Holidays to North Wales

Shielded by the biggest mountains outside Scotland, North Wales is proud and protective of its heritage and its language – more than 60% of its inhabitants speak the native mother tongue, the highest proportion in the country. To the delight of the hundreds of thousands of visitors who flock to the area every year, there is a tangible Welsh feeling wherever you go.

Snowdonia - the Heart of North Wales

Stretching 50 miles north to south and 35 miles east to west, Snowdonia became Wales’ first national park in 1951. Mount Snowdon itself is the focal point, with 350,000 people either walking, climbing or taking the mountain-side train the 1,085 metres to its summit each year.

The park itself, 75% of which is used for raising sheep and cattle, is full of rivers and coastal areas and is home to the biggest natural lake in Wales. Like the country’s other national parks it is very much lived in, with Bala, Dolgellau, Harlech and Betws-Y-Coed the main populated areas.

The little stone village of Betws-y-Coed has a fabulous Alpine feel and is the perfect base for exploring Snowdonia, while the charming market town of Dolgellau has the highest concentration of listed buildings in Wales. Bala is famous for its water sports and Harlech its spectacularly intimidating grey-stoned castle.

There is an incredible amount to see and do in Snowdonia so you need to spend your time there wisely. As well as Harlech Castle, must-see sights and attractions include the Gwydr Forest, the National Slate Museum in the cheery town of Llanberis and the Llechwedd Slate Caverns, where you can descend into the depths of a Victorian mine.

Out and About

To the west of Snowdonia lies the former slate port of Porthmadog, which enjoys some of the finest views in north Wales. It is also home to the quirky but fabulous Italianate folly of Portmeirion and two famous narrow-gauge steam railways.

The Ffestiniog Railway is the finest line in Wales, winding its way up 650ft over 13 stunning miles from Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog. The Welsh Highland Railway connects Porthmadog with Caernarfon, a full round trip giving you five unforgettable hours on the train.

Set at the southern entrance to the Menai Strait, Caernarfon is renowned for its incredible castle, the most impressive link in the chain of 13th Century fortresses across North Wales. When you are done there take your pick from the island of Anglesey and its handsome town of Beaumaris, cosmopolitan Bangor, Conwy and the Victorian seaside resort of Llandudno.

North Wales is home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Pontcysyllte Aquaduct and Canal and, collectively, the “Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd”. These include those at Caernarfon, Beaumaris, Conwy and Harlech.

Q: Should I book a car while on holiday in North Wales?

A: If you want to explore the beautiful landscapes of the region of Wales, renting a set of wheels is an awesome idea. You'll have the flexibility and freedom to head off whenever you want, when you want. With our handy guide to Cheap Car Hire in North Wales, you'll be cruising down the highway in no time at all. If your holiday's more about experiencing the incredible cities of Colwyn Bay or Buckley, public transportation (or ride-sharing) is definitely the way to go.

Q: What are the most popular types of hotels for a holiday to North Wales?

A: North Wales is bursting with comfortable accommodation. Cottages are a reliable choice. Hotels, bed & breakfasts and guest houses offer great alternatives.

Q: What does a North Wales holiday booking with Expedia include?

A: Wheels, flights and somewhere to lay your head at night — we've got you covered. All you need to do is consider how many of these you'd like. With Expedia, you can plan your getaway to North Wales just the way you like it, with tons of attractions and activities to boot.

Q: What is the best way to save money on my holiday to North Wales?

A: We'll let you in on a little secret — it's all about bundling your getaway. By booking your Flights, Hotels and Rental Car with the help of Expedia, you'll pick up deals that'll make your hip pocket happy. It's as easy as that. Not quite ready to select that hotel room or car just yet? No problem. You can add them to an existing booking later on and still get access to terrific discounts. For example, how does up to 42% off selected hotels sound to you?

Q: What are the best things to do in North Wales?

A: Colwyn Bay is home to many great sights. Rhos-on-Sea Tourist Information Centre is generally at the top of travellers' must-see lists. Other sights to add to that itinerary are Antioch Church and National Trust's Bodnant Garden.