10-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff traveling north to Brecon, Aberystwyth, Betws y Coed, and Conwy

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Photo of Welsh National War Memorial Statue, Alexandra Gardens, Cathays Park, Cardiff, Wales, UK.
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Explore the best of Wales on a remarkable 10-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Cardiff, Tretower, Llangorse, Brecon, Talgarth, Bronllys, Three Cocks, Hay on Wye, Aberystwyth, Dinorwig, Llanberis, Betws y Coed, Conwy, Menai Bridge, Beaumaris, Llandynan, Llangollen, and Trevor.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Wales. You will spend 3 nights in Cardiff, 2 nights in Brecon, 1 night in Aberystwyth, 1 night in Betws y Coed, and 2 nights in Conwy. 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 Conwy Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Cardiff, Tretower, Llangorse, Brecon, Talgarth, Bronllys, Three Cocks, Hay on Wye, Aberystwyth, Dinorwig, Llanberis, Betws y Coed, Conwy, Menai Bridge, Beaumaris, Llandynan, Llangollen, and Trevor, 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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Day1

Day 1

  • Cardiff - Arrival day
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  • St David's Metropolitan Cathedral
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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 2 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 St David's Metropolitan Cathedral. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Cardiff. Make yourself at home and unwind before heading out again.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Cardiff, a popular restaurant in Cardiff. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cardiff at Elevens Bar And Grill, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Old Arcade. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cardiff tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Pennyroyal, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Borough Arms offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cardiff. The Libertine Cocktail Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in Wales!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Cardiff
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Drive 21 km, 1 hour 12 min

  • St Fagans National Museum of History building
  • National Museum Wales Main Library
  • Bute Park
  • Sophia Gardens
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Cardiff has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Cardiff.

Catch St Fagans National Museum Of History before the crowds roll in. This historic museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of National Museum Cardiff, 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 Bute Park, a beloved park. For a change of scene, check out Swalec Stadium, known for its picturesque 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Cafe Citta, a top-rated dining spot in Cardiff. If you're in the mood for something new, try Clayton Hotel Cardiff, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre, an IHG Hotel. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cardiff.

Continue your lively evening at The Great Western - Jd Wetherspoon, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Rum & Fizz is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Kongs Cardiff ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Cardiff
  • Brecon
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Drive 93 km, 1 hour 46 min

  • Tretower Court and Castle/ Llys a Chastell Tre-tŵr
  • Llangorse Multi Activity Centre
  • The Royal Welsh Regimental Museum
  • Brecon Canal Basin
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On day 3 of your road trip in Wales, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Tretower, Llangorse, and Brecon are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Brecon, where you will stay for 2 nights.

No visit to Cardiff is complete without Llys A Chastell Tre-tŵr / Tretower Court And Castle. This underrated castle is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Llangorse Multi Activity Centre, 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 locally appreciated military museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Brecon Canal Basin, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Brecon, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Wales!

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Day4

Day 4

  • Brecon
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Drive 55 km, 1 hour 1 min

  • Pwll y Wrach nature reserve
  • Bronllys Castle
  • Black Mountain Activities
  • Hay Castle
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Wake up to day 4 of your road trip in Wales. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Talgarth, Bronllys, Three Cocks, and Hay on Wye. With 1 night to stay in Brecon, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

Pwll Y Wrach Nature Reserve is an ideal stop early in the day. This worthwhile nature reserve is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Castell Bronllys, which may be one of the most picture-perfect places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Brecon on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Black Mountain Adventure, an up-and-coming adventure park in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Hay Castle.

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

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

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Brecon
  • Aberystwyth
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Drive 110 km, 2 hours 27 min

  • Aberystwyth Arts Centre
  • Vale of Rheidol Railway
  • Aberystwyth Cliff Railway
  • Amgueddfa Ceredigion Museum
  • War Memorial
  • Aberystwyth Castle Grounds
  • More

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 place, which are Aberystwyth. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Aberystwyth, where will spend 1 night.

Awaiting your discovery is the underrated Aberystwyth Arts Centre, an instagrammable art gallery in Brecon. Next, go to Vale Of Rheidol Railway Museum.

After visiting Aberystwyth Arts Centre and Vale Of Rheidol Railway Museum, have a stroll along Brecon's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Aberystwyth Cliff Railway. This historic heritage railway offers a unique experience. Ceredigion Museum is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to War Memorial, one of the most culturally significant places to visit in Brecon. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Castell Aberystwyth Castle.

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.

Aberystwyth 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 Aberystwyth.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Baravin, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Y Consti? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Little Devil's Café as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Aberystwyth.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Kanes Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Libertine, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Y Bañera likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day6

Day 6

  • Aberystwyth
  • Betws y Coed
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Drive 150 km, 3 hours 21 min

  • National Slate Museum
  • Llanberis Station
  • Dolbadarn Castle
  • Llanberis Lake Railway
  • Ceunant Mawr Waterfall
  • More

Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in Wales includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Dinorwig and Llanberis. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Betws y Coed, where you'll spend 1 night.

Visiting National Slate Museum is always a good idea. This up-and-coming museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Llanberis Station, a must-see heritage railway in the village.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Dolbadarn Castle. This locally appreciated castle offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Llanberis Lake Railway, where you can take in historic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Ceunant Mawr These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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

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

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Day7

Day 7

  • Betws y Coed
  • Conwy
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Drive 30 km, 52 min

  • Pont-y-Pair Bridge
  • National Trust - Bodnant Garden
  • Plas Mawr
  • Conwy Castle
  • More

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Wales. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Betws y Coed, Graig, and Conwy. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Conwy, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Pont-y-pair Bridge is must-visit historical landmark and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to National Trust - Bodnant Garden, a frequently visited botanical garden, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Plas Mawr, a photogenic museum, also available for your discovery today.

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

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Wales!

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Day8

Day 8

  • Conwy
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Drive 114 km, 2 hours 14 min

  • Anglesey Sea Zoo
  • Plas Newydd House and Gardens
  • Pili Palas Nature World
  • Beaumaris Castle
  • Penmon Point
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On day 8 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Foel, Llanddaniel Fab, Menai Bridge, Beaumaris, and Llangoed. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Conwy, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Start your day at Anglesey Sea Zoo. This eye-catching aquarium is an increasingly popular place to see in Conwy. Then, wander over to National Trust - Plas Newydd House And Gardens. If instagrammable sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Pili Palas Nature World. This picturesque butterfly garden is a favorite among visitors.

Conwy offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Beaumaris Castle is a curiosity-inducing spot in the hamlet that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the castle, don’t forget to check out the awe-inspiring Trwyn Penmon Point. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this underrated lighthouse.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Conwy'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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Day9

Day 9

  • Conwy
  • Cardiff
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Drive 310 km, 4 hours 52 min

  • Valle Crucis Abbey / Abaty Glyn Y Groes
  • Llangollen & Corwen Railway
  • Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
  • Plas Newydd Historic House & Gardens Llangollen
  • More

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Wales, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Llandynan, Llangollen, and Trevor. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Cardiff, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

To truly experience Conwy, make sure to drop by Abaty Glyn Y Groes / Valle Crucis Abbey. This underrated monastery is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Llangollen Railway Station, one of the village’s best highlights.

Next, check out Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, one of the most beloved places to see in Conwy. This monument is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cardiff. Check in and relax 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 Pasture Restaurant Cardiff, a highly-rated dining destination in Cardiff. If you're eager to try something different, consider Pettigrew Tea Rooms - Bute Park, another top spot with a tantalizing 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 an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cardiff this evening.

Keep the evening going at Lab 22, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Dead Canary, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

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

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Day10

Day 10

  • Cardiff - Departure day
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  • Cardiff Castle
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Day 10 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 respected castle before you head out.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Cardiff’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Take a break with a cup of coffee or tea while savoring the local vibe in a coffee shop.

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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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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