Things To Do
in Caernarfon
Caernarfon is a historic town in Gwynedd, perched on the Menai Strait with views toward Anglesey. Its crown jewel, Caernarfon Castle, rises above the river and salt marsh, telling a dramatic story of medieval Wales. The town combines medieval streets, waterfront walks, and a lively arts scene with Welsh culture at every turn.
Visitors can wander the ring-fenced walls, sample local cuisine, and use Caernarfon as a base to explore Snowdonia.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day at the majestic Caernarfon Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the fortress, taking in the impressive towers and the history that resonates from its ancient stones. Don't forget to capture the stunning views of the Menai Strait from the castle ramparts.
After a lunch nearby, delve deeper into the history of the region at the Caernarfon Museum. The museum offers fascinating exhibits about the town's past and its significance in Welsh history. Stroll through the charming streets of Caernarfon, experiencing local shops and cafes.
As dusk approaches, head to the waterfront for a serene walk along the promenade. Enjoy the beautiful sunset over the water while reflecting on your day's adventures. Dine at a local restaurant serving traditional Welsh cuisine for a fitting end to your day.
Kick off your day with a scenic journey on the Welsh Highland Railway. Board the steam train and take in the breathtaking views of the Snowdonia landscape. The sound of the locomotive and the fresh air will invigorate you as you slowly travel through the stunning Welsh countryside.
On arrival at your destination, disembark and explore the charming village of Beddgelert. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the river or visit the local shops showcasing handmade crafts. Don't miss the opportunity to see the famous grave of Gelert, the legendary hound.
Return to Caernarfon in the evening and unwind at one of the pubs frequented by locals. Enjoy live music and a warm atmosphere as you savor a pint of local ale. Rounding off your day with friendly conversations will give you a true sense of Welsh hospitality.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🚆Local transport (bus/taxi for a day) | $8-25 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-6 |
| 🍺Beer at pub | $5-8 |
| 🎟️Museum or castle entry | $8-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and iconic castle
- Compact town with waterfront beauty
- Welsh culture and friendly locals
- Good base for Snowdonia and coast
- Occasional rain and crowded peak season
- Limited large-scale nightlife
- Some attractions may have limited accessibility for mobility
Places to Visit in Caernarfon
Visit one of these nice places.
Impressive medieval fortress with towers and battlements offering dramatic harbor views.
Roman remains and museum set above the river with panoramic shots of the town.
Waterfront paths and boats with island silhouettes on calm days.
Historic lanes and arcades for atmospheric street photography.
Quaint street scenes with colorful shopfronts and local life.
Food in Caernarfon
Caernarfon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Welsh meat and vegetable broth, often lamb, served with crusty bread.
Must-Try!
A Welsh delicacy of seaweed paste fried with cockles, typically served with bacon or oatcakes.
Toasted bread topped with a rich cheese sauce; a pub staple.
Spiced fruit loaf perfect for tea breaks.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the town center offering Welsh cheeses, breads, fresh produce, and local bites.
Seasonal pop-ups near the castle and waterfront with local treats and fast bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello with eye contact; a handshake is common in casual settings.
Respect queues; Brits and Welsh are patient and orderly.
Welsh and English are commonly spoken; making effort to speak a few phrases is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Caernarfon
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 10-15% in pubs and restaurants is common if service is good.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; contactless payment common; cash is still useful for markets or small eateries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry, long days with temps around 60-75°F (15-24°C); occasional showers; great for outdoor exploring and hiking.
Mild days with changing leaves; occasional rain; good for photography and fewer crowds.
Cool and wet; temps often 40-50°F (4-10°C); pack a waterproof layer and sturdy footwear.
Flowers bloom; rain showers common; comfortable temperatures ideal for walking and castle visits.
Caernarfon at Night
Hiking in Caernarfon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Classic route with challenging climbs and stunning views; several gentler options exist.
Scenic lakes and valley trails with rock faces and viewpoints.
Family-friendly lake trails with woodlands and easy circular paths.
Airports
How to reach Caernarfon by plane.
Small regional airport near Beaumaris; limited international flights; good for quick hops to major hubs via connections.
Larger international airport about 140 miles away; connections to UK and Europe; rail/bus links to Caernarfon.
Major international hub about 170 miles away; fastest route by rail to North Wales.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents speak Welsh as a first or second language; bilingual signage common.
Visitors from the UK and abroad attracted by castle and Snowdonia.
Open to learning and cultural events; universities in the region.
Quiet neighborhoods and community amenities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular pastime with local clubs; often seen around town and school events.
Local teams and leisure leagues; matches draw community support.
Kayaking, sailing and coastal walks around Menai Strait and nearby lakes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Caernarfon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Welsh produce markets offer fresh vegetables, dairy, and plant-based options; ask for veggie versions of local dishes; many pubs provide vegetarian mains.