One of Ireland's smallest cities is packed full of amazing things to do - but tourists ignore it

There's a wee Irish city brimming with fantastic things to do , yet it often gets missed by overseas visitors. In 2024, we reckon it should be on your hit list.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, global travel was severely restricted. This led to many Irish folks opting for staycations over foreign holidays, uncovering the best that Ireland has to offer .

However, when international tourists decide to holiday on the Emerald Isle, they tend to stick to the same old spots. Ask a Yank to name an Irish city and they'll likely say Dublin first, maybe followed by Galway (cheers to the Galway Girl tune).

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But there's so much more to Ireland than its largest cities. In fact, you can have a trip of a lifetime in one of Ireland's smallest cities, Waterford. With a population of just 53,000, Waterford City is surrounded by incredible experiences that all sorts of travelers will thoroughly enjoy.

Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a history nerd , a foodie, or a culture hawk , Waterford City is a cracking place to be. Here's our guide to visiting Waterford, the wee Irish city too often bypassed by tourists.

Waterford City sits at the head of Waterford Harbour in County Waterford on Ireland's south coast. The nearest airport to Waterford is Cork Airport, about an hour and 55 minutes drive away. Dublin Airport is also accessible, being a two-hour drive away.

Waterford, a city steeped in history and part of Ireland's Ancient East, offers a wealth of attractions for visitors to explore. Reginald's Tower provides an insight into the city's intriguing Viking past. This can be followed by a visit to the Medieval Museum and the Bishop's Palace.

For those seeking something a bit more unusual, the newly opened Wake Museum in Waterford City delves into the traditions surrounding death and mourning in Ireland. The Waterford Greenway , one of Ireland's most picturesque cycling routes, stretches from the city to Dungarvan via Kilmacthomas. This former railway line spans an impressive 46 kilometers.

Rent a bike and marvel at the stunning landscapes that have earned Ireland its nickname, the Emerald Isle. Coumsingaun Lake is another must-see. Strap on your walking shoes or hiking boots and prepare to ascend to a lake perched atop a mountain.

The views from Coumshingaun are breathtaking and truly showcase the area's natural beauty. If you're daring enough to brave the cold waters for a swim, fair play to you. Regardless of whether you decide to take the plunge, a trip to the lake is well worth it.

Finally, don't miss out on the Copper Coast. One of the standout features of Co Waterford is its renowned Copper Coast, a UNESCO Global Geopark that spans 25 kilometers of the county's coastline, boasting stunning cliff walks and beaches.

The area offers numerous walking trails, providing an opportunity to immerse yourself in some of Ireland's most breathtaking scenery. Waterford also boasts a vibrant food and drink scene. Notable eateries include Momo Restaurant, Granary Cafe, Bodega, The Old Couch Cafe, Slice Wood Fire Pizza, and Sheehan's, among others.

Like any Irish city, Waterford is home to a host of traditional Irish pubs, where you can enjoy a quality pint of Guinness , friendly service, and potentially some live traditional Irish music.

There's plenty more to see and do in Waterford City. Other top attractions include Waterford Crystal, King of the Vikings, Mount Congreve Gardens, the Irish Silver Museum, The Irish Museum of Time, and Fairbrook House Garden and Museum.

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