Getting There
There are plenty of convenient ways to reach Waterford City whether you’re arriving by air, rail, or road. Waterford is well connected to major cities across Ireland, making it easy to get here and explore the wider county. Below, you’ll find a helpful overview of how to reach Waterford City, with onward travel options to nearby destinations just as accessible.
By train
Rail
Waterford is well connected by rail, with Plunkett Station serving as the city’s main train station on the Irish Rail network. Regular services operate between Waterford and major cities including Dublin, Cork, and Limerick, making it easy to plan your journey. Travel time from Dublin’s Heuston Station to Waterford typically takes around 2.5 hours, with direct services available throughout the day. For up-to-date timetables and to book tickets, visit
www.irishrail.ie.
By air
Waterford is easily accessible from Ireland’s major international airports, including Dublin Airport, Cork Airport, and Shannon Airport. Each airport is within a few hours’ drive and offers a wide range of flight connections from across Europe and beyond. Car hire, bus services, and private transfers are available from all three, making it simple to reach Waterford City. For the most up-to-date travel options, please check with the individual airport or transport provider.
By bus and coach
Bus
By Bus
Waterford City’s main bus terminal is located on the city’s quayside, with regular services connecting Waterford to key destinations across Ireland. For timetables and bookings, visit
www.buseireann.ie.
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Bus Éireann provides frequent services to and from Dublin, Cork, and Limerick. For more information, visit www.buseireann.ie or call +353 (0)1 836 6111.
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JJ Kavanagh & Sons offers hourly direct buses between Waterford and Dublin Airport, with stops in Dublin City Centre (Heuston Station, Eden Quay, and Red Cow LUAS).
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Dublin Coach operates a return service every two hours between Dublin and Waterford, including stops in Dungarvan and other locations. Visit www.dublincoach.ie for details.
By car
Waterford is easily accessible by road from all major cities in Ireland. Located just over 2 hours from Dublin via the M9, it’s a straightforward and scenic drive. From Cork, take the N25 east for around 1 hour and 45 minutes, and from Limerick, follow the N24 southeast for about 2 hours.
Free and paid parking options are available throughout the city, including multi-storey car parks and on-street spaces. Electric vehicle charging points are also available at key locations. Once you arrive, Waterford’s compact city centre makes it easy to explore on foot.
Taxis
Journey time by taxi from the airport to Waterford City and local towns Dunmore East and Tramore is 15 minutes. Taxis can be ordered in advance by contacting any of the taxi companies. You will find a list of local companies at www.goldenpages.ie/taxi-service/waterford-waterford-county
Getting Around
Waterford is a compact and accessible city, offering various convenient options for getting around. Here’s an overview of the available transportation methods.
Bus
Waterford offers a robust and accessible bus network, making it easy to navigate the city and its surrounding areas.
Bus Éireann – City Services
Bus Éireann operates several city routes, all beginning from the Clock Tower in the city centre:
buseireann.ie
W1: Clock Tower → Merchants Quay via SETU
W2: Clock Tower → Meagher’s Quay
W3: Clock Tower → Meagher’s Quay via St. John’s Park
W4: Peter Street → Browne’s Road
W5: Waterford Hospital → Oakwood
These routes connect key areas, including the city centre, residential neighbourhoods, and institutions like the South East Technological University (SETU) and University Hospital Waterford.
For detailed route maps and schedules, visit the Bus Éireann Waterford City Services page.
Regional and Intercity Connections
Waterford is well-connected to other cities and towns:
Bus Éireann: Routes to Tramore (360/360A), Dungarvan, and beyond.
TFI Local Link Waterford provides a reliable network of rural bus routes connecting Waterford City with nearby towns and villages, including Tramore, Dungarvan, Dunmore East, Clonmel, Ardmore, and more. Services operate on fixed timetables—no pre-booking is required—while select door-to-door options are available for those with mobility needs. Buses run during peak times, evenings, weekends, and Sundays on certain routes. Fares are affordable and payment is accepted via cash, Free Travel Pass, TFI Leap Card, and the TFI Go app. For timetables or to reserve a seat on door-to-door services, contact the Waterford office at 058 22076 (Mon–Fri, 9 am–5 pm, closed 1–2 pm).
JJ Kavanagh & Sons: Route 736 connects Waterford to Carlow, Dublin City, and Dublin Airport.
Bicycle
Cycling is a popular and eco-friendly way to navigate Waterford. The TFI Bike Share Scheme offers 14 stations across the city, including locations at SETU, University Hospital Waterford, and Arundel Square. This self-service bike rental system provides 220 bikes for residents and visitors.
Car rental
While not necessary for city exploration, car rentals are available for those wishing to explore the surrounding countryside or coastal areas. Rental services can be found within the city and at nearby airports.
Cruise Calls
Cruise calls into Dunmore East offer a warm welcome to visitors arriving by sea. A dedicated shuttle bus runs every 20 minutes between the port and Waterford City, with drop-off and pick-up at The Mall—just steps from key attractions, shops, and cafés. Knowledgeable volunteers are available both at the port and on board at the ship’s hospitality desk to provide helpful information, local tips, and up-to-date shuttle times, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable visit to Ireland’s oldest city.
Taxis
Taxis are readily available throughout Waterford, with services like Rapid Cabs and Ardkeen Taxis offering reliable transportation.
ardkeentaxis.ie
Ride-sharing options, such as Uber, also operate in the city, providing 24/7 service for convenient travel.
Weather
When planning your visit to Waterford, it’s essential to consider the weather, as it can vary throughout the year. Here’s a general guide to help you pack appropriately for each season
Tide times
Experience the breathtaking coastal beauty of County Waterford. To ensure your visit is as spectacular as the scenery, we highly recommend checking the local tide calendars before you go.
Check the forecast
While the weather can shift unexpectedly, checking the daily forecast helps you plan your activities. Even on sunny days, be prepared for a surprise shower. Having your rain gear handy ensures you’re ready for whatever the day brings!
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