12-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff traveling north to Swansea, St Davids, Aberystwyth, Betws y Coed, and Llandudno

On day 3 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Talybont on Usk, Brecon, and Tretower. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Cardiff, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Whether you decide to explore Brecon on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cardiff. This car ride takes around 57 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Torpantau Railway Station - Bmr, an intriguing heritage railway in Talybont on Usk. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Brecon. This drive usually takes around 28 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is The Royal Welsh Regimental Museum. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the military museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Brecon Canal Basin. This underrated marina is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Brecon Cathedral. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the church.

Tretower’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Brecon behind. This drive usually takes around 20 min. Tretower welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Llys A Chastell Tre-tŵr / Tretower Court And Castle, an underrated castle that draws visitors from near and far.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cardiff's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Lab 22. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Dead Canary, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Wales includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of St Davids, Pembroke, and Abereiddy. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in St Davids, where you'll spend 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Swansea, you’ll hit the road in the direction of St Davids. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 50 min.

Llys Yr Esgob, Tyddewi / St Davids Bishop's Palace is a beloved palace we recommend visiting today. Discover its stunning features before continuing your self-guided tour to St. David's Cathedral School, a stunning church that’s well-regarded in the area.

Set your GPS to Pembroke and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 53 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Pembroke beckons with new experiences!

Savor the day by heading to Pembroke Castle, an intriguing castle that draws visitors from near and far.

After soaking in Pembroke’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Abereiddy. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 56 min. When you arrive in Abereiddy, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Blue Lagoon - Abereiddi, an often recommended lake that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in St Davids. St Davids offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

St Davids is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in St Davids.

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

Greet day 6 of your road trip in Wales with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in St Davids, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Tenby.

As you explore Tenby’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Tenby. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 6 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering National Trust - Tudor Merchant's House, a locally appreciated museum known for its photogenic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Tenby Museum And Art Gallery, a locally appreciated museum.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Tenby Castle and uncover the details of this respected castle. Make sure to also explore St Mary's Church, Tenby, an up-and-coming church.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of St Davids's best restaurants.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Wales!

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 places, which are Aberystwyth and Devil's Bridge. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Aberystwyth, where will spend 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Aberystwyth. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 57 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Vale Of Rheidol Railway Museum, an increasingly popular heritage railway that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Castell Aberystwyth Castle, where you can soak in the history-steeped surroundings.

Next, explore War Memorial, yet another increasingly popular place to see in the area. After the war memorial, make time to go to Ceredigion Museum. This photogenic museum is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to Aberystwyth Cliff Railway, a frequently visited heritage railway you won’t want to miss.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Devil's Bridge.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Devil's Bridge Waterfalls, an up-and-coming waterfall that everyone visiting Devil's Bridge should see.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Baravin, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Y Consti? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Little Devil's Café as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Aberystwyth.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Kanes Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Libertine offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Aberystwyth. Y Bañera is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Wales, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 5 destinations, including Betws Garmon, Llanberis, Dinorwig, Capel Garmon, and Betws y Coed. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Betws y Coed, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

After soaking in Aberystwyth’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Betws y Coed. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 57 min. When you arrive in Betws y Coed, it's time to take a break from the road.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Gorsaf Copa'r Wyddfa Summit Station, a beloved visitor center that everyone visiting Betws Garmon should see.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Aberystwyth and set your GPS to Llanberis. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 31 min. Upon reaching Llanberis, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Llanberis Lake Railway. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the heritage railway before you continue to your next stop.

Dinorwig welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to National Slate Museum, a worthwhile museum that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Betws y Coed. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the village.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Betws y Coed's best restaurants.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Wales!

On day 9 of your road trip in Wales, you’ll start and end your day in Betws y Coed, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the village. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Betws y Coed, there’s no need to rush. Experience Portmeirion, Porthmadog, Harlech, Llandanwg, and Beddgelert to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Portmeirion, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Porthmadog. This drive usually takes around 9 min.

Savor the day by heading to Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways, a frequently visited heritage railway that draws visitors from near and far.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Harlech may take around 18 min. Upon your arrival in Harlech, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Harlech Castle, an up-and-coming castle that everyone visiting Harlech should see.

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

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.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Wales!

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Wales. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Conwy, Colwyn Bay, and Llandudno. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Llandudno, where you'll spend 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Conwy may take around 30 min. Upon your arrival in Conwy, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Conwy is Smallest House In Great Britain, a curiosity-inducing historical landmark that draws attention for its respected features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Conwy Castle, an UNESCO world heritage-listed castle that stands out in the town.

When you’ve had your share of Betws y Coed, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Colwyn Bay. Your travel time is around 13 min.

Welsh Mountain Zoo is a beloved zoo we recommend visiting today. Discover its breathtaking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Llandudno. This drive usually takes around 4 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Llandudno Pier, a captivating pier known for its standout features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Venue Cymru, an up-and-coming performing arts theater.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Llandudno, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Wales!