Travel packages in Wales

Road trips in Wales

5-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil and surrounding area

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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 5-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Cardiff, Caldicot, Chepstow, Tintern, Raglan, Merthyr Tydfil, Caerphilly, Barry, and Penarth.

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 and 1 night in Merthyr Tydfil. 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 St Fagans National Museum Of History are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Cardiff, Caldicot, Chepstow, Tintern, Raglan, Merthyr Tydfil, Caerphilly, Barry, and Penarth, 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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Day1

Day 1

Cardiff - Arrival day
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Sophia Gardens
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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 Swalec Stadium. 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.

Find your way to your hotel in Cardiff. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Wales. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Cardiff, a top-rated dining spot in Cardiff. If you're in the mood for something new, try Elevens Bar And Grill, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Old Arcade. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cardiff.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Pennyroyal, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Borough Arms. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at The Libertine Cocktail Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Wales!

Day2

Day 2

Cardiff
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Drive 33 km, 1 hour 17 min

National Museum Wales Main Library
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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.

Awaiting your discovery is the often recommended National Museum Cardiff, a visually striking museum in Cardiff.

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 recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Wales!

Day3

Day 3

Cardiff
Caldicot
Chepstow
Merthyr Tydfil
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Drive 132 km, 2 hours 20 min

Cardiff Castle
Caldicot Castle
Chepstow Castle / Castell Cas-gwent
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Wales, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 5 destinations, including Cardiff, Caldicot, Chepstow, Tintern, and Raglan. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Merthyr Tydfil, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Cardiff Castle brings Cardiff's character to life. This romantic castle is a highlight of any visit in the city.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Caldicot, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Cardiff to Caldicot may take around 44 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Caldicot, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Caldicot Castle is a frequently visited castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its enchanting features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Chepstow. This car ride takes around 15 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Castell Cas-gwent / Chepstow Castle. Spend some time admiring the awe-inspiring features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Merthyr Tydfil. Merthyr Tydfil 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 Merthyr Tydfil. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

Day4

Day 4

Merthyr Tydfil
Caerphilly
Barry
Cardiff
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Drive 89 km, 2 hours 1 min

Caerphilly Castle
Cold Knap beach
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On day 4 of your road trip in Wales, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Caerphilly, Barry, and Penarth are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cardiff, where you will stay for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Caerphilly. This car ride takes around 30 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Caerphilly is Caerphilly Castle, an increasingly popular castle that draws attention for its culturally significant features.

Set your GPS to Barry and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Barry beckons with new experiences!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Cold Knap Beach, an often recommended beach that everyone visiting Barry should see.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

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.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day5

Day 5

Cardiff - Departure day
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Bute Park
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Day 5 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 Bute Park, an awe-inspiring park before you head out.

Make the most of your final day in Wales by visiting Cardiff’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing St. David's Dewi Sant. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing vacation. Savor your final moments in Wales at a cozy cafe while relaxing with a cup of coffee or tea.

Before you conclude your road trip in Wales, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Cardiff.

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.

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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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.

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.

We guarantee

Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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