The narrow streets and old quays of Wexford Town remind visitors of its past as a Viking settlement and an old port. Although the Vikings and ships have gone, this area 70 mi/115 km south of Dublin still has some of the most spacious, sunny beaches in Ireland.
As you walk around the town center, you'll catch glimpses of its history in the Westgate Tower, the only one of the original five gateways still standing, and remnants of the old town walls. South of the tower are the ruins of Selskar Abbey. Wexford Harbor is a picturesque spot, with its colorful fishing trawlers. The city's two main attractions—the Irish National Heritage Park and Wexford Wildfowl Reserve—are just on the outskirts of town.
Every October, the city's annual Opera Festival turns Wexford into the cultural center of Ireland. The city seems overtaken with entertainment—operas, street theater, poetry readings and lively pub music. Tickets should be purchased in advance, as the performances tend to sell out. http://wexfordopera.com.
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