WELCOME TO WATERFORD
From its vibrant city life to its rural charm and stunning coastline, Waterford city and county has something for everyone. Waterford is the oldest city in Ireland and is the perfect blend of ancient and modern, the hallmark of what is Ireland's Ancient East. Enjoy the historic streets and local atmosphere right on our doorstep, take in a walking tour or browse the many local boutiques and quirky shops.
Waterford is renowned for its exciting festivals and events with a wide range of enjoyable experiences for guests of all ages. There's so much to see and do in the historical city of Waterford. Check out Visit Waterford's handy guided map for all the information you'll need.
Do you have a question? We will be pleased to help you! Please email us or connect with us on Facebook and Twitter and we'll be happy to help you.
The Freedom of Waterford ticket allows the visitor to enjoy an ‘Epic’ walking tour of the Viking Triangle with an expert guide, taking in 1,000 years of history in 1,000 paces. Plus complete access to the Medieval Museum, Bishop’s Palace, The Irish Museum of Time, Irish Silver Museum and Christ Church Cathedral.
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WATERFORD CITY ATTRACTIONS
Located in the Viking Triangle, these three museums offer a comprehensive history of Waterford over 1100 years:
Reginald’s Tower: Displays Viking artifacts and tells the story of Waterford's Viking heritage.
Medieval Museum: Features treasures from Medieval Waterford.
Bishop’s Palace: Houses artifacts from the 18th to 20th centuries in an elegant Neo-Classical building.
The King of the Vikings 3D Virtual Reality Adventure
Experience the world's first Viking 3D Virtual Reality Adventure in a replica Viking house. Open daily from 10:30 am to 5:00 pm, with a lunch break from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm.
The House of Waterford Crystal
Visit the new home of Waterford Crystal in the heart of the city. The factory tour provides an up-close look at traditional crystal production, including wooden mould making, crystal blowing, cutting, and finishing.
Enjoy a theatrical tour through Waterford's streets. Tickets are available at the Medieval Museum and the Bishop’s Palace, with no pre-booking required.
Visit this historic site, located on the grounds of an 11th-century Viking church. It's where English knight Strongbow married Irish Princess Aoife in 1170, making it one of Ireland's most important historic sites.
City Walking Tours with Jack Burtchaell
Explore Waterford's rich history with guided tours from Jack Burtchaell, who has been showcasing the city since 1990.
Located near Waterford City, this park offers a 2km walkway and various paths through meadows, providing a great way for children to interact with nature.
WATERFORD COUNTY AND BEYOND
Ireland's longest Greenway, this route takes visitors from the city to the mountains, through the countryside to the sea. It is ideal for cyclists, walkers, families, and adventurers. For a more leisurely experience, visit midweek to avoid crowds.
Explore one of the world's great gardens at Mount Congreve, built in 1760 by architect John Roberts.
Waterford and Suir Valley Railway
Enjoy a train ride in a period carriage along a narrow-gauge railway with panoramic views of the River Suir. Located 15km from the Viking Triangle, this is a fun experience for families.
The Copper Coast Geo Park & Scenic Drive
Drive along the 17km stretch of coast between Tramore and Dungarvan, known as the Copper Coast. This UNESCO Geopark offers stunning coastal landscapes.
Visit Lismore, just 50 minutes from Waterford City. Explore the Lismore Heritage Centre, Lismore Castle Gardens, and the Castle Arts. Joint tickets are available for a comprehensive experience.
The Seaside Village of Dunmore East
This village offers two blue flag beaches, seafood restaurants, dramatic cliff walks, and award-winning 99s. Located just 20 minutes from the city center, it’s a perfect getaway.
Enjoy four miles of golden sand perfect for surfing, kitesurfing, or stand-up paddleboarding. Visit local coffee shops, the Doneraile Walk, CoastGuard Cultural Centre, and enjoy a bag of salty chips while watching spectacular sunsets.
A picturesque harbor town known for its annual food festival and warm hospitality. It’s the gateway to the West of the county, including the Nire Valley, Ring, Stradbally, and Clonea. Explore the scenic coastal drive from Waterford to Cork, one of Ireland's prettiest routes.
