Wexford Travel Guide
City City in Leinster, Ireland
Wexford’s harbour and low sandy coast host seafood stalls, the Irish National Heritage Park, and Hook Head lighthouse; visitors come for coastal walks, historical reconstructions, and the town’s longstanding opera and arts festivals.
Why Visit Wexford? #
With a long maritime past and sandy coastline, Wexford draws visitors for its seafaring heritage, festivals and accessible beaches. Visit Hook Head Lighthouse and the Irish National Heritage Park to trace maritime and early medieval life, then time your trip for the Wexford Festival Opera or lively seafood markets. Relaxed harbourfront promenades and local fisheries give the town an easygoing coastal charm.
Top Things to Do in Wexford
All Attractions ›
- Irish National Heritage Park - Walk reconstructed ancient Irish settlements across the Irish National Heritage Park's riverside grounds.
- Wexford Wildfowl Reserve - Birdwatch at Wexford Wildfowl Reserve, internationally important wetlands hosting migratory birds.
- Wexford Opera House and Georgian streets - Stroll Wexford's Georgian streets and catch performances or exhibitions at the Opera House.
- Hook Lighthouse - Climb Hook Lighthouse, one of the world's oldest operational lighthouses with coastal views.
- Loftus Hall - Tour Loftus Hall for Gothic legends, period rooms and cliff-top location.
- Johnstown Castle Gardens - Wander Johnstown Castle's formal lawns, decorative gardens and lakeside arboretum collection.
- Dunbrody Famine Ship (New Ross) - Visit New Ross to board the Dunbrody Famine Ship replica and museum.
- Saltee Islands boat trip - Boat trip to Saltee Islands for seabird colonies and offshore scenery.
Best Time to Visit Wexford #
Wexford is nicest from late spring through summer for beaches, sailing and seafood festivals. Winters are mild but rainy-perfect for quieter town exploration and cosy evenings.
Best Time to Visit Wexford #
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How to Get to Wexford
Wexford is usually reached from Dublin Airport with a train or coach into Wexford town. Waterford is the nearer regional airport but has limited regular services and may require extra transfers.
Dublin Airport (DUB): Dublin is the main international airport serving Wexford. From Dublin Airport, travel into Dublin and take a direct train or coach to Wexford (see Train & Bus below); door-to-door times are around 2-2.5 hours by public transport.
Waterford Airport (WAT): Waterford provides a nearer regional option but has limited scheduled services; from Waterford you can continue by bus or hire a car to Wexford (longer onward travel may be required).
Train: Iarnród Éireann operates services to Wexford O’Hanrahan station (via Rosslare/Rosslare Europort depending on route) from Dublin Connolly; journey times are typically about 2-2.5 hours and fares vary with advance purchase.
Bus: Bus Éireann runs coach services from Dublin to Wexford and Rosslare with journey times about 2 hours; fares are usually competitive with train prices and buses are frequent.
How to Get Around Wexford #
Wexford town centre is largely walkable, with most attractions, restaurants and shops within easy walking distance. Local buses and taxis serve the town and surrounding areas. A car helps if you plan to explore county beaches and small villages, particularly in summer when public transport can be stretched.
Where to Stay in Wexford #
- Wexford Town Hostel - Basic hostel within walking distance
- Talbot Wexford (value rooms) - Affordable options near the quay
- Talbot Wexford - Comfortable rooms, central leisure facilities
- Riverbank House Hotel - Riverside location, family-run comforts
- Nearby country-house hotels - Privacy and upscale dining options
- Kilmokea Country House (regional) - Gardens and refined dining a short drive away
Where to Eat in Wexford #
Breakdown of cuisine types found across Wexford's restaurants and food venues, based on OpenStreetMap data.
Nightlife in Wexford #
Wexford offers an evening scene made up of pubs, wine bars and occasional live-music or theatre events - the nightlife is relaxed and family-friendly. For late-night venues or a busier club scene, larger urban centres will offer more variety.
Shopping in Wexford #
Wexford’s shopping mix includes independent boutiques, local food shops and a small retail centre; markets and specialist stores sell local produce and crafts. The town supports a pleasing selection of artisan food outlets and independent retailers serving both residents and visitors.
