Waterford brings together striking evidence of its history and a range of ways to explore it: from an exhibition in a historic tower to museums, guided experiences, and a long cycling and walking route. During your stay, you can choose from different historical themes and time outdoors.
Viking Heritage and Medieval History
Reginald’s Tower is Waterford’s landmark and Ireland’s oldest civic building. The tower houses an exhibition of Viking treasures, combining its significance as a historic building with a tangible insight into Waterford’s Viking past.
King of the Vikings offers a different focus: this 40-minute virtual reality experience takes place in a handcrafted, reconstructed Viking house. The attraction is located in the Viking Triangle, among the ruins of a 13th-century Franciscan monastery. Booking is strongly recommended for this experience.
The Medieval Museum is Ireland’s only purpose-built medieval museum. It includes the 13th-century Choristers’ Hall and the 15th-century Mayor’s Wine Vault. The museum also displays the Great Charter Roll and 15th-century church vestments made of cloth of gold. The rooms and exhibits therefore offer several tangible points of interest for a visit focused on medieval Waterford.
Museums and Tours with Their Own Focus
At Cathedral Square, the Bishop’s Palace is a museum showcasing treasures from Georgian and Victorian Waterford. A special actor-led tour takes visitors through luxurious rooms with gilded furniture and architectural details. This offering stands apart from the exhibitions at the Medieval Museum both in its historical focus and in its actor-led format.
The Irish Museum of Time is Ireland’s national horology museum. It displays the oldest longcase clocks, table clocks, and wristwatches made in Ireland. Those with a particular interest in timepieces will find a clearly defined focus here, alongside the buildings and medieval objects that also distinguish Waterford.
The Epic Walking Tour is a guided city tour that covers 1,000 years of Waterford’s history in 1,000 steps. It offers a different format from King of the Vikings: here, the focus is on learning about the city as you walk with a guide, while the other is a timed virtual reality experience. Which option better suits your interests depends on whether you’d rather explore Waterford’s history on a guided tour or through a VR experience.
A Route to Contrast with the Cultural Itinerary
The Waterford Greenway offers a different focus: this 46-kilometre car-free cycling and walking trail follows an old railway line between Waterford and Dungarvan. It extends the range of experiences beyond museums and city tours to include a longer route for walking or cycling. The various offerings have different focuses—from individual historical exhibitions and guided experiences to a trail along the former railway line.
Discover more destinations: Lismore, Ballymacarbry, Bunmahon, Aird MhĂłr, Rathgormack, Cappoquin, Dungarvan, Harrylock.
For the main travel overview: Waterford.
