7-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Wales, England, and Scotland With Itinerary from Cardiff to Northleach, Chapel Stile, and Edinburgh
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Embark on an unforgettable 7-day multi-country road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland! If traveling through picturesque landscapes and immersing yourself in the captivating cultures of destinations like Cardiff, Brecon, Bath, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Edinburgh sounds like your idea of a great vacation, this iconic European tour is for you.
With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 3 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 3 nights in Wales, 2 nights in England, and 1 night in Scotland.
In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Wales, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Cardiff and begin your adventure from there. Explore Cardiff and Brecon, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.
Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of England. Immerse yourself in the allure of Bath, Bourton-on-the-Water, Northleach, Stratford-on-Avon, Windermere, Chapel Stile, and Chester, where every street tells a story.
Continuing your journey, you'll step into the captivating realm of Scotland. This country's charm is boundless, and you'll be impressed by the wonders of Edinburgh.
Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Bath’s Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum and Edinburgh's iconic Royal Mile. From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.
Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.
Your ultimate multi-country road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.
By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 7-day self-drive adventure in Wales, England, and Scotland. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.
Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in Wales, England, and Scotland.
Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!
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Day 1
- Cardiff - Arrival day
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- Bute Park
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Wales, England, and Scotland begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Cardiff in Wales. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Cardiff for 2 nights.
Catch an early flight to Wales to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Cardiff before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.
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.
Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Wales's delectable cuisine at one of Cardiff's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Cardiff, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Elevens Bar And Grill? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Old Arcade as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cardiff.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Pennyroyal after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Borough Arms, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Libertine Cocktail Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Your multi-country road trip in Wales, England, and Scotland has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.
Day 2
- Cardiff
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Drive 150 km, 3 hours 1 min
- St Fagans National Museum of History building
- Sophia Gardens
- National Museum Wales Main Library
- Brecon Canal Basin
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Greet day 2 of your multi-country road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Cardiff for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring!
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the popular St Fagans National Museum Of History, a picture-perfect museum in Cardiff. Next, go to Swalec Stadium.
After visiting St Fagans National Museum Of History and Swalec Stadium, have a stroll along Cardiff's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to National Museum Cardiff. This standout museum offers a unique experience. Brecon Canal Basin is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.
As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Cardiff. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Wales in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Cafe Citta, 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 Clayton Hotel Cardiff, 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 Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre, an IHG Hotel. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cardiff tonight.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Great Western - Jd Wetherspoon stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Rum & Fizz offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Kongs Cardiff is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
As the night falls in Cardiff, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.
Day 3
- Cardiff
- Northleach
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Drive 184 km, 3 hours 9 min
- Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum
- Thermae Bath Spa
- Roman Baths
- Bath Abbey
- Pulteney Bridge
- Bourton-on-the-water
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland. Today's main destinations are Bath in England, 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 Northleach. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and photo-friendly spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum. This curiosity-inducing restaurant is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Thermae Bath Spa, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out Roman Baths, one of the most interesting places to see in Cardiff. This archeological site is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Bath Abbey. Wander around and soak in the culturally significant atmosphere this church offers. Then, head to Pulteney Bridge, a top-rated historical landmark that adds another dimension to your day. Finally, visit the intriguing Bourton-on-the-water, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.
After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Northleach. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.
As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the town of Northleach boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of England.
Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Wales, England, and Scotland! Enjoy your evening in Northleach to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the town center, or simply relaxing.
Day 4
- Northleach
- Chapel Stile
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Drive 390 km, 5 hours 21 min
- Anne Hathaway's Cottage
- Shakespeare's Birthplace
- Windermere
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On day 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Wales, England, and Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Stratford-on-Avon in England. When you’re not exploring the village and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Chapel Stile, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Northleach is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a historical landmark, a museum, and a lake. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the underrated Anne Hathaway's Cottage and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Shakespeare's Birthplace, a photogenic museum that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Windermere, one of the town’s most underrated spots that you shouldn’t miss.
After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Chapel Stile of your choice.
If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Wales, England, and Scotland, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Chapel Stile. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.
As the night falls in Chapel Stile, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.
Day 5
- Chapel Stile
- Edinburgh
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Drive 237 km, 3 hours 38 min
- Holyrood Palace
- Edinburgh Castle
- The Royal Mile
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On day 5 of your multi-country road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland, 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 to see in Edinburgh in Scotland. In the evening, you’ll end up in Edinburgh, where you will stay for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Chapel Stile today. One of the most notable attractions included on the itinerary is Holyrood Palace. This history-steeped palace will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Edinburgh Castle and learn what makes this breathtaking castle unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the well-known Royal Mile.
Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Edinburgh. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.
After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland by rewarding yourself with a taste of Edinburgh’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, an iconic dining spot in Edinburgh. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Chaophraya Thai Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Edinburgh. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Theatre Royal Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Edinburgh. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Continue your lively evening at Nightcap - Cocktail Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Juniper Edinburgh is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Panda & Sons ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Take in the ambiance of Edinburgh as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!
Day 6
- Edinburgh
- Cardiff
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Drive 622 km, 8 hours 16 min
- Eastgate and Eastgate Clock
- Chester Cross
- Chester Cathedral
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Chester in England. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cardiff, your home for 1 night.
Get ready for an exciting day in Edinburgh. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a monument, a public square, and a church. Begin your adventure at Eastgate And Eastgate Clock. This is an intriguing monument you should not miss. Another must-see is Chester Cross, a worthwhile public square in Edinburgh.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Chester Cathedral.
Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Cardiff.
As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Cardiff. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Pasture Restaurant Cardiff, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Pettigrew Tea Rooms - Bute Park offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Prince of Wales - JD Wetherspoon. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cardiff.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Lab 22. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Dead Canary offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two.
Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!
Day 7
- Cardiff - Departure day
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- Cardiff Castle
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On day 7 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Cardiff before it’s time to leave.
Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Discover boutiques offering an array of stylish fashion choices.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Cardiff Castle, an enchanting castle before you head out.
Get a last taste of Wales’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Cardiff and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland.
The time has come to say farewell to Cardiff for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 7-day European road trip in Wales, England, and Scotland with fond memories. Safe travels!
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