7-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff traveling north to Merthyr Tydfil and Builth Wells

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Description

Explore the best of Wales on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Cardiff, Caerphilly, Merthyr Tydfil, Pembroke, Carew, St Florence, Builth Wells, Welshpool, Llanfair Caereinion, Raglan, Tintern, Chepstow, Blaenavon, and Cwmbran. This road trip itinerary in Wales seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Wales takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Cardiff, 1 night in Merthyr Tydfil, and 2 nights in Builth Wells. 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. Cardiff Castle and St Fagans National Museum Of History are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Cardiff, Caerphilly, Merthyr Tydfil, Pembroke, Carew, St Florence, Builth Wells, Welshpool, Llanfair Caereinion, Raglan, Tintern, Chepstow, Blaenavon, and Cwmbran, 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!

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Day 1

Day 1 – Cardiff - arrival day

  • Cardiff - Arrival day
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Say hello to Cardiff! Your exciting road trip through Wales is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Cardiff for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

Cardiff is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. 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 hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Cardiff. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, 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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Pennyroyal, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Borough Arms offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cardiff. The Libertine Cocktail Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

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Day 2

Day 2 – Cardiff

  • Cardiff
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Drive 31 km, 1 hour 13 min

  • Bute Park
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cardiff for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Cardiff today. One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is Bute Park. This eye-catching park will help you start your sightseeing on top.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. Wales is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As you explore more of Cardiff, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Great Western - Jd Wetherspoon. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Rum & Fizz offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Kongs Cardiff, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Cardiff, Caerphilly, and Merthyr Tydfil

  • Cardiff
  • Merthyr Tydfil
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Drive 45 km, 1 hour 18 min

  • Cardiff Castle
  • National Museum Wales Main Library
  • Bute Park
  • More

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 2 vibrant destinations - Cardiff and Caerphilly. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Merthyr Tydfil. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

A blend of a romantic, a stunning, an instagrammable, a respected, and a majestic await you in Cardiff on today’s itinerary. First up is the well-known castle, Cardiff Castle. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to National Museum Cardiff. A visit to this museum is an enriching experience for all.

Spend your afternoon discovering Roath Pleasure Gardens, a frequently visited park known for its serene features.

Head to Roath Park, an up-and-coming park in Cardiff. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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 Merthyr Tydfil. Merthyr Tydfil 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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Merthyr Tydfil's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Wales!

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Day 4

Day 4 – Merthyr Tydfil, Pembroke, Carew, St Florence, and Builth Wells

  • Merthyr Tydfil
  • Pembroke
  • Carew
  • St Florence
  • Builth Wells
  • More

Drive 273 km, 3 hours 48 min

  • Pembroke Castle
  • Dinosaur Park
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip in Wales, 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 in Pembroke, Carew, and St Florence. In the evening, you’ll end up in Builth Wells, where you will stay for 2 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Merthyr Tydfil, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Pembroke may take around 1 hour 44 min. Upon your arrival in Pembroke, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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

When you’ve had your share of Pembroke, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Carew. Your travel time is around 9 min.

Head to Carew Castle & Tidal Mill, a frequently visited castle in Carew. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking in Carew’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: St Florence. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 6 min. When you arrive in St Florence, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering The Dinosaur Park Tenby, an intriguing dinosaur park known for its instagrammable features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Manor Wildlife Park, a curiosity-inducing wildlife reserve that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

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

As you explore more of Builth Wells, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Wales.

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Day 5

Day 5 – Builth Wells, Welshpool, Tan-y-pistyll, and Llanfair Caereinion

  • Builth Wells
  • Welshpool
  • Llanfair Caereinion
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Drive 226 km, 4 hours 9 min

  • National Trust - Powis Castle and Garden
  • Pistyll Rhaeadr
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Builth Wells, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Welshpool, Tan-y-pistyll, and Llanfair Caereinion. You still have 1 night left in Builth Wells.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Welshpool, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Tan-y-pistyll. This drive usually takes around 49 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is National Trust - Powis Castle And Garden. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

Set your GPS to Tan-y-pistyll and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 49 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Tan-y-pistyll beckons with new experiences!

Begin your journey at Pistyll Rhaeadr and explore the eye-catching features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Llanfair Caereinion. This car ride takes around 48 min.

Your self-guided tour starts at Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway, a worthwhile heritage railway that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Wales!

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Day 6

Day 6 – Builth Wells, Raglan, Tintern, Chepstow, Blaenavon, and Cwmbran

  • Builth Wells
  • Raglan
  • Tintern
  • Chepstow
  • Cardiff
  • More

Drive 200 km, 3 hours 40 min

  • Raglan Castle
  • Tintern Abbey / Abaty Tyndryn
  • More

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Wales, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 5 destinations, Raglan, Tintern, Chepstow, Blaenavon, and Cwmbran. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cardiff, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

After soaking in Raglan’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Tintern. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 29 min. When you arrive in Tintern, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Raglan Castle, a frequently visited castle that draws visitors from near and far.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Tintern, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Raglan to Tintern may take around 29 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Tintern, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Abaty Tyndyrn / Tintern Abbey. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the monastery before you continue to your next stop.

When you’ve had your share of Tintern, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Chepstow. Your travel time is around 12 min.

Make your way to Castell Cas-gwent / Chepstow Castle, an often recommended castle that draws attention for its historic features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cardiff. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Cardiff. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pasture Restaurant Cardiff, a highly-rated dining destination in Cardiff. If you're eager to try something different, consider Pettigrew Tea Rooms - Bute Park, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Prince of Wales - JD Wetherspoon. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cardiff this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Lab 22, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Dead Canary provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

Say good night to Cardiff and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Wales!

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Day 7

Day 7 – Cardiff - departure day

  • Cardiff - Departure day
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  • Bute Park
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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.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

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

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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