6-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff traveling west to Swansea

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Photo of Swansea Marina, Wales, U.K.
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 6-day road trip through Wales. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Wales takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 4 nights in Cardiff and 1 night in Swansea. 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 St Fagans National Museum Of History are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable National Museum Cardiff, learn more about the unique Caerphilly Castle, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Bute Park.

As you hit the open road and drive through Cardiff, Caerphilly, Brecon, Tretower, Rhossili, Swansea, and Tenby, 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

Day 1

  • Cardiff - Arrival day
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  • Bute Park
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Say hello to Cardiff! Your exciting road trip through Wales is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Cardiff for 3 nights before you continue your adventure!

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Cardiff, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Elevens Bar And Grill offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Old Arcade is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cardiff.

Continue your lively evening at Pennyroyal, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Borough Arms is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Libertine Cocktail Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Wales!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Cardiff
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Drive 44 km, 1 hour 33 min

  • Gorsedd Gardens
  • National Museum Wales Main Library
  • St Fagans National Museum of History building
  • Caerphilly Castle
  • Morgan Jones Park
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On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cardiff, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Cardiff and Caerphilly. You still have 2 nights left in Cardiff.

Cardiff is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a museum, and a castle. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the increasingly popular 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 St Fagans National Museum Of History, one of the city’s most interesting spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the worthwhile Caerphilly Castle. When you're finished at the castle, Morgan Jones Park awaits your visit. This park is a majestic highlight on today's itinerary.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Cafe Citta, 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 Clayton Hotel Cardiff, 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 Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre, an IHG Hotel, a hidden gem nestled in Cardiff. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Cardiff
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Drive 153 km, 2 hours 43 min

  • Brecon Cathedral
  • Brecon Canal Basin
  • The Royal Welsh Regimental Museum
  • Tretower Court and Castle/ Llys a Chastell Tre-tŵr
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On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cardiff, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in Cardiff. Begin your sightseeing with Brecon Cathedral. This often recommended church is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Brecon Canal Basin, 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 The Royal Welsh Regimental Museum. This increasingly popular military museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Llys A Chastell Tre-tŵr / Tretower Court And Castle, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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

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 lovely meal at Pasture Restaurant Cardiff, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Pettigrew Tea Rooms - Bute Park is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Prince of Wales - JD Wetherspoon. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cardiff tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Lab 22, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Dead Canary is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Wales!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Cardiff
  • Swansea
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Drive 128 km, 2 hours 30 min

  • Swansea Museum
  • National Trust - Rhosili and South Gower Coast
  • Oystermouth Castle
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On day 4 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 Rhossili. In the evening, you’ll end up in Swansea, where you will stay for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Cardiff. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await! Swansea Museum is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most locally appreciated places to visit in Cardiff. Next, head to National Trust - Rhossili And South Gower Coast, an intriguing nature reserve, known for its romantic 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 Oystermouth Castle. This respected castle is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Perch, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Pant-y-Gwydr restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Turtle Bay Swansea is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Swansea.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Popworld Swansea after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to No Sign Wine Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Copper also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Wales!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Swansea
  • Cardiff
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Drive 235 km, 3 hours 15 min

  • National Trust - Tudor Merchant's House
  • Tenby Museum and Art Gallery
  • Tenby Castle
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Wales, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Tenby. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cardiff, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Swansea, including a museum and a castle. Start your adventure at National Trust - Tudor Merchant's House. This up-and-coming museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Tenby Museum And Art Gallery located in Swansea for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Tenby Castle. Its romantic features will captivate you.

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.

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

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.

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.

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Cardiff - Departure day
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  • Cardiff Castle
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Day 6 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 locally renowned 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Potted Pig, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Mowgli Street Food offers an enticing alternative with its varied 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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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
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Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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