Waterford Crystal: Day Trips and Tours from Dublin

The House of Waterford Crystal is more than just a factory where glass is made. The production center is an iconic destination that has been attracting visitors from all over the world for centuries.

The factory offers a range of guided tours that provide an insight into the history and craftsmanship that goes into making each piece of crystal.

You’ll love visiting the center whether you’re interested in purchasing a piece of glass for your collection or want to learn more about this artisanal craft. Waterford Crystal day trips from Dublin are a fascinating experience for anyone who appreciates fine art skills.

How to get to Waterford Crystal from Dublin?

The House of Waterford Crystal is situated in the heart of Waterford town, over 170 kilometers south of the capital city, Dublin.

From Dublin to Waterford Crystal by car

It's an easy journey to Waterford Crystal by car. You can take the R147 heading west out of the city. From there, you'll join the M50 southbound heading to Port.

At junction 9, you'll leave the M50 and join the M7 which shows signs for Limerick, Cork and Waterford. At a fork in the road, you'll join the M9 which you'll follow all the way to the town. Waterford is well signposted and the drive is simple.

From Dublin to Waterford Crystal by bus

There are several buses that travel directly to Waterford from the capital city. You can catch one from the Dublin City South, George's Quay bus stop which takes you to the Quay in Waterford.

From there, it's a 12-minute jaunt to the Waterford Crystal factory by foot. The bus journey takes just under 2.5 hours and tickets cost between €12 and €21.

From Dublin to Waterford Crystal by train

An excursion to Waterford Crystal by train is easy to navigate. You can take a direct train from Dublin's Heuston station and the journey takes between two and 2.5 hours. You can expect to pay between €15 and €22 for a ticket, and there are regular departures throughout the day.

Guided tour to Waterford Crystal from Dublin

Guided tours by car will pick you up from your hotel and you can choose the departure time. Your experience will last around eight hours.

Rail tours meet at the Heuston train station in Dublin at 7:25 AM and travel with a guide to Waterford Crystal, returning 12.5 hours later.

How much does the entrance ticket to the House of Waterford Crystal cost?

• Adults: €14.85
• Students: €13.50
• Seniors: €14.50
• Children (age 5-18): €8.50
• Children (under 5): Free

You can also purchase a family ticket which includes two adults and three children for €42. This is a saving of €13.20.

If you are more interested in purchasing a piece of crystal than in a factory tour, you can access the retail store for free.

What is the typical itinerary of a day tour to Waterford Crystal from Dublin?

Waterford Crystal day tours vary depending on the mode of transport you take. If your trip takes place via car, you can expect to be picked up from your hotel. You'll be able to choose from a range of pickup times between 8 AM and 10 AM.

The excursion lasts eight hours and drops you back at your accommodation in the late afternoon or early evening. You'll visit both Kilkenny and Waterford and enjoy a tour of both.

Alternatively, if your Waterford Crystal day trip travels by train to the factory, then you can expect to meet your guide at Dublin's Heuston station just before 7:30 AM.

Your train tickets will have been pre-arranged for you and you'll travel to Kilkenny and Waterford before arriving back in Dublin around 8 PM. You can expect to be part of a group of up to 41 guests.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Waterford Crystal?

There are several different tours that head to Waterford Crystal from Dublin. You can choose to visit as part of a group or take a private tour.

Small group day trip to Waterford Crystal from Dublin

This Waterford Crystal day trip is a private tour via car which can house up to seven guests. You'll travel by luxury vehicle to the House of Waterford Crystal which is the main attraction in the medieval town of Waterford.

You'll see how the luxurious glass is blown before continuing on to see the 12th-century Kilkenny Castle. Once you've been captivated by the history and enchantment of the castle, you'll travel back to Dublin in comfort.

Private tour to Waterford Crystal from Dublin

Private tours to Waterford Crystal follow the same itinerary as above, but you're afforded the luxury of a more personal experience. This excursion is suitable for a group of two and allows for slightly more flexibility in the schedule.

Rail tour to Waterford Crystal plus Kilkenny from Dublin

Day tours to Waterford Crystal by rail give an insight into the picturesque landscape of Ireland. You'll take a train ride through the countryside from Dublin to Kilkenny.  

There is plenty of free time to wander the streets after a guided tour of the medieval town. You can choose to check out Kilkenny Castle or the Kilkenny Design Center, or simply enjoy a coffee in a local café.

You'll then discover Waterford Crystal Factory where you'll learn all about the process of creating the coveted glass. You'll see skilled craftspeople refining their talent as they blow the crystal by hand, before heading back to Dublin by train.

How much does a tour to Waterford Crystal from Dublin cost?

Small group day trips to Waterford Crystal and Kilkenny Castle cost €1,350 per group of up to seven participants. The transfer time is quicker than rail tours and the whole day trip lasts approximately eight hours.

A hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the price, as well as transportation via a luxury vehicle, bottled water and a driver-guide. You'll cover the cost of Waterford Experience tickets.

Private tours are suitable for groups of two and cost €850. You can expect round-trip transportation from your accommodation in Dublin to be included in the price, as well as a driver-guide. Entrance to Waterford Crystal Factory is at your own expense.

Day tours to Waterford Crystal by rail cost around €129. This price includes a knowledgeable guide for the duration of your trip, reserved seat tickets for the train ride and admission to Waterford Crystal Visitor Center. You'll also receive an information pack.

What will you see and do in Waterford Crystal?

The House of Waterford Crystal is more than just a place to see and purchase the world-renowned luxury glass. It is also a place to learn about the history and craftsmanship that goes into each piece.

Located in the heart of Waterford city, the House of Waterford Crystal offers visitors a behind-the-scenes look at how the iconic crystals are made. From start to finish, the process is fascinating to watch.

For those who want to take home a piece of Waterford Crystal, there is a wide selection of items to choose from, including stemware, vases, and sculptures.

The company has a long and rich history, dating back to the 18th century. Waterford was founded in 1783 by William and George Penrose, who set up the factory on the banks of the River Suir in Ireland.

Having quickly established a reputation for producing high-quality glassware and today, Waterford Crystal is still produced in the same location.

The factory has changed hands over time but still produces glass of the same quality and finesse.

What are the opening times?

• January - February — 9 AM - 3 PM
• March — 9:30 AM - 3:15 PM
• April - October — 9:30 AM - 4:15 PM
• November - December — 9:30 AM - 3:15 PM

Factory tours only run between Monday and Friday from November to February.

When is the best time to visit Waterford Crystal?

The House of Waterford Crystal can be visited year-round, however, it's advisable to take a trip to the glass-blowing factory between April and October. This is because tours run every day of the week and there are slightly later opening times.

Ireland experiences a lot of rain, and if you head to Waterford during this season, you'll also experience a drier climate.

Travel tips

• Waterford Crystal day trips include a journey to Kilkenny where you'll wander the town. As Irish weather is unpredictable, make sure you take an umbrella and extra layer for protection.
• Book your House of Waterford Crystal tickets before visiting as factory tours are limited.
• Plan your trip during the summer months if you will be visiting over the weekend.