Things To Do
in Wexford
Wexford is a windswept, welcoming town on Ireland's southeast coast known for its maritime heritage and historic streets. The town sits on the estuary of the Slaney River, with a lively quayside and a strong arts scene that includes music and traditional crafts. Surrounding Wexford are rolling landscapes, sandy beaches like Curracloe, and dramatic coastal cliffs that frame short trips along the coast.
Visitors can enjoy a mix of heritage, nature, and friendly pubs, with easy access to the Hook Peninsula and the countrysides of the southeast.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a walk through the historic streets of Wexford Town, where you can admire the beautiful Georgian architecture and visit the quaint shops. Don't miss a stop at the Wexford Opera House, an architectural gem that often features performances. Enjoy a traditional Irish breakfast at a local café to fuel your day.
Head to the Wexford Wildfowl Reserve for a leisurely afternoon of birdwatching and nature walks. The diverse wetlands are home to numerous species, making it a perfect spot for photography and relaxation. Afterward, indulge in a local lunch at one of the town's popular pubs.
As the sun sets, take a stroll along the waterfront at Wexford Quay, enjoying the tranquil views of the river. Dine at a restaurant that specializes in fresh seafood caught off the coast, complemented by a pint of local ale. End your evening with a traditional Irish music session at one of the friendly local pubs.
Depart early to the stunning Hook Peninsula, where you can explore the picturesque coastline and visit the iconic Hook Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses in the world. Climb the tower for breathtaking views of the surrounding Irish Sea and countryside. Grab a light snack at the nearby café to keep your energy up.
Spend your afternoon enjoying outdoor activities such as coastal walks, cycling, or even kayaking along the shoreline. There are several marked trails that provide glimpses of local wildlife and stunning vistas. Stop at a scenic spot for a picnic lunch amidst nature.
As the day comes to a close, head back to Wexford for a relaxing evening. Enjoy dinner at a family-run restaurant, known for its warm atmosphere and hearty dishes. Consider taking a night walk through the town to soak in the peaceful ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $14-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚌Public transport day pass | $6-12 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $95-150 |
| 🍷Glass of wine | $6-9 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastline and beaches with year-round access
- Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals
- Weather can be changeable and showers frequent
- Limited late-night options outside peak season
- "Dia dhuit" - Hello
- "Slán" - Goodbye
- "Go raibh maith agat" - Thank you
- "Conas atá tú?" - How are you?
- "Le do thoil" - Please
- "Cá bhfuil an …" - Where is the …?
Places to Visit in Wexford
Visit one of these nice places.
The oldest operating lighthouse in Ireland, perched on the Hook Peninsula with sweeping sea views and rugged cliffs.
A working harbour framed by colorful houses and fishing boats, best captured at golden hour.
Medieval ruins along the riverfront offering atmospheric stonework and reflections on the water.
A long, sandy beach backed by rolling dunes—ideal for wide landscape shots and sunset silhouettes.
Food in Wexford
Wexford Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy chowder featuring locally caught fish and shellfish, best enjoyed at harbourfront pubs.
Must-Try!
Steamed mussels in a light cider, garlic, and herb sauce, often served with crusty Irish bread.
Hearty stew with beef or lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions; a staple in many pubs and family-run eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market hall with fishmongers, cheese, bread, and ready-to-eat bites; great for picking up picnic provisions.
Seasonal stalls along the quay offering fish, chips, pastries, and ice cream with views over the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; some locals may greet with a friendly nod. Basic courtesy goes a long way.
Bookings and reservations are valued; plan for occasional weather-related delays when traveling.
Tipping is modest and not always expected for drinks; round up or leave a small gratuity for good service in restaurants.
Politeness and a friendly chat with locals are typical; respect for church and heritage sites is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Wexford
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 10-15% at restaurants if service isn’t included; rounding up at pubs is common.
Card payments are widely accepted (often contactless); cash is increasingly accepted at markets and smaller venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder days with fresh greens, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds. Pack a light rain jacket for splashes of showers.
Long daylight hours and beach season; outdoor events and festivals proliferate. Sun protection and hydration are essential.
Crisp air and harvest markets; sea breezes, with occasional showers. Layered clothing is advised.
Cool and damp with shorter days; cosy pubs and cultural events are great alternatives to outdoor plans.
Wexford at Night
Hiking in Wexford
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic coastal hike around Hook Head with dramatic sea cliffs, lighthouse views, and sea spray along the cliff edges.
Rugged upland trails near Enniscorthy offering panoramic views of the county and surrounding countryside.
Airports
How to reach Wexford by plane.
Main international gateway; about 2.5–3 hours by road from Wexford with car hire or coach services.
Regional airport offering seasonal and limited international flights; closer to Wexford than Dublin by about an hour or more by road.
Major international hub in the midwest; longer drive to Wexford (roughly 3.5–4 hours) but good for certain connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly native Irish with a strong sense of community; Gaelic heritage and English-speaking population with friendly, family-oriented neighborhoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Strong local interest with parish teams and county-level matches; community spirit around games on weekends and festival days.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Wexford.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs and restaurants offer veggie options such as vegetable stews, salads, pies with vegetables, and pasta dishes; ask for the chef's daily veggie option or a vegetarian version of a seafood dish if needed.