When it comes to Ireland’s dramatic scenery, the Atlantic coast gets most of the attention, but Waterford has its own natural beauty to offer. Located on the southeast coast of Ireland, a 2-hour drive from the capital of Dublin, Waterford is a laid-back, under-the-radar city and county with a buzzing festival calendar, peaceful beaches, and one of the country’s best rail lines for bike riding. Of the many things to do in Waterford, locals love to get outdoors for beach walks and indulge in the city’s pub culture and restaurants.
The most popular time of year to visit Waterford is summer when international visitors arrive in Ireland to explore the countryside. While June, July, and Aug. provide the greatest chance for sunny days on the Waterford beaches, visitors looking to avoid the crowds may prefer the quieter spring and fall. Waterford also has a busy festival schedule with annual events including All Together Now, an August music festival, and the Harvest Festival, a September food festival.
Waterford City is easily explored by foot, but visitors should be prepared to climb some urban hills. To easily explore County Waterford and its many beaches, a rental car is necessary. Some visitors also choose to rent a bike for a cycling excursion along the Waterford Greenway. Trains and buses connect Waterford to the capital city of Dublin.
Visitors who are interested in Waterford’s history may want to check out the Freedom of Waterford Pass, which includes entry to several sites for one fee. Don’t miss getting outside the city for a walk or bike ride along the Waterford Greenway, a former rail line that includes historic viaducts and tunnels, and is now a scenic, car-free coastal trail.
