Relaxed 12-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff to Swansea and Merthyr Tydfil

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 itinerary in Cardiff covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a performing arts theater, a public square, a science center, a park and much more! Start your adventure at St Fagans National Museum Of History. This locally renowned museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the enchanting wonders of Wales Millennium Centre, a must-see performing arts theater in the city.

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 Roald Dahl Plass. This intriguing public square offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Techniquest, where you can take in visually striking features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Hamadryad Park and Hamadryad Park. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

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 Cafe Citta, a top-rated dining destination in Cardiff. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Clayton Hotel Cardiff, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre, an IHG Hotel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cardiff this evening.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Cardiff.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Great Western - Jd Wetherspoon, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Rum & Fizz. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Kongs Cardiff, another top-rated place in the area.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Wales.

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through Wales means 24 hours of making the best memories in Cardiff. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Cardiff. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Cardiff!

Today's adventure in Cardiff promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Roath Park. This awe-inspiring park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Roath Pleasure Gardens, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Roath Recreation Ground, one of the city’s most up-and-coming attractions, known for its eye-catching features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of National Museum Cardiff. This visually striking museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Gorsedd Gardens, a worthwhile park, and 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.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Wales, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Cardiff.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Pasture Restaurant Cardiff, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Pettigrew Tea Rooms - Bute Park offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Prince of Wales - JD Wetherspoon. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cardiff.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Cardiff.

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 to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Wales!

On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Wales, you’ll go deep into Cardiff, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Cardiff, and meet locals along the way!

Cardiff is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views! Start at Hailey Park, a frequently visited park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Insole Court, enchanting visitors with its historic appeal. Continue your exploration at Llandaff Cathedral. This church is one of the city’s most beloved spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Cardiff at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Swalec Stadium. After exploring the park, head to the well-known Cardiff Castle. This castle will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Wales by joining a traveler-approved tour in Cardiff. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Cardiff that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Wales more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Cardiff to find the best options for you!

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 Cardiff, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Servini's at The Summerhouse, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Premier Inn Cardiff City Centre (Queen Street) hotel is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bill's Cardiff Central Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cardiff tonight.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Cardiff and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Wales!

Day 5 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!

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Cardiff, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Penarth Pier Pavilion, an underrated pier in the town. Then, head to Cosmeston Lakes Country Park & Medieval Village and soak in the ambiance of this standout park.

There are many interesting places to see in Cardiff and when you are ready for more, go to Knap Gardens. This is one of the town’s most worthwhile spots. After exploring the park, visit the increasingly popular Cold Knap Beach. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the increasingly popular National Trust - Dyffryn Gardens, an increasingly popular botanical garden in the town.

In the city of Swansea, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Wales.

Exploring the food culture in Swansea 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Perch, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Pant-y-Gwydr restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Turtle Bay Swansea is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Swansea.

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Popworld Swansea, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, No Sign Wine Bar is another popular option for a drink or two.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Wales!

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Swansea and visit amazing attractions in Southgate, Parkmill, and Rhossili destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 3 nights left in Swansea. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Swansea, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Three Cliffs Bay, an underrated cliff in the village. Then, head to Gower Heritage Centre and soak in the ambiance of this respected museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Swansea and when you are ready for more, go to Wreck Of The Helvetia. This is one of the village’s most locally appreciated spots. After exploring the historical landmark, visit the underrated National Trust - Rhossili And South Gower Coast. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the locally appreciated Old Coastguard Station, a locally appreciated visitor center in the village.

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

Exploring the food culture in Swansea 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.

Savor the flavors at Steak By Night, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Premier Inn Swansea City Centre hotel beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Gershwins Coffee House. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Swansea tonight.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Swansea. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Copper, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Hanbury offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Swansea.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Wales!

On day 7 of your relaxed road trip across Wales, you’ll explore the area around Swansea, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Swansea will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Wales.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Swansea today. One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is Swansea Museum. This respected museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Brynmill Park Public Conveniences and learn what makes this visually striking park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the often recommended Parc Singleton Park. After exploring the park, head to Clyne Gardens. This worthwhile botanical garden is a highlight in Swansea. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the worthwhile Oystermouth Castle. Enjoy exploring this incredible castle at your own pace.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Swansea 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 Swansea, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Dine in style at Swansea Grand Theatre, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Belle Vue Bistro Swansea ltd boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Hanson at the Chelsea Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Swansea.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Swansea and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Swansea can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Wales!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Wales continues on day 8, 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 Swansea and beyond. With 1 night left in Swansea, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Swansea on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Plantasia is the first of them. Buzz Trampoline Park is your next stop. This worthwhile trampoline park is one of the best-rated sights in Swansea.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Penllergare Valley Woods. This mesmerizing park is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Loughor Estuary and Gower National Landscape.

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

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 Swansea, 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 The New Slow Boat Cantonese Restaurant, a top-rated dining spot in Swansea. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bouchon De Rossi, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Franco's. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Swansea.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Swansea and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Wales. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Wales tomorrow with new energy.

Day 9 of your self-drive tour in Wales is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the hamlet of Margam and end it in the village of Aberdulais. You’ll stay in Merthyr Tydfil for 2 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Wales.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Swansea on today’s itinerary. First up is the increasingly popular castle, Margam Castle. Afterward, continue to Afan Forest Mountain Bike Trails, a bike park every traveler should visit.

As you explore Swansea’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the hamlet. Next, make your way to Afan Forest Park. This often recommended hiking area is an essential stop. Following that, head to Gnoll Estate Country Park, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by National Trust - Aberdulais, a frequently visited museum in the hamlet.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Wales at Merthyr Tydfil. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the town to recharge and rejuvenate.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Wales, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Merthyr Tydfil.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Merthyr Tydfil’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Wales.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Wales.

On day 10 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Merthyr Tydfil and visit amazing attractions in Abercanaid and Pant destinations, just outside of the town. You still have 1 night left in Merthyr Tydfil. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Merthyr Tydfil allows for both. Start by heading to Bikepark Wales. This often recommended bike park provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Cyfarthfa Castle Museum And Art Gallery, a standout museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Brecon Mountain Railway, an increasingly popular heritage railway. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally appreciated Morlais Castle.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Merthyr Tydfil has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the town.

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.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Wales!

Day 11 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Wales is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Ystrad Mynach and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the village of Crosskeys and the town of Caerphilly. You’ll stay in Cardiff for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Merthyr Tydfil. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await. Parc Cwm Darran is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most worthwhile places to visit in Merthyr Tydfil. Next, head to Llancaiach Fawr Manor, a beloved museum, known for its visually striking 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 Waunfawr Park. This awe-inspiring park offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Morgan Jones Park adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Caerphilly Castle, a culturally significant castle in Merthyr Tydfil.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Cardiff. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Cardiff has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Savor the flavors at The Potted Pig, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Mowgli Street Food beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Angel Hotel Cardiff. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cardiff tonight.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Cardiff.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Wales!