Relaxed 10-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff to Aberystwyth and Bangor

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photo of view of A wave rushes towards the viewer along the pier wall at sunset in Aberystwyth, Wales.
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Experience Wales like never before on this 10-day relaxed road trip, traversing through Cardiff, Pant, Tretower, Three Cocks, Hay on Wye, Aberystwyth, Beddgelert, Bangor, Conwy, Menai Bridge, Beaumaris, Porthmadog, Portmeirion, and Brecon. This self-drive vacation offers a tranquil journey through the heart-stopping beauty found in Wales.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Wales at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Cardiff, Pant, Tretower, Three Cocks, Hay on Wye, Aberystwyth, Beddgelert, Bangor, Conwy, Menai Bridge, Beaumaris, Porthmadog, Portmeirion, and Brecon. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 5 nights in Cardiff, 1 night in Aberystwyth, and 3 nights in Bangor. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Wales.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Wales. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Cardiff, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 10-day journey across Wales and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Wales with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Wales.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Wales. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Cardiff Castle. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Conwy Castle.

Traveling leisurely through Wales means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent St Fagans National Museum Of History. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Portmeirion. Get close to the spectacular National Museum Cardiff and the wonderful Beaumaris Castle. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through Wales's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Wales.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Wales. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Wales's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Wales.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Wales. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 9 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 10 days of your self-drive road trip in Wales. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 10-day vacation in Wales and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed 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
Wales Millennium CentreSt Fagans National Museum of History buildingNational Museum Wales Main LibrarySophia Gardens
Brecon Mountain RailwayTretower Court and Castle/ Llys a Chastell Tre-tŵr
Black Mountain ActivitiesHay Castle
Vale of Rheidol RailwayAmgueddfa Ceredigion MuseumAberystwyth Cliff RailwayWar MemorialAberystwyth Castle Grounds
Gelert's GraveSnowdon

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Cardiff - Arrival day
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  • Bute Park
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Your relaxed road trip through Wales starts when you reach the incredible city of Cardiff, where you'll stay for 4 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Cardiff and begin your adventure in Wales.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Cardiff, a top-rated dining spot in Cardiff. If you're in the mood for something new, try Elevens Bar And Grill, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Old Arcade. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cardiff.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Wales.

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 as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Wales. Enjoy your first taste of Cardiff as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Cardiff
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Drive 31 km, 1 hour 21 min

  • Wales Millennium Centre
  • St Fagans National Museum of History building
  • National Museum Wales Main Library
  • Sophia Gardens
  • More

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Cardiff, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Wales are extraordinary.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Cardiff on today’s itinerary. First up is the worthwhile performing arts theater, Wales Millennium Centre. 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 city. Next, make your way to National Museum Cardiff. This curiosity-inducing museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to Swalec Stadium, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Wales more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Cardiff offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Cafe Citta, a top-rated dining destination in Cardiff. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Clayton Hotel Cardiff, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre, an IHG Hotel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cardiff this evening.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Cardiff and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Great Western - Jd Wetherspoon, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Rum & Fizz is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Kongs Cardiff is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Wales!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Cardiff
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Drive 141 km, 2 hours 22 min

  • Brecon Mountain Railway
  • Tretower Court and Castle/ Llys a Chastell Tre-tŵr
  • More

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Cardiff and visit amazing attractions in Pant and Tretower destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 2 nights left in Cardiff. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the worthwhile Brecon Mountain Railway, a standout heritage railway in Cardiff. Next, go to Llys A Chastell Tre-tŵr / Tretower Court And Castle.

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

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Cardiff, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

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.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Wales.

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.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Wales. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Wales tomorrow with new energy.

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Cardiff
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Drive 187 km, 2 hours 46 min

  • Black Mountain Activities
  • Hay Castle
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On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Wales, you’ll explore the area around Cardiff, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Cardiff will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Wales.

A blend of fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Cardiff on today’s itinerary. First up is the intriguing adventure park, Black Mountain Adventure. Afterward, continue to Hay Castle, a castle every traveler should visit.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Cardiff and your accommodation.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Cardiff has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Servini's at The Summerhouse, a highly-rated dining destination 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 might also want to secure a reservation at Bill's Cardiff Central Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cardiff this evening.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Wales.

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Cardiff
  • Aberystwyth
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Drive 163 km, 3 hours 27 min

  • Vale of Rheidol Railway
  • Amgueddfa Ceredigion Museum
  • Aberystwyth Cliff Railway
  • War Memorial
  • Aberystwyth Castle Grounds
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Day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Wales promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll end your day in the town of Aberystwyth, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Cardiff. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Vale Of Rheidol Railway Museum is the perfect place to start. This heritage railway is one of the most up-and-coming places to visit in Cardiff. Next, head to Ceredigion Museum, an increasingly popular museum, known for its eye-catching 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 Aberystwyth Cliff Railway. This respected heritage railway is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find War Memorial and Castell Aberystwyth Castle. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

You’ll be staying at the incredible town of Aberystwyth in this laid-back road trip in Wales. You'll stay here for 1 night.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Wales. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Aberystwyth, explore the town like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Make sure to reserve a table at Baravin, an iconic dining spot in Aberystwyth. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Y Consti, a popular restaurant in Aberystwyth. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Little Devil's Café, a hidden gem nestled in Aberystwyth. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Aberystwyth and unwind at the coolest bars in the town.

Keep the evening going at Kanes Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Libertine, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Y Bañera, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Wales!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Aberystwyth
  • Bangor
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Drive 148 km, 2 hours 52 min

  • Gelert's Grave
  • Snowdon
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Day 6 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Wales will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Wales, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Bedd Gelert. This often recommended monument is a historic place to see in Aberystwyth. Continue your discovery at Yr Wyddfa, an awe-inspiring mountain range with stories to tell.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Aberystwyth.

In the city of Bangor, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Wales.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Bangor has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Bangor.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Wales.

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Bangor
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Drive 53 km, 1 hour

  • National Trust - Conwy Suspension Bridge
  • Conwy Castle
  • Smallest House in Great Britain
  • Plas Mawr
  • Conwy Quay
  • Mostyn Street
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Day 7 of your relaxed road trip through Wales means 24 hours of making the best memories in Conwy. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Conwy. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the town. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Conwy!

Set aside time today to explore Conwy Quay, a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day. You might also want to visit Mostyn Street, a street offering another perspective on the town.

Start by visiting National Trust - Conwy Suspension Bridge, a prime spot to begin your journey. This instagrammable historical landmark is sure to impress. Next on your list is Conwy Castle, another must-visit landmark and interesting castle renowned for its culturally significant features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Bangor by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Smallest House In Great Britain. This eye-catching historical landmark is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Bangor experience. We also recommend visiting Plas Mawr, a locally appreciated museum.

Wales makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Wales also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Wales. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Bangor, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Bangor’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Wales.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Wales!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Bangor
  • More

Drive 36 km, 1 hour 3 min

  • Plas Newydd House and Gardens
  • Pili Palas Nature World
  • Beaumaris Gaol and Court
  • Beaumaris Castle
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Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Wales continues on day 8, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Wales and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Bangor and beyond. With 1 night left in Bangor, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Start by visiting National Trust - Plas Newydd House And Gardens, a prime spot to begin your journey. This romantic castle is sure to impress. Next on your list is Pili Palas Nature World, another must-visit landmark and worthwhile butterfly garden renowned for its stunning features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Bangor by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Beaumaris Gaol. This instagrammable museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Bangor experience. We also recommend visiting Beaumaris Castle, a curiosity-inducing castle.

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

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Bangor. The bars in Bangor make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Wales!

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Bangor
  • Cardiff
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Drive 295 km, 4 hours 52 min

  • Maritime Museum
  • Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways
  • Portmeirion North Wales
  • Brecon Canal Basin
  • More

Day 9 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Wales gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the town of Porthmadog. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Cardiff, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways, a breathtaking heritage railway that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Portmeirion, one of the town’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally appreciated Brecon Canal Basin.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Cardiff. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Wales, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Cardiff.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Potted Pig, 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 Mowgli Street Food, 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 Angel Hotel Cardiff, a hidden gem nestled in Cardiff. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Cardiff and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Wales!

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Day 10

Day 10

  • Cardiff - Departure day
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  • Cardiff Castle
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Day 10 of your relaxed road trip in Wales is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Cardiff.

Maximize your last day in Wales and go on a shopping spree in Cardiff’s shopping center, the lively St. David's Dewi Sant. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Wales. Take one last moment to soak in Wales, and unwind with tea or coffee at a cozy cafe.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Cardiff Castle. This locally renowned castle is a popular place to see in the city.

Unwind and look back at the past 10 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Cardiff or just grab something light to keep you going.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Alchemist Cardiff, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Cardiff and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 10-day relaxed road trip in Wales is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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