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
Explore the best of Wales on a 10-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Cardiff, Llangorse, Brecon, Bronllys, Three Cocks, Hay on Wye, Aberystwyth, Dinorwig, Llanberis, Betws y Coed, Conwy, Llandudno, Beaumaris, Llandynan, Llangollen, and Trevor. This road trip itinerary in Wales seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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!
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Day 1
- Cardiff - Arrival day
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- St David's Metropolitan Cathedral
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Welcome to Cardiff, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Wales! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Cardiff's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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.
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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Cardiff, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Elevens Bar And Grill offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Old Arcade. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cardiff.
Keep the evening going at Pennyroyal, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Borough Arms, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Libertine Cocktail Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
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.
Cardiff is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots! Start at St Fagans National Museum Of History, an interesting museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find National Museum Cardiff, enchanting visitors with its photogenic appeal. Continue your exploration at Bute Park. This park is one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Cardiff at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Swalec Stadium.
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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Cardiff. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Cafe Citta, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Clayton Hotel Cardiff offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre, an IHG Hotel is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cardiff.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Great Western - Jd Wetherspoon after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Rum & Fizz, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Kongs Cardiff also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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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On day 3 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 Llangorse and Brecon. In the evening, you’ll end up in Brecon, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in Cardiff. Begin your sightseeing with Llangorse Multi Activity Centre. This underrated adventure park is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to The Royal Welsh Regimental Museum, 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 Brecon Canal Basin. This increasingly popular marina is a traveler-favorite.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Brecon. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
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 4
- Brecon
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Drive 51 km, 51 min
- Bronllys Castle
- Black Mountain Activities
- Hay Castle
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On day 4 of your road trip in Wales, you’ll start and end your day in Brecon, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Brecon for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bronllys, Three Cocks, and Hay on Wye to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the curiosity-inducing Castell Bronllys, a breathtaking castle in Brecon. Next, go to Black Mountain Adventure.
After visiting Castell Bronllys and Black Mountain Adventure, have a stroll along Brecon's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Hay Castle. This gorgeous castle offers a unique experience.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Brecon and your accommodation.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Brecon's best restaurants.
Say good night to Brecon and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Wales, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Aberystwyth. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Aberystwyth, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Brecon, including a heritage railway, a museum, and a castle. Start your day at Aberystwyth Cliff Railway. This historic heritage railway is an often recommended place to see in Brecon. Then, wander over to Ceredigion Museum. If history-steeped sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Vale Of Rheidol Railway Museum. This stunning heritage railway is a favorite among visitors.
Brecon offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Castell Aberystwyth Castle is an often recommended spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Aberystwyth's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Baravin, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Y Consti offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Little Devil's Café. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Aberystwyth.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Kanes Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Libertine, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Y Bañera also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Wales. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Dinorwig and Llanberis. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Betws y Coed, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Aberystwyth promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at National Slate Museum. This picture-perfect museum is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Llanberis Station, another breathtaking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Dolbadarn Castle, one of the village’s most frequently visited attractions, known for its picture-perfect features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Llanberis Lake Railway. This picture-perfect heritage railway is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Ceunant Mawr, a curiosity-inducing waterfall, and take a stroll around the area.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Betws y Coed. Betws y Coed 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 Betws y Coed, 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.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip 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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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Wales. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Graig and Conwy. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Llandudno. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the frequently visited Rhaeadr Ewynnol / Swallow Falls Waterfall, a serene waterfall in Betws y Coed. Next, go to National Trust - Bodnant Garden.
After visiting Rhaeadr Ewynnol / Swallow Falls Waterfall and National Trust - Bodnant Garden, have a stroll along Betws y Coed's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Plas Mawr. This culturally significant museum offers a unique experience. Conwy Castle is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Llandudno. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Llandudno. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing 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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Wake up to day 8 of your extraordinary road trip in Wales. With 1 night left in Llandudno, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Llandudno. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Trwyn Penmon Point is the perfect place to start. This lighthouse is one of the most curiosity-inducing places to visit in Llandudno. Next, head to Beaumaris Castle, an increasingly popular castle, known for its culturally significant 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 National Trust - Plas Newydd House And Gardens. This history-steeped castle is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Llandudno.
As you explore more of Llandudno, 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.
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 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.
Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Abaty Glyn Y Groes / Valle Crucis Abbey. This increasingly popular monastery is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Llangollen Railway Station, one of the village’s best highlights.
Next, check out Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, one of the most often recommended places to see in Llandudno. This monument is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Cardiff, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Cardiff's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Pasture Restaurant Cardiff, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Pettigrew Tea Rooms - Bute Park? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Prince of Wales - JD Wetherspoon 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 Lab 22, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Dead Canary is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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, begin at Cardiff Castle. This interesting castle is a popular place to see in the city.
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.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Premier Inn Cardiff City Centre (Queen Street) hotel, another top spot with a tantalizing 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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