- Destinations
- Inspiration
- List your property
The best places to visit in North Wales
Powered by
From mountain landscapes and medieval castles to colourful seaside towns, the best places to visit in North Wales pack a huge amount into one corner of the UK. Whether you’re planning a family break, an adventure-filled weekend or a slower coastal escape, there’s plenty here that earns a spot on your itinerary.
One day you could be hiking through Snowdonia, the next riding a historic steam railway or eating fish and chips on a Victorian pier. North Wales balances wild scenery with easy-going holiday charm, making it just as good for action-packed trips as it is for doing very little at all.
The beauty of North Wales is how varied it feels. You’ve got dramatic beaches, cosy market towns, bustling resorts and quiet countryside all within easy reach of each other. Better still, many of the region’s top attractions are perfectly placed for a relaxing holiday park stay nearby.
Snowdonia (Eryri)
Big peaks. Bigger views. Snowdonia is North Wales at its most dramatic, with rugged mountain trails, deep glacial lakes and villages that feel built for post-hike pub lunches. Whether you’re tackling Yr Wyddfa or taking the gentler route on the mountain railway, this is the place for outdoorsy weekends that still leave room for good food and lazy mornings.
Adventure is the obvious draw, but there’s plenty beyond the walking boots. Zip World’s high-speed thrills, steam railways through the valleys and lakeside strolls make it just as appealing for families and mixed-age groups. Base yourself nearby, and you’ve got one of Wales’ best all-round holiday destinations on your doorstep.
Llandudno
North Wales’ grand old seaside resort still knows how to put on a show. Llandudno blends Victorian elegance with traditional coastal fun, where long promenades, pastel hotels and vintage trams meet arcades, fish and chips and sea air that’ll blow the cobwebs clean out.
The Great Orme is the headline act, with sweeping views over the Irish Sea and walking trails that feel surprisingly wild for somewhere so close to town. Down below, the pier buzzes in summer, while independent shops and cafés keep things lively year-round. Ideal for classic family breaks with a bit more character than your average seaside stay.
Anglesey
Anglesey moves at its own pace. This island off the north-west coast is all windswept beaches, hidden coves and seafood spots worth planning your day around. It’s the kind of place where you’ll start with a quick coastal walk and accidentally spend the whole afternoon staring out at the sea.
Beach-hoppers are spoiled for choice, from the postcard beauty of Llanddwyn Island to family-friendly stretches perfect for sandcastle duty. There’s history too, with Beaumaris Castle and ancient sites dotted across the island. Add in some of the best sunsets in Wales, and you’ve got a destination that feels like a proper escape.
Conwy
Conwy looks like something from a fantasy film set. Medieval walls wrap around the town, a turreted castle looms over the estuary, and narrow streets hide bakeries, pubs and tiny independent shops. It’s compact enough for a relaxed day out, but packed with enough history to fill a weekend.
The castle steals the spotlight for good reason, but the town itself is half the fun. Walk the ancient walls, spot Britain’s smallest house, and settle into waterside restaurants overlooking the marina. It’s one of those places that manages to be tourist-friendly without losing its local charm.
Betws-y-Coed
If Snowdonia had a capital of cosy weekends, this would be it. Betws-y-Coed is all stone bridges, woodland walks and cafés filled with hikers thawing out beside enormous mugs of tea. Surrounded by forests and waterfalls, it’s a brilliant base for exploring the national park without feeling too remote.
There’s enough nearby to keep active travellers busy for days, from mountain biking trails to scenic drives through some of Wales’ best landscapes. But honestly, part of the appeal is slowing down a bit. Browse outdoor shops, grab lunch by the river and lean fully into the fresh-air reset.
Portmeirion
North Wales has plenty of surprises, but Portmeirion might be the biggest. This colourful Italian-inspired village looks wildly out of place against the Welsh coastline – which is exactly why people love it. Bright piazzas, subtropical gardens and pastel buildings give it a slightly surreal charm that’s unlike anywhere else in the UK.
It’s compact, quirky and brilliantly photogenic, making it ideal for a slower-paced day trip. Fans of cult TV series The Prisoner will recognise it instantly, but you don’t need to know the show to appreciate the atmosphere. Come for the novelty, stay for the sea views and excellent cafés.
Bala
For watersports, lakeside scenery and a quieter side of North Wales, Bala delivers. Sitting on the edge of Llyn Tegid – Wales’ largest natural lake – this small market town is a magnet for paddleboarders, kayakers and anyone who thinks holidays should involve getting slightly windswept.
The surrounding countryside feels wonderfully open, with cycling routes, hiking trails and scenic drives in every direction. It’s less polished than some of the region’s bigger tourist hotspots, but that’s part of the appeal. If you want North Wales without the crowds, Bala’s a strong contender.
Porthmadog
Porthmadog punches well above its weight. Sitting between mountains and coast, this harbour town is the gateway to some of North Wales’ biggest attractions, including Ffestiniog Railway and nearby Portmeirion. There’s a laid-back maritime feel here that works particularly well for relaxed family breaks.
The heritage railways are the star attraction, carrying passengers through spectacular Snowdonia scenery on beautifully restored steam trains. Beyond that, expect good independent cafés, easy access to beaches and enough nearby walking routes to balance out the ice creams and pub lunches.
Whether you’re after mountain adventures, traditional seaside fun or scenic road trips with plenty of pub stops along the way, North Wales delivers the goods. Once you’ve picked your favourite spots, browse our holiday parks in North Wales for a comfortable base close to the action. Fancy exploring another side of the country too? Take a look at our holiday parks in South Wales for more beaches, national parks and coastal escapes.
