5-Day Wales Road Trip from Cardiff traveling north to Aberystwyth

Say hello to Cardiff! Your exciting road trip through Wales is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Cardiff for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Cardiff is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. 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 in Cardiff. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Cardiff, a top-rated dining destination in Cardiff. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Elevens Bar And Grill, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Old Arcade. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cardiff this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Pennyroyal. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Borough Arms offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Libertine Cocktail Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Wales. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Cardiff. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Aberystwyth, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Drop by the renowned Wales Millennium Centre. This popular convention center has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,729 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cardiff.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Cardiff Castle. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 19,028 reviews.

National Museum Cardiff is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This museum building is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,751 reviews. The attraction welcomes 373,191 visitors every year.

The attraction gets an estimated 373,191 visitors every year.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Aberystwyth. Aberystwyth offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Baravin, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Y Consti is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Little Devil's Café. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Aberystwyth tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Kanes Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Libertine is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Y Bañera is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Wales and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Greet day 3 of your road trip in Wales with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Aberystwyth for your remaining 1 night in the town later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Portmeirion, Porthmadog, Harlech, Ganllwyd, and Trawsfynydd.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Porthmadog, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Portmeirion may take around 8 min. Upon your arrival in Portmeirion, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned Portmeirion. This popular village has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,584 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Harlech, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Porthmadog. Your travel time is around 18 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways, a remarkable point of interest where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,019 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Harlech, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Porthmadog. Your travel time is around 18 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Harlech Castle, a remarkable castle where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,554 reviews.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Aberystwyth's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mama Fay's, a top-rated dining destination in Aberystwyth. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ultracomida, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Yr Hen Orsaf - JD Wetherspoon. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Aberystwyth this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Ship & Castle, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Glengower provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, White Horse offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Wales and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Wales. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Devil's Bridge, Aberystwyth, and Goginan. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cardiff. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

After soaking in Devil's Bridge’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cardiff. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 23 min. When you arrive in Cardiff, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Devil's Bridge Falls your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,170 reviews.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Aberystwyth.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Vale of Rheidol Railway Museum. This extraordinary railway museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,834 visitors.

Next, make your way to Aberystwyth Castle Grounds. This top attraction is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,914 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Aberystwyth Cliff Railway. This funicular is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,167 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Cardiff, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Cafe Citta, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Clayton Hotel Cardiff offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Pasture Restaurant Cardiff is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cardiff.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Great Western - JD Wetherspoon. 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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Wales!

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.

Make the most of your final day in Wales by visiting Cardiff’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Wales. Take home a piece of Wales with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Pettigrew Tea Rooms - Bute Park, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Prince of Wales - JD Wetherspoon? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

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!