One-Week Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff traveling north to Merthyr Tydfil, Swansea, and Builth Wells
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Description
Explore the best of Wales on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Cardiff, Caerphilly, Merthyr Tydfil, Abercanaid, Pant, Neath, Swansea, Rhossili, Trap, Builth Wells, Welshpool, Llanfair Caereinion, Elan Village, Raglan, Chepstow, Tintern, and Blaenavon. 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, 1 night in Swansea, 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. Marvel at the remarkable National Museum Cardiff, learn more about the unique Caerphilly Castle, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Wales Millennium Centre.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cardiff, Caerphilly, Merthyr Tydfil, Abercanaid, Pant, Neath, Swansea, Rhossili, Trap, Builth Wells, Welshpool, Llanfair Caereinion, Elan Village, Raglan, Chepstow, Tintern, and Blaenavon, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- 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.
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.
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.
Savor the flavors at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Cardiff, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Elevens Bar And Grill beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Old Arcade. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cardiff tonight.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Pennyroyal, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Borough Arms, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Libertine Cocktail Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Wales!
Day 2
- Cardiff
- More
Drive 30 km, 1 hour 8 min
Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Cardiff has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Cardiff by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Wales is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
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.
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.
Dine in style at Cafe Citta, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Clayton Hotel Cardiff boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre, an IHG Hotel. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cardiff.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Great Western - Jd Wetherspoon after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Rum & Fizz for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Kongs Cardiff is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Wales!
Day 3
- Cardiff
- Caerphilly
- Merthyr Tydfil
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Drive 45 km, 1 hour 11 min
- Cardiff Castle
- Gorsedd Gardens
- National Museum Wales Main Library
- Roath Park
- Caerphilly Castle
- More
On day 3 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 Cardiff and Caerphilly. In the evening, you’ll end up in Merthyr Tydfil, where you will stay for 1 night.
Cardiff is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Cardiff Castle, a notable castle that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Gorsedd Gardens, enchanting visitors with its enchanting appeal. Continue your exploration at National Museum Cardiff. This museum is one of the city’s most worthwhile spots.
Roath Park is a worthwhile park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Caerphilly, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Merthyr Tydfil. This drive usually takes around 29 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Your self-guided tour starts at Caerphilly Castle, a worthwhile castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring 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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Merthyr Tydfil's best restaurants.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Wales.
Day 4
- Merthyr Tydfil
- Abercanaid
- Pant
- Swansea
- More
Drive 103 km, 2 hours 11 min
- BikePark Wales
- Brecon Mountain Railway
- Cyfarthfa Castle Museum and Art Gallery
- 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 4 vibrant destinations - Abercanaid, Pant, Neath, and Margam. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Swansea. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
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 Abercanaid may take around 9 min. Upon your arrival in Abercanaid, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Bikepark Wales. Spend some time admiring the majestic features of the bike park before you continue to your next stop.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Pant, 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 Abercanaid to Pant may take around 15 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Pant, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Brecon Mountain Railway. Spend some time admiring the awe-inspiring features of the heritage railway before you continue to your next stop.
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 done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Swansea. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Swansea, 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at The Perch, a top-rated dining destination in Swansea. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pant-y-Gwydr restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Turtle Bay Swansea. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Swansea this evening.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Popworld Swansea, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out No Sign Wine Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Copper provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Wales!
Day 5
- Swansea
- Rhossili
- Builth Wells
- More
Drive 175 km, 3 hours 25 min
- Clyne Gardens
- National Trust - Rhosili and South Gower Coast
- More
On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Wales, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Rhossili, Llanarthney, and Trap. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Builth Wells, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Clyne Gardens, a curiosity-inducing botanical garden that draws visitors from near and far.
Upon your arrival in Rhossili, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Begin your journey at National Trust - Rhossili And South Gower Coast and explore the majestic features.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Builth Wells. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Wales!
Day 6
- Builth Wells
- Welshpool
- Llanfair Caereinion
- Elan Village
- More
Drive 210 km, 3 hours 49 min
- National Trust - Powis Castle and Garden
- Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway
- Caban Coch Dam
- More
At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Builth Wells, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
After soaking in Welshpool’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Llanfair Caereinion. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 20 min. When you arrive in Llanfair Caereinion, it's time to take a break from the road.
Head to National Trust - Powis Castle And Garden, a worthwhile castle in Welshpool. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Welshpool and set your GPS to Llanfair Caereinion. 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 20 min. Upon reaching Llanfair Caereinion, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Your self-guided tour starts at Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway, an intriguing heritage railway that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
Set your GPS to Elan Village and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 8 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Elan Village beckons with new experiences!
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Caban Coch Dam, an often recommended dam that draws visitors from near and far.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Builth Wells and your accommodation.
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.
Head back to your accommodation in Builth Wells and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Wales!
Day 7
- Builth Wells
- Raglan
- Chepstow
- Tintern
- Cardiff
- More
Drive 196 km, 3 hours 31 min
- Raglan Castle
- Chepstow Castle / Castell Cas-gwent
- Tintern Abbey / Abaty Tyndryn
- More
Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Wales. Today you will explore Raglan, Chepstow, Tintern, and Blaenavon, 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 Cardiff. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Chepstow, 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 Chepstow may take around 29 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Chepstow, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Make your way to Raglan Castle, an often recommended castle that draws attention for its visually striking features.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Raglan and set your GPS to Chepstow. 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 29 min. Upon reaching Chepstow, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Your self-guided tour starts at Castell Cas-gwent / Chepstow Castle, a worthwhile castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
After soaking in Chepstow’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 14 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 Abaty Tyndyrn / Tintern Abbey, an underrated monastery that draws visitors from near and far.
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 Cardiff. Cardiff 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.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Pasture Restaurant Cardiff, a top-rated dining destination in Cardiff. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pettigrew Tea Rooms - Bute Park, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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 a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cardiff this evening.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Lab 22, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Dead Canary offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Wales.
Day 8
- Cardiff - Departure day
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- Bute Park
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Day 8 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.
On your last day in Wales, take time to indulge in shopping at Cardiff’s popular marketplace, Royal Arcade. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces.
Cardiff is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Bute Park, a frequently visited park that is worthwhile a visit in the city.
Before you conclude your road trip in Wales, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Cardiff.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Servini's at The Summerhouse, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Premier Inn Cardiff City Centre (Queen Street) hotel offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
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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