Hotels in Waterford

Waterford: Where Timeless Heritage Meets the Tranquil Flow of the River

Discover Waterford, Ireland, a captivating blend of rich history and vibrant culture. Nestled along the scenic River Suir, this medieval gem boasts iconic attractions like Reginald's Tower and the renowned Waterford Crystal factory, where craftsmanship shines. Stroll through the charming streets of Waterford City, uncovering treasures at the Waterford Treasures museums that chronicle its storied past. With its stunning riverside views and majestic monuments, Waterford offers a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience for travelers seeking both adventure and romance. Embrace the allure of this enchanting destination and create unforgettable memories in the heart of Ireland. For the best hotel rates in Waterford and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Waterford

Some of the best places to stay in Waterford are Lyrath, Tramore and Kilkenny City Centre. Waterford, Ireland, offers a delightful getaway with stunning landscapes and cultural experiences. Lyrath is perfect for luxury seekers, featuring upscale accommodations and beautiful grounds. Tramore is ideal for beach lovers, with a lively atmosphere and family-friendly options. Kilkenny City Centre is best for first-time visitors, offering a blend of history, shopping, and dining. Generally, hotels in these areas provide a range of options from boutique stays to family-friendly inns, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Waterford:

1. LyrathOpens in a new window: Lyrath is a fantastic destination for travelers looking to enjoy the beautiful outdoors and explore rich cultural sites. Located near Kilkenny, it offers easy access to attractions like Kilkenny Castle and The Hub pub. For accommodations, consider Lyrath Estate Hotel Spa & Convention CentreOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5.0-star hotel that caters to business and family travelers with top-notch amenities including conference spaces and a children’s playground. Another option is Mount Juliet Estate, Autograph CollectionOpens in a new window, also a 5.0-star hotel, which combines historic charm with adventure sports like fishing and hiking, making it perfect for those seeking a unique experience.
2. TramoreOpens in a new window: Tramore is an ideal spot for beach lovers and those interested in local craftsmanship, with attractions like the Waterford Crystal Factory and Tramore Beach. The area features Beach Haven AccommodationsOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star bed and breakfast known for its golf amenities, making it a great choice for golfing enthusiasts. You can also find Fern Hill Guest HouseOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star bed and breakfast that offers complimentary breakfast and entertainment options, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests.
3. Kilkenny City CentreOpens in a new window: Kilkenny City Centre is a vibrant area rich in culture and history, perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in Irish heritage. With highlights like Kilkenny Castle and local pubs, visitors will find plenty to explore. Consider Kilkenny Ormonde HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel suitable for families and business travelers, equipped with a business center and adventure activities. Another great choice is Langtons Hotel KilkennyOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel that offers a variety of adventure sports nearby, making it perfect for thrill-seekers and families alike.

Things to do in Waterford for first time

Waterford is a charming destination perfect for a three-day getaway, offering a delightful blend of stunning river views, lush parks, and serene beaches. Travelers can enjoy activities like hiking, boating, and shopping while immersing themselves in the rich history and vibrant culture that the area has to offer. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Waterford:

• Day 1: Start your adventure at Tramore Beach, where you can enjoy the stunning views and maybe even take a refreshing dip in the Atlantic. After soaking up the sun, head to Dunmore East Beach for a more tranquil atmosphere and picturesque coastal scenery. In the evening, make your way to Hook Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses in the world. Here, you can take a guided tour and learn about its fascinating history while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding cliffs and ocean.
• Day 2: Begin your day at Duncannon Beach, a fantastic spot for a morning stroll along the sandy shores. Afterward, drive to Woodstown Beach, where you can relax and enjoy the serenity of the area. Don’t miss taking a short trip to Ballyhack Castle, a 15th-century castle where you can explore its ancient walls and learn about its storied past, all while taking in views of the River Suir.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Kilmokea Gardens, a beautiful destination featuring stunning landscapes and vibrant flowers. Afterward, visit the Kennedy Homestead to delve into the history of the Kennedy family and explore the exhibits that highlight their American legacy. Conclude your journey at Dunbrody Abbey, a serene site that offers insight into medieval monastic life, surrounded by lush greenery and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for reflection.

5 tips to find a great Waterford hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: If you're looking for an affordable getaway, the best time to visit Waterford is during January, February, and December when hotel prices are at their lowest. For a great value for your money, plan to stay at least 1-2 days to fully enjoy the city's highlights. Key attractions include fascinating museums, historic castles, and charming monuments, making it a budget-friendly destination perfect for exploration.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Waterford, Hotels.com is a great resource. By checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, you could find various hotel discounts with good availability as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of snagging a bargain, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications for flash sales and special promotions. This way, you're more likely to stay informed about any opportunities to save on your Waterford getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like location, star rating, and the time of year. So, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Waterford.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Waterford is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further away from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like cars and buses to explore the area, which can help you save on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Waterford and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Waterford

Here are some must-try dishes in Waterford, Ireland:

• Irish Stew: This hearty dish is a quintessential part of Ireland's culinary landscape, traditionally made with lamb or beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions. Each family has its own secret recipe, often passed down through generations. Enjoying a bowl of Irish stew in a cozy pub, especially during chilly evenings, showcases the warmth of Irish hospitality and reflects the region's agricultural roots. It's a dish that brings people together, often served with a side of fresh soda bread for dipping.
• Soda Bread: A staple in Irish cuisine, soda bread is made using simple ingredients: flour, baking soda, buttermilk, and salt. Its quick preparation method makes it a favorite among locals. It has a rustic crust and a tender interior, perfect for enjoying with butter or alongside a warm bowl of stew. Many cafes and bakeries in Waterford offer unique variations, such as adding raisins or seeds, allowing for personal touches and flavors.

Best time to go to Waterford

Waterford experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 43.0°F (6.1°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 59.7°F (15.4°C). October tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Waterford are March, April, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly cloudy, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.

Waterford Travel Information