One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Wales, England, and Scotland With Itinerary from Cardiff to Stratford-on-Avon, Keswick, Edinburgh, and Glasgow
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Set off on a grand 8-day Euro trip through Wales, England, and Scotland. Visit multiple cities like Cardiff, Brecon, Bath, Bourton-on-the-Water, Edinburgh, and Glasgow, each offering a unique experience unlike any other.
With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 3 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 3 nights in Wales, 2 nights in England, and 2 nights in Scotland.
In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Wales, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Cardiff and begin your adventure from there. Explore Cardiff, Brecon, and Talgarth, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.
Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of England. Immerse yourself in the allure of Bath, Bourton-on-the-Water, Stratford-on-Avon, Windermere, Keswick, and Chester, where every street tells a story.
Continuing your journey, you'll step into the captivating realm of Scotland. This country's charm is boundless, and you'll be impressed by the wonders of Edinburgh and Glasgow.
Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Bath’s Roman Baths and Edinburgh's iconic Royal Mile. From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.
Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.
Your ultimate multi-country road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.
By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 8-day self-drive adventure in Wales, England, and Scotland. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.
Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in Wales, England, and Scotland.
Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!
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Day 1
- Cardiff - Arrival day
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- Bute Park
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Wales, England, and Scotland begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Cardiff in Wales. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Cardiff for 2 nights.
Catch an early flight to Wales to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Cardiff before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.
Cardiff is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Bute Park, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Cardiff. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland by rewarding yourself with a taste of Cardiff’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.
Savor the flavors at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Cardiff, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Elevens Bar And Grill beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Old Arcade. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cardiff tonight.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Pennyroyal after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Borough Arms for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Libertine Cocktail Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Your multi-country road trip in Wales, England, and Scotland has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.
Day 2
- Cardiff
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Drive 176 km, 3 hours 9 min
- Sophia Gardens
- St Fagans National Museum of History building
- Brecon Cathedral
- Pwll y Wrach nature reserve
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Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip through Wales, England, and Scotland. With 1 night left in Cardiff, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Cardiff, featuring family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. Start at Swalec Stadium, an up-and-coming park in the town. Then, head to St Fagans National Museum Of History and soak in the ambiance of this breathtaking museum.
There are many interesting places to see in Cardiff, and when you are ready for more, go to Brecon Cathedral. This is one of the town’s most increasingly popular stunning spots of interest. After exploring the church, visit the up-and-coming Pwll Y Wrach Nature Reserve.
As the sun sets on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Cardiff's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Wales to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Cardiff has them.
Savor the flavors at Cafe Citta, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Clayton Hotel Cardiff beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre, an IHG Hotel. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cardiff tonight.
Continue your lively evening at The Great Western - Jd Wetherspoon, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Rum & Fizz is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Kongs Cardiff ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!
Day 3
- Cardiff
- Stratford-upon-Avon
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Drive 213 km, 3 hours 40 min
- Pulteney Bridge
- Roman Baths
- The Circus
- Royal Crescent
- Royal Victoria Park, Bath
- Bourton-on-the-water
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On day 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Wales, England, and Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Bath in England. When you’re not exploring the town and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Stratford-on-Avon, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Cardiff. Begin your sightseeing with Pulteney Bridge. This intriguing historical landmark is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Roman Baths, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Cardiff, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to The Circus. This worthwhile public square is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Royal Crescent, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Royal Victoria Park, Bath is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers. Conclude your day at Bourton-on-the-water and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most beloved attractions.
After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Stratford-on-Avon. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.
By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Stratford-on-Avon. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Garrick, a prime location for a drink.
Take in the ambiance of Stratford-on-Avon as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!
Day 4
- Stratford-upon-Avon
- Keswick
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Drive 368 km, 5 hours 10 min
- Shakespeare's Birthplace
- Holy Trinity Church
- Windermere
- Castlerigg stone circle
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your multi-country journey across Wales, England, and Scotland. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Stratford-on-Avon in England. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Keswick where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Stratford-on-Avon, featuring family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at Shakespeare's Birthplace, a captivating museum in the town. Then, head to Holy Trinity Church and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect church.
There are many interesting places to see in Stratford-on-Avon, and when you are ready for more, go to Windermere. This is one of the town’s most worthwhile romantic spots of interest. After exploring the lake, visit the beloved Castlerigg Stone Circle.
After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Keswick of your choice.
If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Wales, England, and Scotland, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Keswick. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Bar eS Keswick, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Thyme Bistro Keswick? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Cafe Bar 26 as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Keswick.
Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!
Day 5
- Keswick
- Edinburgh
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Drive 220 km, 3 hours 14 min
- Holyrood Palace
- Edinburgh Castle
- The Royal Mile
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Edinburgh in Scotland. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Edinburgh, your home for 1 night.
A blend of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots await you in Keswick on today’s itinerary. First up is the locally renowned palace, Holyrood Palace. Afterward, continue to Edinburgh Castle, a castle every traveler should visit.
As you explore Keswick’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Royal Mile. This well-known street is an essential stop.
An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Edinburgh’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.
In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Edinburgh’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Wales, England, and Scotland.
Savor the flavors at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Chaophraya Thai Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Theatre Royal Bar. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Edinburgh tonight.
Keep the evening going at Nightcap - Cocktail Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Juniper Edinburgh, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Panda & Sons, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!
Day 6
- Edinburgh
- Glasgow
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Drive 86 km, 1 hour 44 min
- Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
- Kelvingrove Park
- Glasgow Cathedral
- George Square
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland. Today's main destinations are Glasgow in Scotland, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Glasgow. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Edinburgh allows for both. Start by heading to Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum. This interesting museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Kelvingrove Park, a masterful park, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Glasgow Cathedral, a worthwhile church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the popular George Square.
After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Glasgow. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.
As the sun sets on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Glasgow's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Scotland to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Glasgow has them.
Enjoy a lovely meal at The Piper Whisky Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The National Piping Centre is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Pasha Glasgow. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Glasgow tonight.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Gallery Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Steps Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar 91 also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Celebrate day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 7
- Glasgow
- Cardiff
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Drive 628 km, 7 hours 39 min
- Eastgate and Eastgate Clock
- Chester Cathedral
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On day 7 of your multi-country road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Chester in England. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cardiff, where you will stay for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at the curiosity-inducing Eastgate And Eastgate Clock, a picture-perfect monument in Glasgow. Next, go to Chester Cathedral.
Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Cardiff.
After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland by rewarding yourself with a taste of Cardiff’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.
Don’t miss out on dining at Pasture Restaurant Cardiff, a top-rated dining destination in Cardiff. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pettigrew Tea Rooms - Bute Park, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Prince of Wales - JD Wetherspoon. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cardiff this evening.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Lab 22, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Dead Canary, a bar that offers unique local touches.
Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!
Day 8
- Cardiff - Departure day
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- Cardiff Castle
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On day 8 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Cardiff before it’s time to leave.
Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Take a break with a cup of coffee or tea while savoring the local vibe in a coffee shop.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Cardiff Castle. This popular castle is a popular place to see in the city.
Get a last taste of Wales’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Cardiff and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Servini's at The Summerhouse, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Premier Inn Cardiff City Centre (Queen Street) hotel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bill's Cardiff Central Restaurant.
The time has come to say farewell to Cardiff for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 8-day European road trip in Wales, England, and Scotland with fond memories. Safe travels!
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