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This post showcases some of the very best places to visit in the south of Wales – from bustling cities to secret beaches.
From the wild and rugged scenery of the Brecon Beacons National Park to the stunning coastline… South Wales is full of incredible landscapes. Not to mention vibrant cities – including the Welsh capital – quaint countryside villages, and cute seaside towns.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, wildlife and nature, history and culture, or an exciting city break escape, this region has it all! I asked locals and top travel bloggers for their favourite must-visit places – get ready for some serious travel inspiration…
23 Places to Visit in South Wales
The region of South Wales is sometimes only applied to the very bottom “heel” of the country – the historic counties of Glamorgan, and Monmouthshire. However, for this post, I’m also including the southwest region of Wales, right the way around to the Bay of Cardigan.
In a hurry? There’s a map and a short version of this list at the bottom of the page – but you’ll find photos and much more inspiration in this section.
Brecon Beacons National Park
Recommended by: Rachel, Average Lives
The Brecon Beacons National Park is full of extraordinary adventures. Known as “waterfall country”, its full of breathtaking scenery, charming towns, castles, canals, and unforgettable outdoor fun. There’s gorge walking, quad biking, and incredible hiking trails
Some of the best include the Four Falls Trail, with four stunning waterfalls dotted along the woodland trail. Nearby is the famous Pen y Fan mountain, 886m above level. Hikers climb to the summit to take a picture of the Bronze Age cairn. From the top (if weather permits), you can enjoy dramatic views across South and Mid Wales and Southwest England.
Cardiff – the Welsh Capital
Recommended by: Cath, Passports and Adventures
Cardiff is a vibrant city with a large student population thanks to the university. But that’s not all there is to it. Cardiff has a wealth of things to offer visitors, no matter their interests.
Cardiff Castle has a Norman Keep, Castle Apartments and walls that hold secrets. There are plenty of museums, too. Don’t miss St Fagan’s, the National Museum of History, where you can view and step inside buildings from around Wales through the ages. And if you like shopping, you’ll love St David’s 2. This huge shopping centre has everything you need for some retail therapy!
READ MORE: Cardiff with kids
Tenby, Pembrokeshire
Recommended by: Rose, Where Rose Goes
The charming seaside town of Tenby may no longer be a hidden gem, but it’s still a must-visit, whether you stay overnight or pass through during a Wales road trip.
Part of the charm of Tenby is the town’s 13th-century walls and the equally well-preserved castle. There are also several beaches to enjoy, or you could walk along the coastal path to Monkstone Point. For a bit of culture, you can visit Tenby Museum and Art Gallery (found at the castle). Or take a spooky ghost tour to learn about the town’s history spanning back a century! Finally, why not catch a ferry over to Caldey Island, still maintained by local monks?
Swansea, Swansea
The second biggest city in the country, Swansea lies just along the coast from Cardiff, smack-dab in the middle of the South Coast of Wales. So it’s brilliantly poised for exploring the stunning nearby coastline!
This small seaside city has a stunning beach, a compact and walkable city centre, and plenty of amazing local food and drink to discover. Literature fans should also make sure to visit the Dylan Thomas museum and his house in Cwmdonkin. And, of course, there’s the gorgeous beach at Swansea Bay – perfect for watersports.
Don’t Miss: Swansea Market, one of the largest covered markets in Europe. This is the perfect place to try some of the top-notch local produce.
Wye Valley AONB
Skirting the England/Wales border, the Wye Valley AONB follows the meandering River Wye on its journey down to the Severn Estuary. It’s an area known for dramatic limestone gorges, picturesque woodlands, and historic hillforts.
The lush, leafy valley is a paradise for walking, cycling, and horse riding. Not to mention rock climbing and caving for the more adventurous! And, of course, the River Wye is perfect for canoeing and kayaking – especially the smooth, glassy stretch between Monmouth and Tintern.
Gower Peninsula, Swansea
Recommended by: Kat, Wandering Bird
The Gower is a peninsula near Swansea, so picturesque that it was named the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1956. This small peninsula is home to 30 beaches, many of them sandy. No matter which direction the wind is coming from, you can almost always find a sheltered cove to enjoy.
Gower is mainly about outdoor pursuits. As well as swimming, paddling and rockpooling, you can also try surfing, paddleboarding, and even canyoneering (with an appropriate guide).
READ MORE: Best camping and motorhome sites in south Wales.
Abergavenny, Monmouthshire
Recommended by: Kavita, Kavey Eats
Abergavenny is a beautiful market town, often touted as the “gateway to Wales”, just 6 miles from the English border. Once the site of a Roman fort, it grew into a walled fortress town during Norman times, when the area was known as the Welsh Marshes.
Today, visitors appreciate the remains of Abergavenny’s medieval stone castle built in the 11th century. In the town centre, an impressive town hall building remains part of community life. It also houses the market hall where weekly food and antiques markets are held.
Don’t Miss: In more recent years, the town has become well known for its annual Food Festival, held in the second week of September.
Mumbles, Swansea
Recommended by: Ben, Driftwood Journals
There is no prettier place to be on a sunny day in Wales than the charmingly higgledy-piggledy fishing village of Mumbles (or Mwmbwls in Welsh). Amble your way up Newton Road to explore the colourful shops and cutesy cafes. Be sure to stop by at the 12th-century Oystermouth Castle for commanding views over the sea and rooftops below.
Stop for a pint at the legendary White Rose pub or stroll the promenade in search of ice-cream and strong Italian espresso. Spoiler: you won’t have to go far! Joe’s ice-cream parlour is the most famous, while Verdi’s, Castellamare and Forte’s serve up spectacular views of the Mumble Lighthouse alongside their luscious scoops.
Don’t miss: the Victorian pier and historic lifeboat house. If you’re feeling energetic, hike the coast path round to Langland and Caswell Bay, which are among the most beautiful beaches on the Gower peninsula. Croeso i Gymru!
St David’s, Pembrokeshire (the Smallest City in the UK!)
Recommended by: Angela, Where Angie Wanders
St David’s in Pembrokeshire is a very special destination in South Wales. Not only is it the birthplace of the patron saint of Wales, St David, but also holds the title of the smallest city in the UK. It’s a charming place, with a small high street lined with independent retailers, coffee shops, and traditional craft stores.
Inside the cathedral, a visit to the shrine of St David is a must. It’s said that three visits to St Davids is equal to a pilgrimage to Jerusalem! Next door to the cathedral is the Bishops Palace, mostly in ruins but still an inspirational place to have a look around.
Glamorgan Heritage Coast, Glamorgan
Recommended by: Catalin, TravelTrained
Located between Aberthaw and Porthcawl, Glamorgan Heritage Coast is a 14-mile-long breathtaking coastline blessed with incredible views and stunning landscapes, and dotted with small villages (usually home to some excellent eateries).
The best way to explore the area is on foot or by bicycle. Make sure you stop by the Lighthouse at Nash Point, St Donat’s Castle, and Holy Trinity Church. And be sure to sample the wine at Llanerch Vineyard or Glyndwr Vineyard.
Pembrey Country Park, Carmarthenshire
Recommended by: Claire, Tin Box Traveller
Pembrey Country Park is a 500-acre country park in Carmarthenshire and a particular favourite with families. There’s a model railway, adventure playgrounds, walking trails, endless picnic spots, a campsite, and a stunning eight-mile-long sandy beach. .
Sporty visitors have a choice of cycle trails, archery lessons, a toboggan run, and a dry ski slope. Whatever you chose to do here, you must spend some time on Cefn Sidan Beach. It’s one of Europe’s best, with dune-backed golden sand and panoramic views across Carmarthen Bay. There’s even the odd shipwreck.
READ MORE: Things to do in Carmarthenshire.
Dan yr Ogof Caves, Powys
Recommended by: Alice from Adventures of Alice
Located in the National Showcaves Centre in Wales, Dan yr Ogof is a system of intricate cave tunnels that offer a unique underground experience. You can walk along the beautiful passageways for just under 1km, passing some of the interesting formations like the infamous “Rasher of Bacon” and the “Alabaster Pillar”.
The National Showcaves Centre is actually a collection of three different caves: Dan-yr-Ogof, Cathedral Cave and Bone Cave. Dan-yr-Ogof was discovered in 1912, at the point where the river Llynfell comes out of the mountain.
Porthcawl, Bridgend
Recommended by: Bart & Andy – The Jetset Boyz
No visit to South Wales is complete without a trip to Porthcawl. Three of Porthcawl’s seven bays hold Blue Flag status, with two being great surfing spots. Rest Bay offers consistent breaks, while Coney Beach offers perfect waves for beginners.
One of Porthcawl’s claims to fame is that it hosts the world’s biggest Elvis Festival. Every year in late September, the town welcomes 35,000 visitors and a host of Elvis impersonators from around the world for a weekend dedicated to The King. The event has been named by Time Out as one of the “40 best things to do in the world”.
Don’t Miss: The Coney Beach Pleasure Park for all the fun of a traditional fair at Wales’ cheapest amusement park.
Skomer Island, Pembrokeshire
Recommended by: Anna, Really Wildlife
Located off the coast of Pembrokeshire, Skomer Island is a must if you’re a nature lover. To reach it, take a 15-minute boat journey from Martin’s Haven – and make sure you have your camera ready!
Once on the island, you’ll see incredible birdlife, including razorbills, guillemots and the largest known concentration of Manx shearwaters in the world. But the biggest draw of Skomer Island is its population of over 20,000 puffins who nest, breed and raise their young on the island.
These adorable birds treat visitors to close-up sightings as they land home from sea with mouths full of sand eels to feed their pufflings.
Hay-On-Wye, Powys (the “Town of Books”)
Recommended by: Maja, Away with Maja
Hay-on-Wye is a small, quaint town in the Wye Valley, just next to the English border. Known as the “Town of Books,” one of the main reasons people visit is to peruse the numerous bookstores – there are over 20 here!
A few of the best ones to check out are Richard Booths, Addymans Books, and the honesty bookshop outside Hay Castle. If the weather is nice, take a walk out to the Warren, a pretty meadow just outside of town, or hike up Hay Bluff for beautiful scenery.
Don’t Miss: Time your trip around the Hay Festival, a literature and arts festival that takes place around the end of May.
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
Recommended by: Anuradha from Country Hopping Couple
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is one of three national parks in Wales, and the smallest among the national parks in the UK. With a wide variety of landscapes ranging from sandy beaches to rugged cliffs to moorlands, the Pembrokeshire coast offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures.
One of the best ways to experience Pembrokeshire Coast is to go for a coastal walk. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path National Trail spans over 186 miles, starting from St Dogmaels in the north and ending at Amroth in the South. It’s dotted with blue flag beaches, limestone cliffs, red sandstone bays, and rugged volcanic headlands.
There are myriad circular and linear walking paths to choose from. Some of the popular beaches include Barafundle Bay, Broadhaven, Poppit Sands, Tenby and Whitesands Bay.
Tintern Abbey, Monmouthshire
Recommended by: Larch, The Silver Nomad
The majestic ruins of Tintern Abbey in Monmouthshire sit overlooking the River Wye on the boundary between Wales and England. Founded on 9th May 1131 by white-robed Cistercian monks, it was the first Cistercian church in Wales.
In August 1536, Tintern became one of the casualties of King Henry VIII’s English Reformation of the churches and the gothic Abbey slowly declined into ruins it is today. The ruins are accessible to visitors and you can walk around cloisters, nave, infirmary and kitchens.
Laugharne, Carmarthenshire (Dylan Thomas’ Home)
A small town on the Tâf estuary on Carmarthen Bay, Laugharne is best known for being the home of Wales’ most famous English-language poet, Dylan Thomas. Thomas once described it as the “strangest town in Wales”, but he was fascinated by Laugharne.
The Boathouse, where Thomas spent the last few years of his tragically short life, offers up incredible views of the estuary and the Gower beyond. Today, its a heritage centre – and there’s also a tearoom and art gallery. Visit to learn a little more about the writer – and enjoy some of the views which inspired him!
While in Laugharne, you should also visit the ruins of the 12th-century Norman castle, and head into the estuary to enjoy the local wildlife. The area is perfect for birdwatching, especially in winter when there are flocks of wading birds feeding on the mud flats.
Cardigan Bay, South West Wales
Recommended by: Heather, Conversant Traveller
Cardigan Bay stretches from Bardsea Island in Gwynedd, all the way down to Stumble Head in Pembrokeshire. It’s a beautiful part of Wales, with hidden coves, sandy beaches, and coastal paths to explore on foot or by bike. Some of the best glamping sites in Wales can be found near Cardigan Bay, too.
Get the adrenaline pumping with a sailing or kayaking tour of the bay, while you keep your eyes peeled for dolphins jumping through the waves.
Back on shore, there are several golden sand beaches to discover, from the family-friendly stretch at Aberporth to the secret cove at Mwnt with its small clifftop chapel. For colourful Georgian houses and delicious seafood, head up to the charming harbour town of Aberaeron. Or for some culture, visit the 12th-century castle in historic Cardigan.
Vale of Neath, Neath Port Talbot
The Vale of Neath encompasses the upper reaches of the River Neath. The valley is known for its stunning scenery and numerous waterfalls. There are several waterfall walks and trails to explore the area, from the easier walks such as Aberdulais Falls to the more challenging trails around Sgwd Gwladys at Pontneddfechan.
Don’t miss a trip to the 12th-century Neath Abbey, or the 14th-century castle in the town of Neath. Neath town centre, with its thriving indoor market and great foodie scene, makes an ideal base for exploring the Vale.
READ MORE: 11 Best Things to do in Neath Port Talbot
Barry Island, Glamorgan
Fans of the beloved British sitcom Gavin and Stacey won’t want to miss a trip to Barry Island! Known for its retro seafront and Pleasure Park, Barry Island featured prominently in the show.
But Barry is about more than Gavin and Stacey! The island has attracted visitors since the 1870s, so it’s a great spot to visit. Expect the quintessential British seaside holiday here! Visit the golden sands of Whitmore Bay beach, lined with brightly coloured beach huts. Play a round of adventure golf, and – of course – enjoy the thrills of Barry Island Pleasure Park.
Merthyr Tydfil & the Brecon Mountain Railway, Glamorgan
Ideally placed between Brecon Beacons National Park and Cardiff the Welsh Capital, Merthyr Tydfil is the home of the Brecon Mountain Railway. This is a heritage steam railway running from Pant to Torpantu.
A journey on board the classic steam train will take you into the Brecon Beacons National Park, along the full length of the stunning Taf Fechan Reservoir.
Don’t Miss: In Merthyr Tydfil town, the spectacular Cefn Coed Viaduct once formed part of the same railway. Today, it’s part of the Taff Trail on the National Cycleway. So you can bike across the viaduct’s fifteen arches for some stunning views!
Caerphilly and Caerphilly Castle
Famed for its incredible 13th-century castle – as well as for the crumbly cheese of the same name – the town of Caerphilly sits at the southern end of the Rhymney Valley.
Caerphilly Castle dominates the town. The largest castle in Wales, and the second-largest in Britain, the imposing lakeside fortress spans some 30 acres. Explore the massive walls, gatehouses, and towers – including “the Welsh Tower of Pisa”; a wonky medieval tower with a serious lean!
Map and Shortlist
- Brecon Beacons National Park – mountains and hiking.
- Cardiff – the Welsh Capital.
- Tenby, Pembrokeshire – seaside town.
- Swansea, Swansea – coastal city.
- Wye Valley AONB – scenic river valley.
- Gower Peninsula, Swansea – beautiful sandy beaches.
- Abergavenny, Monmouthshire – pretty market town.
- Mumbles, Swansea – fishing village.
- St David’s, Pembrokeshire – the UK’s smallest city.
- Glamorgan Heritage Coast, Glamorgan – 14-miles of breathtaking coastline.
- Pembrey Country Park, Carmarthenshire – great for families.
- Dan yr Ogof Caves, Powys – a system of intricate cave tunnels.
- Porthcawl, Bridgend – seaside with a funfair.
- Skomer Island, Pembrokeshire – puffins and other birdlife.
- Hay-On-Wye, Powys – the “Town of Books”.
- Pembrokeshire Coast National Park – sandy beaches and cliff walks.
- Tintern Abbey, Monmouthshire – ruined Medieval abbey.
- Laugharne, Carmarthenshire – Dylan Thomas’ Home
- Cardigan Bay, South West Wales – hidden coves, sandy beaches, and coastal paths.
- Vale of Neath, Neath Port Talbot – river valley with many waterfalls
- Barry Island, Glamorgan – traditional seaside and funfair.
- Merthyr Tydfil, Glamorgan – home of the Brecon Mountain Railway.
- Caerphilly and Caerphilly Castle – 13th century castle.
More Near South Wales
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26 Places to Visit in the Midlands of England
Epic Wales Road Trip Itinerary
Hi Emily,
I was just so amazed after reading this post about south wales, Basically, I was just seeking the best place to visit in South Wales. I wish could get there this year. Thank You for this amazing information sharing with us!
Thanks so much Ashkay!! Hopefully you do manage to get there soon :)
Very informative well done for capturing the best of the best In S Wales.
Thank you so much!
This is wonderful! I’ve been planning to visit South Wales from the US, and now more than ever. If I were to take in all 23 attractions/sites, how long of a trip should I plan? I was originally planning 2+ weeks.
Wales is fairly small so I think you could cover a lot of the south in 2 weeks. As an example driving from Cardiff to St Davids only takes about 3 hours. If you’ll be driving, you can get around to most of these places pretty easily and combine a few into one day. I’d suggest at least 2 days in Cardiff, 2 in the Brecon Beacons, 2-3 on the Gower and 2-3 on the Pembroke coast. If you plan on doing any hiking or full day activities you’ll want more time.
Hope that helps :)