6-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff traveling north to Brecon, Aberystwyth, and Betws y Coed
Description
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 6-day road trip through Wales. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Wales takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Cardiff, 1 night in Brecon, 1 night in Aberystwyth, and 1 night in Betws y Coed. 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 got 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 Conwy Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable St Fagans National Museum Of History, learn more about the unique Portmeirion, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of National Museum Cardiff.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cardiff, Brecon, Pant, Aberystwyth, Llanberis, Dinorwig, Portmeirion, and Conwy, 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, accommodation, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Cardiff - Arrival day
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- Bute Park
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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 in Cardiff for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, 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 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.
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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Cardiff, a popular restaurant in Cardiff. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cardiff at Elevens Bar And Grill, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Old Arcade. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cardiff tonight.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Pennyroyal is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Borough Arms, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is The Libertine Cocktail Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Wales!
Day 2
- Cardiff
- Brecon
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Drive 78 km, 1 hour 57 min
- National Museum Wales Main Library
- Sophia Gardens
- St Fagans National Museum of History building
- Brecon Canal Basin
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On day 2 of your road trip in Wales, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Cardiff and Brecon. In the evening, you’ll end up in Brecon, where you will stay for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites in the charming city of Cardiff. Your adventure starts at National Museum Cardiff, a beloved local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Swalec Stadium. This beloved park is known for its respected appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Cardiff's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to St Fagans National Museum Of History. This picture-perfect museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Brecon Canal Basin is also worth visiting.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Brecon. Brecon offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Brecon. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Wales!
Day 3
- Brecon
- Aberystwyth
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Drive 166 km, 3 hours 20 min
- Brecon Cathedral
- Brecon Mountain Railway
- Aberystwyth Cliff Railway
- Aberystwyth Arts Centre
- Aberystwyth Castle Grounds
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Wales. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Brecon, Pant, and Aberystwyth. 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 1 night.
Brecon is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Brecon Cathedral, an increasingly popular church that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Brecon Mountain Railway, enchanting visitors with its gorgeous appeal. Continue your exploration at Aberystwyth Cliff Railway. This heritage railway is one of the town’s most locally appreciated spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Brecon at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Aberystwyth Arts Centre. After exploring the art gallery, head to the worthwhile Castell Aberystwyth Castle.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Aberystwyth. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Aberystwyth. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Baravin, an iconic dining spot in Aberystwyth. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Y Consti, a popular restaurant in Aberystwyth. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Little Devil's Café, a hidden gem nestled in Aberystwyth. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Kanes Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Libertine is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Y Bañera is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Wales.
Day 4
- Aberystwyth
- Betws y Coed
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Drive 148 km, 2 hours 52 min
- Llanberis Lake Railway
- National Slate Museum
- Rhaeadr Ewynnol Swallow Falls Waterfall
- Gwydir Forest Park
- Pont-y-Pair Bridge
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Wales, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Llanberis, Dinorwig, and Betws y Coed. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Betws y Coed, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Immerse yourself in Aberystwyth’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Llanberis Lake Railway. This picture-perfect heritage railway is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the instagrammable features of National Slate Museum, 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 Rhaeadr Ewynnol / Swallow Falls Waterfall, a locally appreciated waterfall. For a change of scene, check out Gwydir Forest Park, known for its romantic features. We also recommend visiting Pont-y-pair Bridge. This historical landmark is a must for anyone looking to experience the town to the fullest.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Betws y Coed, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Betws y Coed's best restaurants.
Say good night to Betws y Coed and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Wales!
Day 5
- Betws y Coed
- Cardiff
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Drive 419 km, 5 hours 58 min
- Portmeirion North Wales
- Smallest House in Great Britain
- Conwy Castle
- National Trust - Conwy Suspension Bridge
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Wales. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Portmeirion and Conwy. 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.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. The first attraction of today is Portmeirion. Continue your discovery at Smallest House In Great Britain, a photogenic historical landmark with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Betws y Coed, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Conwy Castle. This interesting castle offers an UNESCO world heritage-designated encounter with Betws y Coed. Next, make your way to National Trust - Conwy Suspension Bridge to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Betws y Coed.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Cardiff. Cardiff offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you explore more of Cardiff, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Cafe Citta, a highly-rated dining destination in Cardiff. If you're eager to try something different, consider Clayton Hotel Cardiff, another top spot with a tantalizing 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 an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cardiff this evening.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Great Western - Jd Wetherspoon, known for its lively atmosphere. Rum & Fizz is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Kongs Cardiff offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Wales!
Day 6
- Cardiff - Departure day
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- Cardiff Castle
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Day 6 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 Cardiff Castle, a romantic castle before you head out.
Maximize your last day in Wales and go on a shopping spree in Cardiff’s shopping center, the lively St. David's Dewi Sant. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Wales. Take one last moment to soak in Wales, and unwind with tea or coffee at a cozy cafe.
Before you conclude your road trip in Wales, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Cardiff.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Pasture Restaurant Cardiff, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Pettigrew Tea Rooms - Bute Park is another top choice with a popular 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!
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