Waterford City Guide

Local dishes include Waterford Blaa and fresh seafood. Italian, Asian, and Indian restaurants are common. Vegan and vegetarian options are increasingly available. Late-night options limited.

Nightlife centers on traditional pubs with live music and some nightclubs.

Good coffee scene with independent cafes focusing on specialty brews and relaxed atmosphere.

Tipping is appreciated but optional. 10-15% in restaurants if no service charge. Small tips for taxis and services.

SIMs available at Vodafone, Three, Eir shops and some supermarkets. ID is needed to activate. Vodafone and Three offer eSIMs.

City center is clean with reliable waste collection and recycling.

Limited 24/7 services. Some convenience stores have extended hours. Pharmacy and clinic 24/7 options are rare.

Large supermarkets stock international brands with typical hours 8AM-10PM weekdays and shorter Sundays.

Card payments and contactless are widely accepted in shops, restaurants, and services.

ATMs are common at banks like AIB and Bank of Ireland and larger supermarkets. Non-local cards may incur fees set by your home bank.

Primary and secondary schools teach mainly in English. No dedicated international schools, though some private may have international students.

Small nomad community, some business networking events. Several cafes and co-working spaces suitable for remote work.

Access to People's Park and riverside walks. Good shaded areas and running routes.

Good running routes on the Waterford Greenway and in parks. Running clubs active and safe routes.

Several gyms offer pools, classes, and 24/7 access at some locations.

Tennis courts available at clubs like Waterford Lawn Tennis Club. Coaching and booking through clubs.

Padel courts are less common but may be found at some sports centers.

Several studios offer various styles with drop-in and memberships. Instructors speak English.

Several clubs offer BJJ, Judo, Karate, Taekwondo, and Boxing. English-speaking instructors available.

No ski resorts; Ireland does not have natural skiing.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing on the River Suir and coast. Rentals and guided tours are available May to September.

Tramore offers surf spots for all levels about 15-20 minutes away. Water is cold year-round, wetsuits needed.

Diving is limited near Waterford with moderate visibility. Best in summer and early autumn. Some nearby dive centers available.

University Hospital Waterford offers public healthcare with English-speaking staff. Pharmacies common and well stocked.

Tap water meets EU standards and is safe to drink.

Playgrounds and kid-friendly cafés are common. Attractions like Viking Triangle and Waterford Greenway suit families.

Very accepting city with legal protections. Annual Pride festival and generally inclusive venues.

Pet-friendly spots exist but vary. Several vets and pet supply stores. People’s Park popular for dog walking.