Places to visit and things to do in Swansea

With so much do see and do in Swansea you'd be forgiven for not knowing where to start. Scroll our must do list for inspiration, or go straight to the section that interests you most; whether it’s taking in some heritage and culture, visiting local attractions, exploring the wider area, looking for accommodation, or finding out about events in the city, you'll find information on it all below.

A striking architectural landmark in its own right, the National Waterfront Museum celebrates the industrial and maritime history of Wales dating back to the 1800s. This is a highly interactive guide through an age when Wales supplied the world with coal and steel, and countless inventions, like Richard Trevithick’s groundbreaking steam locomotive.

Swansea Museum is the oldest in Wales, and covers everything you want to know about Swansea's long history. Explore the exhibitions on the area's prehistoric inhabitants, through the medieval period to the growth of industry and wartime. There's lots of information about local maritime and transport history, including the Mumbles Railway - opened in 1807. The museum hosts regular events and exhibitions so there's always something new to see.

The Egypt Centre is based on Swansea University's Singleton campus, a short distance from the city centre. With the largest collection of Egyptian antiquities in Wales, it's a fascinating place to delve into a culture that still intrigues us thousands of years later. They hold lots of events throughout the year, especially during half-term and summer holidays. Egypt-mad kids will love the interactive workshops on tomb-designing, dressing up and puzzle-solving.  

Swansea is a vibrant centre for art and The Glynn Vivian Art Gallery is widely recognised as the city’s premier venue for art exhibitions. Founded in 1911 by the original bequest of Richard Glynn Vivian (1835-1910), the gallery belongs to the City and County of Swansea. It houses a distinctive collection formed over the last century, which continues to grow with new work from today's artists, supported by gifts, donations and the annual Wakelin Award.

The Dylan Thomas Centre is a permanent exhibition of the life and times of one of the literary giants of the 20th century. Dylan Thomas was born and raised in Swansea and there are a variety of tours and guides that bring you closer to the man and the myth.

Swansea Grand Theatre offers a thriving and eclectic mix of live events, exhibitions and performances, and also offers a behind-the-scenes tour giving you an insight into the history of this legendary theatre in the heart of Swansea.

The original market was established in 1897, under the largest structure of glass and wrought iron in the UK. Devastated by World War II, along with much of Swansea City Centre, Swansea Indoor Market was rebuilt and remains the largest of its kind in Wales with over 100 stalls. Here you can sample many of the delicacies of the area, including cockles and laverbread, the world-renowned dish made from seaweed collected on the shores of north Gower.

There are numerous parks and gardens worth visiting in Swansea, but for sheer drama, Clyne Gardens is particularly notable. Extensive and exotic planting ranges from rhododendrons to Elephant Rhubarb and American Skunk Cabbage. The Japanese garden with its brightly painted bridge just adds to the glorious confusion. 

This impressive 20,000 seat stadium opened in 2005 and is home to Swansea City FC. The Swansea.com Stadium is also home to The Ospreys - one of the strongest rugby sides in the UK and Ireland.

A state-of-the-art attraction for all ages, LC Waterpark is situated alongside the National Waterfront Museum, a short stroll from the main shopping area of the city. It features countless slides and tubes, as well as the opportunity to hone your surfing skills on a never-ending wave.

Mumbles is a vibrant seaside village. You’ll find over 120 shops, restaurants and pubs hugging the west side of Swansea Bay. A rich source of great seafood, much of the local produce finds itself being served in the finest establishments of London and Paris - so try it here at the restaurants serving seafood caught locally. The competition for the premier ice cream parlour in Mumbles remains as fierce as ever.

Check out the Mumbles Retro Weekend over 7-9 June for a proper nostalgic dance off, or the Mumbles Fest on 15 June featuring live music, street food, kids’ activities and a beer tent/bar.

The dramatic landscape of the Gower Peninsula must be seen to be believed. There are numerous attractions to enjoy in this remarkable outcrop of land. Three Cliffs Bay is regularly voted one of the most dramatic locations in Britain, requiring a 20 minute walk to reveal its true splendour. The huge sweep of Rhossili Bay, featuring the broad expanse of Llangennith Beach is equally awe-inspiring - it's as if you’ve reached the furthest point of land on the planet.

There are plenty of accommodation of options around Swansea to suit all budgets, including the usual chain hotels, bed and breakfasts and self-catering properties.

Morgan's Hotel, based in a sensitively refurbished Grade II listed building, is the place to go for luxurious city centre stays. It used to house the Associated British Ports Authority, and each room is named after a Swansea ship. Cwtsh Hostel, also in the city centre, leads the way for a 5 star quality, affordable place to stay. It's ideal for group stays and backpackers, and private rooms are available. 

You can use our accommodation search to find the perfect place to stay in Swansea.

May/June: Swansea and Gower Cycling Festival - fifteen or more rides exploring the surrounding areas, over five days, catering for all levels of experience and abilities. 

June: Swansea International Jazz Festival - some of the best of local and international artists and bands, workshops and children's activity sessions.

July: The Wales Airshow fills the skies above Swansea Bay full of incredible aircraft, often including the spectacular Red Arrows display team. It's a free, family-friendly event taking place over two days. There's plenty to see and do on the ground as well, with Swansea Prom full of stands, live music and ground displays. 

July: Gower Festival is two weeks full of fabulous music, with outstanding musicians from many countries performing in some of the most beautiful churches and chapels in the area. 

July: Love Trails Festival in the middle of July is a four day running, adventure and music festival set in the beautiful Gower countryside. Spend your days running, hiking or adventuring, then dance the night away to amazing sounds. 

September: Gower Walking Festival - nine days of thirty glorious walks exploring the Gower Peninsula.

If you're visiting Swansea and don't have a car, or prefer to give four wheels a break for your holiday, ‘Swansea Bay Without A Car’ has plenty of sustainable travel options to explore. 

Search for more attractions and activities in Swansea.