Almost every passenger will turn to the driver and say a quick “Thanks”, “Cheers”, or  “Thanks a million” before stepping out onto the pavement. It’s one of those small, everyday gestures that is ingrained in Irish culture.

In this blog, we’ll dive into the why Irish people thank the bus driver, where else you’ll see this same gesture, and how visitors  to Ireland can embrace this charming bit of Irish etiquette.

Why Do Irish People Thank the Bus Driver?

Irish people are famous for their warmth and friendliness, and small gestures like thanking the bus driver are just part of how we interact with one another. It’s not just about being polite, it’s about acknowledging the person who’s provided a service and recognising their work. It’s no secret that in Ireland, a small chat with a stranger can easily turn into a full conversation about the weather, the economy, and what your cousin is up to these days, and this little habit is just another way of showing kindness.

In some countries, getting off a bus is just that – getting off. But in Ireland, the bus driver isn’t just some faceless figure behind the wheel. They’re part of the daily rhythm of life, ferrying people to work, school, or a night out. So, whether it’s a quiet “Thanks a mill” as you hop off or a cheerful “Cheers” after a late-night journey home, this simple act adds to the sense of community that’s so strong in Ireland.

And it doesn’t stop with buses. Irish people love to show appreciation in all sorts of settings. Ordering a pint in The Temple Bar Pub? You’ll thank the bartender. Getting your morning coffee? A quick “Thanks a mill” will follow. Hop in a taxi? You’ll hear a “Sound, thanks again” as the passenger hops out. These little moments of gratitude aren’t forced in Ireland, they’re really just a natural part of daily life. If you’re visiting, don’t be shy about joining in. A quick “Thanks” will go a long way in making you feel like a local.

How to Thank Someone Like an Irish Person 

If you want to blend in with the locals, knowing how to say thanks the Irish way is a good place to start. Irish people have a few favourite ways to show appreciation, and it’s all about keeping it casual and friendly. One of the most common phrases you’ll hear is “Thanks a million” or ‘’Thanks a mill’’. It’s used everywhere, from pubs to taxis, and always said with a smile. If you’re in a pub or a café, “Cheers” is just as popular, and it’s often used in place of a simple thank you.

Want to sound even more local? Try “Sound”, an Irish favourite used to say thanks, and can also describe someone or something in a positive way. If you hear that someone is sound, it means they’re nice! If a bartender hands you a pint or a shop assistant gives you your receipt, a quick “Sound, thanks” will have you blending in in no time.

No matter which phrase you use, the key is to say it with genuine warmth. Irish people love a bit of friendly chat, and a simple “thanks” is often just the start of a conversation. So, if you’re visiting Ireland, don’t be shy, throw in a “Thanks a million” and see where it takes you!

When You Shouldn’t Thank the Bus Driver in Ireland

While thanking the bus driver is practically a national tradition, there is one situation where it might be best to hold off: when you’re in the middle of rush hour and you’re exiting the bus by the middle or back doors, not at the top door by the driver.

If you’re on a packed double-decker bus, trying to squeeze your way to the top exit  might hold things up, and if you’re exiting from a different door, shouting “Thanks’’ across a bus load of people is not necessary.

The rule of thumb? If it’s easy to say thanks, do it. If the bus is packed and the driver is trying to stay on schedule, a quick nod or a raised hand does the job just as well.

And if you forget altogether? Don’t worry, just make up for it by thanking the next bus driver, bartender, or barista you meet. 

Overall, thanking the bus driver might seem like a small thing, but in Ireland, the land of a thousand welcomes, it’s part  of our culture. .

So, if you’re visiting Dublin, don’t be shy, join in! Thank the bus driver, raise a toast in the pub, and embrace the warmth that makes Ireland so special. And if you’re in Temple Bar, pop into The Temple Bar Pub, where the friendly atmosphere is just as strong as the perfect pint. Sláinte!

Thank you for reading our blog ‘Irish Etiquette: Thanking the Bus Driver in Ireland’. We hope to see you at The Temple Bar Pub soon.