7-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff traveling north to Tenby and Betws y Coed

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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.
7-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff traveling north to Tenby and Betws y Coed
7-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff traveling north to Tenby and Betws y Coed
7-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff traveling north to Tenby and Betws y Coed
7-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff traveling north to Tenby and Betws y Coed
7-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff traveling north to Tenby and Betws y Coed
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Explore the best of Wales on a remarkable 7-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Cardiff, Pembroke, Tenby, St Davids, Bosherston, Manorbier, Aberystwyth, Devil's Bridge, Harlech, Betws y Coed, Llanberis, Beddgelert, Caernarfon, Brecon, and Coelbren.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Wales. You will spend 2 nights in Cardiff, 2 nights in Tenby, and 2 nights 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 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 Caernarfon Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Cardiff, Pembroke, Tenby, St Davids, Bosherston, Manorbier, Aberystwyth, Devil's Bridge, Harlech, Betws y Coed, Llanberis, Beddgelert, Caernarfon, Brecon, and Coelbren, 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, accommodations, 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!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day1

Day 1

  • Cardiff - Arrival day
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  • Bute Park
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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 discovering what to see in Cardiff before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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. 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.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Cardiff. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Wales. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

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 wonderful meal at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Cardiff, a top-rated dining spot in Cardiff. If you're in the mood for something new, try Elevens Bar And Grill, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Old Arcade. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cardiff.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Pennyroyal, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Borough Arms provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Libertine Cocktail Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Wales!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Cardiff
  • Pembroke
  • Tenby
  • More

Drive 182 km, 2 hours 55 min

  • Wales Millennium Centre
  • National Museum Wales Main Library
  • Pembroke Castle
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Wales. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Cardiff, Pembroke, and Tenby. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Tenby, where you'll spend 2 nights.

National Museum Cardiff makes a great addition to your morning plans. This underrated museum is a visually striking place to see in Cardiff.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Cardiff.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Wales Millennium Centre, a beloved performing arts theater that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Set your GPS to Pembroke and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 56 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Pembroke beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Pembroke Castle, an underrated castle in Pembroke. Explore its culturally significant features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Tenby. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

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 Tenby, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Tap & Tân, an iconic dining spot in Tenby. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Top Joe's Tenby, a popular restaurant in Tenby. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Indie Burger, a hidden gem nestled in Tenby. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Wales!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Tenby
  • St Davids
  • Bosherston
  • Manorbier
  • More

Drive 142 km, 3 hours 1 min

  • St David's Cathedral
  • Saint Govan's Chapel
  • Manorbier Castle
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip in Wales, you’ll start and end your day in Tenby, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Tenby, there’s no need to rush. Experience St Davids, Bosherston, and Manorbier to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

St Davids is brimming with adventures.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — St Davids, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Tenby to St Davids may take around 1 hour 6 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in St Davids, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to St. David's Cathedral School, an up-and-coming church in St Davids. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Bosherston’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of St Davids behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 9 min. Bosherston welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is St Govan's Chapel. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the church before you continue to your next stop.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Manorbier may take around 30 min. Upon your arrival in Manorbier, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Manorbier Castle. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Tenby and your accommodation.

Tenby is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Tenby.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Heywood Spa Hotel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Premier Inn Tenby Town Centre offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Atlantic Hotel is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Tenby.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Wales.

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Day4

Day 4

  • Tenby
  • Aberystwyth
  • Pontarfynach
  • Harlech
  • Betws y Coed
  • More

Drive 287 km, 5 hours 13 min

  • Aberystwyth Cliff Railway
  • Devil's Bridge Falls
  • Harlech Castle
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Wales. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Aberystwyth, Devil's Bridge, and Harlech. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Betws y Coed, where will spend 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Tenby, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Aberystwyth. Your travel time is around 2 hours 1 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Aberystwyth Cliff Railway, a beloved heritage railway in Aberystwyth. Explore its standout features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Aberystwyth and set your GPS to Devil's Bridge. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 25 min. Upon reaching Devil's Bridge, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Devil's Bridge Waterfalls is a locally appreciated waterfall we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Harlech may take around 2 hours. Upon your arrival in Harlech, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Harlech Castle, a curiosity-inducing castle that draws visitors from near and far.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Betws y Coed. Betws y Coed offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Betws y Coed is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Betws y Coed.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Wales!

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Day5

Day 5

  • Betws y Coed
  • Llanberis
  • Beddgelert
  • Caernarfon
  • More

Drive 117 km, 2 hours 40 min

  • Ceunant Mawr Waterfall
  • Llanberis Lake Railway
  • Gelert's Grave
  • Caernarfon Castle
  • Pont-y-Pair Bridge
  • More

Greet day 5 of your road trip in Wales with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Betws y Coed, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Llanberis, Beddgelert, Caernarfon, and Betws y Coed.

Whether you decide to explore Llanberis on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Awaiting your discovery is the often recommended Pont-y-pair Bridge, a visually striking historical landmark in Betws y Coed.

When you’ve had your share of Betws y Coed, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Llanberis. Your travel time is around 32 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Ceunant Mawr, a worthwhile waterfall known for its romantic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Llanberis Lake Railway, a frequently visited heritage railway.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Llanberis, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Beddgelert. This drive usually takes around 30 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Beddgelert is Bedd Gelert, an often recommended monument that draws attention for its historic features.

Caernarfon’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Beddgelert behind. This drive usually takes around 31 min. Caernarfon welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Caernarfon Castle, a notable castle known for its culturally significant features.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Betws y Coed's best restaurants.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Wales!

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Day6

Day 6

  • Betws y Coed
  • Brecon
  • Coelbren
  • Cardiff
  • More

Drive 310 km, 5 hours 19 min

  • Elan Valley Waterfall Trail
  • Brecon Cathedral
  • Brecon Canal Basin
  • Henrhyd Falls
  • More

Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in Wales includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Rhayader, Brecon, and Coelbren. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cardiff, where you'll spend 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Cardiff may take around 2 hours 21 min. Upon your arrival in Cardiff, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Elan Valley Waterfall Trail and explore the stunning features.

Brecon’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Betws y Coed behind. This drive usually takes around 59 min. Brecon welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Our first attraction recommendation in Brecon is Brecon Cathedral, an underrated church that draws attention for its symbolic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Brecon Canal Basin, a visually striking marina that stands out in the town.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Coelbren. This car ride takes around 40 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Coelbren is Henrhyd Falls, a worthwhile waterfall that draws attention for its romantic features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Cardiff, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Cafe Citta, a top-rated dining spot in Cardiff. If you're in the mood for something new, try Clayton Hotel Cardiff, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre, an IHG Hotel. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cardiff.

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.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Wales!

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Day7

Day 7

  • Cardiff - Departure day
  • More
  • Cardiff Castle
  • More

Day 7 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, begin at Cardiff Castle. This well-known castle is a hotspot among locals.

For a shopping spree in Cardiff, we recommend the lively Royal Arcade. Here, you'll find a range of shops you can browse for some souvenir shopping. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe.

Before you conclude your road trip in Wales, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Cardiff.

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.

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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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.

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