Dublin to Kilkenny & Waterford Day Tour

From€161.52
10 hours
Dublin, Ireland

About this activity

Experience Ireland's rich history and culture on a day trip from Dublin to Kilkenny and Waterford, featuring guided tours and scenic views.

Highlights

  • Explore Kilkenny's medieval streets
  • Visit the historic Kilkenny Castle
  • Discover the art of crystal making at Waterford
  • Enjoy scenic views of County Tipperary
  • Experience Ireland's rich cultural heritage

Full description

Embark on a captivating day trip from Dublin to the historic cities of Kilkenny and Waterford. Begin with a scenic drive through County Tipperary, arriving in Kilkenny, renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture. Explore the impressive Kilkenny Castle, a symbol of the city's rich heritage. Afterward, journey to Waterford to witness the intricate craftsmanship at the House of Waterford Crystal, where you can observe artisans at work and shop for exquisite pieces. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, providing an unforgettable Irish experience.

Included / Excluded

  • Round-trip transportation from Dublin
  • Guided tours of Kilkenny Castle and House of Waterford Crystal
  • Free time to explore Kilkenny's medieval streets
  • Meals and beverages

Meeting point

Start Location

Heuston Station, Saint James, Dublin, Ireland

Important information

Know before you book

  • The tour operates on specific days; verify availability for your preferred date.
  • Confirm the departure time and location in Dublin to ensure timely arrival.
  • Be aware that the tour includes walking; consider your comfort with this activity.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring Kilkenny's cobblestone streets.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and historic sites.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly for the day's conditions.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Stroller Accessible
  • Service Animals Allowed
  • Easy Public Transport

Good to know

  • Check in at 7:00AM! Train departs at 7:20am & it does not wait. Our yellow check-in stand is located close to the Customer Service Desk at Heuston Station where our representative will be waiting for you in their BRIGHT yellow jacket!
  • WHEELCHAIR POLICY: Our tours are a combination of train and luxury coach and include a moderate level of physical activity, such as short walks to meeting points etc. Unfortunately even the most modern luxury coaches (buses) are not wheelchair friendly, thus our tours are not suitable for those with mobility issues, and regretfully walkers, wheelchairs and mobility scooters cannot be accommodated on our tours.
  • Children U16 cannot book independently. They must be accompanied by a parent/guardian at all times.

Traveler reviews

4.6
186 reviews
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5

You are on a time...

You are on a time schedule so you won’t have time to roam around. If you want to come back and do a self guided tour, then you can take your time walking the city and the castle. The tour is set up to give you the basics on the Kilkenny Castle and the town of Waterford with the tour of the Glass Factory included. I found the tour to be very informative and I would recommend it to anyone is touring Ireland for the first time.

Al_LSep 21, 2026VIATOR

Whilst it was really...

Whilst it was really enjoyable, there was a lot of walking, and the free time in Kilkenny is short and there’s hardly time to look inside the castle if that’s what you want to do. Waterford is beautiful but again a little bit of time. The lunch venue is classic, and the food very good and reasonably priced.

Amanda_RSep 19, 2026VIATOR

We enjoyed traveling...

We enjoyed traveling through the countryside by train. Paddy, our guide spent time talking with each of to explain what we would do and see. We did a bit of walking but it was not fast paced. The group enjoyed lunch at the The Reg in Waterford. The tour through Waterford factory was very informative and in the showroom, Paddy made sure we helped by the showroom staff. One negative was the bus that picked us up from the train station in Waterford was cramped and very hot. It was a long day but worth the trip!

Greg_FAug 31, 2026VIATOR

Amazing

The trip was so fun!! Our tour guide Patty, was amazing! So kind, friendly and loved to chat. If you go on this tour, I would recommend booking a self guided tour with the Kilkenny Castle. It was spectacular! The trip to Waterford was beautiful as well.

Casey_OAug 22, 2026VIATOR

Wonderful day in Ireland

Enjoy a scenic train ride to Kilkenny where a waking tour will take you through the winding streets to the castle. The hilarious street train driver will entertain you as you drive around town some more. Hop back on the train to Waterford. Enjoy a wonderful lunch at a local restaurant (cost not included). The tour of the crystal factory is so in-depth, you’ll feel like you’re cutting the glass yourself. Don’t be fooled by the official description. This tour has much more to offer than what Viator describes. There is quite a bit of walking. There is a tour leader with you the entire time

Angela_BAug 15, 2026VIATOR

Additional information

Check in at 6:40AM! Train departs at 7am & it does not wait. Our yellow check-in stand is located close to the Customer Service Desk at Heuston Station where our representative will be waiting for you in their BRIGHT yellow jacket! WHEELCHAIR POLICY: Our tours are a combination of train and luxury coach and include a moderate level of physical activity, such as short walks to meeting points etc. Unfortunately even the most modern luxury coaches (buses) are not wheelchair friendly, thus our tours are not suitable for those with mobility issues, and regretfully walkers, wheelchairs and mobility scooters cannot be accommodated on our tours. Children U16 cannot book independently. They must be accompanied by a parent/guardian at all times.