13-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff traveling west to Swansea, Aberystwyth, Builth Wells, and Merthyr Tydfil

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Cardiff. You’ll stay in Cardiff for 3 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Start by visiting Cardiff Castle, a prime spot to begin your journey. This majestic castle is sure to impress. Next on your list is Bute Park, another must-visit landmark and curiosity-inducing park renowned for its serene features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Cardiff by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Llandaff Cathedral. This picture-perfect church is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Cardiff experience. We also recommend visiting Insole Court, a beloved museum. Nearby, you'll also find Hailey Park, ready to add charm to your journey.

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 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.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Great Western - Jd Wetherspoon, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Rum & Fizz, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Kongs Cardiff likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Wales!

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Cardiff has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights 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 family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and breathtaking views! Start at Hendre Lake Park, an underrated park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Roath Recreation Ground, enchanting visitors with its stunning appeal. Continue your exploration at Roath Pleasure Gardens. This park is one of the city’s most intriguing 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 Roath Park. After exploring the park, head to the interesting St Fagans National Museum Of History.

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.

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.

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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Lab 22 is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Dead Canary, offering a different kind of charm.

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 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cardiff for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Cardiff is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a museum, a performing arts theater, a public square, a science center and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the beloved Gorsedd Gardens and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, National Museum Cardiff, a photogenic museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Wales Millennium Centre, one of the city’s most intriguing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the often recommended Roald Dahl Plass. When you're finished at the public square, Techniquest awaits your visit. This science center is an eye-catching highlight on today's itinerary.

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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Cardiff. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Servini's at The Summerhouse, a top-rated dining destination in Cardiff. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Premier Inn Cardiff City Centre (Queen Street) hotel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bill's Cardiff Central Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cardiff this evening.

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

On day 5 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 Penarth and Barry. In the evening, you’ll end up in Swansea, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Cardiff, including a pier, a park, a beach, a botanical garden and much more! Start your day with a visit to Penarth Pier Pavilion. This worthwhile pier is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Cosmeston Lakes Country Park & Medieval Village, which may be one of the most eye-catching places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Cardiff 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 Knap Gardens, an underrated park in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Cold Knap Beach and National Trust - Dyffryn Gardens.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Swansea. Swansea 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 Swansea. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor the flavors at The Perch, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Pant-y-Gwydr restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Turtle Bay Swansea. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Swansea tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Popworld Swansea offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, No Sign Wine Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Copper is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Swansea, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming village of Swansea. Your adventure starts at Penllergare Valley Woods, a worthwhile local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Brynmill Park Public Conveniences. This often recommended park is known for its standout appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Swansea's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Parc Singleton Park. This eye-catching park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Clyne Gardens is also worth visiting, along with National Trust - Rhossili And South Gower Coast. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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

As you explore more of Swansea, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Steak By Night, a top-rated dining destination in Swansea. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Premier Inn Swansea City Centre hotel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gershwins Coffee House. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Swansea this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Hanbury, where the evening is just getting started.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Wales. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Pembrey, Llanarthney, Llandeilo, and Trap. 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.

Swansea is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a botanical garden, and a castle. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the intriguing Pembrey Country Park and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, National Botanic Garden Of Wales, a peaceful botanical garden that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Dinefwr Castle, one of the town’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the increasingly popular National Trust - Dinefwr. When you're finished at the castle, Carreg Cennen Castle awaits your visit. This castle is a respected highlight on today's itinerary.

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.

As you explore more of Aberystwyth, 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.

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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Kanes Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Libertine, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Y Bañera provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Say good night to Aberystwyth and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Wales!

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Wales. Today you will explore Trawsfynydd, Porthmadog, and Portmeirion, 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 Builth Wells. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Today's adventure in Aberystwyth promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Eryri National Park (snowdonia). This romantic national park is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways, another eye-catching attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Builth Wells, 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 Builth Wells. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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.

On day 9 of your road trip in Wales, you’ll start and end your day in Builth Wells, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Builth Wells for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Welshpool and Tan-y-pistyll to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Builth Wells today. One of the most intriguing attractions included on the itinerary is National Trust - Powis Castle And Garden. This instagrammable castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Welshpool & Llanfair Railway Preservation Co Ltd and learn what makes this history-steeped heritage railway unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the often recommended Pistyll Rhaeadr.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Builth Wells. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Say good night to Builth Wells and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Wales!

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Wales, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 5 destinations, Brecon, Pen y Cae, Ynyswen, Coelbren, and Ystradfellte. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Merthyr Tydfil, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Today’s agenda in Builth Wells includes a marina, a park, a wildlife reserve, a waterfall and much more! Brecon Canal Basin is must-visit marina and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Craig-y-nos Country Park, an intriguing park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Wales Ape And Monkey Sanctuary, a scenic wildlife reserve, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Builth Wells. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the curiosity-inducing Henrhyd Falls. If you’re looking for more, Sgwd Clun-gwyn Waterfall is also an underrated attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Merthyr Tydfil. Merthyr Tydfil 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 Merthyr Tydfil's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Merthyr Tydfil.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Wales and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Wake up to day 11 of your extraordinary road trip in Wales. With 1 night left in Merthyr Tydfil, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

A blend of family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views await you in Merthyr Tydfil on today’s itinerary. First up is the locally appreciated bike park, Bikepark Wales. Afterward, continue to Cyfarthfa Castle Museum And Art Gallery, a museum every traveler should visit.

As you explore Merthyr Tydfil’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to Brecon Mountain Railway. This frequently visited heritage railway is an essential stop. Following that, head to Morlais Castle, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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

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

Relax and reminisce about your day in Wales and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 12 of your road trip in Wales. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Ystrad Mynach, Cefn Hengoed, and Caerphilly. 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 fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views in Merthyr Tydfil. Begin your sightseeing with Parc Cwm Darran. This underrated park is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Llancaiach Fawr Manor, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Merthyr Tydfil, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Parc Penallta. This underrated park is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Morgan Jones Park, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Caerphilly Castle is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Potted Pig, a top-rated dining destination in Cardiff. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mowgli Street Food, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Angel Hotel Cardiff. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cardiff this evening.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Wales!