Summer Breaks in Waterford
The Perfect Summer Base
Summer in Waterford is like no other - vibrant, lively, and full of opportunities for unforgettable moments. Nestled along the scenic marina, The Tower Hotel offers the perfect base to soak up everything the city has to offer. From festivals and outdoor dining to historic landmarks and riverside walks, Waterford is the ideal destination for a summer escape.
Explore the Viking Triangle
Step back in time as you explore Waterford’s historic Viking Triangle, located just moments from The Tower Hotel. This fascinating cultural quarter marks the original site of the Viking settlement founded in 914 AD and is packed with museums, historic streets and iconic landmarks.
Just a 1–3 minute walk from the hotel, you can discover:
Reginald’s Tower – the oldest civic building in Ireland and a symbol of Waterford’s Viking past.
Waterford Medieval Museum – home to rare artefacts including medieval vestments and the Great Charter Roll.
Bishop’s Palace Museum – telling the story of Waterford from the 1700s onwards.
The House of Waterford Crystal – where you can watch master craftsmen create the world-famous crystal pieces.
The Viking Triangle is also filled with charming cafés, restaurants and outdoor seating areas that come alive during the summer months.
Walk the Waterford Greenway
The Waterford Greenway is one of Ireland’s most scenic outdoor experiences and a must-do activity during a summer stay. Stretching 46km from Waterford City to Dungarvan, this award-winning walking and cycling trail follows a former railway line through stunning countryside, historic viaducts and coastal landscapes.
The nearest Greenway access point is approximately 5–10 minutes from The Tower Hotel, making it easy to start your adventure directly from the city.
Highlights along the route include:
Mount Congreve Gardens section with beautiful woodland scenery.
The Ballyvoyle Viaduct overlooking the Copper Coast.
Durrow Tunnel, a historic railway tunnel along the route.
Charming villages and cafés where you can stop and relax.
Bike hire and shuttle services are available in the city, making it easy for visitors to explore the Greenway at their own pace.
Festivals & Events
Waterford’s summer calendar is packed with exciting festivals, live entertainment and cultural events that bring the city to life.
Popular Waterford summer events include:
Spraoi International Street Arts Festival – a spectacular weekend of street theatre, parades and performances across the city
Waterford Harvest Festival – a celebration of local food, artisan producers and street markets
All Together Now Festival – a major music and arts festival held at nearby Curraghmore Estate
Summer in the City Festival – a series of live music, outdoor entertainment and family events throughout the city centre
Beaches Near Waterford
Waterford is surrounded by beautiful coastline, with several stunning beaches just a short drive from the city, perfect for a sunny day trip during your stay.
Some of the most popular nearby beaches include:
Tramore Beach - approx. 15 minutes drive
A long sandy beach and lively seaside town with cafés, restaurants and amusements.
Dunmore East - approx. 20 minutes drive
A picturesque fishing village with small coves, cliff walks and a charming harbour.
Annestown Beach - approx. 30 minutes drive
A beautiful, quieter beach along the Copper Coast with dramatic scenery.
Clonea Strand - approx. 45 minutes drive
A wide Blue Flag beach near Dungarvan, perfect for long walks and swimming.
These coastal destinations make Waterford an ideal base for both city exploration and relaxing seaside escapes during the summer months.
To help you experience the very best of the city, we’ve created a 3 day summer itinerary in Waterford, filled with top attractions, local experiences and must-see sights.
