As part of the UK, Wales is a popular weekend destination for those living close to its borders in England; while there is more than enough to keep visitors from further afield occupied if you decide to stay longer. Whether you choose to visit the capital city Cardiff, with its exciting nightlife and busy sporting schedules, or head out into the countryside to explore the Welsh scenery and heritage, you will not be disappointed. If you are a rugby fan, make sure and visit the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff which hosts Six Nations matches in the spring as well as other international matches in the autumn. There is also an extensive museum dedicated to the sport. The official currency is the British pound and the official languages are both English and Welsh, with many signs displayed in both.
Wales is home to over 600 castles, ranging from small, ruined keeps to large and impressive fortresses. Cardiff Castle is only a short walk from the city centre and features a Norman keep, tunnels that were used as shelters during World War II and a number of museums and exhibitions on life in the castle and the city through the centuries. The huge Caerphilly Castle is not only home to one of Europe's largest forts, but also holds a Cheese Festival every summer as well as other cultural and entertaining events for the family. Walkers will enjoy the view from the Carreg Cennan castle, situated high above the Welsh countryside. The path to the top is quite steep and not suitable for everyone, but if you have the legs then the view is well worth the effort.
If the weather is bad during your visit, head for the National Museum of Wales, also in Cardiff. Home to Welsh artwork as well as historical artefacts, a ticket to this museum also grants free or cheaper access to other museums throughout Wales, such as the National Coal Museum or the National Waterfront Museum in the other main city, Swansea.
There are plenty of walking and cycling trails throughout Wales, connecting towns and villages and providing an excellent way to explore the pretty Welsh countryside. Wales' coastline is spectacular too, especially around the island of Anglesey, connected to the mainland by two bridges. Also on Anglesey is the village of Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch, which has become a popular tourist attraction thanks to the railway station signs displaying this incredibly long name! It is actually the longest place name in Europe, and you can buy souvenirs of your visit in the town's shops or just have your picture taken next to the famous sign.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Wales? Then below is a selection of holiday cottages in Wales and holiday apartments in Wales that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
