Excursion A walk through the viking city tour at Waterford

Discover the oldest city in Ireland during this picturesque, half-day excursion to historic Waterford, the 'Viking City'.

Waterford, National Monuments and Reginald's Tower

Depart the pier for the short drive to Waterford City, which was founded by Vikings about 1,100 years ago. Upon arrival, begin your guided walking tour of the city centre, known as the 'Viking Triangle'. Along the way, proceed for interior and/or exterior visits to six national monuments dating from 1190 to 1783. One of those National Monuments that you will pass by is Reginald's Tower, the strongpoint of the medieval defensive walls that enclosed the city until about 1700.

Greyfriars Franciscan Friary and Medieval Museum

Next, continue past Greyfriars Franciscan friary en route to the Medieval Museum. The eye-catching giant sculpture on the gable was inspired by a tiny, 13th-century belt mount found in Waterford. It is Ireland's only dedicated medieval museum, and the only building on the island to incorporate two medieval chambers; the 13th-century Choristers' Hall and 15th-century Mayor's Wine Vault. A short visit is made inside this modern structure, where you can observe a demonstration of how coins dating back to the Anglo Normans were made. Souvenir coins are provided for each guest.

Bishop's Palace

Your final stop is at the Bishop's Palace, which charts the history of Waterford from 1700 to 1970, and gives a wonderful insight into the history of the city. The museum reveals the legacy of Waterford from 1700 to the 1970s, and contains many items of national and international significance. Included is the only surviving Bonaparte 'mourning cross', one of only 12 produced upon Napoleon Bonaparte's death in 1821. The Bishop's Palace also houses the Penrose Decanter, the oldest surviving piece of Waterford Crystal, which dates back to 1789. Following your visit you will have the opportunity to explore the city independently. Some free time will allow you to perhaps do a little shopping or stop into a local pub. Alternatively you will also have complimentary re-admission to the Bishop's Palace or Medieval Museum should you wish to explore either of these venues a little further. At the conclusion of your tour, re-board your coach and commence the short drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking and standing for approximately three hours, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Warm, layered clothing, a waterproof jacket or coat, flat, closed-toe walking shoes, an umbrella are recommended. Due to the local climate, most of the coaches are air-cooled. Due to the local climate, most of the coaches are air-cooled.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Waterford, National Monuments, Reginald's Tower (external), Greyfriars Franciscan Friary (external), Medieval Museum, Bishop's Palace, Mourning Cross, Penrose Decanter