Waterford Hotels

Things to do

The House of Crystal visitor centre includes an opportunity for guests to choose from the world's largest selection of Waterford Crystal. Take a factory tour and see firsthand the detail behind all areas of traditional crystal production.

See Waterford's history brought to life before your eyes with an enjoyable and imaginative actor-led tour at the Waterford Museum of Treasures. Here, discover the 1,000-year history of the city from Viking Waterford at Reginald's Tower, the oldest civic building in Ireland, to Georgian Waterford at the Bishop's Palace. Highlights of the tour include the Great Charter Roll, the cloth-of-gold vestments and the oldest piece of Waterford Crystal in the world, a decanter which was made around 1780.

Christ Church Cathedral is known as the Cathedral of The Holy Trinity and has been a constant presence in Waterford since the 11th century. The building is steeped in history and was built on a site of Christian worship which dates back to 1050. The cathedral is the only neo-classical Georgian Cathedral in Ireland and as such is considered to be of enormous architectural importance and an important part of the Church of Ireland.

While in Waterford, be sure to visit the area that gave the city its name, the River Suir. River cruises leave from the Neptune Marina behind the Marina Hotel and take passengers on one or two-hour trips up the river, taking in the stunning architecture en route.

Food and drink

Irish food is famous for being rustic and filling – food to get you through a cold winter such as Irish stew, colcannon, beef and Guinness pie. Waterford is no different from the rest of Ireland in that you can always find a warming bowl of stew in a pub. However, those who prefer a touch of the exotic will also find many other cuisines within the city.

For a delicious Italian meal, visit Emiliano's or La Palma for a warm welcome and excellent meal. In Emiliano's, ask about the cheese board with its fruit and honey. For something a little more traditional yet inventive, try Momo, where you can find good old sausage and colcannon mash or more exotic food such as samosas. For a great lunch, visit The Granary, located in the Waterford Treasures building and known to serve the best lunchtime fare in the whole city.

Where to stay to be near the popular attractions

For those wanting a holiday brimming with cultural treats and fascinating history, Waterford, Ireland's oldest city is an amazing choice. The city centre is an excellent place to be based when exploring, giving visitors easy access to several crowd-pulling attractions such as the Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre and the Waterford Treasures Museums. Numerous Waterford hotels are nestled here, providing comfortable and convenient accommodation. From luxury establishments to budget-friendly options, you’re sure to find a place that matches your taste and needs.

Viking Triangle is another popular area where you might consider booking your stay. This historic district is home to the Waterford Museum of Treasures that consists of three museums in the Viking Triangle, perfect for immersion in culture and history. For accommodation, numerous Waterford hotels are peppered throughout the area, allowing you the benefit of step-out-and-explore convenience. Imagine waking each morning and stepping straight into the centre of the city's vibrant history and culture - it's an experience worth seizing upon during your Waterford vacation.

For visitors who prefer a more residential feel, the Ardkeen neighbourhood is a prime location. Located only a short travel distance from the city centre, Ardkeen offers a blissful retreat after a day of sightseeing. Not forgetting the proximity to Waterford Greenway, a spectacular 46km off-road cycling and walking trail along an old railway line connecting Waterford and Dungarvan. Top-notch Waterford hotels in the neighbourhood combine the quiet charm of residential life with easy access to the city's major attractions. So, decide on the area that suits your preferences, secure your accommodation, and get ready for a whirlwind holiday exploring the treasures of Waterford. Now is the time to act to get the best deals for the summer holidays!

Where to stay with your family

If you're planning a summer holiday to Waterford with your family, you'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to finding a comfortable and family-friendly place to stay. The quaint and picturesque neighbourhoods of Waterford are the perfect place for families to bask in the warm sunshine and create lasting memories.

For families with young children, the neighbourhoods of Dunmore East and Tramore are highly recommended. These coastal communities offer a serene and laid-back atmosphere, with plenty of activities for children such as sailing, surfing, and building sandcastles on the beautiful golden beaches. Waterford hotels in these areas, such as the Ard Ri Hotel and the Majestic Hotel, are well-equipped to cater to the needs of families, with spacious family rooms and on-site amenities for children.

If you're looking for a more bustling and vibrant atmosphere, the city centre of Waterford is a great choice. The city is home to charming cobbled streets, quaint shops, and a lively waterfront. Families can meander through the streets and marvel at the historic architecture, while feasting on delectable cuisine at the numerous family-friendly restaurants in the area. The Granville Hotel and the Fitzwilton Hotel are two of the top-rated Waterford hotels in the city centre, offering comfortable and spacious accommodation for families.

No matter which neighbourhood you choose to stay in, Waterford hotels are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming atmosphere, making them the perfect base for your family's summer holiday. Book your stay now and get ready to create unforgettable memories in this charming and family-friendly destination.

Where to find cheap hotels

If you're planning a summer holiday in Waterford and looking for affordable accommodations, you're in luck! The city offers a variety of budget-friendly options that will make your trip both enjoyable and affordable. When it comes to finding cheap hotels in Waterford, there are a few key areas to keep in mind.

Firstly, consider staying in the outskirts of the city centre. Neighbourhoods such as Dunmore East, Tramore, and Passage East are not only picturesque and charming, but also offer lower hotel rates compared to the bustling city centre. These areas are perfect for those looking for a peaceful retreat while still being within close proximity to Waterford's main attractions.

Another great option for cheap hotels in Waterford is to look for chain hotels. With well-known budget-friendly chains such as Travelodge, Premier Inn, and Ibis, you can find affordable accommodation without sacrificing quality. These hotels are located throughout the city, making it convenient for you to explore Waterford's many sights and activities.

Lastly, don't forget to check out local guesthouses and B&Bs. These charming and quaint accommodations offer a more personal touch and can often be found at lower prices than hotels. Plus, you'll get the opportunity to interact with the friendly locals and get insider tips on the best places to visit in Waterford.

In conclusion, finding cheap hotels in Waterford is not a difficult task. By considering the outskirts of the city centre, chain hotels, and local guesthouses, you'll be sure to find affordable accommodation options that will make your summer vacation in Waterford both enjoyable and budget-friendly. So start planning your trip now and make the most out of your stay in this charming Irish city.

Party and nightlife in Waterford

For a bustling and vibrant night scene, Waterford, fondly referred to as Ireland's oldest city, will surely not disappoint. The town is brimming with an energizing diversity of activities to enjoy. The first stop for any nightlife enthusiast has to be the numerous nightclubs, bars, and discos dotting the city. They range from traditional Irish pubs, where visitors can enjoy a frothy pint while enjoying live music, to state-of-the-art nightclubs pulsating with electronic dance beats. In fact, some of the top-rated Waterford hotels host their own clubs and bars, providing a safe and proximal partying space for their guests. The city genuinely offers an exhilarating mix of high-energy or chill-out places to cater to every party-goer's preference.

Waterford is also a live music lover's paradise, hosting a myriad of concert venues that are sure to get your foot tapping. Places like Theatre Royal Waterford and Central Arts offer a rotating roster of bands and performers spanning multiple genres including pop, rock, jazz and of course, traditional Irish folk music. Summer being the peak season, finding yourself in the middle of an outdoor concert while strolling through the city's streets is not an uncommon occurrence. Quite often, these festivals draw internationally acclaimed musicians and bands, providing you with a golden opportunity to experience global music in Ireland.

While the nightlife of Waterford is vibrant through these obvious entertainment options, perhaps the most exciting part of the partying scene lies in the city's secret nightlife culture. Immersive 'pop-up' parties and secret gigs are a mainstay, attended by both locals and tourists. The locations for such parties range from unconventional spaces like warehouses, barns, and even the stunningly picturesque Dunmore East's seaside, for beach parties. This 'off the beaten path' party culture only adds yet another layer of excitement for adventurous spirits. So next time you're booking at one of the Waterford hotels, don't forget to ask about any exclusive parties happening around!

Whether you are a solo traveller, a couple, a group of fun-loving friends or a family looking to explore local culture, Waterford's party and nightlife is sure to exceed everyone's expectations. Its vibrancy, variety and inclusivity renders it a must-see for anyone visiting the sunny southeast of Ireland.

Going shopping in Waterford

Waterford, the oldest city in Ireland, is famous not only for its rich history and culture, but also for its fantastic shopping opportunities. Downtown Waterford abounds with a plethora of stores, offering everything from the latest in fashion to locally crafted pieces. Visitors often find it convenient to stay in Waterford hotels, which are ideally situated close to these shopping hotspots. If you're a passionate shopper, you will appreciate the high street stores and unique boutiques that line up in the town centre. Shopaholics should not miss out on the John Roberts Square, a celebrated fashion shopping hub where high-end labels and famed local designers proudly put their creations on display.

Just around the corner from many Waterford hotels, you'll discover O'Connell Street, offering an array of affordable shopping options. Featuring both established brands and independent stores, this lively street offers a satisfying shopping experience for those on a budget without sacrificing quality or style. Whether you're hunting for contemporary fashion, cute souvenirs, or locally produced delicacies, O'Connell Street provides generous options for all needs and preferences, making it a must-visit spot for every traveller!

No travel to Waterford would be complete without exploring its unique and impressive craft stores. Ardmore Pottery and Gallery is one such must-visit destination. Just a short walk away from many Waterford hotels, this craft store showcases beautiful porcelain products, masterfully crafted by local artisans. In addition, visitors will find wonderful textile creations, ceramic pieces, and wooden crafts in Jeremiah's Craft Shop, adding a touch of authentic Irish craftsmanship to any home. Each piece tells a story, encapsulating the spirit and history of Waterford within each lovingly crafted item. So, make your summer vacation in Waterford richer with these special keepsakes!

Where to buy holiday souvenirs

Each visit to Waterford should include a delightful trawl through its bustling markets for irresistible keepsakes that encapsulate the high-spirited emanation of this illustrious city. Meander away from your Waterford hotels and step into the buzzing roundabout of the Apple Market. Sheltered under an awe-inspiring architectural canopy, this robust marketplace teems with diverse traders, celebrating a vast diaspora of authentic souvenirs. Intricate trinkets, resplendent Irish clothing, artisan craftworks, and traditional foods, all at the mid-price range, await you. This living, breathing locus represents the region's rich history, with the hustle and bustle of sellers each narrating their little piece of the Waterford story.

For the antique aficionados, O'Connell Street is a treasure trove dotted with thrift stores and vintage shops. Each door offers entry into a time long past, filled with timeless mementoes and exclusive collectibles. Antique jewellery, rare books, vintage clothing, and aged Irish whiskey bottles are some of the eclectic offerings you can anticipate. Prices vary drastically, given the unique aspects of the items on sale, making it an ideal destination for both budget-conscious tourists and lavish antique collectors. O'Connell's street resonates with the echoes of a rich cultural legacy, amplified by each item's subtle nod to times gone by—a harmonious symphony of history and commerce.

Venture into Ireland's oldest city's arteries, where artists breathe life into their creations. Several workshops and studios in Waterford specialize in hand-blown and cut crystal, such as the world-renowned—Waterford Crystal. Whether it's stylish ornaments, elegant stemware, or captivating glass mementoes, these masterpieces reflect the city's illustrious past as a hub for fine craftsmanship. As an upmarket offering, it's perhaps a pricier pursuit, but the shimmering, elegant ornaments are worth every cent for those who appreciate a luxurious souvenir.

So, why wait? Close the booking tabs on your browser, pack your suitcases, check-in at one of the fantastic Waterford hotels, and brace yourself for an unforgettable shopping experience. This summer, make memories and collect precious mementoes from Waterford that will ceaselessly remind you of the joyous time you spent in this vibrant city!