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The spectacular medieval castle makes an immediate visual impression on first time visitors to Conwy. But those who come to know this picturesque harbour town enjoy it for so much more than the imposing historic fortress.
Yes, the picture of the castle lingers in the mind, but so too do memories of quayside cottages and cafes, a bustling high street, the oldest townhouse in Wales, the statue of Llewelyn the Great, and the grand Elizabethan built residence, Plas Mawr.
But perhaps the most lasting impression is the friendliness of Conwy, it's relaxed, contemporary informality.
For such an ancient town it is remarkably 'chilled out', no doubt helped by the breath-taking views of Snowdonia which tourists and locals are treated to every day. A spring, summer or crisp autumn's day walk along the waterside or high on the castle walls is a perfect remedy for refreshing even the most tired of souls.
Here you can do as much or as little as you want. Hit the tourist trail or simply find a free bench or picnic spot and rest for the day.
The town centre is home to quirky attractions like Conwy Mussel Museum (tel: 01492 592689) where visitors can learn about the history of pearl fishing since Roman times, while the Teapot Museum (tel: 01492 596533) in Castle Street, grew from a single collector's passion for pottery in the 1960s.
Conwy offers a packed programme of tourist events too - from the eight day Conwy River Festival attracting sailing vessels from all over Britain and Ireland, to Conwy Food Fair, a culinary heaven. Wildlife lovers will delight in Conwy Butterfly Jungle and its RSPB reserve, both just a few minute's drive from the town centre.
Historically, Conwy sees the little and large of the architectural world rub shoulders. The smallest house in Britain nestles just a short stroll from the foot of the magnificent castle towers and turrets.
The tiny house on the quay featured in the Guiness Book of Records and measures just 3.05m by 1.8m. Despite its compact interior it was lived in for generations.
The castle itself was built between 1283 and 1289, watching over the graceful River Conwy and facing Deganwy.
Conwy's parish church still encompasses parts of the original Aberconwy Abbey, founded by Llewelyn the Great and later taken over by Edward I. The 14th century Aberconwy House, a sympathetically restored merchant's house in Castle Street is now owned by the National Trust and open to the public from March to November.
Also in National Trust care is Conwy suspension bridge, built by world famous engineer Thomas Telford in 1826. Traffic no longer travels over the bridge, but there is pedestrian access to it and the neighbouring restored tollhouse.
Central to Conwy's high street is the Castle Hotel (tel: 01492 582800), an old coaching inn built on the site of a Cistercian Abbey.
Throughout the fascinating chapters of its history the hotel has welcomed famous guests, from classic poet William Wordsworth to the Queen of Romania. Another artchitecural attraction is Plas Mawr, Britain's finest example of an Elizabethan townhouse, now owned by Cadw and open for spring and summer tours.
The property once belonged to trader Robert Wynn. Little would he have known his home would be impressing visitors for centuries to come.
