Travel packages in Wales

Road trips in Wales

Relaxed 7-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil

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Photo of Norman Keep, Cardiff Castle at Autumn, Cardiff, Wales, UK.

Photo of Welsh National War Memorial Statue, Alexandra Gardens, Cathays Park, Cardiff, Wales, UK.

Relaxed 7-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil

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Set out on this 7-day relaxed road trip in Wales, where Cardiff, Barry, Penarth, Ogmore Village, Merthyr Tydfil, Abercanaid, Pant, Ystrad Mynach, Crosskeys, and Caerphilly offer rich culture, beautiful views, and memorable experiences at every stop!

Travel freely with this relaxed self-drive package in Wales, designed for comfort and exploration. Spend 4 nights in Cardiff and 2 nights in Merthyr Tydfil, staying at top-rated hotels near the heart of each city. Between drives, indulge in local cuisine, sip refreshing drinks, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Wales.

Your journey starts in Cardiff, where your rental car with CDW insurance will be ready for pickup. Choose a vehicle that suits your style, then set off on your 7-day relaxed road trip in Wales to explore its rich culture, fascinating history, and stunning landscapes.

Every stop on this leisurely self-drive holiday comes with handpicked accommodations that make relaxation effortless. Choose from elegant 5-star hotels with breathtaking views or comfortable 3-star stays that offer excellent value, all providing a welcoming retreat after a day on the road.

With your self-drive itinerary in Wales already planned, you’ll enjoy the country’s most celebrated sights without the rush. Marvel at the stunning Cardiff Castle and soak in the atmosphere of the magnificent St Fagans National Museum Of History.

Enjoy each stop as you explore the history, architecture, and character of each destination on this Wales road trip itinerary for 7 days.

As you travel between destinations, you’ll have plenty of time to explore local markets and boutique shops. These stops give you the chance to find unique souvenirs, taste regional specialties, and experience everyday life in Wales.

If you want to make your 7-day relaxed self-drive tour in Wales even more memorable, add optional tours or activities. Join a guided excursion, discover hidden neighborhoods, or spend an afternoon in your favorite market. Each choice deepens your connection to the places you visit.

Alongside these experiences, your laid-back self-drive package in Wales includes 6 nights in comfortable hotels, a rental car for 7 days, and convenient access to nearby dining options. You can also add flights and entry tickets to shape the trip exactly how you want it. With 24/7 travel support and a mobile app keeping your itinerary and documents organized, you can enjoy a relaxed drive and savor every mile of the road ahead.

Turn your travel plans into reality. Book your 7-day relaxed self-drive road trip in Wales today and enjoy a journey filled with discovery, freedom, and unforgettable moments!

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Day1

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. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Cardiff. Make yourself at home and unwind 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.

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.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Cardiff.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Pennyroyal, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Borough Arms is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Libertine Cocktail Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise a toast as you look back on the highlights of today’s relaxed road trip in Wales. Enjoy your first taste of Cardiff as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Day2

Day 2

Cardiff
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Drive 7 km, 44 min

National Museum Wales Main Library
Cardiff Castle
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Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Cardiff, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Wales are extraordinary.

National Museum Cardiff leaves a lasting impression. This museum is one of the most underrated places to visit in Cardiff. Next, head to Cardiff Castle, a locally renowned castle, known for its visually striking features.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Cafe Citta, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Clayton Hotel Cardiff offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre, an IHG Hotel. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cardiff.

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.

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.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Wales!

Day3

Day 3

Cardiff
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Drive 26 km, 1 hour

On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Wales, you’ll go deep into Cardiff, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Cardiff, and meet locals along the way!

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Wales. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Wales and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Bring home unique finds from Cardiff's bustling shopping hub, St. David's Dewi Sant. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, St. David's Dewi Sant offers plenty of options, including restaurants, cafes, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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 Cardiff, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Dine in style at Pasture Restaurant Cardiff, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Pettigrew Tea Rooms - Bute Park boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Prince of Wales - JD Wetherspoon. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cardiff.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Cardiff.

Continue your lively evening at Lab 22, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Dead Canary is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Wales!

Day4

Day 4

Cardiff
Barry
Penarth
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
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Day 4 of your relaxed road trip in Wales will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Wales, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Set your GPS to Barry and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 31 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Barry beckons with new experiences!

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Cold Knap Beach, a frequently visited beach that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Cosmeston Lakes Country Park & Medieval Village, a worthwhile park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Penarth Pier Pavilion and explore the visually striking features.

In Merthyr Tydfil, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a day on the road. Our top recommendations go perfectly with your laid-back road trip in Wales.

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.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Wales.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Wales!

Day5

Day 5

Merthyr Tydfil
Abercanaid
Pant
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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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Your relaxed road trip in Wales continues on day 5 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know Wales better by exploring the top attractions of Merthyr Tydfil and beyond. With 1 night left in Merthyr Tydfil, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the town.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Abercanaid. This drive usually takes around 9 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Bikepark Wales. Spend some time admiring the enchanting features of the bike park before you continue to your next stop.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Cyfarthfa Castle Museum And Art Gallery, a frequently visited museum in Abercanaid. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Pant, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Merthyr Tydfil. This drive usually takes around 11 min.

Savor the day by heading to Brecon Mountain Railway, an often recommended heritage railway that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Morlais Castle, where you can soak in the respected surroundings.

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

Exploring the food culture in Merthyr Tydfil 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 town.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Merthyr Tydfil’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Wales.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Wales!

Day6

Day 6

Merthyr Tydfil
Ystrad Mynach
Crosskeys
Cardiff
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Drive 74 km, 2 hours 2 min

Parc Cwm Darran
Llancaiach Fawr Manor
Waunfawr Park
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Day 6 of your relaxed road trip across Wales offers a day of exciting discoveries. You’ll start your day in Ystrad Mynach and drive in the direction of Crosskeys for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in Cardiff, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Parc Cwm Darran and explore the enchanting features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Crosskeys. This car ride takes around 26 min.

Llancaiach Fawr Manor is an intriguing museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Crosskeys. This drive usually takes around 26 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Waunfawr Park, an increasingly popular park known for its gorgeous features.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you can relax in Cardiff. Here, you can choose from the best hotels and other accommodations as you get to know more about the culture in the city.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Servini's at The Summerhouse, an iconic dining spot in Cardiff. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Premier Inn Cardiff City Centre (Queen Street) hotel, a popular restaurant in Cardiff. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bill's Cardiff Central Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Cardiff. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Cardiff and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Wales!

Day7

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’re flying home, return your rental car with time to spare. For a stress-free farewell, book a later flight and enjoy a final, relaxed day in Cardiff.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Cardiff’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. 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 Bute Park, a serene park before you head out.

Over a good meal, take a moment to unwind and reflect on the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip. Savor one last traditional dish in Cardiff, or keep it light with a quick bite before you go.

Dine in style at The Potted Pig, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Mowgli Street Food boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

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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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.

Personalize your itinerary

Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.

Easily make changes

Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.

Enjoy seamless planning

With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.

Explore with confidence

From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

Secure your spot

Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.

Get instant confirmation

Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.

Personalize your itinerary

Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.

Easily make changes

Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.

Enjoy seamless planning

With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.

Explore with confidence

From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

We guarantee

Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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