One-Week Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff to Builth Wells, Bangor, and Merthyr Tydfil
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-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 3 nights in Cardiff, 2 nights in Builth Wells, 1 night in Bangor, and 1 night in Merthyr Tydfil. 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. Eryri National Park (snowdonia) and Cardiff Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cardiff, Builth Wells, Welshpool, Llanfair Caereinion, Conwy, Colwyn Bay, Bangor, Caernarfon, Porthmadog, Portmeirion, Trawsfynydd, Merthyr Tydfil, Pant, and Abercanaid, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Cardiff - arrival day
- Cardiff - Arrival day
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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 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
Cardiff is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. 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 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 lovely meal at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Cardiff, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Elevens Bar And Grill is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Old Arcade. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cardiff tonight.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Pennyroyal, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Borough Arms offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Libertine Cocktail Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Wales!
Day 2 – Cardiff
- Cardiff
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Drive 26 km, 1 hour
- Bute Park
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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Cardiff. You’ll stay in Cardiff for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
A blend of a romantic, a beautiful, a mesmerizing, an instagrammable, and a detailed await you in Cardiff on today’s itinerary. First up is the frequently visited park, Bute Park. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit.
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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Cardiff's best restaurants.
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.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Great Western - Jd Wetherspoon offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Rum & Fizz is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Kongs Cardiff is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Wales!
Day 3 – Cardiff and Builth Wells
- Cardiff
- Builth Wells
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Drive 98 km, 2 hours 6 min
- Cardiff Castle
- National Museum Wales Main Library
- Roath Recreation Ground
- Roath Pleasure Gardens
- Roath Park
- Bute Park
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Wales. Today you will explore Cardiff, 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.
Prepare for a day full of a romantic, a stunning, a visually striking, a standout, and a symbolic. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Cardiff Castle. This popular castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is National Museum Cardiff, one of the city’s most promising highlights.
Spend your afternoon discovering Roath Recreation Ground, an underrated park known for its visually striking features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Roath Pleasure Gardens, an often recommended park that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Roath Park, an up-and-coming park that draws visitors from near and far.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Builth Wells. Builth Wells offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Builth Wells's best restaurants.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Wales.
Day 4 – Builth Wells, Welshpool, Tan-y-pistyll, and Llanfair Caereinion
- Builth Wells
- Welshpool
- Llanfair Caereinion
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Drive 226 km, 4 hours 9 min
- National Trust - Powis Castle and Garden
- Pistyll Rhaeadr
- Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway
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Greet day 4 of your road trip in Wales with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Builth Wells for your remaining 1 night in the town later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Welshpool, Tan-y-pistyll, and Llanfair Caereinion.
After soaking in Welshpool’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Tan-y-pistyll. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 49 min. When you arrive in Tan-y-pistyll, it's time to take a break from the road.
Make your way to National Trust - Powis Castle And Garden, an up-and-coming castle that draws attention for its history-steeped features.
Tan-y-pistyll’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Welshpool behind. This drive usually takes around 49 min. Tan-y-pistyll welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Your self-guided tour starts at Pistyll Rhaeadr, an up-and-coming waterfall that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring 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 Llanfair Caereinion. This drive usually takes around 48 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Make your way to Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway, an increasingly popular heritage railway that draws attention for its eye-catching features.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Builth Wells.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Builth Wells's best restaurants.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Wales.
Day 5 – Builth Wells, Graig, Conwy, Colwyn Bay, and Bangor
- Builth Wells
- Conwy
- Bangor
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Drive 239 km, 3 hours 55 min
- Rhaeadr Ewynnol Swallow Falls Waterfall
- National Trust - Bodnant Garden
- Conwy Castle
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Wales. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Graig, Conwy, and Colwyn Bay. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bangor. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Spend your afternoon discovering Rhaeadr Ewynnol / Swallow Falls Waterfall, a frequently visited waterfall known for its serene features.
Conwy’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Graig behind. This drive usually takes around 12 min. Conwy welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Take your self-guided tour to National Trust - Bodnant Garden, a beloved botanical garden that everyone visiting Graig should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
Set your GPS to Conwy and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 12 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Conwy beckons with new experiences!
Conwy Castle is a popular castle we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Bangor, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bangor. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Head back to your accommodation in Bangor and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Wales!
Day 6 – Bangor, Caernarfon, Porthmadog, Portmeirion, Trawsfynydd, and Merthyr Tydfil
- Bangor
- Caernarfon
- Porthmadog
- Portmeirion
- Merthyr Tydfil
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Drive 266 km, 4 hours 22 min
- Caernarfon Castle
- Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways
- Portmeirion North Wales
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Wales. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Caernarfon, Porthmadog, Portmeirion, and Trawsfynydd. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Merthyr Tydfil, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Porthmadog. This drive usually takes around 31 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Begin your journey at Caernarfon Castle and explore the historic features.
When you’ve had your share of Caernarfon, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Porthmadog. Your travel time is around 31 min.
Your self-guided tour starts at Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways, an underrated heritage railway that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
After soaking in Porthmadog’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Portmeirion. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 8 min. When you arrive in Portmeirion, it's time to take a break from the road.
Your self-guided tour starts at Portmeirion, a locally appreciated village that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Merthyr Tydfil. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As you explore more of Merthyr Tydfil, 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.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Wales!
Day 7 – Merthyr Tydfil, Pant, Abercanaid, and Cardiff
- Merthyr Tydfil
- Pant
- Abercanaid
- Cardiff
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Drive 54 km, 1 hour 28 min
- Cyfarthfa Castle Museum and Art Gallery
- Brecon Mountain Railway
- Morlais Castle
- BikePark Wales
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On day 7 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 Pant and Abercanaid. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cardiff, where you will stay for 1 night.
Your self-guided tour starts at Cyfarthfa Castle Museum And Art Gallery, an often recommended museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Pant, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Abercanaid. This drive usually takes around 17 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Brecon Mountain Railway. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the heritage railway before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Morlais Castle. This worthwhile castle is a traveler-favorite in the village.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Abercanaid. This car ride takes around 17 min.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Bikepark Wales. Spend some time admiring the picturesque features of the bike park before you continue to your next stop.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Cardiff. Cardiff offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
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.
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.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Lab 22, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Dead Canary. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.
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 8 – Cardiff - departure day
- Cardiff - Departure day
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- Bute Park
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Day 8 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.
On your last day in Wales, take time to indulge in shopping at Cardiff’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
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 in the mood for something new, try Premier Inn Cardiff City Centre (Queen Street) hotel, another premier location with a delectable 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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