Waterford is seated at the estuary of the river Suir near the south coast of Ireland. It is the capital of the southeast region of Ireland. The population has increased since the early 1990s, a result of new dwellings being added to the area, with growth particularly between 1991 and 1996. Today, Waterford is known for Waterford Crystal, an endowment of the city’s former glass making industry. The tourist season runs approximately from April to October, with the Waterford Festival of Light Opera in September being the highlight of the social calendar. Waterford is a typical city and is worth a visit

Climate

During any visit of more than a few days, it can be almost said for sure that rain will be experienced. The winter is wetter than the summer.  The western part of the island gets more rain than the eastern part. The southeast is the driest part of the country. Ireland rarely gets very cold, and snow and ice are relatively rare. Summer temperatures average between 15 to 20 degrees Celsius. Anything above that would be considered a hot day, and rarely does the temperature get as high as 30. Similarly winter is moderate and even in January and February the average temperature is between six and seven degrees. Temperatures in Waterford range from 3.5 to 19.4 (Celsius) and rainfall varies from 180.0 to 369.0 (mm/month).

Places to visit

With a perfect mix of mountain, beaches and urban excitement, Waterford is a county like no other in Ireland. Look for the medieval city walls which are especially well preserved near the watchtower on Castle Street. On the Quays you will find the Clock Tower, Holy Trinity Cathedral and the impressive Reginald’s Tower. Waterford Museum of Treasures is hard to miss! The Waterford Municipal Art Gallery is also very entertaining for tourists. Its superb position on Ireland’s sunny South East coast means that beaches are a real highlight in Waterford, with clear pristine waters and spectacular surroundings. The towns of Lismore, Cappoquin and Ballymacarbry, nestled into the quiet, tranquil Nire Valley have a picturesque view. Jack Meade’s pub and Waterford castle golf club are the highlights of the place.

Airport

Waterford Airport is the only airport located in the South East of Ireland. The airport inaugurated in December 1981 with a 1200 meter long and 29 meter wide runway for single and twin-engine light aircraft. Waterford Airport is today at the early stages of a substantial capital development programme to be completed by the end of 2009. It has 4 check-in desks, 2 boarding gates and 2 baggage carousels. The airport has 200 car parking spaces. Free Wi-Fi is available within the airport terminal. There are two snack/bars in the airport, one before security and one in the departure’s hall. There is also a Duty Free Shop, Car Rental, Taxi Service/Rank, First Aid, Baby/Parent Room; Disabled Access/Facilities   Car Hire is provided at Waterford Airport by Argus, Budget and Hertz Car Hire.