Things To Do
in Waterford

Waterford, Ireland, is the oldest city in the country, known for its rich history dating back to the Viking era. It boasts stunning medieval architecture, charming narrow streets, and a vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore the famous Waterford Crystal factory and enjoy the picturesque waterfront along the River Suir.

The city is also a gateway to the scenic landscapes of the surrounding county, making it an ideal base for exploring the southeast of Ireland.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Waterford
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Waterford Crystal factory for a guided tour to see the craftsmanship behind this iconic Irish brand.

afternoon
:

Explore the medieval district, including Reginald's Tower and the Bishop's Palace, to learn about the city's Viking heritage.

evening
:

Dine at The Reg, a local pub offering traditional Irish fare, followed by a stroll along the waterfront to enjoy the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Local Flavors and Surroundings
morning
:

Visit the Waterford Farmers Market to sample local produce and artisanal goods, held every Saturday.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely walk through the beautiful Waterford Greenway, a scenic trail that follows the old railway line.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at The Olive Tree, known for its Mediterranean-inspired dishes, and end the night with live music at a nearby pub.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-30
Coffee$3-5
🍺Pint of beer$5-7
🏨Hotel per night$80-150
🚉Train ticket to Dublin$20-40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Variable weather with frequent rain.
  • Less nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Some attractions may have limited opening hours.
  • "Dia dhuit" - Hello
  • "Slán" - Goodbye
  • "Le do thoil" - Please
  • "Go raibh maith agat" - Thank you
  • "Conas atá tú?" - How are you?

Places to Visit in Waterford

Visit one of these nice places.

Reginald's Tower

A historic landmark and the oldest civic building in Ireland, offering stunning views of the city from the top.

Waterford Quay

The picturesque waterfront area provides beautiful views of the River Suir and is perfect for sunset photography.

Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity

A magnificent example of Gothic architecture, this cathedral features beautiful stained glass windows and intricate stonework.

Culinary Guide

Food in Waterford

Waterford offers a delightful culinary scene that blends traditional Irish dishes with modern influences, ensuring a memorable gastronomic experience.

Waterford Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Seafood Chowder

A creamy and hearty soup made with fresh local seafood, perfect for warming up after a day out exploring.

Must-Try!

Boxty

A traditional Irish potato pancake often served with fillings like smoked salmon or bacon.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Waterford Farmers Market

Held every Saturday, this market features local produce, artisan cheeses, baked goods, and more.

Climate Guide

Weather

Waterford experiences a maritime climate, characterized by mild winters and cool summers. Average temperatures range from 5°C (41°F) in winter to about 20°C (68°F) in summer. Rain is frequent throughout the year, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella. The city enjoys long daylight hours in summer, while winter days are shorter and can be overcast.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Being polite and using 'please' and 'thank you' is highly valued in Irish culture.

Queueing

Always queue patiently in line; cutting in is considered rude.

Respecting Personal Space

While the Irish are friendly, it's important to respect personal space and not to be overly intrusive.

Safety Guide

Safety

Waterford is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure. It's advisable to be cautious near water and follow local guidelines when partaking in outdoor activities.

Tipping in Waterford

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In restaurants, a tip of around 10-15% is appreciated if service is not included in the bill. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is customary.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit and debit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter

Expect cold weather with temperatures averaging 5-10°C (41-50°F). It's a quieter time to visit, with cozy pubs and festive decorations.

Spring

Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a lovely time for outdoor activities. Average temperatures range from 8-15°C (46-59°F).

Summer

Summer is warm and vibrant, with temperatures averaging 15-20°C (59-68°F). This is the peak tourist season, with many festivals and outdoor events.

Autumn

Autumn offers cooler temperatures (10-15°C or 50-59°F) and beautiful fall foliage. It's a great time to explore the countryside.

Nightlife Guide

Waterford at Night

Waterford's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, with various pubs, bars, and clubs catering to different tastes. Traditional music sessions are common in many pubs, providing a lively atmosphere for both locals and visitors. You can also find modern bars and cocktail lounges in the city center, offering a more contemporary nightlife experience. The local crowd is friendly and welcoming, making it easy to mingle and enjoy a night out.

Hiking in Waterford

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Misery

A challenging hike with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and coastline, suitable for experienced hikers.

The Comeragh Mountains

Featuring a variety of trails for all skill levels, these mountains offer breathtaking landscapes, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Waterford by plane.

Waterford Airport

Located about 10 km from the city center, Waterford Airport offers flights to a limited number of destinations, primarily within Ireland and the UK.

Getting Around

Walkability

Waterford is quite walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions are located within a short distance of each other. The streets are generally pedestrian-friendly, with plenty of sidewalks and crossings. Walking is a great way to explore the city's rich history and discover hidden gems around every corner.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population is predominantly Irish, with a mix of ages and backgrounds, contributing to a vibrant community spirit.

Tourists

Waterford attracts a diverse range of tourists, from history enthusiasts to outdoor adventurers, drawn by its rich heritage and natural beauty.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Hurling

Hurling is a traditional Irish sport and is particularly popular in Waterford, with local clubs competing at various levels.

Rugby

Rugby is also a favored sport in the region, with a strong community and clubs that engage in local and national competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Waterford is generally manageable, with peak times occurring during morning and evening commutes. Public transportation options include buses that connect the city with surrounding areas, though many visitors find walking or cycling preferable. Parking is available but can be limited in the city center, especially during busy times.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Waterford.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Waterford offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check the menu beforehand.

Gluten-Free

Some establishments provide gluten-free options; however, it's recommended to inform your server of any dietary restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Waterford is accessible, with several public and private hospitals available, including University Hospital Waterford. Pharmacies are also widely available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. EU citizens can access healthcare under the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) scheme, while others may want to consider travel insurance.

Discover Ireland

Read more in our Ireland 2025 Travel Guide.

Ireland Travel Guide