Relaxed 7-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil
Description
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Description
Discover Wales stress-free with this 7-day relaxed road trip, winding through Cardiff, Barry, Penarth, Ogmore Village, Merthyr Tydfil, Abercanaid, Pant, Ystrad Mynach, Crosskeys, and Caerphilly. Enjoy a relaxing self-drive holiday through stunning landscapes and calm adventures.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Wales at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Cardiff, Barry, Penarth, Ogmore Village, Merthyr Tydfil, Abercanaid, Pant, Ystrad Mynach, Crosskeys, and Caerphilly. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Cardiff and 2 nights in Merthyr Tydfil. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Wales.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Wales. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Cardiff, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 7-day journey across Wales and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Wales with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Wales.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Wales. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Cardiff Castle. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating St Fagans National Museum Of History.
Traveling leisurely through Wales means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent National Museum Cardiff. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Caerphilly Castle. Get close to the spectacular Wales Millennium Centre and the wonderful Bute Park. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through Wales's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Wales.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Wales. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Wales's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Wales.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Wales. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 6 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 7 days of your self-drive road trip in Wales. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 7-day vacation in Wales and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Wales today!
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Day 1
- Cardiff - Arrival day
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- Sophia Gardens
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Your relaxed road trip through Wales starts when you reach the incredible city of Cardiff, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Cardiff and begin your adventure in Wales.
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, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Cardiff. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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.
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 satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cardiff this evening.
Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Cardiff. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.
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 as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Wales. Enjoy your first taste of Cardiff as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2
- Cardiff
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Drive 7 km, 44 min
- Roath Park
- Roath Pleasure Gardens
- Roath Recreation Ground
- National Museum Wales Main Library
- Cardiff Castle
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Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Wales means 24 hours of making the best memories in Cardiff. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Cardiff. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Cardiff!
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Cardiff, including a park, a museum, and a castle. Start your day with a visit to Roath Park. This underrated park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Roath Pleasure Gardens, which may be one of the most mesmerizing places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Cardiff on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Roath Recreation Ground, an up-and-coming park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for National Museum Cardiff and Cardiff Castle.
Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Wales more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Cardiff offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
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.
As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Cardiff. The bars in Cardiff make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.
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.
Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Wales!
Day 3
- Cardiff
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Drive 26 km, 1 hour
- Insole Court
- St Fagans National Museum of History building
- Techniquest
- Roald Dahl Plass
- Wales Millennium Centre
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Day 3 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Cardiff, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Wales are extraordinary.
Today’s itinerary in Cardiff covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a science center, a public square, a performing arts theater and much more! Start your adventure at Insole Court. This often recommended museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the stunning wonders of St Fagans National Museum Of History, a must-see museum in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Techniquest. This underrated science center offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Roald Dahl Plass, where you can take in picture-perfect features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Wales Millennium Centre. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Wales by joining a traveler-approved tour in Cardiff. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Cardiff that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Wales more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Cardiff to find the best options for you!
Visit Royal Arcade in Cardiff for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique boutiques and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Royal Arcade has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Cardiff has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
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.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Cardiff and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Lab 22 after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Dead Canary, another bar with an inviting ambiance.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Wales!
Day 4
- Cardiff
- Merthyr Tydfil
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Drive 133 km, 2 hours 37 min
- Cold Knap beach
- Cosmeston Lakes Country Park & Medieval Village
- Penarth Pier Pavilion
- National Trust - Dyffryn Gardens
- Ogmore Castle
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Day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Wales is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Barry and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the town of Penarth and the village of Ogmore Village. You’ll stay in Merthyr Tydfil for 2 nights.
Cardiff is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a beach, a park, a pier, a botanical garden, a castle and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the worthwhile Cold Knap Beach and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Cosmeston Lakes Country Park & Medieval Village, a romantic park that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Penarth Pier Pavilion, one of the town’s most frequently visited spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the intriguing National Trust - Dyffryn Gardens. When you're finished at the botanical garden, Ogmore Castle awaits your visit. This castle is an eye-catching highlight on today's itinerary.
In the town of Merthyr Tydfil, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Wales.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Merthyr Tydfil has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the town.
As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Merthyr Tydfil. The bars in Merthyr Tydfil make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.
Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Wales!
Day 5
- Merthyr Tydfil
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Drive 26 km, 48 min
- BikePark Wales
- Cyfarthfa Castle Museum and Art Gallery
- Brecon Mountain Railway
- Morlais Castle
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On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Wales, you’ll explore the area around Merthyr Tydfil, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Merthyr Tydfil will make you fall even more in love with the town and uniqueness of Wales.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Merthyr Tydfil allows for both. Start by heading to Bikepark Wales. This often recommended bike park provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Cyfarthfa Castle Museum And Art Gallery, a picture-perfect museum, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Brecon Mountain Railway, an increasingly popular heritage railway. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the worthwhile Morlais Castle.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Merthyr Tydfil.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Wales. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Merthyr Tydfil, explore the town like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Merthyr Tydfil. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.
Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Wales!
Day 6
- Merthyr Tydfil
- Cardiff
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Drive 74 km, 2 hours 2 min
- Parc Cwm Darran
- Llancaiach Fawr Manor
- Waunfawr Park
- Morgan Jones Park
- Caerphilly Castle
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Day 6 of your self-drive tour in Wales is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the town of Ystrad Mynach and end it in the city of Cardiff. You’ll stay in Cardiff for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Wales.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Merthyr Tydfil allows for both. Start by heading to Parc Cwm Darran. This curiosity-inducing park provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Llancaiach Fawr Manor, a visually striking museum, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Waunfawr Park, a locally appreciated park. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the beloved Morgan Jones Park. Round off your day at Caerphilly Castle, another gem in Merthyr Tydfil with instagrammable features to discover.
You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Cardiff in this laid-back road trip in Wales. You'll stay here for 1 night.
Exploring the food culture in Cardiff offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Servini's at The Summerhouse, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Premier Inn Cardiff City Centre (Queen Street) hotel is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bill's Cardiff Central Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cardiff tonight.
Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Cardiff!
Day 7
- Cardiff - Departure day
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- Bute Park
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Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in Wales is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Cardiff.
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, begin at Bute Park. This underrated park is a popular place to see in the city.
Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Cardiff or just grab something light to keep you going.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Cardiff and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in Wales is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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