Wales Travel Guide
Wales is a country full of character, charm, and wild beauty. It’s where ancient legends meet dramatic landscapes, think craggy coastlines, lush green valleys, towering mountains, and more castles per square mile than anywhere else in the world (yep, really!). From the melodic sound of the Welsh language to cosy villages and windswept beaches, Wales feels like a world of its own, even though it’s just a few hours from London.
Wales is one of the four nations that make up the United Kingdom, alongside England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Its capital, Cardiff, is a lively city on the south coast known for its waterfront, castle, and buzzing arts scene, but the magic of Wales truly lies in its countryside.
There’s loads to see and do across the country: hike up Snowdon in the rugged north, wander the colourful harbour town of Tenby, explore the medieval streets of Conwy, ride steam trains through the valleys, or head underground into ancient slate mines. Whether you’re into history, hiking, surfing, or simply soaking up some seriously good scenery, Wales has got you covered.
Best Time To Visit
Wales is no stranger to rain — in fact, it wears its damp reputation like a badge of honour. But honestly, that’s part of its charm. The ever-changing skies mean you might get sunshine, mist, and a dramatic downpour all in the same afternoon. It’s what makes the hills so green, the waterfalls so full, and the countryside so ridiculously lush.
Summer (May to August) is generally the best time to visit if you’re after longer days, warmer temperatures, and a higher chance of blue skies. It’s perfect for coastal walks, mountain hikes, and a pint outside a rural pub. That said, even in peak summer, Welsh weather likes to keep you on your toes — so waterproofs and layers are always a wise shout.
Autumn brings fiery colours to the forests and fewer crowds at the big spots, while winter turns cosy — ideal for snuggling up by a fire after a blustery beach walk. December adds a bit of sparkle too, with Christmas markets popping up in cities like Cardiff and Swansea.
For a full month-by-month breakdown…
What To Expect
Capital: Cardiff
Language: Wales has two official languages — Welsh and English. English is spoken everywhere, but don’t be surprised if you see signs in both languages or hear someone casually drop a “Diolch” (thank you) in the middle of a conversation.
Currency: The currency in England is the British Pound. $1 USD is equivalent to about £0.75 GBP and €1 EUR is £0.87 GBP. Check current exchange rate here
Cash Machines & ATMs: You’ll find ATMs in most towns, villages, and even service stations in Wales. Most machines accept all major cards, and card payments (especially contactless) are widely accepted — including Apple Pay and Google Pay. Cash still comes in handy in some rural pubs or local markets, but cards will do you just fine in most places.
Plugs: The plugs in England are type G with 3 rectangular pins. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50Hz. I recommend buying a Universal Power Adapter
Safety: Wales is generally a very safe place to visit. Crime rates are low, the people are friendly, and police are approachable and trusted. That said, standard travel advice always applies: keep an eye on your belongings, be cautious in unfamiliar areas after dark, and don’t flash your valuables.
Never ever: Don’t assume everyone in Wales is English. Welsh identity runs deep and proud — it’s not “just another part of England.” Also, if you’re lucky enough to catch a male voice choir in action or a rugby match at Principality Stadium… stand, listen, and enjoy — it’s serious business!
Travel Guides
Below you will find guides on places in Wales, reasons to visit Wales, and how to travel Wales on a budget.
City Guides
Itineraries with Maps
Best Places to Visit & Things to Do
Best Time to Visit (City Specific)
Hiking
Wales Travel Tips
Everything Else
Downloadable Guides and Google Maps
Search for your Perfect Hotel
Find the Cheapest Flights
Book Tours and Purchase Tickets
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Wales
1. Hiking to the Summit of Mount Snowdon
As the highest peak in Wales, Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa in Welsh) is a must-see — and a must-climb, if you’re up for it. Nestled in the heart of Snowdonia National Park, this iconic mountain offers jaw-dropping panoramic views stretching across lakes, valleys, and even out to Ireland on a clear day. There are several routes to the top, ranging from leisurely to full-on leg burners, or you can take the charming Snowdon Mountain Railway if hiking’s not your thing. Either way, the summit café and that unbeatable view make it all worth it.
2. Discovering the Castles of Conwy and Caernarfon
Wales is basically castle central — with over 600 scattered across the country — and two of the most jaw-dropping are found in the north. Conwy Castle is a medieval masterpiece with towering walls you can walk along and epic views over the harbour. Caernarfon Castle, meanwhile, is a mighty fortress built by Edward I and once used for royal investitures. Both are UNESCO-listed, and both give you that “wow, this is proper Game of Thrones stuff” feeling.
3. Wandering the Colourful Streets of Portmeirion
This whimsical, Italian-style village tucked along the coast of North Wales feels like stepping into a Mediterranean fairytale. Designed by architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, Portmeirion is full of pastel-hued buildings, sub-tropical gardens, and quirky corners just begging for a photo op. It’s also famously the filming location of the 1960s cult show The Prisoner. Whether you’re there to wander, shop, or simply eat gelato with a sea view, it’s pure magic.
4. Walking the Pembrokeshire Coast Path
If you’re into dramatic sea cliffs, hidden coves, puffins, and picture-perfect beaches, the Pembrokeshire Coast Path is where it’s at. Stretching for 186 miles, it’s one of the UK’s most stunning national trails — though you don’t have to do it all in one go (unless you fancy bragging rights). Pick a stretch, like the loop around St Davids or the cliffs near Barafundle Bay, and soak up the salty air, sweeping views, and wild Welsh beauty.
5. Visiting Cardiff Castle in the Heart of the Capital
Right in the centre of Cardiff, surrounded by modern shops and restaurants, you’ll find Cardiff Castle — a mix of Roman ruins, Norman keep, and Victorian Gothic fantasy all rolled into one. Inside, it’s a treasure trove of grand interiors, quirky decor (check out the animal wall!), and secret wartime tunnels. You can climb the tower for city views, catch a medieval show, or just chill in the surrounding Bute Park — it’s history and green space all in one handy location.
Wales Travel Costs
Accommodation
- Hostel Dorms – £20–£40 / $25–$50 / €23–€47
- Hostel Private Rooms – £50–£90 / $62–$112 / €58–€105
- Budget Hotels – £60–£120 / $75–$150 / €70–€140
- Airbnb Private Rooms – £40–£80 / $50–$100 / €47–€93
- Airbnb Apartments – £80–£150 / $100–$187 / €93–€175
- Campsites – £10–£30 / $12–$37 / €12–€35
Transportation
- Local Bus or Tram – £2–£3 per ride / $2.50–$3.75 / €2.30–€3.50
- Intercity Bus (National Express or Megabus) – £5–£30 / $6–$37 / €6–€35
- Train (Advance Tickets) – £10–£50 / $12–$62 / €12–€58
- Taxi (per km) – £1.50–£2.50 / $1.85–$3.10 / €1.75–€2.90
- Car Rental (per day) – £30–£60 / $37–$75 / €35–€70
Food
- Budget Meal – £8–£12 / $10–$15 / €9–€14
- Mid-Range Restaurant Meal – £15–£30 / $18–$37 / €17–€35
- Coffee – £2–£4 / $2.50–$5 / €2.30–€4.70
- Beer – £4–£6 / $5–$7.50 / €4.70–€7
Activities
- Museum Entry – Many museums, in places like Cardiff, are free. Others cost around £10–£20 / $12–$25 / €12–€23.
- Guided Tours – £20–£60 / $25–$75 / €23–€70
- Theatre Tickets – £30–£120 / $37–$150 / €35–€140
- Day Trips (e.g. North Wales) – £50–£100 / $62–$125 / €58–€117
Wales Suggested Budgets
Backpacker – £50–£70 Per Day
Travelling Wales on a budget? Totally doable. With £50–£70 a day, you can stay in hostel dorms (especially in cities like Cardiff or Swansea), make the most of scenic hikes and free attractions, and get around using public buses or trains with a railcard discount. Many castles charge small entry fees, but exploring the countryside, beaches, and national parks won’t cost you a penny.
Stick to supermarket meal deals, cook in hostel kitchens, or grab budget bites from local cafés. Fancy a pint in a cosy pub after a day of exploring? Budget an extra £5–£10 for that well-earned drink.
Midrange – £120–£150 Per Day
With a midrange budget, you can treat yourself to private B&Bs or charming guesthouses, especially in rural spots or coastal villages. You’ll have a comfy bed, often with a full Welsh breakfast included (yes, that means lava bread and cockles if you’re feeling adventurous). You can mix in a few sit-down meals, castle visits, and even a guided tour or two.
Transport-wise, you can easily rent a car — which is ideal for getting off the beaten path — or take comfortable trains between major destinations. You’ll have room in your budget for a few activities like zip-lining in Snowdonia or boat tours in Pembrokeshire.
Upscale – £250+ Per Day
If you’re going all-in, Wales can deliver on luxury. Stay in boutique hotels, historic manors, or spa retreats nestled in the countryside. Dine at award-winning restaurants (yes, Wales has Michelin stars too), sip fine wines in castle hotels, and book private guides for hiking, heritage tours, or even sheepdog demos (very Welsh, very wholesome).
You’ll have the freedom to hire a car with ease, book premium experiences like glamping under the stars or helicopter tours over Snowdonia, and enjoy the finer side of Welsh hospitality. It’s cosy, classy, and full of character.
Wales Money-Saving Tips
Although Wales can be an expensive destination, there are plenty of ways to keep costs down. Here are some updated tips to help you save money while travelling in England:
Bring a Reusable Water Bottle – Tap water in Wales is safe to drink, and many public spaces, train stations, and cafes offer free water refill stations. This reduces costs and plastic waste.
Take Advantage of Free Museums – Wales has a wealth of natural beauty — from beaches and mountains to forests and waterfalls — and most of it is totally free. Many towns also have free-entry museums like the National Museum Cardiff or St Fagans National Museum of History, an open-air museum that’s both fascinating and free.
Use Public Transportation – PBuses and trains connect much of Wales, and they’re far cheaper than hiring taxis. Use Transport for Wales trains and book advance tickets via apps like Trainline or TfW Rail. Also, consider a railcard (like the 16–25, Two Together, or Family & Friends) to slash your fares.
Travel Off-Peak – Avoid peak-time trains (usually early morning and late afternoon weekdays) for better prices. Travelling midweek or outside school holidays can also mean cheaper accommodation and less crowded attractions.
Stay in Budget Accommodation – Look for hostels or use Hostelworld, budget hotel chains like Premier Inn, or Airbnbs. Booking outside city centres can often reduce costs while still being close to public transport. Use websites like Booking.com.
Cook Your Own Meals – Hostels, Airbnbs, and even some B&Bs offer kitchen access. Pop into supermarkets like Tesco, Lidl, or Aldi for groceries, and whip up your own Welsh breakfast or picnic lunch to save money (and probably eat better too!).
Explore Free Walking Tours – Cardiff, Swansea, and Conwy often have walking tours led by knowledgeable locals — some free, some “pay what you can.” It’s a great way to learn the history and quirks of a town without splashing out.
Use Discount Cards and Passes – A railcard can save you up to 1/3 on train fares. If you’re planning to visit multiple heritage sites, look into Cadw Membership — it gives you access to a ton of Welsh castles and monuments for a fraction of the cost.
Visit Parks and Markets – Wales has three national parks (Snowdonia, Brecon Beacons, and Pembrokeshire Coast), and all are free to enter. The Wales Coast Path is 870 miles of scenic seaside walking — and every mile is free.
Avoid Overpriced Attractions – Wales isn’t big on tourist traps, but if something feels overpriced, there’s often a better, cheaper alternative nearby. For example, rather than paying for a castle tour in a big city, head to Carreg Cennen or Dolbadarn — smaller, atmospheric, and often free or just a few quid.
Travel During Shoulder Seasons – Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are amazing times to visit — fewer crowds, cheaper accommodation, and the landscapes still look like something out of a fantasy film.
How to Get Around in Wales
Wales may be compact, but it packs in a diverse landscape — from coastal towns and castle-dotted valleys to rugged mountain regions. Thankfully, getting around is fairly straightforward, with a mix of public transport, scenic train routes, and road trips through the stunning countryside. Here’s your updated guide to travelling around Wales affordably and conveniently:
Walking
Walking is a fantastic way to explore Welsh towns, cities, and countryside. Places like Cardiff, Conwy, and Tenby are compact and pedestrian-friendly, with historic streets, local shops, and attractions all within strolling distance. For hikers, Wales also has brilliant long-distance footpaths, including the Wales Coast Path and routes through Snowdonia and the Brecon Beacons.
Public Transportation
Wales has a solid public transport system — particularly in the south and along main travel corridors. Buses and trains connect major towns and scenic areas, although rural routes can be a bit patchy, so planning ahead is key.
- Buses: Local bus services operate in most towns and cities. A single ride usually costs between £1.80–£3.00. In rural areas, buses may be infrequent or not run on Sundays.
- Cardiff Bus: A day ticket costs around £4.50 for unlimited local travel.
- TrawsCymru Buses: Long-distance services across Wales with stunning views. Some routes offer free weekend travel!
- Apps to Use: Traveline Cymru for timetables and route planning.
Airport Transfers
Wales has one major international airport:
- Cardiff Airport (CWL): Connected to Cardiff Central via the 905 bus or a 15-minute train ride from Rhoose Station (nearby).
- Alternative Airports: Many travellers fly into Bristol or Manchester, then take trains into Wales.
- Recommended Airport Transfer: Welcome Pickups
Trains
Trains in Wales are operated mainly by Transport for Wales, with scenic routes winding through mountains, past lakes, and along the coast.
- Cardiff to Swansea: From £7–£15 (1 hour).
- Cardiff to Llandudno: From £30–£60 (3.5 hours).
- Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth: A beautiful westward route through mid-Wales.
- Book in advance via Trainline or TfW Rail for the best prices.
- Consider a Railcard (e.g., 16–25 or Two Together) for 1/3 off fares.
- Rail passes like the BritRail Pass are great for tourists planning extensive train travel.
- Recommended Rail Ticket Provider: Trainline
Buses and Coaches
Intercity coach services are a cheap way to travel longer distances in Wales.
- National Express & Megabus: Serve major towns and cities.
- Cardiff to London: From £5–£20 (3–4 hours).
- Use Busbud or the coach operators’ own sites for bookings.
Taxis
Taxis are available in all cities and towns, but they’re generally not the most budget-friendly.
- Cardiff Black Cabs: Metered and reliable.
- Ride-Hailing Apps: Uber is only available in a few areas (mainly Cardiff). In other places, use local taxi firms or apps like Dragon Taxis.
Car Rental
Renting a car is the best way to access remote villages, national parks, and scenic byways — especially in Snowdonia, Pembrokeshire, or the Brecon Beacons.
- Costs: From £30–£70 per day, depending on the vehicle and season.
- Requirements: UK/EU licence or an International Driving Permit (IDP) for other visitors.
- Things to Know: Roads can be narrow and winding, especially in rural areas. Always drive on the left.
- Recommended Car Rental: DiscoverCars
Cycling
Wales is fantastic for cyclists, with quiet country lanes and dedicated paths along coasts, canals, and through national parks.
- Bike Hire: Around £10–£20 per day in cities and holiday towns.
- National Cycle Network: Routes like the Taff Trail (Cardiff to Brecon) are popular.
- E-Bikes: Available in some areas like Cardiff and Carmarthenshire.
Tips for Getting Around
- Download Transport Apps: Traveline Cymru, Trainline, and Google Maps help plan your route.
- Use Contactless Cards: Accepted on most buses and trains.
- Book Train Tickets Early: For the best savings, especially on long-distance journeys.
- Check Sunday Schedules: Some rural buses and trains run limited or no service on Sundays.
- Consider a Regional Travel Pass: Like the Explore Wales Pass for unlimited bus and rail travel over 8 days.
Travel Resources
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