One-Week Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff to Llandudno
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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 6 nights in Cardiff and 1 night in Llandudno. 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 Conwy Castle 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 Wales Millennium Centre, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Bute Park.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cardiff, Brecon, Talgarth, Three Cocks, Hay on Wye, Aberystwyth, Betws y Coed, Llandudno, Conwy, and Colwyn Bay, 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
- Cardiff - Arrival day
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- Bute Park
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Your road trip adventure in Wales begins as soon as you reach Cardiff and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Cardiff for 5 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Cardiff, a top-rated dining destination in Cardiff. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Elevens Bar And Grill, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Old Arcade. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cardiff this evening.
Keep the evening going at Pennyroyal, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Borough Arms, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Libertine Cocktail Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Wales!
Day 2
- Cardiff
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Drive 15 km, 1 hour 5 min
- Roald Dahl Plass
- Wales Millennium Centre
- Sophia Gardens
- National Museum Wales Main Library
- Roath 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 4 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Get ready for an exciting day in Cardiff. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a public square, a performing arts theater, a park, a museum and much more! Begin your adventure at Roald Dahl Plass. This is an underrated public square you should not miss. Another must-see is Wales Millennium Centre, a curiosity-inducing performing arts theater in Cardiff.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Swalec Stadium. From there, take a leisurely stroll to National Museum Cardiff, another of the city’s beloved attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Roath Park, an instagrammable place of interest in the city.
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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Cafe Citta, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Clayton Hotel Cardiff? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre, an IHG Hotel as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cardiff.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Great Western - Jd Wetherspoon, known for its inviting atmosphere. Rum & Fizz is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Kongs Cardiff provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Wales.
Day 3
- Cardiff
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Drive 136 km, 2 hours 26 min
- The Royal Welsh Regimental Museum
- Brecon Canal Basin
- Brecon Cathedral
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On day 3 of your road trip in Wales, you’ll start and end your day in Cardiff, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Cardiff for 3 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Brecon to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Cardiff, including a military museum, a marina, and a church. Start your day at The Royal Welsh Regimental Museum. This heritage-rich military museum is a frequently visited place to see in Cardiff. Then, wander over to Brecon Canal Basin. If visually striking sites excite you, this marina will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Brecon Cathedral. This stunning church is a favorite among visitors.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Cardiff.
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.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Lab 22 after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Dead Canary, another bar with an inviting ambiance.
Say good night to Cardiff and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Wales!
Day 4
- Cardiff
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Drive 191 km, 2 hours 56 min
- Pwll y Wrach nature reserve
- Black Mountain Activities
- Hay Castle
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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 Cardiff for your remaining 2 nights in the city 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 Talgarth, Three Cocks, and Hay on Wye.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Cardiff today. One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is Pwll Y Wrach Nature Reserve. This eye-catching nature reserve will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Black Mountain Adventure and learn what makes this breathtaking adventure park unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the underrated Hay Castle.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Cardiff and your accommodation.
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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Servini's at The Summerhouse, a top-rated dining spot 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 might also want to book a table at Bill's Cardiff Central Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cardiff.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Wales!
Day 5
- Cardiff
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Drive 321 km, 5 hours 53 min
- Vale of Rheidol Railway
- Aberystwyth Castle Grounds
- War Memorial
- Aberystwyth Cliff Railway
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On day 5 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 Aberystwyth. You still have 1 night left in Cardiff.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Cardiff allows for both. Start by heading to Vale Of Rheidol Railway Museum. This worthwhile heritage railway provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Castell Aberystwyth Castle, a romantic castle, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to War Memorial, a locally appreciated war memorial. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the curiosity-inducing Aberystwyth Cliff Railway.
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 an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Potted Pig, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Mowgli Street Food? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Angel Hotel Cardiff as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cardiff.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Wales!
Day 6
- Cardiff
- Llandudno
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Drive 295 km, 4 hours 43 min
- Conwy Valley Railway Museum
- Pont-y-Pair Bridge
- Rhaeadr Ewynnol Swallow Falls Waterfall
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On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Wales, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Betws y Coed. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Llandudno, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Cardiff, featuring fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at Conwy Valley Railway Museum, a frequently visited museum in the village. Then, head to Pont-y-pair Bridge and soak in the ambiance of this romantic historical landmark.
There are many interesting places to see in Cardiff, and when you are ready for more, go to Rhaeadr Ewynnol / Swallow Falls Waterfall. This is one of the village’s most curiosity-inducing romantic spots of interest.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Llandudno. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Llandudno's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Wales and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 7
- Llandudno
- Cardiff
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Drive 319 km, 4 hours 25 min
- Conwy Castle
- Smallest House in Great Britain
- Welsh Mountain Zoo
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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 Conwy and Colwyn Bay. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cardiff, where you will stay for 1 night.
Get ready for an exciting day in Llandudno. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a castle, a historical landmark, and a zoo. Begin your adventure at Conwy Castle. This is a notable castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Smallest House In Great Britain, an up-and-coming historical landmark in Llandudno.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Welsh Mountain Zoo.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Cardiff. Cardiff 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 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 Bar 44 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 The Alchemist 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 Park Plaza 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.
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
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- Cardiff Castle
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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.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Cardiff Castle, a visually striking castle before you head out.
Make the most of your final day in Wales by visiting Cardiff’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Royal Arcade. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Wales. You can also browse through boutiques for stylish fashion choices.
Before you conclude your road trip in Wales, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Cardiff.
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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