About Waterford
Waterford, Ireland's oldest city and a captivating county in the southeast, offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Founded by Vikings in 914 AD, Waterford City is famed for its exquisite crystal, with the House of Waterford Crystal providing mesmerizing factory tours. History buffs can explore the Viking Triangle, home to Reginald's Tower and the Medieval Museum. Beyond the city, the county unfolds with dramatic coastline along the Copper Coast Geopark, a UNESCO Global Geopark featuring stunning cliffs, coves, and the charming village of Dunmore East. The lush Comeragh Mountains offer spectacular hiking, including the iconic 'Coumshingaun' corrie lake. The River Suir provides excellent fishing and scenic walks. Waterford's vibrant cultural scene includes the Spraoi festival and the Waterford International Music Festival. Renowned for its fresh local produce, especially the 'Blaa' bread roll, and as part of Ireland's Ancient East, Waterford blends ancient heritage with warm hospitality, making it a uniquely rewarding destination.
Things to do in Waterford
Dunmore East Sea Safari to Hook Lighthouse
Osprey Viking Cruises
From €55
4.9 (62)
Skip the Line: Hook Lighthouse Entrance Ticket and Guided Tour
From €14
4.9 (487)
Sea Cave Kayaking Experience
From €89.99
4.9 (270)
Irish Wake Museum Tour Rituals of Death and Celebration of Life
From €14.5
4.9 (132)
Waterford Treasures: Bishop's Palace
From €13.5
4.7 (60)
Waterford Treasures: Medieval Museum Admission Ticket
From €13.5
4.7 (140)
House of Waterford Crystal Guided Factory Tour
From €18.5
4.6 (2342)
Waterford Treasures: Epic Walking Tour
From €13.5
4.6 (166)
Lafcadio Hearn Japanese Gardens Admission Adult Ticket
From €8
4.6 (65)
Waterford Treasures: King of the Vikings Virtual Reality Tour
From €13.5
4.5 (51)
Full day Private Tour from Waterford
Waterford, Kilkenny and House of Waterford Crystal
From €512
4.2 (12)
Waterford City Top 10 Highlights Walking Tour
From €39
4.2 (13)
Semi Private tour Rock of Cashel - Cahir castle & Kilkenny
From €199
3.4 (11)Places to visit in Waterford
High Point
High Point, L7469, County Kilkenny, Ireland
Diamond Hill Country House
Diamond Hill Country House, L3411, County Waterford, Ireland
Noel Browne
Noel Browne, Poleberry, County Waterford, Ireland
St. Patrick
St. Patrick, Jenkin's Lane, County Waterford, Ireland
Last Journey
Last Journey, Grattan Quay, County Waterford, Ireland
Coastguard Station
Coastguard Station, Doneraile Drive, County Waterford, Ireland
Rushmere House
Rushmere House, Lower Branch Road, Tramore, County Waterford, Ireland
Fairbrook House
Fairbrook House, N25, Ballyduff, County Waterford, Ireland
Majestic Hotel
Majestic Hotel, Lower Branch Road, Tramore, County Waterford, Ireland
Woodlands Hotel
Woodlands Hotel, Dunmore Road, Waterford, County Waterford, Ireland
Dunbrody Abbey Visitor Centre
Dunbrody Abbey Visitor Centre, L40343, New Ross, County Wexford, Ireland
Slievecoiltia
Slievecoiltia, New Ross, County Wexford, Ireland
Thomas Francis Meagher
Thomas Francis Meagher, The Mall, County Waterford, Ireland
Portree House
Portree House, 10-11 Mary Street, Waterford Distillery, Waterford, County Waterford, Ireland
Vadrafjordr Longboat
Vadrafjordr Longboat, Parade Quay, County Waterford, Ireland
Travel Tips for Waterford
Getting Around
Within Waterford City, walking is best for the compact centre. Local bus services (Bus Éireann) connect the city with suburbs and some towns. For exploring the county, renting a car is highly recommended to access remote beaches, mountains, and villages. Taxis are available in urban areas; use local taxi ranks or apps like Free Now. Train services (Irish Rail) connect Waterford to major cities like Dublin and Limerick. Bicycles can be rented for city and greenway exploration; the Waterford Greenway is a 46km off-road trail perfect for cycling and walking.
Best Time To Visit
Late May to September offers the warmest and driest weather, ideal for coastal exploration and festivals like Spraoi (August). July and August are peak tourist seasons. The shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October provide milder weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful spring blooms or autumn colours, perfect for hiking. Winter is quieter with shorter days but has a festive charm around Christmas.
Local Customs
Irish pub culture is central; pubs are social hubs. A friendly, informal atmosphere prevails. Greet with a handshake. Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory: 10-15% in restaurants if service charge not included, round up taxi fares, and tip hotel porters. Dress is casual but smart-casual for nicer restaurants. When visiting churches or religious sites, modest dress is respectful. Punctuality is relaxed but be reasonable. Engaging in friendly conversation ('the craic') is welcomed.
Safety Information
Waterford is generally very safe for travelers. Exercise normal precautions against petty crime like pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas. At night, stick to well-lit, populated areas in city centers. Rural roads can be narrow and winding; drive cautiously. Be aware of weather changes, especially when hiking in the Comeraghs or along the coast. Common scams are rare but be cautious of unsolicited approaches or too-good-to-be-true offers. The city centre and popular tourist villages are considered safe.
Health Information
Medical care is of a high standard. The primary public hospital is University Hospital Waterford. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens should carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or the new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) for necessary state-provided healthcare. Non-EU travelers should have comprehensive travel insurance. No specific vaccinations are required for Ireland. Tick-borne Lyme disease is a minimal risk in grassy/wooded areas; use insect repellent. Tap water is safe to drink. Pharmacies (chemists) are widely available for minor ailments.
Languages Spoken
EnglishIrish (Gaelic)
Quick Facts
Currency
Euro (EUR)
€
€
Timezone
Europe/Dublin +00:00 (GMT) / +01:00 (IST)
Calling Code
+353
Electricity
Driving Side
Left
Population
approximately 127,000
Area
1857 km²
Government
Local government administered by Waterford City and County Council
ISO Code
WD