Relaxed 11-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff to Aberystwyth and Bangor
Description
Included
Description
Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 11-day road trip in Wales with this laid-back self-drive vacation.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Wales at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Cardiff, Brecon, Tretower, Three Cocks, Hay on Wye, Aberystwyth, Llanberis, Dinorwig, Bangor, Conwy, Llandudno, Beaumaris, Menai Bridge, Caernarfon, and Y Bontnewydd. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 5 nights in Cardiff, 1 night in Aberystwyth, and 4 nights in Bangor. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Wales.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Wales. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Cardiff, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 11-day journey across Wales and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Wales with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Wales.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Wales. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Llandudno Pier. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Cardiff Castle.
Traveling leisurely through Wales means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Conwy Castle. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Caernarfon Castle. Get close to the spectacular St Fagans National Museum Of History and the wonderful National Museum Cardiff. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through Wales's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Wales.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Wales. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Wales's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Wales.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Wales. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 10 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 11 days of your self-drive road trip in Wales. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 11-day vacation in Wales and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Wales today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Cardiff - Arrival day
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- Bute Park
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Your relaxed road trip through Wales starts when you reach the incredible city of Cardiff, where you'll stay for 4 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Cardiff and begin your adventure in Wales.
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.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Cardiff. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Wales. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
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.
Dine in style at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Cardiff, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Elevens Bar And Grill boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Old Arcade. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cardiff.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Cardiff and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Pennyroyal offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Borough Arms is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Libertine Cocktail Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Wales. Enjoy your first taste of Cardiff as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
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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Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Cardiff, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Wales are extraordinary.
Today's adventure in Cardiff promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Wales Millennium Centre. This enchanting performing arts theater is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy St Fagans National Museum Of History, another breathtaking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to National Museum Cardiff, one of the city’s most often recommended attractions, known for its visually striking features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Roath Park. This romantic park is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.
Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Wales more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Cardiff offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Cafe Citta, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Clayton Hotel Cardiff is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre, an IHG Hotel. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cardiff tonight.
Experience the amazing nightlife in Cardiff and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Great Western - Jd Wetherspoon. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Rum & Fizz, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Kongs Cardiff provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
A leisurely self-drive holiday in Cardiff can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Wales!
Day 3
- Cardiff
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Drive 153 km, 2 hours 37 min
- Brecon Canal Basin
- The Royal Welsh Regimental Museum
- Tretower Court and Castle/ Llys a Chastell Tre-tŵr
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On day 3 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Cardiff and visit amazing attractions in Brecon and Tretower destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 2 nights left in Cardiff. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.
Cardiff is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a marina, a military museum, and a castle. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the underrated Brecon Canal Basin and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, The Royal Welsh Regimental Museum, an instagrammable military museum that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Llys A Chastell Tre-tŵr / Tretower Court And Castle, one of the town’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Cardiff and your accommodation.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Wales. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Cardiff, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
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.
As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Cardiff. The bars in Cardiff make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Lab 22, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Dead Canary is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.
Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Wales!
Day 4
- Cardiff
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Drive 187 km, 2 hours 46 min
- Black Mountain Activities
- Hay Castle
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On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Wales, you’ll explore the area around Cardiff, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Cardiff will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Wales.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Cardiff, including an adventure park and a castle. Start your day with a visit to Black Mountain Adventure. This increasingly popular adventure park is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Hay Castle, which may be one of the most picture-perfect places you will experience today.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Cardiff.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
Dine in style at Servini's at The Summerhouse, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Premier Inn Cardiff City Centre (Queen Street) hotel boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bill's Cardiff Central Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cardiff.
Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Cardiff. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Wales!
Day 5
- Cardiff
- Aberystwyth
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Drive 163 km, 3 hours 23 min
- Vale of Rheidol Railway
- Aberystwyth Castle Grounds
- Amgueddfa Ceredigion Museum
- Aberystwyth Cliff Railway
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On day 5 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Wales. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Wales.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Cardiff, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Vale Of Rheidol Railway Museum, an intriguing heritage railway in the town. Then, head to Castell Aberystwyth Castle and soak in the ambiance of this romantic castle.
There are many interesting places to see in Cardiff, and when you are ready for more, go to Ceredigion Museum. This is one of the town’s most underrated photogenic spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the locally appreciated Aberystwyth Cliff Railway.
You’ll be staying at the incredible town of Aberystwyth in this laid-back road trip in Wales. You'll stay here for 1 night.
When it’s time to eat, the town has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Aberystwyth, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Baravin, a top-rated dining spot in Aberystwyth. If you're in the mood for something new, try Y Consti, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Little Devil's Café. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Aberystwyth.
If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Wales.
Continue your lively evening at Kanes Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Libertine is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Y Bañera ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Soak in the unique atmosphere of Aberystwyth as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Wales with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Wales!
Day 6
- Aberystwyth
- Bangor
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Drive 184 km, 3 hours 38 min
- Llanberis Lake Railway
- Llanberis Station
- National Slate Museum
- Snowdon
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Day 6 of your relaxed road trip across Wales promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the town of Llanberis and drive in the direction of the village of Dinorwig for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Bangor, where you’ll stay for 4 nights.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Aberystwyth, including a heritage railway, a museum, and a mountain range. Start your adventure at Llanberis Lake Railway. This curiosity-inducing heritage railway is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Llanberis Station located in Aberystwyth for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of National Slate Museum. Its picture-perfect features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Yr Wyddfa. Visitors usually appreciate the romantic features of this mountain range.
Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Wales at Bangor. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.
Exploring the food culture in Bangor offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Bangor. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.
Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Wales.
Day 7
- Bangor
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Drive 83 km, 1 hour 36 min
- Rhaeadr Ewynnol Swallow Falls Waterfall
- Pont-y-Pair Bridge
- Conwy Castle
- Smallest House in Great Britain
- Plas Mawr
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Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Wales continues on day 7, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Wales and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Bangor and beyond. With 3 nights left in Bangor, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bangor, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Rhaeadr Ewynnol / Swallow Falls Waterfall, an increasingly popular waterfall 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 Bangor, and when you are ready for more, go to Conwy Castle. This is one of the village’s most locally renowned historic spots of interest. After exploring the castle, visit the worthwhile Smallest House In Great Britain. Not far away, you'll also find Plas Mawr. This museum is a photogenic highlight in Bangor.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bangor and your accommodation.
Exploring the food culture in Bangor offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.
Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Wales.
Day 8
- Bangor
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Drive 79 km, 1 hour 28 min
- Llandudno Pier
- National Trust - Bodnant Garden
- Conwy Quay
- Mostyn Street
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Day 8 of your relaxed road trip through Wales means 24 hours of making the best memories in Llandudno. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Llandudno. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the town. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Llandudno!
One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Llandudno is Conwy Quay. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby. You can also explore Mostyn Street, a street that offers a glimpse into local life and culture.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Bangor, including a pier and a botanical garden. Start your day with a visit to Llandudno Pier. This notable pier is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to National Trust - Bodnant Garden, which may be one of the most idyllic places you will experience today.
Wales makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Wales also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.
When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Bangor, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Bangor. The bars in Bangor make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.
Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Wales!
Day 9
- Bangor
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Drive 36 km, 1 hour 5 min
- Beaumaris Castle
- Beaumaris Gaol and Court
- Plas Newydd House and Gardens
- Pili Palas Nature World
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On day 9 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Bangor and visit amazing attractions in Beaumaris, Llanddaniel Fab, and Menai Bridge destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Bangor. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.
Immerse yourself in Bangor’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Beaumaris Castle. This breathtaking castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the photogenic features of Beaumaris Gaol, a must-visit museum in the town.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to National Trust - Plas Newydd House And Gardens, an increasingly popular castle. For a change of scene, check out Pili Palas Nature World, known for its visually striking features.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bangor.
When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Bangor, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Wales.
Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Wales!
Day 10
- Bangor
- Cardiff
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Drive 291 km, 4 hours 34 min
- Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum
- Caernarfon Castle
- Gypsy Wood Park
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Day 10 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Wales will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Wales, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!
Today’s itinerary in Bangor covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a castle, and a park. Start your adventure at Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum. This underrated museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the breathtaking wonders of Caernarfon Castle, a must-see castle in the town.
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 Gypsy Wood Park. This often recommended park offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Cardiff. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Wales by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Wales. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Cardiff, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
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.
Experience the amazing nightlife in Cardiff and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.
Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Wales!
Day 11
- Cardiff - Departure day
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- Cardiff Castle
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Day 11 of your relaxed road trip in Wales is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Cardiff.
On your last day in Wales, take time to indulge in shopping at Cardiff’s popular marketplace, Royal Arcade. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Cardiff Castle. This interesting castle is a popular place to see in the city.
Unwind and look back at the past 11 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Cardiff or just grab something light to keep you going.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Bar 44 Cardiff, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Alchemist Cardiff? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Cardiff and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 11-day relaxed road trip in Wales is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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