Looking for the best things to do in Wales for your next trip? You are in the right place! With its award-winning beaches, historical castles, and friendly locals, visiting this part of the UK will never leave you bored. However, with so many ways to spend your days, it can be a challenge to know what is worth doing.
To help you out, let’s explore the best activities you should consider doing on your getaway to Wales. No matter your interests, I’m sure you will find the perfect things to do for you in this guide.
1. Snowdonia National Park
Nestled in northwest Wales, Snowdonia National Park captivates visitors with its stunning landscapes and rich history. Home to the majestic Snowdon, Wales’ highest peak, it offers panoramic views that leave an indelible mark on any traveller.
Cader Idris, another iconic mountain, challenges hikers with its rugged beauty. The medieval charm of Harlech Castle and the naturally stunning Llyn Padarn are some of the best things to do in the area.
Easily accessible from London and other parts of the UK, Snowdonia is a destination for day trips. Whether you prefer scaling peaks or exploring historic sites, Snowdonia National Park is one of the top places to visit to experience Wales’ natural beauty and cultural heritage.
2. The Brecon Beacons National Park
If you find yourself in south Wales, add the Brecon Beacons National Park to your itinerary!
Its rolling hills, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls offer an amazing place to walk and explore for outdoor enthusiasts. A lot of the sites are free, so you can visit multiple spots on any budget.
The park’s numerous waterfalls make a visit here truly special. One of the most enchanting is Sgwd yr Eira, providing the best hikes and photo opportunities. Just note that it gets really busy on sunny days, so if you are driving, arrive early.
A visit to charming Brecon Town is also a must, especially during the lively Jazz Festival, which is held in August. Here you will find bespoke shops and great places to eat and drink.
3. St Fagans National History Museum
St Fagans National History Museum is a must-visit gem in Wales. Popular with both locals and tourists you will find yourself in an immersive journey through the nation’s rich heritage.
This living museum, located just outside Cardiff, offers free admission, making it one of the best things to do in Wales for budget-conscious travellers or families.
With over forty historical buildings, including a medieval church and traditional Welsh cottages, St Fagans vividly brings the past to life. While entry is complimentary, there’s a small parking fee. However, if you don’t want to drive you can get the bus or train from Cardiff.
4. Cardiff Castle
A visit to Cardiff and even Wales is incomplete without exploring the historic Cardiff Castle. Its commanding presence in the city centre cannot be missed and visiting it makes for a great few hours when in the city.
You can explore the outside and certain parts of the castle grounds for free. However, paying to tour the inside is worth it. It’s worth knowing that if you have a Cardiff address, you can visit here for free.
You will be able to learn the secrets of its opulent interiors and rich past. The guided tours offer a great experience through medieval towers, apartments, and wartime shelters. Perfect for history enthusiasts and architecture admirers alike!
5. Cardiff
Cardiff, the vibrant capital of Wales, is a great place to spend a day for all. Boasting a perfect blend of history and modernity, the city offers great places to eat, shop, and drink. It is also the best place to base yourself during your trip because you can do some epic day trips!
A short bus, taxi or train ride away lies Cardiff Bay. You can also get here by boat, which is a great way to get another view of the city. The bay hosts an array of amazing places to eat and drink. You will find some of the top things to do in Cardiff here like The Senedd (Welsh Government) and the Wales Millennium Centre.
6. The Gower
The Gower Peninsula is celebrated for its incredible natural beauty. Renowned for stunning coastal walks, epic panoramic views, and many things to do, the Gower is one spot you will never regret visiting.
Its epic beaches, like the renowned Rhossili Bay, boast golden sands and dramatic cliffs, and are great places to swim, sunbathe or just stroll around. It is absolutely worth doing a road trip in this area because there are so many beaches within driving distance.
Just remember that like many outdoor locations in Wales, they get busy when the sun is out.
7. Carreg Cennen Castle
Perched near the village of Trap in Carmarthenshire, Carreg Cennen Castle stands as an iconic Welsh day out.
Overlooking the scenic River Cennen, this medieval marvel boasts a dramatic hilltop location, making a sunny day the ideal time to visit. You do have to pay to go into the castle, but you can explore the surrounding area for free.
For the best views and photos of the castle, walk halfway down the hill and stand on the bank. Just be careful doing this as the grass can be slippery if it has rained.
8. Folly Farm Adventure Park And Zoo
Pembrokeshire is full of great places to spend the day, and the Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo is one of them. You may be thinking that a farm and zoo is just a day out for children, but even adults love it here!
Meet penguins, giraffes, and lions, then take a spin on the vintage fairground rides. The park’s family-friendly atmosphere, educational exhibits, and diverse attractions make it an outstanding day out. Whether you’re an animal enthusiast or thrill-seeker, Folly Farm crafts a memorable experience.
9. St Davids Cathedral
This sacred site, dedicated to Wales’s patron saint, St David, showcases stunning medieval architecture at its finest.
Entrance is free, but they do ask for a donation to help with upkeep. However, you can admire the church from the outside. Many locals are found in the summer months enjoying a picnic on the grass area in front of it.
The Cathedral is found in the smallest city in the UK, St Davids. It is well worth having a look around the bespoke shops and enjoy the great places to eat around the city. It is also super close to the beach!
10. Tenby
Ask any Welsh person where you should visit for a great day out and they will suggest Tenby.
The town’s colourful buildings against the backdrop of the Welsh coastline will have you constantly taking photos. Combine this with the relaxed ambience, pristine beach, and inviting coastal walks, and you have one of the top weekend destinations in the country.
There are lots of great things to do throughout Tenby, but most people love to just take in the relaxing atmosphere. You will not be short of great places to eat and drink with a view of the sea, so make sure you check them out!
11. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
Get ready for an epic Welsh adventure at Pembrokeshire Coast National Park!
It’s a nature lover’s dream, featuring incredible spots like St Govan’s Church. It is built into the cliff side and even has a private beach, which is a perfect spot for a picnic.
Nearby you will find Huntman’s Leap with its wild cliffs and killer views. Pembrokeshire is all about rugged coastlines, hidden coves, and stunning landscapes, so you will find lots of sites like this one there.
If you’re into exploring historic spots and soaking in breathtaking coastal scenes, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is where it’s at – the perfect combo of history and the incredible Welsh coast.
12. Cardigan Bay
Embark on a coastal adventure at Cardigan Bay, one of the best places in Wales for nature and marine life.
This picturesque haven boasts not only stunning landscapes, but also offers the thrill of epic dolphin-watching tours. For your best chances to see these adorable animals, book during the summer months. One of the best locations to spot them is New Quay, so try and get a tour from here.
The enchanting blend of untouched beaches, charming villages, and the opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat makes Cardigan Bay a fantastic place for all travellers to visit.
13. Anglesey
For those seeking an exceptional Welsh destination, Anglesey is a fantastic option to consider.
Renowned for its breathtaking beaches, the island offers a coastal haven for relaxation and exploration. There are so many scenic walks in the area thanks to the natural beauty that defines Anglesey. You may even be able to catch views of Snowdonia’s majestic peaks!
The island is also home to the village with the famously long name (Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch) which is worth visiting even if it’s just to get a photo with the sign at the train station.
14. Skomer Island
Skomer Island is one of the best place to spend an incredible few hours in Wales, especially for nature enthusiasts. Known for its rich wildlife, from puffins to seals, the island promises a unique encounter with diverse ecosystems.
However, to preserve its delicate balance, only a limited number of visitors are permitted each day. Make sure you book your visit in advance!
A return ticket is around £30, but you can book lots of different tours from a sunset cruise to private charter experiences. But no matter which option you pick, you will get to experience one of the most remote places in Wales.
15. Aberystwyth
Aberystwyth is a great spot to spend the day or even a weekend. Found in west Wales, this is a popular place to stop for those driving from south to north Wales.
This coastal university town has great beaches and a vibrant high street with unique boutique shops like Pollys. For a true Welsh pub experience, the Glen Gower on the seafront offers the best of both worlds – amazing pub food and breathtaking ocean views.
For those who love great views and the chance to take some amazing photos, climb to the top of Constitution Hill. You will be able to see the whole of Aber!
16. Conwy Castle
A visit to Conwy Castle is a highlight for anyone exploring Wales. This medieval masterpiece, in the charming town of Conwy, is the ultimate place to learn about Welsh history.
Surrounded by well-preserved walls, the castle offers panoramic views of the stunning Snowdonia landscape and the Conwy estuary. One cool thing is that the main road into Conwy runs through the castle, so you get to experience it without actually visiting!
The Castle is worth spending time at though. Explore its imposing towers, medieval chambers, and unique defensive features! You do have to pay to visit the castle, but if you get a Cadw membership, your entry is free.
17. Portmeirion
Portmeirion is such a unique destination that everyone has to visit at least once. This picturesque village, designed by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, captivates with its Mediterranean-inspired architecture set against the stunning backdrop of Snowdonia.
Before you visit you should know that you have to pay to enter the village. It is £10 for adults and £5 for children. Opening hours are typically 9.30 am to 5.30 pm, but there are two hotels here if you want to stay overnight.
Best Things To Do In Wales: Sign Off
Wales is worth exploring! This country has so many experiences waiting to be discovered that no time is long enough here. From the medieval Conwy Castle to the charm of Portmeirion, and the enchanting wildlife of Skomer Island, every corner of this country offers a unique story. Whether wandering the beaches of Anglesey or spending the day in Cardiff is your thing, Wales promises a getaway like no other.
Just remember that no matter where want to go on your Welsh itinerary, book any experiences in advance. Spots fill up fast (especially during the summer months), so you risk missing out on some incredible adventures.
Author Bio
Lowri of Many Other Roads has been exploring Europe for over 10 years and has been to 38+ countries so far. Originally from Wales, you will now find Lowri exploring Europe with her border collie Scout, sharing in-depth knowledge and tips for those wanting to hit the road!
Social Media- Many Other Roads & Many Other Roads
Lowri has been exploring Europe for over 10 years and has been to 38+ countries so far. Originally from Wales, you will now find Lowri exploring Europe with her border collie Scout, sharing in-depth knowledge and tips for those wanting to hit the road!
