Wales might be small, but it’s packed with insane places you need to see. Think massive mountains, stunning beaches, medieval castles, and a town that looks straight out of Italy (but isn’t). Oh, and let’s not forget the endless sheep.
If you’re into adventure, there’s a place where you can hike to the highest peak in Wales or just take the lazy train to the top (no judgement). If city life is more your thing, the capital has castles, shopping, and a stadium full of rugby fans who take the sport way too seriously.
Prefer the coast? There’s a national park with unreal beaches and cliffs that will make your Instagram pop. Or maybe you’re after a classic British seaside escape with vintage vibes and epic views. If mountains and waterfalls are more your style, you’ll find a place filled with both, plus some of the best stargazing spots in the country.
And then there are the weird ones. A colourful village that looks like it belongs in Italy, a medieval town straight out of a history book, and an entire town dedicated to books. Yep, books.
I’ll break down these top 10 spots. Let’s go!
1. Snowdonia National Park
Snowdonia National Park – Your Legs Will Hate You, but It’s Worth It
If you haven’t been to Snowdonia, you’re missing out. This place is something else. It’s home to Mount Snowdon, the tallest peak in Wales, and it’s a dream for hikers, or at least for people who like to think they’re into hiking.
The climb is no joke, but trust me, the views at the top? Absolutely worth every breathless step. Too lazy to hike? No problem. There’s a scenic railway that takes you straight to the summit, because why struggle when you can sit back and enjoy the ride?
But Snowdonia isn’t just about one big mountain. The whole national park is packed with insane landscapes, rugged peaks, glacial lakes, and cute little villages that look straight out of a postcard. And if you’re into adventure, this place delivers. You can go zip-lining over an old slate quarry at ridiculous speeds, rock climbing up dramatic cliffs, or just wander around taking in the scenery (and pretending you know things about nature).
Whether you’re here for the challenge, the views, or just the fresh air, Snowdonia is one of those places you’ll never forget. Just be prepared – your legs will be sore, but your camera roll will thank you.
2. Cardiff – The Capital of Wales
Cardiff – The Capital That’s Got It All
Cardiff is one of those cities that just gets it right. It’s got history, culture, great food, and a waterfront that’s perfect for a wander (or a pint, let’s be honest).
First up, Cardiff Castle. Smack in the middle of the city, because why not? One minute, you’re walking past shops, the next, you’re staring at a medieval fortress. Inside, it’s all grand halls, towers, and just enough history to make you feel cultured.
Then there’s St Fagans National Museum of History, basically a giant time machine. They’ve taken old buildings from all over Wales and rebuilt them here, so you can walk through different centuries like it’s no big deal. If you’ve ever wanted to see what life was like before Wi-Fi, this is the place.
And you can’t leave without hitting Cardiff Bay. It’s got restaurants, bars, boat rides, and that kind of laid-back vibe that makes you want to stay longer. Whether you’re checking out the Welsh Parliament or just sitting by the water pretending to be fancy, it’s the perfect way to end the day.
Cardiff’s got everything. Trust me, you won’t be bored.
3. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
Pembrokeshire Coast – Beaches, Cliffs, and a Bit of Adventure
If you’re looking for some of the best coastal views in Wales, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is the place to be. We’re talking sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and the kind of blue water that makes you double-check if you’re still in the UK.
First stop, Tenby is probably one of the prettiest seaside towns you’ll ever see. Colourful houses, a stunning harbour, and beaches that look straight out of a postcard. It’s the perfect spot to grab some fish and chips and just take it all in.
Then there’s Barafundle Bay, a hidden gem. No roads, no cars, just a short walk over the cliffs, and boom – golden sand and clear water that makes you wonder why you ever bothered with airports.
And if you’re up for some wildlife spotting, Skomer Island is the place to go. Puffins, seals, and more birds than you can count. It’s like stepping into a nature documentary.
If you’re more about the action, you can go kayaking, coasteering, or just take a solid cliff walk. Whatever you do, just make sure to stop and take in the views. Trust me, they’re unreal.
4. Brecon Beacons National Park
Brecon Beacons – Mountains, Waterfalls, and the Best Night Sky You’ll Ever See
If you love a good hike, amazing views, and actually being able to see the stars at night, Brecon Beacons is the place to be. It’s got rolling hills, hidden waterfalls, and more trails than you’ll probably have the energy for.
Let’s start with Pen y Fan, the highest peak in southern Britain. Sounds impressive, right? The hike up isn’t too bad (unless you’re seriously out of shape), and once you get to the top, the views are unreal. Totally worth the leg pain.
But the best part? The waterfalls. The Four Waterfalls Walk is one of those trails where you think, “Yeah, this is why I came here.” You get to see four stunning waterfalls, and if you’re feeling brave, you can even walk behind one. Just be ready to get soaked.
And when the sun goes down? The stargazing here is next level. No city lights, just a massive open sky full of stars. It’s one of the best places in the UK for it.
Brecon Beacons is peaceful, stunning, and the perfect escape. Just don’t forget your hiking boots, you’re gonna need them.
5. Portmeirion – The Italian-Style Village
Portmeirion – The Little Italian Village (That’s Actually in Wales)
If you ever wanted to visit Italy but couldn’t be bothered with the flight, Portmeirion is the next best thing. This place is unreal – bright, colourful buildings, Mediterranean-style gardens, and a vibe that feels like you’ve somehow left Wales without actually going anywhere.
Designed by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, the whole village looks like something straight out of a movie. And fun fact – it actually was. Ever heard of The Prisoner? Yeah, that was filmed here. It’s the kind of place where every corner is ridiculously photogenic, so if you like snapping pics, you’ll be in heaven.
The architecture is wild – bright pastel houses, domes, arches, and fancy little details everywhere. You can just wander around, grab a coffee, and pretend you’re in some fancy Italian town. The gardens are just as impressive, with exotic plants that somehow manage to survive in Wales. And the views? Next level. The whole place overlooks a stunning estuary, so even if you’re not into architecture, you’ll still be blown away.
Portmeirion is weird, wonderful, and honestly, one of the most unique places in Wales. Definitely worth a visit, just don’t expect any actual Italians.
6. Conwy – A Medieval Town
Conwy – A Medieval Town That Feels Like a Time Machine
Conwy is one of those places that just throws you straight back in time – massive castle, ancient walls, and tiny streets that make you feel like you’re in a medieval movie (minus the knights and plague, thankfully).
First off, Conwy Castle. This place is a beast. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and once you see it, you’ll get why. The towers, the views, the pure history of it. It’s like something out of Game of Thrones. You can even climb up and walk along the top, which is basically the best way to see the whole town.
Speaking of views, the medieval walls around Conwy are still intact, and you can actually walk on them. It’s not every day you get to wander across centuries-old defences while looking down at modern life below.
And then there’s The Smallest House in Great Britain, which is exactly what it sounds like. It’s tiny. Like, blink-and-you-might-miss-it tiny. You can even step inside, but good luck fitting more than two people in there at once.
Conwy is history, charm, and epic views all in one. Definitely one of the coolest towns in Wales.
7. Anglesey – An Island Escape
Anglesey – The Island That’s Got It All
If you’re looking for an escape that’s got beaches, history, and a ton of wildlife, Anglesey is the place. It’s an island, but you don’t need a boat – just drive over the bridge, and boom, you’re in one of the most beautiful spots in Wales.
The coastal paths here are unreal. Whether you want long hikes or just a short stroll, you’ll get cliffside views, hidden beaches, and water so blue you’ll forget you’re still in the UK. And if you’re into lighthouses (or just want an epic Instagram shot), South Stack Lighthouse is the one. It’s perched on a tiny island, and the walk down is a leg killer, but totally worth it.
For the history lovers, there’s Beaumaris Castle. It might not be finished (medieval builders clearly got distracted), but it’s still one of the most impressive castles in Wales.
And let’s not forget the wildlife. Puffins, seals, dolphins – you name it, Anglesey’s got it. If you head to the right spots, you’ll see more puffins than people.
Anglesey is peaceful, stunning, and full of things to do. Once you visit, you’ll wonder why you didn’t come sooner.
8. Llandudno – The Queen of Welsh Resorts
Llandudno – The Seaside Town That’s Straight Out of a Postcard
If you want classic British seaside vibes with a bit of Victorian charm, Llandudno is the place. It’s got beaches, a pier, and even a tram that drags you up a massive hill, what more do you need?
First up, The Great Orme. It’s a huge limestone headland with insane views, and you can get to the top the fun way, by hopping on the Great Orme Tramway or the cable car. Both are way more exciting than walking, trust me.
Then there’s Llandudno Pier, one of the longest in Wales. It’s got that proper old-school seaside feel – arcades, candyfloss, and the kind of shops that sell everything from souvenirs to dodgy sunglasses. Perfect for a wander.
Oh, and if you’re a fan of Alice in Wonderland, you’ll love this place. Apparently, the real Alice spent her holidays here, and now there are statues, trails, and even a giant wooden rabbit dotted around town. It’s random, but it works.
Llandudno is the kind of place that feels like a step back in time, but in the best way. Sun, sea, and a bit of history, what’s not to love?
9. Hay-on-Wye – The Town of Books
Hay-on-Wye – The Town That’s Completely Obsessed with Books
If you like books (or just want to look like the kind of person who reads a lot), Hay-on-Wye is the place to be. This town is basically one giant bookshop. Seriously, there are books everywhere – tiny second-hand shops, rare finds, and shelves stacked so high you’ll wonder how they don’t collapse.
The big deal here is the Hay Festival, where writers, poets, and people who actually read their book club picks all show up to talk about literature. Even if you’re not that into festivals, just browsing the bookshops is an experience, you never know what random gem you’ll find.
And it’s not all about books, there’s a bit of history thrown in too. Hay Castle is a proper medieval ruin with just the right amount of “old and mysterious” to make it interesting. Plus, they’ve turned it into a cultural space, so you can poke around and feel like you’ve learned something.
Basically, Hay-on-Wye is one of those places you visit and instantly love. It’s got books, history, and a really chill vibe. Just don’t be surprised if you leave with a suitcase full of books you didn’t plan on buying.
10. The Elan Valley – A Hidden Gem
The Elan Valley – The Place That’s Too Pretty to Be Real
If you want big views, peaceful vibes, and a place that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard, The Elan Valley is it. It’s got massive reservoirs, rolling hills, and the kind of scenery that makes you want to stop and take a photo every five minutes.
The whole area is perfect for cycling and walking, with loads of trails that take you through some seriously stunning landscapes. Whether you’re up for a proper ride or just a slow wander, it’s the kind of place where you actually enjoy being outdoors (even if you’re usually more of a “stay inside” person).
Wildlife? Loads of it. Red kites, otters, and deer all call this place home, so keep an eye out – you never know what you’ll spot. And because it’s so quiet and unspoilt, it’s the perfect place to just switch off and take it all in.
Honestly, The Elan Valley is one of Wales’ best-kept secrets. It’s peaceful, stunning, and the kind of place that makes you wonder why you don’t spend more time in nature. Just don’t forget your camera, you’ll regret it.
Wales – Just Go, You Won’t Regret It
So, there you have it, ten absolutely unreal places in Wales that you need to check out. From epic mountains and medieval castles to picture-perfect coastlines and even a random Italian-style village, Wales has a bit of everything. Whether you’re into hiking, history, wildlife, or just stuffing your face with Welsh cakes by the sea, there’s something here for you.
If you’re thinking about visiting (which you absolutely should), the best time to go is spring or summer – the weather’s nicer, and everything just looks better in the sun. But if you don’t mind a bit of rain (because let’s be honest, it’s Wales), autumn and winter have their own charm too. Bring good walking shoes, be ready for some wild landscapes, and always check opening times – some spots shut in the off-season.
Wales doesn’t get the hype it deserves, it’s got insane landscapes, loads of history, and way fewer crowds than other UK hotspots. If you haven’t been yet, what are you even doing? Get yourself over here, explore a bit, and see for yourself why Wales is one of the most underrated places out there.