🏨 Treacy's Hotel, Waterford
Treacy’s is a comfortable base right on the quays overlooking the River Suir, with the city centre an easy walk away. You’re close to Waterford’s best-known sights like the Viking Triangle area, Reginald’s Tower and the Waterford Crystal visitor experience, so it’s ideal for popping out for a wander during your free time.
Guests often mention the friendly, helpful staff and the overall atmosphere, with the on-site bar and restaurant giving you a relaxed place to settle in during the evenings. A standout bonus is the Spirit Leisure Centre, including a 20m heated indoor pool and a gym, plus lift access to all floors and handy in-room essentials like tea and coffee making facilities, TV and free Wi-Fi.
🏙️ Dublin
Dublin is one of those cities that’s brilliant for a short break because it’s easy to get around on foot, and there’s a lot packed into a small area. You can spend time around the River Liffey and cross the Ha'penny Bridge, then wander through Temple Bar for its lively atmosphere, galleries, cafés and live music, before finishing with a relaxed browse along Grafton Street.
For the “must see” highlights, Trinity College Dublin is a favourite, home to the Book of Kells and the famous Long Room library, which is a real wow moment. If you fancy something iconic and very Dublin, the Guinness Storehouse is a classic, with a self-guided experience and the chance to take in city views from the Gravity Bar. And if you want a calmer pace in between, St Stephen's Green is perfect for a gentle wander right in the centre.
🌊 Waterford
Waterford is a brilliant place for free time because the best bits are close together and easy to enjoy at your own pace. The Viking Triangle is the heart of the old city, with characterful streets, heritage buildings and plenty of spots to stop for a coffee, and Reginald's Tower is the standout landmark if you fancy a quick, easy slice of history while you’re there.
If you’re looking for something iconic, the House of Waterford Crystal is a popular choice, and for a more relaxed wander, “walking the quay” along the River Suir is a proper local tradition with lovely river views. If you fancy a wee bit of fresh air without overcommitting, you can also dip into a short section of the Waterford Greenway which starts in the city and is well known for being easy, scenic and car-free.
🍀Wexford
Wexford is a brilliant day out if you like somewhere that feels properly Irish without being overwhelming. The town sits along the waterfront, so an easy highlight is a relaxed wander by the quays, watching the boats and enjoying the views as the River Slaney opens out towards the sea.
From there, you can drift into the compact town centre for a browse through independent shops, pick up something tasty in a café, and just enjoy the lively feel of the streets.
If you fancy something a bit more “this is why I came”, there are a couple of standout options nearby that really make Wexford worth the trip. The Irish National Heritage Park brings Irish history to life in a way that’s genuinely engaging, with reconstructed sites you can walk through as you go from prehistoric Ireland to Viking and early Christian life.
For something calmer and really pretty, Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum & Gardens is all about the lake walks, walled gardens and scenic pathways, giving you a lovely, unhurried few hours.
🏰 Kilkenny
Kilkenny is one of Ireland’s most enjoyable historic cities to explore, with a proper medieval feel and most of the highlights sitting close together. Kilkenny Castle is the obvious headline, with impressive rooms to explore and lovely grounds that are ideal for a gentle wander.
From there, it’s easy to enjoy the city’s famous Medieval Mile, with great options depending on what you fancy. St Canice's Cathedral and its round tower are a standout for atmosphere and views, and the Medieval Mile Museum is a really interesting stop if you want something more story-led. If you’re in the mood for something fun and a bit different, Smithwick's Experience is a popular choice right in the heart of the old city, mixing local history with a lively visitor experience.
