United Kingdom · Western Nation
Wales
Wales combines more castles per square mile than almost anywhere in Europe with dramatic mountain scenery and a long, varied coastline.
Capital
Cardiff
Best For
Castles, mountains & coastline
Getting Around
Trains to main towns, car recommended for national parks
Famous For
Castles, Eryri (Snowdonia) & the Welsh language
Overview
Why Visit Wales?
Wales is known for an unusually high concentration of castles, built in waves from the Norman period through to Edward I's ring of fortresses in the 13th century, many of which still dominate towns across the country. Cardiff, the capital, combines a compact city centre with a historic castle right in the middle of it.
Beyond the castles, Wales's landscape is a major draw in its own right. Eryri National Park — known in English as Snowdonia, and officially renamed in Welsh in 2022 — contains the country's highest peak, Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), alongside lakes, forests and a stretch of coastline. The Welsh language remains widely spoken, particularly in the north and west, and is visible on road signs and place names throughout the country.
Where to Go
Top Cities & Destinations in Wales
A starting point for planning where to base yourself or which stops to add to your itinerary.
Cardiff
Wales's compact capital, built around a historic castle in the city centre.
Guide coming soonConwy
A walled medieval town dominated by one of Edward I's great Welsh castles.
Guide coming soonSnowdonia (Eryri)
Wales's largest national park, home to its highest mountain and largest natural lake.
Guide coming soonPembrokeshire Coast
A dramatic stretch of coastline and cliffs in south-west Wales.
Guide coming soonCardiff Bay
A regenerated waterfront area with museums, restaurants and the Senedd, home of the Welsh Parliament.
Guide coming soonBrecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog)
Rolling hills and waterfalls in a national park in south Wales.
Guide coming soonMust-See
Top Attractions in Wales
Conwy Castle
One of the best-preserved of Edward I's 13th-century castles, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)
Wales's highest mountain, climbable on foot or via the historic Snowdon Mountain Railway.
Caernarfon Castle
A monumental medieval castle in north Wales, site of the investiture of the Prince of Wales.
Pembrokeshire Coast Path
A long-distance coastal walking route with dramatic cliff and beach scenery.
Cardiff Castle
A castle with Roman origins and lavish Victorian interiors, in the heart of Cardiff.
Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
A UNESCO World Heritage 19th-century canal aqueduct carrying boats high above the River Dee.
Highlights
Things to Do in Wales
Visit a medieval castle
Wales has one of the highest concentrations of castles in Europe, from Cardiff to Conwy and Caernarfon.
Walk in Eryri National Park
Trails range from gentle valley walks to the ascent of Yr Wyddfa, Wales's highest peak.
Explore the Pembrokeshire coast
Coastal paths, beaches and boat trips are popular in this national park in south-west Wales.
Spend a day in Cardiff
Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Bay and the National Museum Cardiff can be combined in a single day.
Practical
Wales Travel Tips
- Trains connect Cardiff, Conwy and other main towns, but a car is more practical for exploring national parks in depth.
- Mountain and coastal weather in Wales can change quickly; check forecasts before hill walks and pack accordingly.
- Many place names appear in both Welsh and English; both forms are used interchangeably, including Eryri/Snowdonia.
- Book popular attractions such as the Snowdon Mountain Railway in advance during peak summer months.
FAQ
Common Questions About Visiting Wales
A few days is enough for a castle-focused trip around Cardiff and north Wales, though exploring both Eryri and the Pembrokeshire coast comfortably takes a week or more.
Yes. Eryri (Snowdonia), the Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) and the Pembrokeshire Coast Path all offer well-known walking routes for a range of abilities.
Wales has one of the highest concentrations of castles in Europe, built in waves from the Norman period through Edward I's 13th-century fortresses, several of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Explore More of the UK
From England's historic cities to Scotland's Highlands, discover the other nations of the United Kingdom.
Browse UK Regions