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

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.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at the frequently visited Wales Millennium Centre, an enchanting performing arts theater in Cardiff. Next, go to St Fagans National Museum Of History.

After visiting Wales Millennium Centre and St Fagans National Museum Of History, have a stroll along Cardiff's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to National Museum Cardiff. This eye-catching museum offers a unique experience. Roath Park is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a 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.

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.

Dine in style at Cafe Citta, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Clayton Hotel Cardiff boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre, an IHG Hotel. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice 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.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Wales!

On day 3 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 Brecon. You still have 2 nights left in Cardiff.

Cardiff is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures! Start at The Royal Welsh Regimental Museum, a beloved military museum that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Brecon Canal Basin, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Brecon Cathedral. This church is one of the town’s most beloved spots.

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.

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.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Lab 22, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Dead Canary offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Wales!

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 1 night 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 Hay on Wye and Rhayader.

Today's adventure in Cardiff promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Hay Castle. This awe-inspiring castle is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Elan Valley Waterfall Trail, another peaceful attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Craig Goch Dam, one of the town’s most increasingly popular attractions, known for its history-steeped features.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

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

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 1 vibrant destinations - Aberystwyth. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Aberystwyth. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Cardiff is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a heritage railway, a castle, a museum, an art gallery and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the intriguing Vale Of Rheidol Railway Museum and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Castell Aberystwyth Castle, a majestic castle that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Ceredigion Museum, one of the town’s most beloved spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the beloved Aberystwyth Cliff Railway. When you're finished at the heritage railway, Aberystwyth Arts Centre awaits your visit. This art gallery is an instagrammable 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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Aberystwyth's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Baravin, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Y Consti offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Little Devil's Café is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Aberystwyth.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Kanes Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Libertine offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Y Bañera is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Wales. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Betws Garmon and Betws y Coed. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bangor, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Start by visiting Gorsaf Copa'r Wyddfa Summit Station, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking visitor center is sure to impress. Next on your list is Yr Wyddfa, another must-visit landmark and underrated mountain range renowned for its awe-inspiring features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Aberystwyth by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Pont-y-pair Bridge. This history-steeped historical landmark is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Aberystwyth experience.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.

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

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

On day 7 of your road trip in Wales, you’ll start and end your day in Bangor, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Bangor for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Dinorwig, Llanberis, and Caernarfon to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bangor. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await! Llanberis Station is the perfect place to start. This heritage railway is one of the most curiosity-inducing places to visit in Bangor. Next, head to National Slate Museum, a locally appreciated museum, known for its breathtaking 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 Dolbadarn Castle. This standout castle is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Llanberis Lake Railway and Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey. Finish the day with a visit to Caernarfon Castle, an UNESCO world heritage-listed castle in Bangor.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bangor. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Wales!

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Wales, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Porthmadog, Portmeirion, and Llangollen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cardiff, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways. This intriguing heritage railway is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Portmeirion, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Llangollen Railway Station, one of the most locally appreciated places to see in Bangor. This heritage railway is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

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.

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.

Dine in style at The Potted Pig, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Mowgli Street Food boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Angel Hotel Cardiff. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cardiff.

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