9-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff traveling west to Aberystwyth and Bangor

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Photo of Welsh National War Memorial Statue, Alexandra Gardens, Cathays Park, Cardiff, Wales, UK.
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Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 9-day road trip in Wales! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Cardiff, Brecon, Hay on Wye, Aberystwyth, Betws y Coed, Bangor, Dinorwig, Llanberis, Caernarfon, Porthmadog, Portmeirion, and Llangollen.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Wales. You will spend 5 nights in Cardiff, 1 night in Aberystwyth, and 2 nights in Bangor. 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 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 Caernarfon Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable St Fagans National Museum Of History, learn more about the unique Portmeirion, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of National Museum Cardiff.

As you hit the open road and drive through Cardiff, Brecon, Hay on Wye, Aberystwyth, Betws y Coed, Bangor, Dinorwig, Llanberis, Caernarfon, Porthmadog, Portmeirion, and Llangollen, 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, accommodations, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day 1

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 here for 4 nights and explore what to see in Cardiff, 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Botanist Bar & 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 Elevens Bar And Grill, 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 Old Arcade, 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 Pennyroyal after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Borough Arms, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Libertine Cocktail Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Wales!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Cardiff
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Drive 34 km, 1 hour 6 min

  • Wales Millennium Centre
  • St Fagans National Museum of History building
  • 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 discover what to see in Cardiff. You’ll stay in Cardiff for 3 nights.

Catch Wales Millennium Centre before the crowds roll in. This eye-catching performing arts theater is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the awe-inspiring features of St Fagans National Museum Of History, a must-visit museum in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to National Museum Cardiff, a locally appreciated museum. For a change of scene, check out Roath Park, known for its eye-catching features.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Wales. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Savor the flavors at Cafe Citta, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Clayton Hotel Cardiff beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre, an IHG Hotel. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cardiff tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Great Western - Jd Wetherspoon is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Rum & Fizz, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Kongs Cardiff. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 3

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, you’ll start and end your day in Cardiff, where you still have 2 nights left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Brecon.

Enjoy all that The Royal Welsh Regimental Museum has to offer. This is an intriguing military museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Brecon Canal Basin, a worthwhile marina in Cardiff.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Brecon Cathedral.

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

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.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Lab 22, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Dead Canary, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Wales!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Cardiff
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Drive 313 km, 4 hours 59 min

  • Hay Castle
  • Elan Valley Waterfall Trail
  • Craig Goch Dam
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On day 4 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 still have 1 night to spend in Cardiff, there’s no need to rush. Experience Hay on Wye and Rhayader to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the increasingly popular Hay Castle and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Elan Valley Waterfall Trail, a peaceful waterfall that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Craig Goch Dam, one of the town’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss.

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

Cardiff 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 Cardiff.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Servini's at The Summerhouse, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Premier Inn Cardiff City Centre (Queen Street) hotel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bill's Cardiff Central Restaurant. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cardiff.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Cardiff
  • Aberystwyth
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Drive 166 km, 3 hours 21 min

  • Vale of Rheidol Railway
  • Aberystwyth Castle Grounds
  • Amgueddfa Ceredigion Museum
  • Aberystwyth Cliff Railway
  • Aberystwyth Arts Centre
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On day 5 of your road trip in Wales, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Aberystwyth are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Aberystwyth, where you will stay for 1 night.

No visit to Cardiff is complete without Vale Of Rheidol Railway Museum. This increasingly popular heritage railway is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Castell Aberystwyth Castle, 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 Ceredigion Museum. This often recommended museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Aberystwyth Cliff Railway, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Aberystwyth Arts Centre 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 Aberystwyth. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Baravin, an iconic dining spot in Aberystwyth. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Y Consti, a popular restaurant in Aberystwyth. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Little Devil's Café, a hidden gem nestled in Aberystwyth. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Kanes Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Libertine provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Y Bañera offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Aberystwyth
  • Bangor
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Drive 165 km, 3 hours 8 min

  • Gorsaf Copa'r Wyddfa Summit Station
  • Snowdon
  • Pont-y-Pair Bridge
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On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Wales, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Betws Garmon and Betws y Coed. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Bangor, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Gorsaf Copa'r Wyddfa Summit Station brings Aberystwyth's character to life. This enchanting visitor center is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Yr Wyddfa, another eye-catching attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Pont-y-pair Bridge, one of the village’s most often recommended attractions, known for its visually striking features.

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

Bangor 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 Bangor.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Bangor
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Drive 50 km, 1 hour 26 min

  • Llanberis Station
  • National Slate Museum
  • Dolbadarn Castle
  • Llanberis Lake Railway
  • Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum
  • Caernarfon Castle
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Wake up to day 7 of your road trip in Wales. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Dinorwig, Llanberis, and Caernarfon. With 1 night to stay in Bangor, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Experience Llanberis Station, a locally appreciated heritage railway in the village. Then, head to National Slate Museum and soak in the ambiance of this awe-inspiring museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Bangor, and when you are ready for more, go to Dolbadarn Castle. This is one of the village’s most worthwhile culturally significant spots of interest. After exploring the castle, visit the worthwhile Llanberis Lake Railway. Not far away, you'll also find Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum. This museum is a standout highlight in Bangor. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Caernarfon Castle, a well-known castle in the village.

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

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

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Bangor
  • Cardiff
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Drive 353 km, 5 hours 31 min

  • Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways
  • Portmeirion North Wales
  • Llangollen & Corwen Railway
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Your itinerary for day 8 of your road trip in Wales includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Porthmadog, Portmeirion, and Llangollen. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cardiff, where you'll spend 1 night.

Make time for Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways, a frequently visited heritage railway that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Continue your exploration at Llangollen Railway Station. This heritage railway is one of the town’s most often recommended spots.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Cardiff, 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 Cardiff. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

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

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Wales.

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Cardiff - Departure day
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  • Cardiff Castle
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Day 9 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, an enchanting castle before you head out.

For a last-minute shopping spree in Cardiff, Royal Arcade is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location. 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.

If you're eager to try something different, consider The Alchemist Cardiff, another top spot with a tantalizing 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.
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.
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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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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