13 Of The Best Hotels in Waterford For A Memorable Break In 2024

If you’re in search of the best hotels in Waterford, our Waterford hotels guide should be right up your street!

There’s an almost endless number of things to do in Waterford, from the Copper Coast to the Waterford Greenway, which make the county a great place for an adventure.

Luckily, there are plenty of incredible places to stay in Waterford, with everything from castle hotels to spa hotels on offer.

In the guide below, you’ll find a clatter of brilliant Waterford hotels, from luxurious escapes to pocket-friendly getaways.

Our favourite hotels in Waterford    

The first section of the guide tackles our favourite hotels in Waterford, from the brilliant Cliff House to the gorgeous Faithlegg Hotel and much more.

Note: if you book a hotel through one of the links below we may make a tiny commission that helps us keep this site going. You won’t pay extra, but we really do appreciate it.

1. Faithlegg Hotel

More a grand country residence than a hotel, the Faithlegg overlooks Waterford Harbour on the Suir Estuary. Surrounded by lush acres including a golf course, this luxury hotel is 10 minutes drive from Waterford City.

Formerly known as Roseville, the house has connections with the Penrose family whose crystal made Waterford a household name. Refurbished rooms exude old world charm with no lack of modern luxuries.

Enjoy the 17m swimming pool, gym, sauna and jacuzzi, join a fitness class, relax in the Aylwood Room with afternoon tea and feast in the award-winning Roseville Restaurant. 

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2. Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort

If you’re looking for unique places to stay in Waterford, look no further than the incredible four star Waterford Castle Hotel and Golf Resort.

This hotel boasts a beautiful setting on a 310-acre private island on the River Suir. Access is by private car ferry which takes just 3 minutes.

Everything about this 800-year-old property oozes luxury and exclusivity from the goose-down quilts to the elegantly furnished rooms and suites, all with breathtaking views. There’s a first-class bar and restaurant onsite.

The resort also has contemporary lodges and self-catering properties with their own kitchen, living room and 3-4 bedrooms. This is one of our favourite Irish castle hotels for a reason.

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3. Greenway Manor Hotel

Beautiful Greenway Manor is on the outskirts of Waterford City (7km) in a peaceful setting in Killotteran. The classic country house is deceptively spacious with a bar, terrace and garden all exuding old world charm and elegance.

A range of rooms and suites are nicely furnished to ensure a cosy and comfortable stay. All rooms have tea/coffee making facilities, satellite flatscreen TV, Wi-Fi, desk and private bathroom with upscale toiletries.

Start the day with a choice of breakfast before heading out hiking, cycling and exploring this beautiful area. 

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4. Waterford Viking Hotel

You’re visiting the Oldest City in Ireland with an evident Viking history, so why not choose a luxury hotel that reflects that in its name? The Waterford Viking Hotel is modern and stylish, starting with the plush reception lounge with velvet chairs.

The sleek tone and minimalist style continue in the bedrooms which have comfortable beds, TV, table and chair and complimentary tea/coffee facilities. Upgrade to Executive and enjoy many extras including bathrobe and slippers.

The hotel is on the fringe of Waterford City, 5km from the main attractions but very convenient for golf courses and cycling the Greenway. 

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5. Cliff House Hotel

The Cliff House is arguably one of the most luxurious hotels in Waterford. A glance above should give you a sense of what to expect.

Located right on the stunning Ardmore coast and a short stroll from both Ardmore Beach and the starting point for the Ardmore Cliff Walk, this place really is special.

It’s a top place for a relaxing vacation with its own spa, hot tub, gym and heated pool. There’s even an outdoor seaweed bath if you fancy a unique relaxing treat!

This 5 star hideaway has amazing sea views from its clifftop location. Boutique-style rooms are beautifully furnished with chic decor, huge picture windows and a private balcony or terrace. It offers fine dining, from the cooked breakfast to dinner in the Michelin star restaurant. 

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6. The Park Hotel

Well located for enjoying the spectacular countryside and coastal scenery, The Park Hotel, Holiday Homes and Leisure Centre is one of our favourite hotels in Dungarvan.

It offers comfortable rooms, extensive leisure and conference facilities and superb walks along the Colligan River Estuary. Sitting in 5 landscaped acres, the hotel is a 5-minute walk from Dungarvan village.

Guests can make use of the Leisure Centre with its therapy whirlpool, sauna, swimming pool and gym or head to the Garden Room Restaurant for an intimate meal using fresh seasonal produce. 

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Gorgeous Waterford hotels by the Sea

Now that we have our favourite Waterford hotels out of the way, it’s time to see what else this corner of Ireland has to offer.

Below, you’ll find a mix of hotels in Waterford that are finely located right next to the sea. Dive on in!

1. The Strand Inn

Located close to the sandy beach in the pretty village of Dunmore East, The Strand Inn is the perfect home-from-home for a seaside break in Waterford.

Relax on the patio with views of Hook Head Lighthouse, enjoy the cosy ambience in the bar and dine on fresh local seafood in the superb restaurant. There’s a covered patio for dining alfresco in this stunning location.

Rooms are comfortably furnished with armchairs, Wi-Fi and large flatscreen TV. Views are spectacular and some rooms have balconies, which is a real plus. Fishing, sailing, beach activities and golf are nearby. See our Dunmore East Hotels guide for more. 

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2. The Haven Hotel

Another classic country house, The Haven Hotel in Dunmore East is a family-owned beach hotel which is highly rated by past guests. Rooms are thoughtfully furnished with wardrobe, flatscreen TV and ensuite and many have fireplaces and period features.

There’s a friendly well-stocked bar and upscale restaurant which frequently hosts weddings. After a tasty continental or cooked breakfast (included) there are plenty of things to do nearby.

Enjoy beach walks, swimming, snorkelling, hiking and cycling. Alternatively, head to Waterford City with its Crystal Visitor Centre, Cathedral and Viking Triangle just 14km away 

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3. Majestic Hotel

Just one minute from the golden sands of Tramore Beach, the four star Majestic Hotel is well located for exploring coast, country and Waterford City, just 12km away.

This impressive hotel has tastefully furnished rooms with everything you could need for your stay. The Garden Room Restaurant serves Irish and classic dishes enhanced by stunning Tramore Bay views.

The Lounge Bar is similarly well located with views of the Boating Lake and a menu of drinks and snacks best enjoyed on the garden patio.

Guests have discounted access to the neighbouring Splashworld Health and Leisure centre. Beach walks, swimming, fishing and horse riding are all available nearby. See our Tramore hotels guide for more.

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4. O’Shea’s Hotel

Located on Strand Street, Tramore and a stone’s throw from the sea, O’Shea’s Hotel has ample historic charm and character.

This three star hotel offers a relaxed and homely ambience with a contemporary purple neon bar and a more traditional pub. The restaurant has dark-wood features and serves excellent food to complement casual dining on the outdoor terrace.

Rooms are tastefully furnished with comfy beds and a full range of furniture to enhance a longer stay. With friendly staff and attentive service, what more could you wish for?

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Great hotels in Waterford City

The final section of our Waterford hotels guide focuses on Ireland’s oldest city, where you’ll find a tonne of historical sites, incredible restaurants and great bars.

Below, you’ll discover some of the finest hotels in Waterford City, from the Waterford Marina Hotel to the Fitzwilton Hotel and more.

1. Waterford Marina Hotel

When it comes to location, it’s hard to beat the beautiful Waterford Marina Hotel. It’s right on the banks of the River Suir with superb views from many guest rooms.

Park your car (free parking for guests) and explore on foot. Waterford Crystal is 300m away and many other attractions are within easy strolling distance. After a satisfying day’s sightseeing, return to the hotel for live entertainment on the terrace on weekends.

Enjoy a delicious a la carte meal at The Waterfront Restaurant which also serves full Irish breakfast, cooked to order each morning. Retire to your comfortable room which has satellite TV, work desk, Wi-Fi and power shower in the ensuite. 

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2. The Fitzwilton Hotel

The luxury Fitzwilton Hotel is a sleek four star boutique hotel boasting stylish decor and bold modern artwork along with quirky lighting features in every room.

Many rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows and stunning river views along with tea/coffee facilities. The onsite Chez K’s restaurant is one of the best in Waterford or hangout in the Met Bar enjoying cocktails, wine, beer and lighter fare.

The Fitzwilton is in a great location, 2 minutes’ walk from the train/bus station and many of the best restaurants in Waterford are a short stroll away.

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3. Granville Hotel

Situated on Meagher’s Quay, the Granville Hotel this 18th century harbour front hotel has an upscale atmosphere and air-conditioned rooms furnished to a high standard.

Guests have free Wi-Fi, safes and heated towel rails – all nice extras to enhance your stay. For sightseeing, this luxury hotel is a 5-minute walk from St Patrick’s Cathedral, shops and bars in Waterford’s Shopping District and Theatre Zone.

The hotel has its own Meagher Bar with a renowned lunchtime carvery and bar menu while the Bianconi Restaurant serves Irish and international cuisine including tasty breakfasts. 

If you’re looking for places to stay in Waterford City right next to the water, you’ll love the brilliant Granville Hotel.

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What places to stay in Waterford have we missed?

I’ve no doubt that we’ve unintentionally left out some brilliant Waterford hotels from the guide above.

If you have a place that you’d like to recommend, let me know in the comments below and I’ll check it out!

FAQs About the best Waterford hotels

Since publishing our guide to the best things to do in Waterford, we’ve have heaps (literally!) of questions about where to stay in Waterford.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What are the best hotels in Waterford?

In my opinion, the best Waterford hotels are Waterford Viking Hotel, Greenway Manor Hotel, Waterford Castle Hotel and the Faithlegg Hotel.

What are the most unique Waterford hotels?

When it comes to unique Waterford hotels, it’s hard to beat Waterford Castle. You’ll find it on a 310-acre private island on the River Suir.

What are the best hotels in Waterford with a swimming pool?

The Faithlegg Hotel, the Cliff House, The Park Hotel are three excellent hotels in Waterford with a swimming pool.