6-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff traveling north to Builth Wells, Bangor, and Merthyr Tydfil
Description
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Wales as you embark on an unforgettable 6-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Cardiff, Builth Wells, Conwy, Llandudno, Bangor, Caernarfon, Porthmadog, Portmeirion, Trawsfynydd, Merthyr Tydfil, Pant, and Abercanaid.
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 Builth Wells, 1 night in Bangor, 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 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. Eryri National Park (snowdonia) and Cardiff Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Conwy Castle, learn more about the unique Caernarfon Castle, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of St Fagans National Museum Of History.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cardiff, Builth Wells, Conwy, Llandudno, Bangor, Caernarfon, Porthmadog, Portmeirion, Trawsfynydd, Merthyr Tydfil, Pant, and Abercanaid, 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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Welcome to Cardiff, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Wales! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Cardiff's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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. 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 delicious meal 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 satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cardiff this evening.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Pennyroyal offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Borough Arms is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Libertine Cocktail Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Wales!
Day 2
- Cardiff
- Builth Wells
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Drive 118 km, 2 hours 12 min
- Cardiff Castle
- National Museum Wales Main Library
- Wales Millennium Centre
- St Fagans National Museum of History building
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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 Builth Wells, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Cardiff Castle. This interesting castle is an awe-inspiring place to see in Cardiff. Continue your discovery at National Museum Cardiff, a historic museum with stories to tell.
Head to Wales Millennium Centre, a beloved performing arts theater in Cardiff. Explore its enchanting features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
St Fagans National Museum Of History is a captivating museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Builth Wells. Builth Wells offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Builth Wells. 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.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Wales!
Day 3
- Builth Wells
- Betws y Coed
- Bangor
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Drive 238 km, 3 hours 56 min
- Rhaeadr Ewynnol Swallow Falls Waterfall
- Pont-y-Pair Bridge
- National Trust - Bodnant Garden
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Wales. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Betws y Coed, Graig, Conwy, and Llandudno. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bangor. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Head to Rhaeadr Ewynnol / Swallow Falls Waterfall, an often recommended waterfall in Betws y Coed. Explore its mesmerizing features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Betws y Coed, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Graig may take around 20 min. Upon your arrival in Graig, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Begin your journey at Pont-y-pair Bridge and explore the visually striking features.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Betws y Coed, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Graig. This drive usually takes around 20 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Head to National Trust - Bodnant Garden, an often recommended botanical garden in Graig. Explore its mesmerizing features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Bangor, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bangor. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
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
- Bangor
- Caernarfon
- Porthmadog
- Portmeirion
- Merthyr Tydfil
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Drive 266 km, 4 hours 22 min
- Caernarfon Castle
- Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways
- Portmeirion North Wales
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Wales, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Caernarfon, Porthmadog, Portmeirion, and Trawsfynydd. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Merthyr Tydfil, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Caernarfon, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Porthmadog. This drive usually takes around 31 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Caernarfon Castle, a popular castle that draws visitors from near and far.
Porthmadog’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Caernarfon behind. This drive usually takes around 31 min. Porthmadog welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Make your way to Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways, an often recommended heritage railway that draws attention for its historic features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Merthyr Tydfil. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Merthyr Tydfil's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Merthyr Tydfil.
Head back to your accommodation in Merthyr Tydfil and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Wales!
Day 5
- Merthyr Tydfil
- Pant
- Abercanaid
- Cardiff
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Drive 54 km, 1 hour 28 min
- Cyfarthfa Castle Museum and Art Gallery
- Brecon Mountain Railway
- Morlais Castle
- BikePark Wales
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Wales. Today you will explore Pant and Abercanaid, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Cardiff. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Cyfarthfa Castle Museum And Art Gallery. Spend some time admiring the standout features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Pant, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Abercanaid. This drive usually takes around 17 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Take your self-guided tour to Brecon Mountain Railway, an underrated heritage railway that everyone visiting Pant should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Morlais Castle. This historic castle is one of the most curiosity-inducing attractions in the region.
Abercanaid’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Pant behind. This drive usually takes around 17 min. Abercanaid welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Begin your journey at Bikepark Wales and explore the visually striking features.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Cardiff. Cardiff offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
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.
Savor the flavors at Cafe Citta, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Clayton Hotel Cardiff beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre, an IHG Hotel. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cardiff tonight.
Round off your dining experience by visiting The Great Western - Jd Wetherspoon, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Rum & Fizz, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Kongs Cardiff likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Wales.
Day 6
- Cardiff - Departure day
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- Bute Park
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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.
Make the most of your final day in Wales by visiting Cardiff’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Royal Arcade. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Wales. You can also browse through boutiques for stylish fashion choices.
Begin your adventure at Bute Park. This is an up-and-coming park you should not miss.
Before you conclude your road trip in Wales, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience 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’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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