County Waterford is located in the southeast of Ireland. Waterford is a popular places to visit in summer because of its sandy beaches, rocky inlets, cliffs, and bays. Waterford City is one of Ireland’s smallest cities, but is a thriving port and home of the famous Waterford Crystal.
The county is known not only for its crystal, but also its scenery, the vibrant city, and its dramatic coastline: Once home to a number of copper mines, a 25km section of coast is now the Copper Coast – a UNESCO European Geo Park.
Waterford City is the oldest city in Ireland and is full of character and charm. This small, friendly city’s narrow, cobbled streets are filled with excellent shops, gourmet restaurants and lively traditional Irish pubs. The first settlement here was established by Vikings in the early 10th century.
Top Attractions in County Waterford
Bishop’s Palace (Waterford Museum of Treasures) – Viking Triangle, Waterford City – The Bishop’s Palace built in 1743, takes you from the 1690s to 1960s. The first floor is laid out as a historic house; featuring 18th century furniture, silverware and glass.
Christ Church Cathedral Waterford – Cathedral Square, Waterford City – Originally of Viking foundation, the present Church of Ireland edifice was designed by John Roberts in the 18th century.
House of Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre – House of Waterford, The Mall, Waterford City – The House of Waterford Crystal, located in the heart of Waterford City, offers guided tours of the world-renowned crystal manufacturer’s factory.
Lismore Castle and Gardens – Lismore – The castle was built by King John in the 13th century. It was subsequently acquired by Sir Walter Raleigh in 1589 and since 1753 has been the home of the Dukes of Devonshire who reside there for five to six weeks per annum.
Lismore Cathedral – St. Carthage’s Church – Chapel Street, Lismore – This double monastery was established by St. Carthach in the 7th century.
Lismore Heritage Centre – The Courthouse, Lismore – Housed in the former courthouse, is the story of Lismore, a designated heritage town of historic importance.
Medieval Museum (Waterford Museum of Treasures) – Viking Triangle, Waterford City – The Medieval Museum opened August 2012, explores the period from the Anglo-Norman siege of Waterford in 1170 to the end of the 17th century.
Reginald’s Tower – The Quay, Waterford City –
Waterford and Suir Valley Railway – Kilmeaden Station, Kilmeaden – The magic of rails golden age has been brought to life at Kilmeadan, Co Waterford. Experience the beauty of the Suir Valley from the Waterford & Suir Valley Heritage Railway. A heritage narrow gauge railway follows over 6km of the route of the abandoned Waterford-Dungarvan line.
Waterford Treasures Medieval Museum – Waterford City – Sail the seas on a Viking ship. Go to the wedding of Strongbow and Aoife. Have a ball in Georgian times and see the finest Waterford Glass. Treasures of gold, bronze, crystal.
Events and Festivals in County Waterford
Blackwater Valley Opera Festival
Main Destinations in County Waterford
Dunmore East is a picturesque fishing village located at the entrance to Waterford Harbour on coastal east Waterford. An attraction to all who love to eat in gourmet restaurants.
Tramore is a beauty spot only 13km (8 miles) south of the city, where land and sea link and where health and pleasure pursuits have attracted thousands of holiday makers. Tramore is one of the more popular resorts in Ireland.
Waterford City is the oldest city in Ireland. Today, the city responds to modern demands with sophisticated shops and malls, vibrant nightlife and a range of excellent restaurants and pubs.
Other Towns and Villages in Waterford
Ardmore is historic seaside village located on the coast in west Waterford and boasts a wide selection of attractions, accommodation, and facilities. Also home to a spectacular beach. See the famous ‘Round Tower’.
Cappoquin is a delightful village, located in West Waterford, which hosts an annual river walk. Also has vineyards where you can taste and purchase.
Dungarvan is the main town to the west of Waterford city. Located at the mouth of the Colligan river, with the beautiful Comeragh mountains as its background.
Lismore, designated as a heritage town, located in the west of the county. It is recognised for its historic buildings and scenic vistas.
Passage East is an ancient port and is closely linked with pivotal times in Irish History. Situated on the eastern coast of the region, it is now a peaceful fishing village.
Popular locations to stay in Co. Waterford are Bunmahon (2 places to stay), Dungarvan (9), Dunmore East (1), Faithlegg (1), Tramore (5), Waterford City (10).
Other towns include Abbeyside, Ardmore, Ballyduff, Ballymacarbry, Butlerstown, Cappoquin, Cheekpoint, Fenor, Kilmacthomas, Kilmeaden, Lismore, Passage East, Portlaw, Rathgormack, Ring, Tallow, Woodstown.
Getting Here and Around
There are bus services to/from Cork, Limerick, and Dublin to Waterford City; and also direct rail services to Limerick and Dublin.
Waterford Airport does not currently have any scheduled passenger services. The nearest airports are Cork Airport and Dublin Airport.
The M9 motorway connects Waterford with Dublin, while the N24 route connects it with Limerick, and the N25 with Cork and Rosslare.
More detailed information on getting to and around County Waterford can be found in our Co. Waterford Transport Guide.