Photos without credits are sourced from free platforms like Unsplash and Pexels
Summary
Did you know?
Wales Has More Castles Than Any Other Country – With over 600 castles, Wales is often considered the castle capital of the world.
Overview
Months
03. March, 05. May, 06. June, 11. November, 07. July, 10. October, 01. January, 09. September, 02. February, 08. August, 12. December, 04. April
Vacation type
Couple, Family, Hiking, Mountains, Nature, Sightseeing
Expenses
<150€, <200€, Over 200€, <100€
Temperature
0-10°C, 20-25°C, 10-20°C
Rainfall
0-50mm, 50-100mm
Safety
Safe
Continent
Europe
Currency
Pound sterling
Languages
English, Welsh
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit Wales is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). These seasons offer mild temperatures and generally pleasant weather, ideal for exploring the country’s landscapes, historic sites, and outdoor activities.
- Spring (April to June): Features warming temperatures, blooming flowers, and longer daylight hours, making it perfect for hiking in national parks like Snowdonia and exploring picturesque towns and castles.
- Autumn (September to October): Offers cooler temperatures and vibrant fall colors, great for outdoor activities and enjoying fewer crowds compared to summer.
- Summer (July to August) is the peak tourist season, with warmer temperatures and more daylight, making it ideal for outdoor activities and festivals. However, it can also be more crowded and expensive.
- Winter (November to March) can be cold and wet, with shorter daylight hours. While it’s a quieter time to visit, it’s also less ideal for outdoor activities due to the weather.
Climate Data
Peak Season (May to September)
Average Sunny Hours per Day: 6 to 8 hours.
Rain Frequency: Occasional, with more dry days during summer.
Rainy Hours per Day: 1 to 2 hours.
Intensity: Light to moderate rain.
Duration: Showers tend to last under an hour, with occasional longer spells of drizzle.
Off-Peak Season (October to April)
Average Sunny Hours per Day: 3 to 5 hours.
Rain Frequency: Frequent, especially in autumn and winter.
Rainy Hours per Day: 3 to 4 hours.
Intensity: Light to moderate rain, with occasional heavier showers.
Duration: Rain can last several hours, especially in winter months.
Climate Chart
_edited_edited_edited_e.jpg)
Data Source: CRU Time Series v4.07
https://catalogue.ceda.ac.uk/uuid/5fda109ab71947b6b7724077bf7eb753
ClimateCharts.net
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: May-September (Summer)
Budget Vacation ($40-80/day)
Accommodation: $20-40/night (budget guesthouses, hostels).
Food: $10-20/day (pub meals, street food).
Activities: $10-20/day (hiking, sightseeing).
Transportation: $5-10/day (local buses, public transport).
Other Costs: $5/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($80-150/day)
Accommodation: $40-80/night (mid-range hotels, guesthouses).
Food: $15-30/day (restaurants, cafes).
Activities: $15-30/day (sightseeing, guided tours).
Transportation: $10-20/day (taxis, car rentals).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs, local experiences).
Luxury Vacation ($150+/day)
Accommodation: $80+/night (luxury hotels, country inns).
Food: $20+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $30+/day (private tours, luxury experiences).
Transportation: $20+/day (private car rentals).
Other Costs: $10+/day (premium experiences).
Off-Peak Season: October-April (Winter)
Budget Vacation ($30-70/day)
Accommodation: $15-30/night (budget accommodations).
Food: $5-15/day (local meals, casual dining).
Activities: $5-15/day (sightseeing, cultural experiences).
Transportation: $5-10/day (public transport).
Other Costs: $5/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($70-130/day)
Accommodation: $20-50/night (mid-range hotels, inns).
Food: $10-20/day (local dining, restaurants).
Activities: $10-20/day (museums, historical sites).
Transportation: $10-20/day (local buses, taxis).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs).
Luxury Vacation ($130+/day)
Accommodation: $50+/night (luxury hotels, resorts).
Food: $15+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $20+/day (private tours, exclusive experiences).
Transportation: $20+/day (private transport).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury shopping, special experiences).
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. Cardiff
- The capital and largest city of Wales, Cardiff is known for its vibrant cultural scene, historic sites, and modern attractions. Highlights include Cardiff Castle, the Millennium Stadium, and the National Museum Cardiff. Cardiff Bay is a popular area with restaurants, shops, and the Wales Millennium Centre.
2. Swansea
- Wales’ second-largest city, Swansea is known for its maritime history, beautiful coastline, and cultural attractions. The Swansea Marina, Swansea Market, and the Dylan Thomas Centre are key highlights. The Gower Peninsula, just outside the city, is a stunning area known for its beaches and coastal walks.
3. Newport
- Located on the River Usk, Newport has a rich industrial heritage and is home to a number of historical sites. The Newport Transporter Bridge and Tredegar House are notable attractions. The city also has a growing arts scene and hosts events such as the Newport Food Festival.
4. Bangor
- One of the smallest cities in the UK, Bangor is located in North Wales and is known for its historic university and stunning natural surroundings. The city is a gateway to Snowdonia National Park and the Isle of Anglesey. The Bangor Cathedral and Penrhyn Castle are popular attractions.
5. St Davids
- The smallest city in Britain, St Davids is located in Pembrokeshire and is named after the patron saint of Wales. The city is known for its beautiful cathedral, which is a pilgrimage site, and its proximity to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, offering stunning coastal views and outdoor activities.
6. Wrexham
- Located in North Wales, Wrexham is the largest town in the region and was granted city status in 2022. The city has a rich history, with attractions such as St Giles' Church and the National Trust’s Erddig Hall. Wrexham is also known for its strong sporting culture, particularly football and rugby.
Cardiff
Did you know?
The Longest Place Name in Europe – The village of Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch has the longest name in Europe.
Islands
1. Anglesey (Ynys Môn)
- The largest island in Wales, Anglesey is a popular destination with a rich history, beautiful beaches, and charming villages. Highlights include Beaumaris Castle, the Anglesey Coastal Path, and South Stack Lighthouse. The island is also known for its prehistoric sites, such as Bryn Celli Ddu.
2. Bardsey Island (Ynys Enlli)
- Located off the Llŷn Peninsula, Bardsey Island is a serene and remote island known for its spiritual significance and wildlife. Often referred to as the "Island of 20,000 Saints," it has been a pilgrimage site for centuries. The island is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
3. Skomer Island
- Situated off the coast of Pembrokeshire, Skomer Island is renowned for its abundant wildlife, particularly seabirds like puffins and guillemots. The island is also home to seals and offers stunning coastal scenery with rugged cliffs and wildflower-covered slopes.
4. Ramsey Island
- Another island off the Pembrokeshire coast, Ramsey Island is known for its dramatic landscapes and rich wildlife. Managed by the RSPB, it's a great spot for birdwatching, with species such as peregrine falcons and choughs. The island's cliffs provide breathtaking views of the surrounding sea.
5. Caldey Island
- Located near Tenby in Pembrokeshire, Caldey Island is famous for its monastic history. The island is still home to a community of Cistercian monks. Visitors can explore the abbey, relax on the island's sandy beaches, and enjoy the tranquility of this peaceful retreat.
6. Holy Island (Ynys Gybi)
- Connected to Anglesey by a causeway, Holy Island is known for its stunning landscapes and historic sites. Highlights include the South Stack Lighthouse, Holyhead Mountain, and the ancient burial chambers at Barclodiad y Gawres. The island also offers excellent opportunities for hiking and birdwatching.
Anglesey (Ynys Môn)
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Snowdonia National Park
- Explore the stunning landscapes of Snowdonia, home to Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales. The park offers hiking, climbing, and breathtaking views of rugged mountains, glacial valleys, and serene lakes.
2. Brecon Beacons National Park
- Discover this beautiful park known for its rolling hills, waterfalls, and dark skies, perfect for stargazing. It's also a great spot for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring caves like Dan-yr-Ogof.
3. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
- Walk along the dramatic coastal cliffs, sandy beaches, and hidden coves of this national park. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path offers some of the best coastal hiking in the UK.
4. Gower Peninsula
- Enjoy the natural beauty of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) with its sandy beaches, limestone cliffs, and scenic coastal walks. Rhossili Bay is particularly popular for its stunning views.
5. Elan Valley
- Visit the picturesque Elan Valley, known for its series of reservoirs and dams, surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests, ideal for walking, cycling, and wildlife watching.
Cultural Attractions
1. Caernarfon Castle
- Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the most impressive medieval fortresses in Wales, with its grand walls, towers, and a rich history tied to the English monarchy.
2. Cardiff Castle
- Visit this iconic castle in the heart of Cardiff, blending Roman, Norman, and Victorian Gothic architecture, with beautifully decorated rooms and a fascinating history.
3. Conwy Castle
- Discover this well-preserved medieval fortress with its eight massive towers and stunning views over the Conwy River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of medieval military architecture.
4. St Fagans National Museum of History
- Experience Welsh history and culture at this open-air museum near Cardiff, where historic buildings from across Wales have been reconstructed to showcase traditional Welsh life.
5. Tintern Abbey
- Wander through the ruins of this Cistercian abbey set in the Wye Valley, one of the most picturesque and atmospheric monastic sites in Britain, inspiring poets like Wordsworth.
6. Portmeirion Village
- Visit this unique and colorful Italianate village on the coast of North Wales, known for its whimsical architecture, lush gardens, and as the filming location for the TV series "The Prisoner."
7. National Museum Cardiff
- Explore this museum’s extensive collections of art, natural history, and geology, including works by Welsh artists and an impressive display of Impressionist paintings.
8. Blaenavon Industrial Landscape
- Step back into the Industrial Revolution at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can visit the Big Pit National Coal Museum and explore the history of coal mining in Wales.
9. Harlech Castle
- Marvel at this dramatic medieval castle perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, another of Wales' impressive World Heritage Sites, known for its role in Welsh history.
10. Llanddwyn Island
- Visit this small tidal island off the coast of Anglesey, known for its connection to Saint Dwynwen, the Welsh patron saint of lovers, and its picturesque lighthouse and beaches.
How to get around
1. Trains
- Trains are a convenient way to travel between major cities and towns in Wales. Transport for Wales operates services connecting cities like Cardiff, Swansea, Newport, and Bangor. The Great Western Railway also connects Wales with major cities in England, such as London and Bristol. Trains are comfortable and provide scenic views of the Welsh countryside.
2. Buses
- Buses are a good option for traveling within cities and between towns. Services such as Arriva Bus and Stagecoach provide coverage across Wales, including connections to more rural areas. Buses are useful for local travel and accessing smaller communities not served by trains.
3. Car Rentals
- Renting a car provides flexibility to explore Wales at your own pace. It’s ideal for road trips to destinations like Snowdonia, Pembrokeshire, and the Brecon Beacons. Major roads and highways such as the M4 and A55 connect key cities and attractions.
4. Taxis and Ride-Sharing
- Taxis are available in cities and towns across Wales. They can be hailed on the street or booked via phone. Ride-sharing services like Uber operate in major cities such as Cardiff and Swansea and offer a convenient alternative to traditional taxis.
5. Cycling
- Cycling is a popular way to explore Welsh towns and countryside. Cities like Cardiff and Swansea have bike rental services and dedicated bike lanes. The Taff Trail and Lôn Las Cymru are notable long-distance cycling routes that offer scenic views of Wales.
6. Walking
- Walking is ideal for exploring city centers, towns, and natural landscapes. In cities like Cardiff, Swansea, and Llandudno, many landmarks, parks, and cultural sites are within walking distance. Wales is also known for its stunning walking trails, such as the Pembrokeshire Coast Path and Snowdon.
7. Ferries
- Ferries operate between Wales and Ireland. Services such as those provided by Stena Line and Irish Ferries connect Fishguard and Holyhead with Dublin and Rosslare. Ferries are useful for international travel and offer scenic crossings.
For the best experience, use trains for comfortable travel between major cities, buses for local and regional travel, and car rentals for exploring more remote areas. Taxis and ride-sharing are convenient for city travel, while cycling and walking offer a chance to enjoy Wales’s natural beauty and vibrant urban areas. Ferries are useful for international connections to Ireland.
Did you know?
The Land of Dragons – Wales is represented by a red dragon on its national flag, symbolizing strength and pride.
What to eat
1. Cawl
- A traditional Welsh stew made with lamb and root vegetables.
2. Bara Brith
- A fruit loaf made with tea, often enjoyed with butter.
3. Welsh Rarebit
- A savory cheese sauce served on toast, often enjoyed as a snack.
4. Laverbread
- A seaweed dish often served with oatmeal and bacon.
5. Faggots
- Meatballs made from pork and offal, often served with peas and gravy.
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airport: Cardiff Airport (CWL)
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €50 to €200.
- Cheapest Months: January to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $500 to $1,100.
- Cheapest Months: January to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $400 to $800.
- Cheapest Months: January to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $800 to $1,500.
- Cheapest Months: January to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $400 to $800.
- Cheapest Months: January to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
Airport Location
Visa
1. Visa Requirement
- Wales is part of the United Kingdom. Citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Australia, and many other countries do not need a visa for stays of up to 6 months for tourism or business.
2. Entry to the UK
- Travelers must meet the entry requirements for the UK, which includes presenting a valid passport.
3. Duration of Stay
- Visa-free visitors can stay for up to 6 months; visa holders should refer to their specific visa for duration.
4. Health Requirements
- No specific vaccinations are generally required for entry, but travel insurance is recommended.
5. COVID-19 Regulations
- Check for any current COVID-19 entry requirements before traveling, as regulations may change.
6. Currency
- The currency used is the British Pound (£), and credit cards are widely accepted.
7. Transportation
- Wales has a well-connected public transport system, including trains and buses.
8. Local Customs
- Familiarize yourself with local customs and language; Welsh is spoken alongside English in many areas.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- The local currency is the British Pound (GBP). Credit cards are widely accepted.
2. Tap Water
- Tap water is generally safe to drink.
3. Electricity
- The voltage is 230V, and plug type G (three rectangular pins) is used.
4. Tipping in Restaurants
- Tipping is customary, usually around 10-15%.
5. SIM Cards
- Local SIM cards are available from providers like EE and Vodafone.
6. Driving Side
- In Wales, people drive on the left side of the road.
Souveniers
1. Welsh Woolen Products
- Wales is known for its woolen products, including blankets, scarves, and sweaters. These items, often made from soft lamb’s wool, make for warm and cozy souvenirs.
2. Welsh Lovespoons
- A traditional Welsh gift, the lovespoon is a wooden spoon carved with intricate designs. These are often given as tokens of affection and are popular souvenirs.
3. Welsh Daffodils
- The daffodil is Wales' national flower, and you’ll find many products adorned with daffodils, such as jewelry, scarves, and decorative items.
Daffodils
Location
You already visited this country? Share your experiences with others! Tell us what’s worth seeing, what to skip, the things you wish you knew before your trip, what surprised you, what do you wish you knew earlier? Leave a review and help others plan smarter. Thanks in advance! :))
_edited_edited.png)
Heading 5
I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy.
_edited_edited.png)
Heading 5
I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy.
_edited_edited.png)
Heading 5
I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy.