In our Irish county guide series, we share our best tips, tricks and recommendations for visiting each Irish county. Kicking things off, Waterford.
Waterford marked its 111th birthday in 2025, underscoring its status as Ireland’s oldest city. For history enthusiasts, it holds that distinction, having begun as a permanent fortified Viking settlement in 914 AD, later growing into a prominent trading hub that even outpaced Dublin and Cork.
Today, the town and the wider county continue to buzz with energy, excitement and culture. Keep this handy guide in mind if you’re planning a visit in the near future.
Where to stay in Waterford
Mount Congreve Gardens and Country Estate
Mount Congreve offers three distinct ways to stay: you can slumber beneath the stars in one of their off‑grid bell tents, enjoy a cosy cabin stay in one of their eco‑friendly Forest Cabins, or indulge in luxury within a restored Gate Lodge and the elegant Courtyard Suite. It’s an ideal choice whether you’re solo, a couple, travelling with family, or bringing a furry friend, as there’s a room for every need. Forest cabins sleep up to four people while several Gate Lodges are dog friendly. Prices start from €300.
Cliff House Hotel
If you’re keen to pamper yourself on your Waterford visit, Cliff House Hotel is an ideal choice. Widely regarded as one of Ireland’s premier small luxury five‑star properties, Cliff House Hotel is a 39‑room coastal boutique hotel set in the fishing village of Ardmore. Expect spectacular views from its cliffside position on the southern edge of Ardmore Bay. Inside, the same wow factor continues as you unwind in the spa, retreat to a plush room, and if appetite strikes there’s a Michelin‑starred restaurant downstairs. Rates begin at €289.
Fitzwilton Hotel
Experience Ireland’s oldest city in style by staying in the hub of activity at the Fitzwilton Hotel. The property has been named the Irish Hotel Awards’ City Hotel of the Year (Munster) 2025, and for good reason. Think of it as a home away from home that blends character and comfort with convenience. Located just a short stroll from Waterford City Centre’s main shopping and cultural sights, it’s also a five‑minute cycle from the start of the Waterford Greenway and is conveniently close to major transport hubs. Prices start at €342.
The Hat Maker Boutique Hotel
In the heart of Dungarvan sits The Hat Maker Boutique Hotel. Opening its doors in 2025, this fresh local gem offers a welcoming atmosphere and a neighbourhood feel that honours the town’s heritage and creativity. Together with interior designer Anne Kirby, they have reimagined the space after months spent travelling Ireland and the UK, searching antique markets for furniture and art to suit each room. A stay here is an experience in itself, as each room speaks in its own unique voice. Expect plush super‑king beds wrapped in soft Irish linens, characterful antique and contemporary finds, and Irish‑sourced furnishings that give the rooms an eclectic, lived‑in, maximalist elegance that feels both luxurious and warmly familiar. Prices start from €200.
Other accommodation includes:
Faithlegg Hotel Waterford
Treacys Hotel
Granville Hotel
Ardmore Glamping Pods
Raven’s Rock Glamping
Where to eat in Waterford
Dining options
Momo Restaurant — fresh and nourishing cuisine
UNioN Wine Bar and Kitchen (for a refined evening)
East Pier (for fish and chips takeaway)
The Reg (for casual and set dining)
The Riverside Cottage (for a taste of home)
The Munster Room (for fine dining)
Mara (award-winning fine dining)
AndChips (boujee fish and chips)
360 cookhouse (hearty fare and cocktails)
The Tannery (2026 is your last chance to visit this iconic restaurant as it will close its doors on 1 January 2027)
Coffee
Signal Box Coffee
Dún Artisan Bakery
Coach House Coffee
The Railway Cottage
Seagull Bakery
Pubs
Geoff’s Cafe Bar
J. & K. Walsh Victorian Spirit Grocer
Tully’s Bar
The Gingerman
Merrys Gastro Pub
Things to do in Waterford
The Waterford Greenway
What better way to explore the county than by cycling it? The route spans 46km and suits all fitness levels. Ride along the coastline following disused railway lines from lively Waterford city, through the foothills of the Comeragh Mountains, and finishing up in the harbour town of Dungarvan. If you’d rather not cycle back, you can catch the bus from Dungarvan to Waterford.
Immerse yourself in the culture
If you happen to visit Waterford on a rainy afternoon, there’s plenty to do indoors. The city is home to several remarkable museums, including Waterford Treasures’ Medieval Museum, the Irish Wake Museum, and the King of the Vikings Museum. If the forecast clears, guided walking tours are also available to deepen your understanding of the city and the wider county’s history.
Endorfin Sauna
Treat your tired muscles after a day cycling Waterford’s Greenway with a session at this Scandinavian mobile sauna, located at Dunabrattin Pier. Timeslots of 45 minutes start from €15. If saunas aren’t for you, you can also enjoy a seaweed bath at Sólás Na Mara.
Anything else I should know?
Waterford City is easily accessible by public transport, with a central bus station on the quay, regional services like Bus Éireann and JJ Kavanagh, and a train station nearby.
If you fancy giving The Greenway a go, you can hire a bike in Waterford from several bike rental operators, such as Dungarvan Greenway Bike Hire.
