Imagine yourself stepping back in time, exploring Viking settlements and medieval lanes, and then being dazzled by exquisite crystal. This is Waterford, a city of captivating contrasts and rich heritage, awaiting your discovery on Ireland's south-east coast.
The Viking Triangle
One of the highlights of Waterford is the Viking Triangle, an area of the city that has been beautifully preserved and features a number of historic buildings and attractions. This includes Reginald’s Tower, a 12th-century tower that was once used as a fortification by the Vikings, and the Waterford Museum of Treasures, which houses a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the city’s long and fascinating history.
Waterford Crystal
Another must-see attraction in Waterford is the Waterford Crystal factory. Here, visitors can watch master craftsmen at work as they create beautiful pieces of crystal using traditional methods that have been passed down for generations. The factory also houses a museum where visitors can learn about the history of Waterford Crystal and see some of the most beautiful pieces ever made.
Outdoors & Nearby
For those interested in the outdoors, Waterford is home to a variety of parks and gardens. The stunning Mount Congreve Gardens, for example, features over 70 acres of landscaped gardens that are bursting with color and beauty throughout the year.
On the West of County Waterford you can find Lismore. There you visit the wonderful Lismore Castle, and the Lismore Heritage Centre.
Getting There
By Air
Waterford Airport (WAT): While Waterford has its own airport, it currently does not handle commercial passenger flights. Waterford Airport website provides updates on airport activities.Dublin Airport (DUB): The most common international gateway to Ireland, Dublin Airport is approximately a 2-hour drive from Waterford. Dublin Airport website offers extensive flight connections worldwide. From Dublin Airport, you can take a direct bus: Bus Éireann (Bus Éireann website) operates direct coach services from Dublin Airport to Waterford City.
Cork Airport (ORK): Another convenient option is Cork Airport, located about 1 hour and 45 minutes from Waterford. Cork Airport website offers a range of European and some transatlantic flights. From Cork Airport, you can: Take a bus and train: Connect via bus from Cork Airport to Cork City Kent Train Station, then take a train to Waterford.
By Train
From Dublin: Direct trains operate from Dublin Heuston Station to Waterford Plunkett Station, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours.From Cork: Trains from Cork Kent Station to Waterford require a change, typically at Limerick Junction or connecting via bus.
By Bus/Coach
Bus Éireann: Ireland's national bus company, Bus Éireann (Bus Éireann website), offers frequent and direct services to Waterford from major cities and towns across Ireland, including:Dublin: Direct routes from Dublin Airport and Dublin City Centre (Busaras Station).
Cork: Regular services from Cork City.
By Car
From Dublin: Take the M9 motorway directly to Waterford.From Cork: Follow the N25 towards Waterford.
From Limerick: Take the N24 and then the N25 to Waterford.