a local’s guide to Waterford

3-NIght Stay Itinerary

Make the most of your time with us!

Unwind with three unforgettable days at Viking Hotel Waterford: dive into Viking Triangle history and crystal-making, cycle the scenic Greenway and Copper Coast, explore Comeragh Mountains and gardens, then finish with coastal charm in Dunmore East.

Discover Waterford like a local with our 3-night itinerary.

Lismore castle in Waterford

Day 1:

The Viking Triangle/Silver Museum/Waterford Crystal

Checking in at The Viking Hotel; enjoy your refreshing welcome drink in The Wooden Pestle Restaurant & Bar. Now; you are all set to discover why Waterford is such a beautiful place, rich with history, beautiful coastlines and scenery.

Today you will discover the history that makes Ireland’s oldest city so special. Waterford Crystal will be your first stop a 10-minute drive from the hotel located on the mall in the city centre. Take the factory tour and see how glass is blown or simply browse the beautiful pieces on display in the shop. After this, head across the road to the ‘Viking Triangle’ where you will find three special buildings to explore; Reginald’s TowerBishops Palace and The Medieval MuseumWaterfordtreasures.com sell a combined ticket online for all three. All are busting with things to see from Waterford’s history with virtual tours available. If you fancy a coffee break relax in the beautiful café in Bishops Palace.

Once you have discovered Waterford’s Treasures pop over to the newest edition; The Silver Museum. This museum is located in the Deanery in Cathedral Square only a short walk from the Viking Triangle. This museum is the only dedicated Irish Silver Museum.

Now it’s time to return to The Viking hotel for a well-deserved meal. Sit in the comfortable and relaxing surroundings of The Wooden Pestle Restaurant & Bar while you sip one of our signature cocktails while you wait for your delicious meal to be cooked with the freshest local ingredients

Day 2:

The Greenway/Ardmore Beach/Dungarvan

Enjoy a hearty breakfast in The Wooden Pestle Restaurant choosing the full Irish with all the trimmings or choose fruit and yogurt pot, Breakfast BLAA, vegetarian options, fresh pastries, scones and lots more! You will need your energy for the day ahead!

The next stop is The Waterford Greenway; this 46 km off road stretch that can be walked or cycled and broken into shorter segments to suit every fitness level. The Viking Hotel is located only 2 km from WIT Arena which is the closest point that you can enter the greenway. If you choose to bring your own bicycle you can store it securely in our bike store; ‘The Greenway Hub’ located at The Viking Hotel free for hotel residents to use.

If you would like to explore Dungarvan town as well as The Greenway it might be a good idea to cycle the stretch from Kilmacthomas (20 minute drive from hotel) and rent bikes here form Waterford Greenway Bike Hire. This way; you can choose to cycle the stretch from Kilmacthomas to Dungarvan and take the shuttle bus back to your starting point rather than having to cycle both ways. On your cycle you will pass by Durrow Viaduct, Ballyvoyle Tunnel and the Ballyvoyle Viaduct – all must sees! Enjoy beautiful scenery along the way – especially as you come closer to Dungarvan along the Copper Coast.

Once you reach Dungarvan; you will be in need of some refreshments no doubt! Dungarvan doesn’t disappoint in that regard; famous for its beautiful restaurants. The Tannery is well known for its fine cuisine however you may wish to opt for something more casual for your lunch time! Cookhouse 360, Interlude and The Old Bank are all great choices.

After your lunch you may wish to have a stroll around this beautiful seaside town and along the gorgeous harbour. With lots of shops with local produce and crafts; it is worth a browse.

Once you have enjoyed all Dungarvan has to offer, hop back on The Greenway Bike Hire shuttle bus or continue on your cycle on The Waterford Greenway back to Kilmacthomas.

Back at the Viking, it is time for relaxation after a busy day! Enjoy one of our signature pizza’s or opt for the much-loved Viking Burger in the restaurant!

Waterford Greenway sunny day
Couple out cycling on the Waterford Greenway
Mountain view in Waterford
Japanese gardens in Waterford

Day 3:

Comeragh Mountains/Mahon Falls/ Geopark/Lafcadio Hearne Japanese Gardens

Enjoy your delicious breakfast in The Wooden Pestle Restaurant before heading off on a less strenuous day on a beautiful drive.

The Comeragh Drive and Mahon Falls are located just a 20 minute drive towards Dungarvan. Turn left at the sign for ‘The Comeragh Drive’ before you reach a small place called Lemybrian. This road will lead you to some beautiful views of the mountains, viewing points and the car park to take the short walk to Mahon Falls. The views are spectacular and some of the best in Ireland! Once you reach the cattle grid after 150 metres you come to a small slope downwards. This is called the magic road. Stop at the fairy tree to your left, turn off your engine and you will find that the car travels backwards up the hill with no power! This has to be experienced to be believed, it is amazing!

After that point keep driving along the road until you reach the carpark in order to take the easy relaxing 15-minute walk to the beautiful Mahon Falls.

Once you are finished taking in the splendid scenery of the area return to your car and make your way to Bunmahon. To reach bunmahon head back towards Waterford and follow the signs right to Bunmahon on the coast where you will find the ‘The Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark’. Here you will find Geological and Mining Heritage Exhibition suitable for all ages. This Geopark explains about some of the beautiful coastlines witnessed by you yesterday while on The Greenway. If you are feeling peckish there is a café here that uses the freshest local ingredients for their dishes; fuel up and browse the gift shop.

By now it would be time to start making your way back to the Viking hotel. En route, why not call into Lafcadio Hearne Japanese Gardens located in Tramore or closer to the hotel; Mount Congreve Gardens. Both are magnificent.

Once back at the hotel enjoy your final night in The Wooden Pestle Restaurant enjoying a gorgeous meal and lovely atmosphere.

Day 4:

Dunmore East

Enjoy your breakfast at The Viking Hotel before checking out.

Why not enjoy one more Waterford adventure before setting off. Dunmore East is a pretty fishing Village just 20 minutes from Waterford.

Choose to visit the Cliff Gallery & Lifestyle Store, play a spot of golf at The Dunmore East Golf Club with views to behold or for the more adventurous visit Dunmore Adventure, offering all types of water sports including the ‘Wipit Wipeout Aquapark’.

Waterford city by the lakes sunset
Close up view of golf ball going into hole
Get to know us

Frequently asked Questions

Can I book sightseeing tours directly at Viking Hotel Waterford?

No, but we have a wide range of brochures available in the hotel promoting the sightseeing attractions.

Nearby you can hire a car at: Hertz Car Hire 1.30m, Enterprise Car & Van Hire – Waterford 400m.

All located in the city centre, about 4km from the hotel: Medieval Museum, Bishop’s Palace, The Viking Triangle, Reginald’s Tower, House of Waterford Crystal, Waterford Treasure, Curraghmore House and Gardens, Mount Congreve Estate, King of the Vikings Virtual Reality Experience and The Greenway. Other popular attractions include The Copper Coast Geopark and Ardmore Cliff Walk and Monastery.

Yes.

Waterford Retail Park is located just across the hotel.