CRYSTAL-CLEAR

Cruise to Waterford (Dunmore East), Ireland

The oldest city in Ireland, Waterford is home to depths of history and nature waiting to be explored. Explore the historic Viking Triangle, Waterford's heritage and cultural quarter. Climb Reginald's Tower, a 12th-century circular fortress erected by the Anglo-Normans. Cruise to Waterford to see Middle Ages artifacts, including a 15th-century wine vault, at the Medieval Museum. Shop for Waterford Crystal in its place of origin — stop into a local artisan's shop and see how it's made. Walk among rhododendrons and camellias in Mount Congreve Gardens. Or hike the Copper Coast, a UNESCO Global Geopark, where steep cliffs formed by ancient volcanic activity overlook windswept waters.

National Language Irish, English

Currency Accepted Euro (EUR)

Things To Do in Waterford (Dunmore East)

The Mount Congreve Gardens in Waterford, Ireland

Garden Retreat

Mount Congreve Gardens spans over 70 acres of Waterford. Stroll among the vibrant collection of rhododendrons, magnolias, camellias and other flora. The entire collection consists of more than 3,000 different trees and shrubs, and its impeccably landscaped layout contains secluded walkways for quiet reflection.

Duck leg confit on a white plate with potatoes and mushroom sauce

Local Cuisine

In Waterford, you must dine on blaa. With a pedigree that goes back to the 17th century, the dish is a light and fluffy bread roll, typically served with eggs and sausage. Later on, head to the Grattan Quay and its side streets for upscale spots serving refined plates based on regional ingredients, like slow-cooked local duck confit and Irish-raised angus beef ribeye.

Shopping

You won't find anywhere in the world better for buying Waterford crystal, an outgrowth of the city's historic glass-making tradition. Head to the House of Waterford, which has the world's largest selection of Waterford crystal items. For your non-glass needs, head to the Quay to peruse the boutiques selling jewelry and Irish knitwear.