Waterford , Ireland

Osprey Viking Cruises

Active

(56 reviews)

1h - 3h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Waterford is Ireland’s Oldest City and the estuary played a pivotal role in it. It was the estuary that acted as a gateway for the early Viking settlers. Norman and Cromwellian conquests also feature strongly in local history as do events from both World Wars. The Port of Waterford was a significant international port for many years and there is a wealth of history to be discovered. The river and estuary are also vibrant bio-diversity habitats with a range of flora, fauna and aquatic life.

Available options

Osprey Viking Cruises

What's included

Coffee Tea Snacks

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Built by the Vikings over a thousand years ago Reginald's Tower is Irelands oldest civic building. Standing at the apex of Waterford's Viking Triangle the tower features in many historical episodes from Strongbow to Cromwell, Perkin Warbeck, King James II and many more.

A monastic settlement existed on Little Island from the 6th to the 8th Century A.D. A carving of a monk’s head from this period adorns the castle entrance to this day. The Vikings arrived in the 9th century and two fortifications were constructed on Island Vryk ‘Dane’s Island’. The Normans came next invading in 1170 and Maurice Fitzgerald, Stongbow’s cousin, was held prisoner on Little Island by the Ossermen during the conquest. He was duly rewarded with much land in the aftermath and thusly the island would become home to the Earls of Kildare for eight centuries.

Mount Congreve Gardens in Ireland’s Ancient East is home to one of “the great gardens of the World”. Home to six generations of Congreves and built in 1760 by the celebrated local architect John Roberts who also designed the two city Cathedrals. The Gardens comprise around seventy acres of woodland, a four acre walled garden and 16 kms of walkways. Overlooking the River Suir, Mount Congreve consists of three thousand different trees & shrubs, two thousand Rhododendrons, six hundred Camellias, three hundred Acer cultivars, six hundred conifers, two hundred and fifty climbers and fifteen hundred herbaceous plants. “When one plants anything, whether it involves five or fifty plants, they should be planted together and not dotted here and there.” Ambrose Congreve. Ambrose inherited the estate in 1963 and transformed the estate into a world class garden. Flora from all over the world were imported delivered directly to his private dock on the Suir. The gardens have won multiple awards.

Grannagh Castle, a large square enclosure with cylindrical towers, stands dramatically on the foreshore or the River Suir. James Butler, 3rd Earl of Ormonde, built the castle in the 14th century. Legend has it that the wife of the 8th Earl was a witch. One day looking downriver from the castle window she saw her greatest foe (also a witch) approaching so she conjured a storm to deter her rival, in response the other witch caused horns to grow from Margaret’s head, she therefore could not withdraw from the from the window. Strange noises are heard from the ruins during stormy weather. The Butlers lost the castle to Cromwell in 1649.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

15 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

41 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Millennium Plaza Custom House Quay Waterford opposite Jordan's pub

About Waterford

Waterford is Ireland's oldest city, founded by Vikings in 914 AD. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and the famous Waterford Crystal, it offers a blend of cultural heritage and modern attractions. The city's charming streets, historic sites, and vibrant arts scene make it a captivating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Waterford Treasures Museums

A collection of three museums showcasing Waterford's rich history, including the Medieval Museum, the Bishop's Palace, and the Irish Museum of Treasures.

Historical 2-3 hours €10-€15

Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre

The iconic Waterford Crystal factory offers tours showcasing the craftsmanship behind the famous crystal. Visitors can watch artisans at work and shop for unique souvenirs.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free entry, tours €10-€20

Reginald's Tower

A 13th-century tower and the oldest urban civic building in Ireland. It houses exhibits on Viking history and medieval artifacts.

Historical 1 hour €5

Mount Congreve Gardens

A beautiful 70-acre garden with a diverse collection of plants and trees, offering peaceful walks and scenic views.

Nature 2-3 hours Free

Waterford Marina

A modern marina with a variety of water-based activities, including boat tours, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

Beach 1-2 hours Varies by activity

Must-Try Local Dishes

Irish Stew

A hearty stew made with lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions, slow-cooked to perfection.

Dinner Contains meat and gluten

Boxty

A traditional Irish potato pancake made with grated potatoes, flour, and buttermilk.

Side Dish Contains gluten and dairy

Seafood Chowder

A creamy soup made with fresh local seafood, potatoes, and onions.

Soup Contains dairy and seafood

Soda Bread

A traditional Irish bread made with flour, baking soda, and buttermilk.

Bread Contains gluten and dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Paddleboarding Spa treatments Gardens Marina walks Museum visits Live music

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with the warmest weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and festivals. The city is lively with numerous events and outdoor markets.

15°C to 20°C 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Irish
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+0 (Standard Time), GMT+1 (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Waterford is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.

Getting there

By air

Waterford Airport • 10 km from city center
Cork Airport • 90 km from Waterford

By train

Waterford Plaza Railway Station

By bus

Waterford Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Waterford, connecting the city center to suburbs and nearby towns. The service is affordable and reliable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Free Now, Local taxi companies

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center The Viking Triangle Waterford Marina Mount Congreve

Day trips

Hook Lighthouse

50 km from Waterford • Half day to full day

The oldest operational lighthouse in the world, offering guided tours and stunning views of the coastline.

Tintern Abbey

40 km from Waterford • Half day

A picturesque ruined abbey set in a beautiful woodland area, offering peaceful walks and historic exploration.

Mount Leinster

60 km from Waterford • Full day

A scenic mountain offering hiking trails with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Festivals

Waterford International Festival of Light • February Waterford Harvest Festival • September Waterford Spraoi International Street Arts Festival • July

Pro tips

Visit the Waterford Treasures Museums for a comprehensive overview of the city's history.
Take a tour of the Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre to see the craftsmanship behind the famous crystal.
Explore the Viking Triangle for a deep dive into Waterford's Viking and medieval history.
Enjoy a meal at one of the city's traditional Irish pubs for a taste of local culture and cuisine.
Take a day trip to Hook Lighthouse, the oldest operational lighthouse in the world.