5-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff to Aberystwyth

On day 2 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 Brecon, Three Cocks, and Talgarth to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Llandaff Cathedral, a curiosity-inducing church in Brecon. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Spend your afternoon discovering St Fagans National Museum Of History, an interesting museum known for its awe-inspiring features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Brecon and set your GPS to Three Cocks. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 14 min. Upon reaching Three Cocks, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Brecon is Brecon Cathedral, an often recommended church that draws attention for its historic 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. 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 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.

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.

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

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Wales includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Rhayader and Aberystwyth. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Aberystwyth, where you'll spend 1 night.

Aberystwyth’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cardiff behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 59 min. Aberystwyth welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Elan Valley Waterfall Trail and explore the awe-inspiring features. Next, make your way to Craig Goch Dam, another highlight in Rhayader.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Aberystwyth. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 1 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Aberystwyth Cliff Railway is a worthwhile heritage railway we recommend visiting today. Discover its standout features before continuing your self-guided tour to Castell Aberystwyth Castle, an enchanting castle that’s well-regarded in the area.

Aberystwyth Arts Centre is a worthwhile art gallery we recommend visiting today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Baravin, a top-rated dining destination in Aberystwyth. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Y Consti, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Little Devil's Café. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Aberystwyth this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Kanes Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Libertine is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Y Bañera also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 4 of your road trip in Wales, your travel plans include 4 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Beddgelert, Llanberis, Betws y Coed, and Conwy are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cardiff, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Aberystwyth and set your GPS to Beddgelert. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 43 min. Upon reaching Beddgelert, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Bedd Gelert, an up-and-coming monument that everyone visiting Beddgelert should see.

After soaking in Beddgelert’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Llanberis. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 30 min. When you arrive in Llanberis, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the day by heading to Llanberis Lake Railway, an increasingly popular heritage railway that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Llanberis, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Betws y Coed. This drive usually takes around 29 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Pont-y-pair Bridge, a curiosity-inducing historical landmark that everyone visiting Betws y Coed should see.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Pasture Restaurant Cardiff, a top-rated dining spot in Cardiff. If you're in the mood for something new, try Pettigrew Tea Rooms - Bute Park, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Prince of Wales - JD Wetherspoon. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cardiff.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Lab 22, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Dead Canary offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

Head back to your accommodation in Cardiff and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Wales.