Waterford Crystal, Kilbarry, Cork Rd. (tel. 051-051-332500). Undoubtedly the star attraction of Co. Waterford and the Southeast, this enterprise welcomes more than a quarter-million visitors annually. It certainly is not a new attraction (founded in 1783) but it is continually expanding and improving. Plan to spend at least an hour and one-half at the centre, to take in all of the activities, starting with a 20-minute audiovisual and a 50-minute (or longer) guided tour of the factory that includes a chance to see the Waterford craftsmen up close — from the blowing and shaping of the molten ball of lead to the delicate cutting of a design into each piece of glass. And save some time for browsing (or shopping) in the glittering showrooms. It is situated two miles south of the downtown area, but can be easily reached by taxi or public bus if you don't have a car. Tours are offered Mar.-Oct. daily and Jan.-Feb. and Nov.-Dec. on weekdays only; the showrooms are open daily throughout the year except Jan. (open weekdays only). Facilities include shops, tourist office, bureau de change, and self-service restaurant.  Web site: www.waterfordvisitorcentre.com.

Waterford Treasures, The Granary, Hanover St. at Merchant's Quay (tel. 051-304500), is a great way to get to know Waterford. Conveniently housed in a restored 19th century six-story granary building on the Quay in the heart of the city, it presents a one-stop rendezvous with some of Waterford's greatest people, places, and things, dating from Viking times to the present. Using a sound-guide headphone (available in adults and children's versions), you'll also step back in time to enjoy a simulated eight-minute sea voyage on a Viking ship, observe the 12th century wedding of Strongbow and Aoife, or savor the atmosphere of a Georgian society ball. In addition, all of the city's "treasures" (formerly housed at several smaller locations) are now united under this one roof — from Viking jewelry, to medieval gold, bronze and silver artifacts, as well as the city's original charter roll, civic regalia, and specimens of rare old Waterford glass. Open daily, year-round. Web site: www.waterfordtreasures.com

Reginald's Tower, The Quay, is Waterford's signature building. Built in 1003 by a Viking governor named Reginald, this 70-foot circular fortress gives Waterford its unmistakable Viking ambiance, with 10-foot-thick walls and a huge conical roof. It dominates the east end of The Quay, at the juncture of The Mall, and is considered the oldest urban civic building in Ireland and possibly the oldest tower of mortared stone in Europe. It's open for self-guided tours, but wear good climbing shoes, since the curved stone steps can be difficult and there is no lift. Open daily April-October and Wednesday-Sunday in November-March (closed Christmas week). Web site: www.heritageireland.ie

Edmund Rice Centre, Mount Sion, Barrack St. (tel. 051-874390), is a museum focusing on Waterford's spiritual hero — Ignatius Rice (1762-1844), a local man who sold all his possessions to help the poor. Founder of the teaching order of Irish Christian Brothers, he was declared blessed in 1996, putting him on the road to sainthood. This museum, housed at a school started by Rice and still operating, presents an A/V presentation and a tour of Rice memorabilia. The adjacent chapel also contains Rice's tomb. Opening times vary; phone in advance to check.

Christ Church Cathedral, Cathedral Square (tel. 051-874119), is one of Waterford's most notable landmarks. Built in 1170-79, it occupies the site of an old Viking cathedral and its medieval successor that lasted until 1770. The present cathedral, which belongs to the Church of Ireland, still has some medieval monuments on view including a small crypt and 15th and 16th century tombs. Open daily; hours vary; check notice outside.

Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity, Barronstrand St. (051-874757), dating back to 1793, is an austere Ionic-style building on the outside. The interior, however, is rich and decorative, with a high vaulted roof, Corinthian pillars, carved oak pulpit, and a magnificent set of Waterford Crystal chandeliers donated by Waterford Crystal during a 1979 renovation. Open daily; check hours posted outside.

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