5-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff to Aberystwyth

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Photo of Welsh National War Memorial Statue, Alexandra Gardens, Cathays Park, Cardiff, Wales, UK.
Photo of view of City Hall of Cardiff, Wales.
Photo of Cardiff University, Wales, UK.
Panoramic view of the Cardiff Bay - Cardiff, Wales
Photo of beautiful dawn over Penarth Pier near Cardiff on the south Wales coastline.
Photo of typical residential brick houses in Cardiff, Wales.
Photo of Cardiff's Bute Park in the autumn viewed from the air.
Photo of the Bute Park ,Cardiff City Centre, South Wales.
CARDIFF, WALES, UNITED KINGDOM,  Cardiff City center . Includes John Lewis building, Cardiff central Library and Alliance sculpture.
National Museum of Wales in Cardiff, Great Britain
Exterior of Cardiff Castle - Wales, United Kingdom
Photo of the parks of Cardiff City Centre South Wales ,Bute Park.
The parks of Cardiff City Centre South Wales - Bute Park
LLandaff Cathedral in Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom
photo of view of Stormy weather at Aberystwyth, Wales.
photo of view of A wave rushes towards the viewer along the pier wall at sunset in Aberystwyth, Wales.
photo of view of Constitution Hill, Aberystwyth, Wales.
photo of view of A wave rushes towards the viewer along the pier wall at sunset in Aberystwyth, Wales.
photo of vioew of Old college, university in Aberystwyth, Wales.
photo of view of Traditional colorful houses and church in historical Aberystwyth town, a popular seaside resort in Wales, United Kingdom
photo of view of The North beach and marine terrace taken from the Royal Pier at Aberystwyth in Wales. Saint Michael's Church in the background.
photo of view of Sea wall and large stones, Aberystwyth, Wales, UK
photo of view of The war monument in Aberystwyth, Wales.
photo of view of A block of four modern houses in Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, Wales, UK.
photo of view of Aberystwyth Seafront Promenade North - Railing Shadow On Pavement
photo of view of Aberystwyth cliff railway during sunset.
photo of view of Wales,Aberystwyth .
photo of view of Constitution Hill, Aberystwyth North Beach.
photo of view of Aberystwyth seaside resort, Cardigan Bay funicular.
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Wales as you embark on an unforgettable 5-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Cardiff, Brecon, Three Cocks, Talgarth, Aberystwyth, Beddgelert, Llanberis, Betws y Coed, 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 and 1 night in Aberystwyth. 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 Bute Park, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Aberystwyth Cliff Railway.

As you hit the open road and drive through Cardiff, Brecon, Three Cocks, Talgarth, Aberystwyth, Beddgelert, Llanberis, Betws y Coed, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Bute Park
Llandaff CathedralSt Fagans National Museum of History buildingBrecon CathedralBlack Mountain ActivitiesPwll y Wrach nature reserve
Elan Valley Waterfall TrailCraig Goch DamAberystwyth Cliff RailwayAberystwyth Arts CentreAberystwyth Castle Grounds
Gelert's GraveLlanberis Lake RailwayPont-y-Pair BridgeConwy Castle
Cardiff Castle

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Day 1

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.

Find your way to your hotel in Cardiff. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Wales. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Pennyroyal, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Borough Arms is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Libertine Cocktail Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Wales!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Cardiff
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Drive 183 km, 3 hours 8 min

  • Llandaff Cathedral
  • St Fagans National Museum of History building
  • Brecon Cathedral
  • Black Mountain Activities
  • Pwll y Wrach nature reserve
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On day 2 of your road trip in Wales, you’ll start and end your day in Cardiff, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Cardiff for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Brecon, Three Cocks, and Talgarth to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

A blend of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots await you in Cardiff on today’s itinerary. First up is the often recommended church, Llandaff Cathedral. Afterward, continue to St Fagans National Museum Of History, a museum every traveler should visit.

As you explore Cardiff’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Brecon Cathedral. This locally appreciated church is an essential stop. Following that, head to Black Mountain Adventure, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Pwll Y Wrach Nature Reserve, an underrated nature reserve in the town.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Cardiff.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Cafe Citta, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Clayton Hotel Cardiff? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre, an IHG Hotel as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cardiff.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Great Western - Jd Wetherspoon, known for its inviting atmosphere. Rum & Fizz is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Kongs Cardiff provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Wales.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Cardiff
  • Aberystwyth
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Drive 207 km, 3 hours 54 min

  • Elan Valley Waterfall Trail
  • Craig Goch Dam
  • Aberystwyth Cliff Railway
  • Aberystwyth Arts Centre
  • Aberystwyth Castle Grounds
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Wales. Today you will explore Rhayader and Aberystwyth, 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 Aberystwyth. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Cardiff includes a waterfall, a monument, a heritage railway, an art gallery, a castle and much more! Elan Valley Waterfall Trail is must-visit waterfall and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Craig Goch Dam, an often recommended monument, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Aberystwyth Cliff Railway, a historic heritage railway, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Cardiff. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the intriguing Aberystwyth Arts Centre. If you’re looking for more, Castell Aberystwyth Castle is also a locally appreciated attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Aberystwyth, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Aberystwyth. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Baravin, a highly-rated dining destination in Aberystwyth. If you're eager to try something different, consider Y Consti, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Little Devil's Café. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Aberystwyth this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Kanes Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Libertine is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Y Bañera ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Wales.

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Aberystwyth
  • Cardiff
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Drive 479 km, 7 hours 9 min

  • Gelert's Grave
  • Llanberis Lake Railway
  • Pont-y-Pair Bridge
  • Conwy Castle
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Wales. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Beddgelert, Llanberis, Betws y Coed, and Conwy. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cardiff. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in Aberystwyth. Begin your sightseeing with Bedd Gelert. This increasingly popular monument is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Llanberis Lake Railway, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Aberystwyth, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Pont-y-pair Bridge. This underrated historical landmark is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Conwy Castle, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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.

As you explore more of Cardiff, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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 the enjoyment post-dinner at Lab 22, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Dead Canary offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Wales.

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Cardiff - Departure day
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  • Cardiff Castle
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Day 5 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, a visually striking 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 St. David's Dewi Sant. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Wales. Savor your final moments in Wales at a cozy cafe while relaxing with a cup of coffee or tea.

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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