9-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff traveling north to Tenby and Betws y Coed
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Wales as you embark on an unforgettable 9-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Cardiff, Tenby, St Florence, St Davids, Aberystwyth, Betws y Coed, Dinorwig, Llanberis, Caernarfon, Portmeirion, Harlech, Porthmadog, Beddgelert, and Conwy.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Wales takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Cardiff, 2 nights in Tenby, and 3 nights in Betws y Coed. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Wales. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Cardiff, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Wales on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Wales. Cardiff Castle and Conwy Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable St Fagans National Museum Of History, learn more about the unique Portmeirion, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of National Museum Cardiff.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cardiff, Tenby, St Florence, St Davids, Aberystwyth, Betws y Coed, Dinorwig, Llanberis, Caernarfon, Portmeirion, Harlech, Porthmadog, Beddgelert, and Conwy, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Wales. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Wales.
Throughout your road trip in Wales, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Wales.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Wales fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Wales today!
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Day 1
- Cardiff - Arrival day
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- Bute Park
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Your road trip adventure in Wales begins as soon as you reach Cardiff and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Cardiff for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Cardiff, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Cardiff, a highly-rated dining destination in Cardiff. If you're eager to try something different, consider Elevens Bar And Grill, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Old Arcade. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cardiff this evening.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Pennyroyal, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Borough Arms is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Libertine Cocktail Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Wales!
Day 2
- Cardiff
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Drive 25 km, 1 hour 16 min
- St Fagans National Museum of History building
- Llandaff Cathedral
- National Museum Wales Main Library
- Roath Recreation Ground
- Roath Park
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cardiff for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Immerse yourself in Cardiff’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at St Fagans National Museum Of History. This standout museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the stunning features of Llandaff Cathedral, a must-visit church in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to National Museum Cardiff, an underrated museum. For a change of scene, check out Roath Recreation Ground, known for its gorgeous features. We also recommend visiting Roath Park. This park is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Wales is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
Bring home unique finds from Cardiff's bustling shopping hub, Royal Arcade. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique boutiques and stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Royal Arcade offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Cardiff. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
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.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Great Western - Jd Wetherspoon after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Rum & Fizz for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Kongs Cardiff is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Wales!
Day 3
- Cardiff
- Tenby
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Drive 161 km, 2 hours 31 min
- National Trust - Tudor Merchant's House
- Manor Wildlife Park
- Heatherton World of Activities
- Tenby Castle
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Wales, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Tenby and St Florence. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Tenby, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Immerse yourself in Cardiff’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at National Trust - Tudor Merchant's House. This standout museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Manor Wildlife Park, a must-visit wildlife reserve in the town.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Heatherton World Of Activities, a curiosity-inducing adventure park. For a change of scene, check out Tenby Castle, known for its respected features.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Tenby, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Tenby. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Tap & Tân, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Top Joe's Tenby is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Indie Burger. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Tenby tonight.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Wales and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Tenby
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Drive 132 km, 2 hours 35 min
- St David's Cathedral
- Celtic Quest Coasteering
- Blue Lagoon - Abereiddi
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On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Tenby, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Tenby, including a church, an adventure park, and a lake. Start your day at St. David's Cathedral School. This stunning church is a curiosity-inducing place to see in Tenby. Then, wander over to Celtic Quest Coasteering. If instagrammable sites excite you, this adventure park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Blue Lagoon - Abereiddi. This eye-catching lake is a favorite among visitors.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Tenby and your accommodation.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Tenby's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Heywood Spa Hotel, a highly-rated dining destination in Tenby. If you're eager to try something different, consider Premier Inn Tenby Town Centre, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Atlantic Hotel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Tenby this evening.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Wales and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Tenby
- Betws y Coed
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Drive 243 km, 4 hours 41 min
- Aberystwyth Castle Grounds
- War Memorial
- Aberystwyth Cliff Railway
- Conwy Valley Railway Museum
- Rhaeadr Y Graig Lwyd
- Pont-y-Pair Bridge
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Wales. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Aberystwyth, Betws y Coed, and Capel Garmon. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Betws y Coed. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Tenby, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Castell Aberystwyth Castle, a frequently visited castle in the town. Then, head to War Memorial and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect war memorial.
There are many interesting places to see in Tenby, and when you are ready for more, go to Aberystwyth Cliff Railway. This is one of the town’s most often recommended historic spots of interest. After exploring the heritage railway, visit the frequently visited Conwy Valley Railway Museum. Not far away, you'll also find Rhaeadr Y Graig Lwyd. This waterfall is an eye-catching highlight in Tenby. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Pont-y-pair Bridge, a frequently visited historical landmark in the town.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Betws y Coed. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the village.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Betws y Coed's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Betws y Coed.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Wales!
Day 6
- Betws y Coed
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Drive 69 km, 3 hours 21 min
- Llyn Padarn and Llanberis View Point
- National Slate Museum
- Llanberis Lake Railway
- Rhaeadr Ewynnol Swallow Falls Waterfall
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Betws y Coed, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.
A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Betws y Coed on today’s itinerary. First up is the curiosity-inducing lake, Llyn Padarn And Llanberis View Point. Afterward, continue to National Slate Museum, a museum every traveler should visit.
As you explore Betws y Coed’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to Llanberis Lake Railway. This often recommended heritage railway is an essential stop. Following that, head to Rhaeadr Ewynnol / Swallow Falls Waterfall, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Betws y Coed.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Betws y Coed. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Betws y Coed.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Wales!
Day 7
- Betws y Coed
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Drive 143 km, 3 hours 2 min
- Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum
- Portmeirion North Wales
- Harlech Castle
- Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways
- Gelert's Grave
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Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip in Wales. With 1 night left in Betws y Coed, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the village’s surroundings!
Today's adventure in Betws y Coed promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum. This photogenic museum is a highlight of any visit in the town. Next, head over to Harlech Castle, one of the town’s most beloved attractions, known for its UNESCO world heritage-listed features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways. This stunning heritage railway is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Bedd Gelert, an intriguing monument, and take a stroll around the area.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Betws y Coed and your accommodation.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Betws y Coed. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the village, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Wales!
Day 8
- Betws y Coed
- Cardiff
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Drive 335 km, 4 hours 39 min
- Plas Mawr
- Smallest House in Great Britain
- Conwy Castle
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Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Wales. Today you will explore Conwy, 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 Cardiff. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Betws y Coed. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Plas Mawr is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most worthwhile places to visit in Betws y Coed. Next, head to Smallest House In Great Britain, an up-and-coming historical landmark, known for its photogenic features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Conwy Castle. This breathtaking castle is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Cardiff. Cardiff offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Cardiff. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Pasture Restaurant Cardiff, an iconic dining spot in Cardiff. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Pettigrew Tea Rooms - Bute Park, a popular restaurant in Cardiff. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Prince of Wales - JD Wetherspoon, a hidden gem nestled in Cardiff. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Lab 22 after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Dead Canary, another bar with an inviting ambiance.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Wales.
Day 9
- Cardiff - Departure day
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- Cardiff Castle
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Day 9 of your road trip in Wales is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Cardiff before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Cardiff Castle, an awe-inspiring castle before you head out.
Make the most of your final day in Wales by visiting Cardiff’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Royal Arcade. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Wales. You can also browse through boutiques for stylish fashion choices.
Before you conclude your road trip in Wales, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Cardiff.
You’ll then say farewell to Cardiff. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Wales!
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