A week in Wales will leave you with unforgettable memories—visit ancient ruins, climb towering mountains, and eat incredible food. It just comes down to a matter of your traveling tastes. If a five-stop stay that starts in Cardiff and ends in Manchester is too fast-paced, simply center your trip around three beautiful areas like the Brecon Beacons, Pembrokeshire, and Snowdonia.

Itinerary #1: Discover Wales

Hit all the important destinations on this adventurous tour of Wales that begins on the tranquil northern coast and ends in the buzzing capital city. 

Discover the incredible scenery of Snowdonia National Park
Discover the incredible scenery of Snowdonia National Park
Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Anglesey Anglesey
Day 2 Discover Snowdonia National Park Anglesey
Day 3 Overnight in Aberystwyth Aberystwyth
Day 4 Visit Brecon Beacons National Park Merthyr
Day 5 Travel to Cardiff Cardiff Bay
Day 6 Cardiff Food Tour Cardiff Bay
Day 7 Depart  


Your trip begins in Anglesey, an area that gained mythical status thanks to its close ties to Celtic folklore. After exploring medieval castles and towering lighthouses, enjoy picturesque views of Ireland and Scotland from Mt Snowdon in Snowdonia National Park. Then, head to the ancient market town of Aberystwyth to enjoy a meal at one of the town's many high-end restaurants. 

Day four features an excursion to Brecon Beacons National Park, home to waterfalls, caves, canals, rolling hills, and wildlife. Spend the final days of your vacation in the country's largest city: Cardiff. Visit the National Museum for a first-hand glimpse at one-of-a-kind impressionist art, sample local beers, ciders, and bites on a culinary tour, and enjoy a night out before you say farewell to Wales. Learn more

Itinerary #2: Guided Drive of Wales: South to North

Let your private driver guide the way throughout an engaging trip filled with snapshot-worthy moments of the country's wide-ranging landscapes. 

An aerial view of Middle Age Caernarfon Castle
An aerial view of the medieval Caernarfon Castle
Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Cardiff, Tintern Abbey Brecon Beacons
Day 2 Discover the Brecon Beacons Brecon Beacons
Day 3 The Ghost Walk and Story of Tenby & Private Guided Tour of Caldey Island  St Davids
Day 4 Free Day in Portmeirion Portmeirion
Day 5 Explore Northern Coasts Visit, Caernarfon Castle & Transfer to Conwy Conwy
Day 6 Guided Trail with Tales of a Lady of Wales &  Snowdonian Mountain Railway Conwy
Day 7 Manchester United Museum & Stadium Tour, Depart  


Touch down in Cardiff, get settled, and take the rest of the day to explore Tintern Abbey, a 12th-century monastery whose remains are a ready-made photo opportunity. Day two can be as action-packed as you want, with kayaking, cycling, horseback riding, or rock climbing all viable options during your time at the Brecon Beacons. Then, head west to learn about witches, fairies, and magic on "The Ghost Walk and Story of Tenby" tour. 

After getting dropped off by your driver, use your leisure time in the Italian-inspired village of Portmeirion to stroll the iconic Central Plaza, grab a pint at an old-fashioned pub, or visit the Japanese Gardens. Day five is full of adventure and exploration, including a trip to the Middle Age-era Caernarfon Castle. Then, get to know Conwy on a historical tour of the town before you wrap up with a behind-the-scenes tour of Old Trafford Stadium in Manchester. Learn more

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Itinerary #3: Welsh History & Culture

Gain a deeper appreciation for Welsh culture during a week-long stay that includes plenty of opportunities to explore historical sites and famous landmarks. 

Pembroke Castle nestled on the stunning Pembrokeshire Coast
Pembroke Castle nestled on the stunning Pembrokeshire Coast
Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Cardiff, Explore Cardiff
Day 2 Discover St. Fagans National Museum Cardiff
Day 3 Experience the Charm of Pembrokeshire Narberth
Day 4 Visit Pembroke Castle Narberth
Day 5 Go Trekking & Kayaking Narberth
Day 6 Discover Snowdonia National Park Snowdonia
Day 7 Depart Wales  


Once you've seen Cardiff Castle and other top destinations in Wales's capital city, spend the second day of your stay at St. Fagans National Museum. The beautiful murals, carvings, and altars in St. Teilo's Church will leave you speechless, as will the outdoor museum's array of medieval castles. Your next destination is Pembrokeshire, renowned for its awe-inspiring seascapes, sandy beaches, and wooded valleys. 

On day four, a visit to Pembroke Castle puts you directly in the footsteps of former King of England Henry Tudor. Then, day five allows you to explore in whatever direction you want—from hiking along the top of Preseli Hills to canoeing on the River Teifi. Your week in Wales ends in Snowdonia National Park, where you can go mountain biking, canyoning, or kick back, relax, and dine on local specialties like lamb and lobster. Learn more

Itinerary #4: Nature & History in Wales

This outdoor-focused adventure is designed for travelers who love hiking, being on the water, and spending time in nature. 

Explore the natural beauty of the Black Mountains
Explore the natural beauty of the Black Mountains
Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Transfer to Wye Valley, Brecon Beacons Brecon Beacons
Day 2 Sugar Loaf Peak Brecon Beacons
Days 3-5 Pembrokeshire National Park Pembrokeshire
Day 6 Snowdonia National Park Snowdonia
Day 7 Caernarfon Castle, Harlech & Depart  


Start your vacation with a drive to Wye Valley, whose high grasslands, glacier-worn hollows, and flowing rivers are also home to the remains of prehistoric stone circles and burial chambers. During your second day at Brecon Beacons National Park, hike one of the many trails at Pen-y-Fan in the morning before exploring hidden caves in the afternoon. Then, use the next three days to swim, cliff jump, kayak, and birdwatch in Pembrokeshire. 

Make sure to get a good night's sleep so you have the energy to explore Wales' adventure capital on day six. Snowdonia's Coed-y-Brenin is a family-friendly mountain biking hub with plenty of challenging trails for advanced riders. Before you depart, savor a few final bites of Welsh cuisine in the peaceful seaside village of Harlech. Learn more

More Great Wales Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Wales? Check out these other Wales itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.

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Map of 1 Week in Wales - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
Map of 1 Week in Wales - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas