By Bridget Castner
Waterford, Ireland's oldest city, offers a captivating blend of ancient history and modern vibrancy, making it one of the best places in Ireland to visit.
Beyond the shimmering allure of its world-famous crystals, Waterford boasts a rich tapestry of experiences, from exploring Viking-era relics and medieval towers to enjoying the scenic beauty of the surrounding countryside. Ready to dive in? Let's explore some of the best things to do in Waterford.
Discover the Emerald Isle with our trips to Waterford, or view all vacation packages to Ireland.
Waterford Treasures
The Waterford Treasures are a group of museums that allow visitors an in-depth look into the history of Ireland. Each museum offers a unique perspective and focuses on a different topic.
Medieval Museum
This museum offers visitors an immersive experience with well-preserved artifacts and plenty of engaging exhibits. The museum is partially built over original medieval structures, including a 13th century wine vault.
Irish Museum of Time
This quirky museum is located in a historic building in the Viking Triangle. It's home to a collection of longcase clocks, pocket watches, and wristwatches from around the world. Visitors can learn about the history of timekeeping and explore exhibits on the development of the Irish calendar and the introduction of standard time.
Irish Wake Museum
The Irish Wake Museum is exactly what it sounds like! It explores the history of death, grief, and funeral practices in Ireland. Housed in a 15th-century Almshouse, this museum offers a fascinating and engaging experience with interactive displays and media presentations.
The Bishop’s Palace
This beautifully preserved 18th-century Georgian structure offers a glimpse into that era’s elegance, and was once home to the Church of Ireland Bishop of Waterford from 1743 to 1919. The museum is home to many significant historical artifacts including the oldest surviving piece of Waterford Crystal (a Penrose decanter from 1789), and a rare Bonaparte “mourning cross” (one of only 12 made after Napoleon's death).
Irish Silver Museum
From the Viking era to the Victorian period, this museum chronicles 1,000 years of history through silver artifacts with pieces from various Irish silversmiths and rare examples from 18th-century female silversmiths. The collection includes items reflecting religious, ceremonial, and domestic use, and shows how tea, coffee, and dining impacted the use of silver in Ireland.
King of the Vikings Virtual Reality Experience (Reginald’s Tower)
This historic tower with Viking origins offers visitors insight into Waterford’s past. The experience is set in a reconstructed Viking house which provides an authentic atmosphere through a 3D virtual reality adventure. During this experience, you'll wear a VR headset to experience the sights and sounds of the Viking Age in Waterford. You’ll come fact-to-face with Reginald, a legendary Viking leader, hear stories of the Viking Era, and so much more with this unique experience!
Mount Congreve Gardens
A must-see place in Waterford, Ireland is definitely the world-renowned Mount Congreve Gardens. Experience the vibrant blooms of magnolias, camellias, and rhododendrons in the spring, herbaceous plants in the summer, and the stunning maple foliage in autumn. The garden features walking trails such as the Woodland Garden Walk, the Fragrant Walk (a short, accessible path with diverse aromatic plants), and the Walled Garden Walk which showcases herbs, vegetables, and fruit trees. While you’re there, be sure to take a walk by the Chinese Pagoda, admire the rock waterfall and Georgian Glasshouse, and take in the magnificence of Mount Congreve House.
House of Waterford
To truly experience the essence of Waterford, you must delve into the very heart of its renowned crystal craftsmanship. A visit to the House of Waterford Crystal offers a captivating glimpse into this legacy, beginning with an immersive guided factory tour that reveals the intricate process behind each exquisite piece. During this tour, you'll gain a profound understanding of crystal-making techniques and the rich history that has shaped the House of Waterford. Following your exploration of the factory, indulge in a delightful meal at the on-site restaurant, savoring the ambiance before venturing into the elegant gift shop, where a dazzling array of crystalware, glasses, home decor, and unique gifts awaits.
Now that you know some of the best things to do in Waterford, check out some of our affordable vacation packages below and get started on your Emerald Isle adventure.
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