Wales is a stunning country that offers a rich history and a wide variety of activities and sights for visitors to explore and enjoy.
Because it is so packed with unique locations and old structures, Cardiff, the nation’s capital, makes for an excellent base from which to explore the beautiful surrounding area.
With its dramatic coastlines, verdant countryside, and rolling hills, Wales is also home to some of the world’s most breath-taking natural scenery.
It doesn’t matter if you’re searching for quaint villages or expansive forests; this place has a lot of beautiful views for you to take in.
There is a wide variety of exciting things to do, from heritage railways, Unesco world heritage sites and amusement parks, to trails for hiking and biking.
Visitors who take pleasure in engaging in active pursuits will value the fantastic outdoor opportunities that Wales provides.
Wales is a truly unique place that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime to learn about its illustrious past and enjoy its stunning scenery.
Things To Do In Wales
1. Snowdonia National Park
The stunning Snowdonia National Park in North Wales is widely considered to be one of the most picturesque regions in all of Wales.
This incredible national park offers a wide variety of activities that can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages, from trekking through the Welsh countryside to paddling a kayak along the winding rivers.
Visitors will run into people speaking Welsh quite frequently and there are a lot of outdoor festivals that celebrate traditional Welsh culture and music.
Other activities include hill-walking, wildlife watching, mountain biking and riding the Snowdon Mountain Railway to the summit of Mount Snowdon (open from April).
Full of natural beauty, Snowdonia National Park is a destination that can cater to a vacation filled with relaxation or excitement for the whole family.
Address: Snowdonia National Park, Penrhyndeudraeth, North Wales, LL48 6LF
2. Cardiff Castle
Cardiff Castle is an impressive medieval castle located in Cardiff’s city centre, south Wales.
It has a long history and stunning architecture that has become a symbol of Cardiff and an attraction that anyone who is passing through the city should make an effort to see.
On top of an older Roman fort, Norman invaders constructed the castle in the 11th century as a motte and bailey fortress.
In the course of its history, the castle was improved by a number of different kings and rulers, and continued to develop over the course of several centuries.
Even in modern times, Cardiff Castle is widely regarded as one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks.
With plenty of areas to explore, visitors can see the stunning medieval architecture from the outside on their own, but there are guided tours for the inside.
Open throughout the year, the castle is certainly a star attraction in the area.
Address: Cardiff Castle, Castle St, Cardiff CF10 3RB
3. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is widely considered to be among the most beautiful and ecologically diverse areas in Britain.
This breath-taking park is found on the welsh coast in west Wales and spans an area of 612 square kilometres.
It features rugged cliffs, a stunning coastline, picturesque villages, and verdant valleys.
As you make your way north through the park, you will come across a wide variety of ecosystems and landscapes.
At Amroth, Tenby, and Freshwater West in the south, there are some absolutely stunning cliffs made of limestone that drop off into the water.
These breath-taking coastal views are broken up by the presence of a few uninhabited islands just offshore, which make for excellent locations for bird watching and marine exploration.
As you move further inland, you will come across a hilly landscape that is characterised by jagged volcanic headlands and green valleys that have wildflowers blooming throughout the year.
The beaches in this region are more intimate, but they retain the same allure as their southern counterparts.
Most of the beaches are good for families but others are less accessible.
Address: Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, West Wales
4. St Fagans National Museum of History
St. Fagans National Museum of History is one of the most well-known museums in Wales and is an absolute must-see for anyone interested in the history of Wales.
Located in the grounds of St Fagans Castle and gardens, the museum features over forty original historic buildings from all different time periods in Welsh history.
A mediaeval church, a schoolhouse from the Victorian era, and a smithy are some of the highlights that can be found at the museum.
Visitors can have a wonderful time exploring all of these unique buildings and gaining insight into how people have lived in Wales throughout the ages.
There are also native breeds of livestock that can be seen in the beautiful countryside, with the museum running demonstrations of farming activities daily.
Entry to this must visit Museum is free and makes a great day out for the whole family.
Address: St Fagans National Museum of History, Cardiff CF5 6XB
5. Three Cliffs Bay
On the Gower Peninsula in Swansea, you’ll find the popular beach, Three Cliffs Bay.
Swimming, lounging in the sun, and having a picnic are just some of the activities that can be enjoyed at the beach, which is a lovely and scenic location.
Because of the large number of seabirds that frequently visit the area, the bay is also a well-liked destination for nature enthusiasts and people who enjoy birdwatching.
To the east of the Bay lies Pobbles Beach, while directly southwest sits Tor Bay.
At times when the tide is high, these beaches are distinct from one another; however, when the tide is low, they come together to form a single extensive beach.
The local park rangers can point visitors in the direction of one of several hiking trails allowing visitors to access the other bays and headlands that are located in the area.
Address: Southgate SA3 2HD
6. Great Orme
The magnificent Great Orme is a headland made of limestone that can be found to the north of Llandudno, a charming town on the coast.
This one-of-a-kind and stunningly beautiful natural feature emerges from the waters of the Irish Sea and provides visitors with views of the area in all directions.
On the Orme, you’ll find several distinct kinds of rock, such as sandstone, shale, and limestone, all of which were formed over the course of many millions of years.
The region is home to a rich and diverse assortment of flora and fauna, including over a thousand species of plants and more than 300 distinct kinds of animals.
It is a well-known destination for climbers and hikers with many trails that wind their way through the cliffs.
Visitors can also get to the top of the headland by taking a ride on the cable car which travels between Llandudno Bay and the peak of the headland.
Address: Great Orme, Llandudno LL30 2XF Wales
7. Hay on Wye
Hay-on-Wye is a picturesque riverside town that has emerged as a popular place for people who have a passion for books as well as the great outdoors.
Great for book lovers, it is known as “the Town of Books” due to its picturesque setting and abundance of bookshops, and it is the site of the annual Festival of Literature.
This small town is also packed with art galleries, homeware stores, antique shops and cafes.
When visiting the area guests can also enjoy the scenic trails that wind through the forests and past rushing waterfalls making it a haven for hikers, cyclists and wildlife enthusiasts.
Address: Hay-on-Wye, Hereford
8. Caernarfon Castle
Caernarfon Castle, a Unesco World Heritage Site, was constructed during the middle ages and is located in the north of Wales.
This magnificent castle is an outstanding illustration of the architecture that was prevalent during the middle ages, and was first constructed during the 13th century by King Edward I of England.
Caernarfon castle sits in an advantageous location, with a view that extends over both the town and the Menai Strait.
During the reign of Edward I, a massive stone structure was constructed in its place of the earlier motte-and-bailey layout that served as the foundation for the building.
The defences of the castle were extensive, both on the inside and the outside and there were multiple towers and lookout points to keep an eye out for potential attackers.
Caernarfon Castle has been linked to many historical figures over the course of its 1,000-year history, including a number of Welsh princes who were held captive there by English kings.
As a consequence of this, it has developed into one of the most well-known historical sites in Wales, and receives visitors from all over the world today.
Address: Caernarfon Castle, Castle Ditch, Caernarfon LL55 2AY
9. South Stack Lighthouse
South Stack Lighthouse was built in 1809, and has been an important beacon for sailors navigating the treacherous waters around Anglesey since then.
The lighthouse dominates the surrounding area and can be spotted from a considerable distance due to its height of 91 feet.
In spite of its advanced age, the Lighthouse continues to play an important role in the contemporary maritime life along the coast of Wales.
Visitors can tour the lighthouse engine room before climbing to the top of the lighthouse to observe breeding seabirds including guillemots, razorbills and puffins.
Address: Holyhead LL65 1YH
10. National Roman Legion Museum
For those with a passion for history and an interest in the culture of ancient Rome, the Roman Legion Museum is a must-see destination.
The museum is housed within the ruins of the Roman fortress at Isca Augusta, which is now known as Caerleon.
It features a variety of artefacts and exhibits that detail the history of this significant military outpost.
Visitors to the museum will have the opportunity to examine a diverse selection of Roman artefacts that were utilised by residents.
The exhibits are laid out along the via principalis, which was historically one of the primary roads leading away from the fortress and into the lively town centre below it.
Today, tourists can travel along this same path on their way to explore other fascinating aspects of the history of Isca Augusta, such as the city’s amphitheatre and barracks.
Address: High St, Caerleon, Newport NP18 1AE
11. Barry Island
Barry Island, which can be found in the Vale of Glamorgan and is situated at the mouth of the Bristol Channel.
Because of the island’s stunning beaches and dynamic nightlife, Barry Island is a favourite vacation spot for both out-of-town visitors and those who live on the island.
The best beach on the island is without a doubt the most well-known attraction there is, and has been recognised with a number of awards due to the high standard of cleanliness.
The fine, golden sand is perfect for building sandcastles in, and guests can easily spend several hours here strolling along the shoreline.
In addition to its breathtaking natural scenery, Barry Island is home to a large number of cultural and historical sites, all of which are worthy of exploration during your time there.
If you’re looking for something that packs a little bit more of a punch, you should go to Barry Island Pleasure Park.
The park is great fun with a lot of rides that will get your heart racing and offers more than thirty thrilling rides.
Barry Island has everything you could possibly need for a perfect day trip or weekend getaway for the family.
Address: Barry, Wales, CF62 5AJ
12. Brecon Beacons National Park
The Brecon Beacons National Park is widely regarded as one of the most picturesque and pristine areas in Wales.
It’s located on the border between Mid Wales and South Wales and covers an area of 520 square miles
The landscape of the national park is characterised by a variety of topographic features, including rugged outcroppings, grassy moorlands and deep valleys that run through the area.
There are many paths and trails for visitors that give the opportunity to learn about the region’s rich cultural history in towns such as Crickhowell, Brecon, Abergavenny, and Hay-on-Wye.
There are also waterfalls that tumble down the steep slopes, and caves that offer a cool refuge on the hot summer days.
It is highly recommended that you pay a visit to the Brecon Beacons National Park if you enjoy the outdoors, with activities including walking, cycling, horse riding and wildlife-watching.
Address: Brecon Beacons National Park, Brecon, Powys, LD3 8ER
13. Conwy Castle
Conwy Castle, a Unesco World Heritage Site, is considered to be among the most impressive and well-preserved medieval castles in Wales.
Built on the River Conwy estuary in the late 13th century, it was constructed by Edward I using sandstone that was quarried from the nearby peninsula.
The layout of the castle, which is rectangular in shape and features four tall defensive towers on each side that is typical of fortifications built during the period.
The cross-wall that divides the castle into an inner and outer ward, which served as protection against invasion from enemy forces, is a striking feature.
Today, it continues to be a popular tourist attraction in Wales, bringing guests from all over the world who come to admire the stunning architecture and learn about the fascinating history of the building.
Address: Conwy Castle, Rose Hill St, Conwy LL32 8AY
14. Devils Bridge Falls
Anyone who is travelling in Wales through the Cambrian Mountains absolutely needs to make a stop at Devil’s Bridge Falls.
This breath-taking waterfall can be found approximately 12 miles inland from the seaside town of Aberystwyth.
It plunges 300 feet down a rocky gorge before entering the Mynych River below.
The waterfall is located inside of an old wooded gorge and consists of five major drops in addition to a series of cascades making a spectacular sight.
Visitors can hike along the Devil’s Bridge Fall Nature Trail that is a circular walk and takes about 45 minutes.
It gives a great opportunity to explore the forested gorge of the Mynach River and admire the waterfall.
However, the Nature Trail Walk can be a challenging walk that does that contains many steep steps.
Address: Devil’s Bridge Falls, Woodlands, Pontarfynach, Aberystwyth SY23 3JW
FAQ
When is the best time to visit Wales?
June to October is usually the best time for outdoor activities and the driest for walking and exploring in the national parks.
Where is the National Waterfront Museum in Wales, Great Britain?
The National Waterfront Museum is located in Swansea and tells the story of Welsh industry and innovation.
Why is Sir Clough Williams Ellis famous in Wales?
Sir Clough Williams Ellis was a pioneer of conservation, architectural design and environmentalism.
He was committed to the area of North Wales where he lived and known as the creator of Portmeirion Village.
How long does it take to go around Bodnant Garden?
Located near Colwyn Bay in Wales, Bodnant Garden is a great place for a visit throughout the year.
The suggested route through the gardens takes about 2 to 3 hours but there are also other paths that can be explored.
Can you walk around Cardiff Bay in Wales?
Easily accessible, there is a circular trail for cyclists and walkers that runs around Cardiff Bay and across to the seaside town of Penarth via Pont Y Werin.
The waterfront has a good selection of pavement café’s, bars, green spaces and restaurants.
What happens at the National Eisteddfod?
The National Eisteddfod is an annual festival in Wales.
This Welsh cultural festival provides a stage for music, dance, visual arts, original performances, family activities and different types of competitions.
