Wales offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from its rugged coastlines and majestic mountains to charming villages and historic sites. Whether you're interested in outdoor adventures, cultural immersions, or leisurely explorations, our Wales tours provide a variety of activities to suit every interest. Discover the unique beauty and heritage of Wales with an itinerary that caters to your travel style.
- Riding through Snowdonia National Park aboard the steam-powered Ffestiniog Mountain Railway
- Touring massive Caernarfon and Conwy castles, dating from the 13th century,
- Hiking through deep green, sheep-dotted countryside
- Discovering Portmeirion and the bizarre set of the classic TV series The Prisoner
- Walking amid the ruins of Tintern Abbey, celebrated by poet William Wordsworth
- Combing through the many bookstores in Hay-on-Wye
- Gazing out at the sea from Worm’s Head at the tip of the ruggedly beautiful Gower Peninsula
- Snapping photos of the signs for the village of Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch — the world’s longest name for a place
- Learning about the distinctive Welsh culture and language
- Downing a pint of bitters in a Cardiff pub after a meal of Welsh lamb or fresh seafood
- Exploring the ancient Roman remains in Caerleon, offering a fascinating glimpse into Wales' Roman past
H2: Wales Tours and Travel Guide
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H3: Wales Tours Attractions and Landmarks
Wales is wedged into the southwestern corner of Great Britain, bordering England, the Irish Sea, and the Bristol Channel. While small, with just nine percent of the United Kingdom’s land, it still packs a punch!
You’ll find medieval castles, misty mountains, rugged coastlines, vibrant cities, delightful villages, scenic train rides, and a hearty dose of thriving traditional Welsh culture.
Wales has several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the stunning Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Harlech Castle, both must-visit landmarks.
When touring Great Britain, there’s really no reason not to go to Wales — and every reason to go.
H3: What is Wales Famous For?
Situated just to the west of south-central England, Wales is easily accessible from Bristol, Bath, Liverpool, and other English cities. Its scenery matches the finest in the British Isles, and it’s rich in history and culture.
It’s also quirky in various endearing ways, with its seemingly unpronounceable place names (the village of Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch being the most extreme example), its Victorian-era steam trains, and its legacy of Celtic myth steeped in the mists of time.
The world’s longest place name (above) translates as "St. Mary's Church in the Hollow of the White Hazel near a Rapid Whirlpool and the Church of St.Tysilio near the Red Cave." So now you know.
Wales is also well known for producing some of the finest singers and actors in the world. Tom Jones (Green Green Grass of Home) and Shirley Bassey (Goldfinger) are two of the most famous Welsh singers, their distinctive voices unmistakable. Anthony Hopkins, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and the late Richard Burton also hail from Wales.
H3: Cities and Towns of Wales
Wales is home to various charming cities and towns, each with unique character and attractions. Wales offers rich history, cultural experiences, and scenic beauty, from bustling capital cities to quaint villages.
Here are some tourist-worthy cities and towns to explore:
Cardiff: The capital city is a vibrant destination known for its Gothic castle with extravagant interiors, numerous museums, and an active bayside wharf area. The city seamlessly blends historic landmarks with modern amenities — walking tours of Cardiff are a total hit!
Portmeirion: It’s famous as the set of the classic 1960s TV series The Prisoner, starring Patrick McGoohan. This unique village features whimsical architecture, lush gardens, and intriguing history, creating a surreal and captivating experience.
Conwy: It boasts outstanding medieval walls stretching for three-quarters of a mile and featuring 22 towers. Conwy Castle looms impressively over the city, offering visitors a glimpse into the area's medieval past.
Caernarfon: The town retains its medieval charm, with narrow streets, historic buildings, and a picturesque setting by the sea. It’s known for its magnificent Caernarfon castle, which played a key role in Welsh history,.
H3: Historic Castles in Wales
Over 600 medieval castles dominate hilltops and other locations scattered throughout Wales. If you love seeing and touching historical castle ruins that reveal much about the time they were built and the people who lived there, Wales is your kind of place.
The castles in Wales tell the story of how the country ultimately became part of Britain.
Some were built by the English as defensive strongholds and conquered outposts, and some were built to keep the English out. Royal intrigue, of course, is woven throughout their histories, contributing to the fabric of British history in countless ways.
Here are some top castles to visit on your next trip to Wales:
Pembroke Castle: The birthplace of King Henry VII, Pembroke is a well-intact castle with a few hidden secrets. For extensive historical information and context, be sure to go on a guided walk around the castle.
Caerphilly: The largest castle in Wales, Caerphilly is located in South Wales and is truly a remarkable site. It’s a 13th-century construction surrounded by extensive grounds and water features. Family-friendly events and activities make this a popular destination for travelers and locals alike.
Harlech: One of the finest examples of 13th- and 14th-century medieval castle architecture, this castle was a pivotal battle site during the War of the Roses. This imposing castle rises out of sheer rock. When it was built, the ocean came right up to the very edge, rendering it virtually impossible to attack by surprise. Today, you can wander the battlements, enjoying beautiful ocean and countryside views.
H3: Walking and Hiking in Wales
Wales is a hiker's paradise, offering a variety of trails that cater to all levels of fitness and interest. The cliff-side Pembrokeshire Coast Path is a favorite among walkers, providing stunning views of rugged coastlines and picturesque beaches.
Another popular destination is the walk to Worm’s Head at the tip of the Gower Peninsula, which offers breathtaking sea views and the chance to spot wildlife.
For those interested in an extended walking adventure, the Wales Coast Path covers over 870 miles and allows hikers to explore the entire Welsh coastline. This path offers diverse landscapes, from sandy beaches and rocky headlands to charming coastal villages.
In Snowdonia National Park, hikers can challenge themselves with the ascent of Mount Snowdon, Wales’ highest peak at 3,500 feet. The various routes up Snowdon cater to different fitness levels, and the panoramic views from the summit are a rewarding experience.
H3: Scenic Train and Boat Rides in Wales
Wales offers scenic train and boat rides that provide a relaxing way to enjoy its stunning landscapes. The steam-hauled, narrow-gauge Ffestiniog Mountain Railway and Welsh Highland Railway travel 40 miles through Snowdonia National Park, connecting the communities of Caernarfon, Beddgelert, Porthmadog, and Blaenau Ffestiniog.
These historic railways offer breathtaking views of Snowdonia's mountains, forests, and valleys.
The standard gauge Llangollen Steam Railway runs along the banks of the River Dee from Llangollen to Corwen, offering a picturesque journey through the Welsh countryside.
For a nostalgic experience, visitors can take horse-drawn boat trips on the Llangollen Canal, reminiscent of the transport methods of yesteryear.
H3: National Parks of Wales
Wales has three national parks, each offering unique landscapes and outdoor activities.
H4: Snowdonia National Park
Snowdonia National Park is known for its dramatic mountains, including Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales. The park features numerous lakes, lush landscapes, and panoramic views accessible by steam trains, hiking trails, cars, and buses. Snowdonia is also a cultural hub, with a strong presence of the Welsh language and heritage.
H4: Brecon Beacons National Park
Brecon Beacons National Park is famous for its rolling hills, waterfalls, and ancient castles perched on scenic ridges. The park offers excellent hiking and horseback riding opportunities, with trails that showcase its natural beauty and historical significance.
H4: Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is unique for its coastal scenery, with towering cliffs, sandy beaches, and winding pathways. The park is ideal for cliff-side walks, wildlife spotting, and exploring charming coastal towns and villages.
H3: Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) in Wales
Wales boasts several Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) that highlight the country’s diverse and stunning landscapes.
H4: The Wye Valley
The Wye Valley, straddling the border between England and Wales, is known for its dramatic scenery and historic sites. The hauntingly beautiful remains of Tintern Abbey and the literary town of Hay-on-Wye, famous for its numerous bookstores, are key attractions.
H4: Gower Peninsula
The Gower Peninsula, near Swansea, was the first area in the UK to be designated as an AONB. Its dramatic coastline, sandy beaches, and scenic countryside make it a popular destination for walkers, surfers, and nature enthusiasts.
H4: Llŷn Peninsula
The Llŷn Peninsula extends into the Irish Sea from northwest Wales and is celebrated for its unspoiled landscapes, rugged cliffs, and rich cultural heritage. It offers beautiful coastal walks, charming villages, and a tranquil atmosphere.
H4: Anglesey
The Isle of Anglesey, off the northwest coast, is another AONB known for its diverse landscapes, including sandy beaches, rocky headlands, and rolling farmland. Anglesey is rich in history, with ancient monuments and picturesque villages to explore.
H4: Clwydian Range and Dee Valley
The Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB in northeast Wales encompasses rolling hills and scenic moorlands. The historic town of Llangollen, with its heritage sites and outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking, is a key highlight of this area.
H3: Food in Wales
Welsh food is hearty, mostly healthy, and rustic. Your hosts won’t stand on ceremony and serve solid seafaring meals using primarily local produce.
Some classic Welsh dishes you must sample on your trip include:
Welsh Rabbit: This dish is actually not a rabbit at all, which causes amusing confusion among travelers. In fact, Welsh Rabbit is like an open-faced grilled cheese. Commonly served with savory tomato jam and simple salad, it makes for the perfect pick-me-up during the day or as a breakfast treat.
Classic Welsh Breakfast: Wales tours very often include a few nights in bed and breakfasts or guest houses which offer the choice of a “Welsh breakfast” in the morning, usually cooked by the host. A Welsh breakfast includes sausage, bacon, fried egg, toast, black pudding, and cooked tomatoes and mushrooms.
Laverbread: It’s a classic Welsh delicacy on usual Welsh breakfasts, which is basically 100% pureed seaweed. The flavor is very strong and salty — but if you are game, you aren’t likely to find Laverbread anywhere else, so definitely take advantage of trying it while in Wales. The Welsh typically spread it on toast or crackers.
H3: Day Trips From Wales
Wales offers a variety of fascinating day trip options, allowing visitors to explore the rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty of the surrounding regions. Whether you're interested in historical landmarks, scenic landscapes, or vibrant cities, there are plenty of destinations for an enriching day out.
H4: Chester
Chester is a historic city in England located across the border. It is known for its well-preserved Roman walls, charming medieval architecture, and the unique Chester Rows—two-tiered shopping galleries. A visit to Chester Cathedral and a stroll along the River Dee make for a delightful day trip.
H4: Bath
A bit further afield, Bath is renowned for its Roman baths, Georgian architecture, and the stunning Bath Abbey. The city's compact size makes it easy to explore in a day, with highlights including the Royal Crescent, Pulteney Bridge, and the Jane Austen Centre.
H4: The Cotswolds
The picturesque Cotswolds region, with its rolling hills, quaint villages, and honey-colored stone cottages, is perfect for a relaxing day trip. Visit charming towns like Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Chipping Campden to experience quintessential English countryside charm.
H4: Stratford-upon-Avon
Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare, offers a wealth of attractions for literature and history enthusiasts. Visitors can tour the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust properties, enjoy a performance at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, and explore the historic town center.
H4: The Lake District
The Lake District in northwest England is an excellent choice for nature lovers. Although it's a bit of a drive from Wales, the region's stunning lakes, mountains, and quaint villages provide a refreshing escape into nature. Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Windermere or hike one of the many scenic trails.
H4: Ludlow
Located in Shropshire, Ludlow is a charming market town known for its medieval architecture, including the impressive Ludlow Castle. The town is also famous for its food and drink, with numerous independent eateries and a renowned annual food festival.
H4: Hereford
Hereford, with its historic cathedral housing the famous Mappa Mundi and Chained Library, offers a blend of history and culture. The city's picturesque streets and riverside setting provide a pleasant environment for a day of exploration.