10-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff to Brecon, Aberystwyth, Betws y Coed, and Llandudno
Description
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Wales as you embark on an unforgettable 10-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Cardiff, Llangorse, Brecon, Bronllys, Three Cocks, Hay on Wye, Aberystwyth, Dinorwig, Llanberis, Betws y Coed, Conwy, Llandudno, Beaumaris, Llandynan, Llangollen, and Trevor.
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 Brecon, 1 night in Aberystwyth, 1 night in Betws y Coed, and 2 nights in Llandudno. 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 National Museum Cardiff, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of National Trust - Bodnant Garden.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cardiff, Llangorse, Brecon, Bronllys, Three Cocks, Hay on Wye, Aberystwyth, Dinorwig, Llanberis, Betws y Coed, Conwy, Llandudno, Beaumaris, Llandynan, Llangollen, and Trevor, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Cardiff - Arrival day
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- St David's Metropolitan Cathedral
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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 St David's Metropolitan Cathedral, 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 top-rated dining destination in Cardiff. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Elevens Bar And Grill, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Old Arcade. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cardiff this evening.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Pennyroyal, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Borough Arms is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Libertine Cocktail Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in Wales!
Day 2
- Cardiff
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Drive 21 km, 1 hour 12 min
- St Fagans National Museum of History building
- National Museum Wales Main Library
- Bute Park
- Sophia Gardens
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Cardiff has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Cardiff by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming city of Cardiff. Your adventure starts at St Fagans National Museum Of History, a notable local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is National Museum Cardiff. This up-and-coming museum is known for its history-steeped appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Cardiff's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Bute Park. This eye-catching park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Swalec Stadium is also worth visiting.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cardiff's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
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.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Great Western - Jd Wetherspoon offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Rum & Fizz is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Kongs Cardiff is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Wales.
Day 3
- Cardiff
- Brecon
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Drive 81 km, 1 hour 40 min
- Llangorse Multi Activity Centre
- The Royal Welsh Regimental Museum
- Brecon Canal Basin
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Wales. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Llangorse and Brecon. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Brecon. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Llangorse Multi Activity Centre. This intriguing adventure park is a visually striking place to see in Cardiff. Continue your discovery at The Royal Welsh Regimental Museum, a standout military museum with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Cardiff, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Brecon Canal Basin. This beloved marina offers a stunning encounter with Cardiff. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Cardiff.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Brecon. Brecon offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Brecon's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Wales and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Brecon
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Drive 51 km, 51 min
- Bronllys Castle
- Black Mountain Activities
- Hay Castle
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Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in Wales. With 1 night left in Brecon, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Brecon, including a castle and an adventure park. Start your day with a visit to Castell Bronllys. This worthwhile castle is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Black Mountain Adventure, which may be one of the most breathtaking places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Brecon on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Hay Castle, a worthwhile castle in the village.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Brecon.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Brecon. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Wales!
Day 5
- Brecon
- Aberystwyth
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Drive 106 km, 2 hours 27 min
- Aberystwyth Cliff Railway
- Amgueddfa Ceredigion Museum
- Vale of Rheidol Railway
- Aberystwyth Castle Grounds
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Wales. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Aberystwyth. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Aberystwyth, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Brecon, including a heritage railway, a museum, and a castle. Start your day with a visit to Aberystwyth Cliff Railway. This locally appreciated heritage railway is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Ceredigion Museum, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Brecon on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Vale Of Rheidol Railway Museum, a locally appreciated heritage railway in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Castell Aberystwyth Castle.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Aberystwyth. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Aberystwyth's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Baravin, a top-rated dining spot in Aberystwyth. If you're in the mood for something new, try Y Consti, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Little Devil's Café. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Aberystwyth.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Kanes Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Libertine offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Y Bañera is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
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.
Day 6
- Aberystwyth
- Betws y Coed
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Drive 150 km, 3 hours 21 min
- National Slate Museum
- Llanberis Station
- Dolbadarn Castle
- Llanberis Lake Railway
- Ceunant Mawr Waterfall
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On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Wales, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Dinorwig and Llanberis. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Betws y Coed, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Aberystwyth, including a museum, a heritage railway, a castle, a waterfall and much more! Start your day at National Slate Museum. This stunning museum is an up-and-coming place to see in Aberystwyth. Then, wander over to Llanberis Station. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this heritage railway will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Dolbadarn Castle. This historic castle is a favorite among visitors.
Aberystwyth offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Llanberis Lake Railway is a frequently visited spot in the village that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the heritage railway, don’t forget to check out the romantic Ceunant Mawr. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this worthwhile waterfall in Aberystwyth.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Betws y Coed, 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 Betws y Coed. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Wales!
Day 7
- Betws y Coed
- Llandudno
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Drive 50 km, 1 hour 11 min
- Rhaeadr Ewynnol Swallow Falls Waterfall
- National Trust - Bodnant Garden
- Plas Mawr
- Conwy Castle
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On day 7 of your road trip in Wales, 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 in Graig and Conwy. In the evening, you’ll end up in Llandudno, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Betws y Coed today. One of the most frequently visited attractions included on the itinerary is Rhaeadr Ewynnol / Swallow Falls Waterfall. This serene waterfall will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to National Trust - Bodnant Garden and learn what makes this awe-inspiring botanical garden unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally appreciated Plas Mawr. After exploring the museum, head to Conwy Castle. This well-known castle is a highlight in Betws y Coed.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Llandudno. Llandudno offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Llandudno. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Say good night to Llandudno and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Wales!
Day 8
- Llandudno
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Drive 114 km, 2 hours 3 min
- Penmon Point
- Beaumaris Castle
- Plas Newydd House and Gardens
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On day 8 of your road trip in Wales, you’ll start and end your day in Llandudno, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Llandudno for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Llangoed, Beaumaris, and Llanddaniel Fab to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Llandudno, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Trwyn Penmon Point, an underrated lighthouse in the town. Then, head to Beaumaris Castle and soak in the ambiance of this historic castle.
There are many interesting places to see in Llandudno and when you are ready for more, go to National Trust - Plas Newydd House And Gardens. This is one of the town’s most beloved spots.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Llandudno and your accommodation.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Llandudno's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Wales!
Day 9
- Llandudno
- Cardiff
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Drive 299 km, 4 hours 38 min
- Valle Crucis Abbey / Abaty Glyn Y Groes
- Llangollen & Corwen Railway
- Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
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Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Wales. Today you will explore Llandynan, Llangollen, and Trevor, 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.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Llandudno on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Abaty Glyn Y Groes / Valle Crucis Abbey is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect monastery before continuing your journey. Llangollen Railway Station is your next stop. This beloved heritage railway is one of the best-rated sights in Llandudno.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. This visually striking monument is a sight to behold.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cardiff. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
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 highly-rated dining destination in Cardiff. If you're eager to try something different, consider Pettigrew Tea Rooms - Bute Park, another top spot with a tantalizing 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 an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cardiff this evening.
Keep the evening going at Lab 22, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Dead Canary, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Wales!
Day 10
- Cardiff - Departure day
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- Cardiff Castle
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Day 10 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 respected castle before you head out.
As your final day in Wales unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Cardiff's best shopping area, Royal Arcade. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Wales. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home.
Before you conclude your road trip in Wales, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Cardiff.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Servini's at The Summerhouse, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Premier Inn Cardiff City Centre (Queen Street) hotel? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
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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