I’ve been travelling to North Wales for many years, and it’s a place I keep coming back to time and time again. From wild mountain landscapes and dramatic coastlines to castle filled towns and peaceful waterfall walks, North Wales has a way of feeling completely removed from everyday life. I tend to visit in the quieter winter months, when the crowds fade away and the scenery feels even more raw and atmospheric, but it’s beautiful in every season.

In this guide, I’m sharing six beautiful places to visit in North Wales, based on my own experiences and the places I genuinely love returning to. Each area includes the most beautiful things to do, along with ideas on where to stay, making it ideal whether you’re planning a North Wales road trip, a slow off season escape or a romantic getaway. If you’re looking for unforgettable places to visit in North Wales, these are the ones that truly stand out.

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through these links.

6 Best places to visit in North Wales

1. Anglesey

Anglesey (Ynys Môn) is where rugged cliffs meet quiet beaches and pastel seaside towns. Just a short drive over the Menai Bridge, this island is one of the best places to visit in North Wales and has a pace all of its own, perfect for long walks, sea air and a bit of exploring.

Where to stay in Anglesey, North Wales:

• Tre-Ysgawen Hall & Spa – peaceful country-house retreat with a spa and gardens.

→ See all hotels on Anglesey

2. Conwy & Llandudno

This beautiful part of North Wales blends medieval history with old-school seaside charm. Conwy’s castle towers rise above cobbled streets, while Llandudno’s Victorian promenade curves along the bay.

Where to stay in Conwy & Llandudno, North Wales:

• The Castle Hotel, Conwy – historic stay right inside the town walls.

→ See all hotels in Conwy & Llandudno

3. Betws-y-Coed & the Fairy Glen

Known as the “Gateway to Snowdonia,” Betws-y-Coed feels like something from a storybook — surrounded by forest, rivers and stone bridges. It’s one of my favourite bases in North Wales with plenty of things to do in the surrounding area.

Where to stay in Betws-y-Coed, North Wales:

→ See all hotels in Betws-y-Coed

4. Snowdonia National Park (Eryri)

Snowdonia is the wild heart of North Wales — full of glacial lakes, sweeping valleys and dramatic peaks. Whether you hike, drive or simply soak up the views, it’s an unforgettable landscape and it’s no surprise that it’s one of the best things to do in North Wales.

Where to stay in Snowdonia, North Wales:

• The Royal Victoria Hotel, Llanberis – classic stay at the foot of Snowdon.

→ See all hotels near Snowdonia

→ Compare car hire with Discover Cars

5. Caernarfon & Beddgelert

From the grand towers of Caernarfon Castle to the riverside charm of Beddgelert, this part of North Wales combines legend and history, giving you plenty of things to do on your North Wales itinerary.

Things to do in Caernarfon & Beddgelert:

• Climb the ramparts of Caernarfon Castle for incredible views over the Menai Strait.
  → Book your Caernarfon Castle ticket
• Visit Beddgelert, said to be named after the faithful hound Gelert — his grave lies by the river.
• Go underground at the nearby Sygun Copper Mine for a glimpse into Wales’s mining heritage.

Where to stay in Caernarfon & Beddgelert:

• Plas Tan y Graig Beddgelert – a cosy guesthouse with mountain views.

→ See hotels in Caernarfon & Beddgelert

6. Portmeirion

Portmeirion is pure escapism and undoubtedly one of the most unique places to visit in North Wales and also one of the most popular attractions in Wales.

Portmeiron is an Italian-style village of pastel buildings, palm trees and coastal views. Built by architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, it’s unlike anywhere else in Wales and is well worth spending the day or afternoon exploring. You can even stay overnight in Portmeirion and experiences one of the most beautiful places in North Wales without the crowds first thing in the morning.

Best things to do in Portmeirion:

• Wander through colourful piazzas and cobbled lanes.
• Visit the subtropical gardens and look out over the estuary.

My top tip: stay overnight to experience the village once the day visitors have gone.

→ Book your Portmeirion entry ticket

→ See hotels near Portmeirion

Other things to do in North Wales

Map of North Wales

Final Thoughts: the most beautiful places to visit in North Wales

From coastal walks on Anglesey to the peaks of Snowdonia and the pastel beauty of Portmeirion, there are so many beautiful places to visit in North Wales. It’s a part of the UK I find endlessly inspiring, and one that always rewards slowing down and taking your time.

I hope this North Wales travel guide helps you plan your own North Wales road trip and discover some of the most beautiful places to explore, along with the best things to do in North Wales, whether you’re visiting for a long weekend or a slower, more immersive stay.

For more UK inspiration:

• 8 Unmissable Things to Do in the Lake District

• Where to Stay in the Cotswolds