Car Hire Waterford - Mini guide to Waterford

The historically important Irish harbour town of Waterford is renowned for its superb architectural heritage, exquisite crystal, and the beautiful scenery of the surrounding countryside, explaining its appeal as a tourist destination.

Waterford is most famous for its magnificent churches, in particular the stunning 18th century Christ Church Cathedral, with its delicate steeple, airy interior and ornate ceiling. Elsewhere in the city are the Holy Trinity Cathedral and St Patrick’s Church, both also dating from the eighteenth century and exhibiting exquisite architecture and artwork.

Enjoy strolling along the narrow streets and lanes of the city’s historic town area, soaking up the traditional atmosphere. For families, there are a number of edutainment attractions, including the spectacular Waterford Treasures museum with its excellent exhibit on Viking artifacts, and the interesting Waterford Crystal Glass Factory. For more historic architecture, visit the ancient Reginald’s Tower and French Church, nearby Waterford Treasures.

Waterford has ample quality accommodation and restaurants, and the center of the city’s nightlife is the vibrant pub scene featuring great live music and a warm, friendly atmosphere. Nothing beats an evening in a typical Irish pub, drinking Guinness with the locals, listening to improbable yarns and enjoy the traditional ‘diddley-aye’ Celtic music.

Just out of town is the famous Waterford crystal factory, and tours are open to the public. There is also a cut-price shop on the premises.

Known as the ‘Sunny Southeast’, Waterford County receives the least amount of Ireland’s famous rain. In addition to several lovely beaches near the mouth of the river, the countryside provides numerous opportunities for day trips. Explore the picturesque coastline to the north and south for more stunning seascapes, or, alternatively, head inland and discover the beautiful river valleys and rolling green hills, such as those of Blackwater. For more history, visit the ancient villages and towns of Ring, Ardmore and Lismore.

Waterford can be reached via connections from Dublin International Airport, which serves direct flights from most European and US cities. From Europe, it’s easiest to fly to Cork and catch a 90 minute bus ride.

The major suburbs in Waterford are: Abbeysland, Ballybricken, Bilberry, Grantstown, Kilcohan, John's Hill, Larchville, Shortcourse, Summerhill and Templers Hall.