From cultural landmarks to bustling cities, there’s a huge range of places to go for holidays in Wales. Whether you’re looking to escape into nature, experience the capital of Cardiff, or take a boat trip to one of the country’s breath-taking islands, you’ll never have to settle for just one type of holiday when you pay a visit to Wales.
Some of the most beautiful holiday destinations in Wales can be found in its three National Parks – Snowdonia, the Brecon Beacons, and the Pembrokeshire coast. These regions boast historic market towns such as Hay-on-Wye (famous for its literary festival and abundance of independent bookshops), and pretty villages which are the perfect base for anyone looking to explore Wales on foot.
In South Wales, Swansea Bay is home to the country’s second largest city as well as its oldest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Stop in at the seaside community of Mumbles for a world-class ice cream or spot of retail therapy, before wandering along the coastline of the stunning Gower Peninsula.
If you’re looking for something a little less rugged, Wales boasts some of the grandest National Trust properties in Britain – from Powis Castle and Garden with its Italian-inspired orangeries, to the formal walled garden at the Erddig estate. Alternatively, view Wales on a smaller scale and head to the UK’s smallest city, St David’s, on the edge of the West coast.
Whether you’re looking for a city break or rural retreat, Wales offers the best of all worlds. Discover more by browsing our expert guides at Wales.org today.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Which part of Wales is the best?
Wales’ Snowdonia National Park
Wales’ Snowdonia National Park is one of the most stunning locations in North Wales. It features 823 square miles of impressive mountains. Snowdonia National Park is one of the most iconic locations in the area and a must-see if you’re searching for scenic walks or hiking experiences. If you want to see the boldest and most breath-taking national park in Wales, then this is the place to go.
Conwy Castle
There are many castles across Wales, but one of the most popular is Conwy Castle. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was built in the 13th century, but is extremely well-preserved. Experience centuries of history at one of the locations that shaped the history of Wales.
Brecon Beacons National Park
Perhaps second only to Snowdonia National Park, Brecon Beacons National Park is another example of an area of natural beauty in South Wales. It’s the perfect place to go if you’re looking for dramatic mountain ranges, breath-taking scenery and a rich history of locations – both man-made and natural landmarks. Brecon Beacons National Park is known for its great hikes and countless adventures.
Cardiff Castle
Cardiff Castle is another example of an impressively preserved slice of Welsh history – one of many imposing castles that you can visit across the country. It’s a great place to visit in Wales with family as there is a lot to see and do including a medieval keep, a Victorian gothic revival mansion, an ancient Roman wall, an Arab room and stunning battlement walks.
Hay-On-Wye
If you like books then Hay-on-Wye is the perfect place to visit on the river Wye. It’s sometimes cooled a ‘book’ town because of its countless book shops. The best time of the year to visit Hay-on-Wye is at the end of May, where they hold an annual literary festival.
Where is the prettiest village in Wales?
From seaside towns to beautiful rustic villages, Wales is known for its picturesque retreats. If you are looking for places to go in Wales that have lovely views and stunning panoramas then you might want to check out these villages in Wales:
Portmeirion Village, North Wales
Portmeirion village is one of the most gorgeous locations in North Wales. It features unique architecture, all designed by Sir Clough Williams Ellis. Walk its lush gardens, browse its charming shops and breathe in the serenity of the Welsh countryside.
Merthyr Mawr
Merthyr Mawr is a quaint village in Bridgend County, South Wales. Aside from being a beautiful village to visit, it also features the Merthyr Mawr Warren National Nature Reserve. Here you can explore dunes and picturesque stretches of woodland. In short, it’s a great place to visit to experience natural beauty and is perfect for hikers.
Solva
The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is home to some stunning locations. One of these is Solva, a gorgeous coastal village that is perfect for a weekend retreat. You’ll find some great pubs, stunning coastal walks and a village full of friendly locals.
Llangrannog
Llangrannog is one of the best seaside towns in the country. If you visit this area on the west coast, you’ll have several beaches at hand including Llangrannog beach, Penbryn Beach and many other stretches of beautiful coastal walks. You can also visit Cardigan Castle beach for a taste of Welsh history.
St Fagans
St Fagans is home to one of the most renowned museums in all of Wales – the St Fagans National Museum of History. It is one of the largest open-air museums in Europe and features many fascinating exhibits. This, combined with a charming town in South Wales, offering you quaint cafes, restaurants and shops to browse through.
Where are the most popular places to visit in Wales?
The most visited place in Wales (and one of the most popular destinations in the U.K) is Snowdonia National Park. See below for some of the other most popular tourist attractions and destinations in Wales.
Glamorgan Heritage Coast
Glamorgan Heritage Coast is a stretch of 14 miles of coastline. This heritage coast is renowned for its striking views and unique limestone cliffs. Glamorgan Heritage coast is home to a number of incredible beaches, one of which is Three Cliffs Bay Beach with sandy shores that is perfect any time of the year. You’ll also find a series of historical sites such as lighthouses and maritime defences.
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is a popular area because of its wealth of scenic views and coastal walks. If Snowdonia National Park, or the Brecon Beacons National Park are places you’ve enjoyed in the past – then this is the final national park for you to visit! Take in a landscape of sand beaches and rough cliffs – this is one of the most wonderful sections of Wales for you to explore.
Caernarfon Castle
Caernarfon Castle is widely known as one of the best-preserved castles in Europe. Because of this, it’s one of the most popular castles in Wales. Designed in the 11th century, it has some of the most impressive medieval architecture in North Wales. Expect a lot of history and a truly unforgettable experience.
National Museum Cardiff
The National Museum in Cardiff is a treasure-trove of historical artefacts and priceless artwork. Experience natural history, or delve into the paintings of famous impressionists and Dutch masters. Nestled in the heart of Cardiff, just a short walk from Cardiff Castle, the National Museum Cardiff is a fun day out for all the family. If you’re in South Wales, a trip to Cardiff to see the museum is well worth it!
National Slate Museum & The Big Pit
The National Slate Museum is the remnants of the now out of use Dinorwic quarry. Hidden away in North Wales, it features 19th century workshops that educate visitors about the history of the Slate industry in Wales. The Slate Museum offers many exhibitions and even live demonstrations of stone work.
Bodnant Garden
Perhaps you’re searching for a serene retreat in the heart of Conwy valley. It’s not far from Conwy Castle and offers you the chance to experience lavish gardens with a plethora of plants and fauna.
If you need more ideas, take a look at these family days out in Wales, city breaks ideas and the best destinations for romantic breaks.