One-Week Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff traveling north to Swansea, St Davids, and Betws y Coed

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Photo of Welsh National War Memorial Statue, Alexandra Gardens, Cathays Park, Cardiff, Wales, UK.
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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, Brecon, Tretower, Llangorse, Rhossili, Southgate, Swansea, St Davids, Beddgelert, Conwy, Portmeirion, Llandudno, and Talgarth. 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 4 nights in Cardiff, 1 night in Swansea, 1 night in St Davids, and 1 night 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 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. Llandudno Pier and Cardiff Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Conwy Castle, learn more about the unique St Fagans National Museum Of History, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Portmeirion.

As you hit the open road and drive through Cardiff, Brecon, Tretower, Llangorse, Rhossili, Southgate, Swansea, St Davids, Beddgelert, Conwy, Portmeirion, Llandudno, and Talgarth, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Day 1

Day 1

  • Cardiff - Arrival day
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  • Bute Park
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Your road trip adventure in Wales begins as soon as you reach Cardiff and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Cardiff for 3 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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, 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.

Dine in style at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Cardiff, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Elevens Bar And Grill boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Old Arcade. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cardiff.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Pennyroyal, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Borough Arms is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Libertine Cocktail Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Wales!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Cardiff
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Drive 21 km, 1 hour 8 min

  • St Fagans National Museum of History building
  • Sophia Gardens
  • National Museum Wales Main Library
  • Roath Park
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cardiff for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Cardiff on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. St Fagans National Museum Of History is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect museum before continuing your journey. Swalec Stadium is your next stop. This often recommended park is one of the best-rated sights in Cardiff.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit National Museum Cardiff. This visually striking museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Roath Park.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Cardiff. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Great Western - Jd Wetherspoon, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Rum & Fizz is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Kongs Cardiff is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Cardiff
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Drive 177 km, 2 hours 58 min

  • Brecon Cathedral
  • Tretower Court and Castle/ Llys a Chastell Tre-tŵr
  • Llangorse Multi Activity Centre
  • Brecon Canal Basin
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On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cardiff, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Brecon, Tretower, and Llangorse. You still have 1 night left in Cardiff.

Today’s itinerary in Cardiff covers several incredible sights, including a church, a castle, an adventure park, a marina and much more! Start your adventure at Brecon Cathedral. This up-and-coming church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the history-steeped wonders of Llys A Chastell Tre-tŵr / Tretower Court And Castle, a must-see castle in the town.

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 Llangorse Multi Activity Centre. This locally appreciated adventure park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Brecon Canal Basin, where you can take in stunning features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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

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.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Lab 22, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Dead Canary offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Cardiff
  • Swansea
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Drive 141 km, 2 hours 48 min

  • Old Coastguard Station
  • Three Cliffs
  • Oystermouth Castle
  • Brynmill Park
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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 Rhossili and Southgate. In the evening, you’ll end up in Swansea, where you will stay for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Cardiff. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await! Old Coastguard Station is the perfect place to start. This visitor center is one of the most often recommended places to visit in Cardiff. Next, head to Three Cliffs Bay, a worthwhile cliff, known for its majestic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Oystermouth Castle. This standout castle is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Brynmill Park Public Conveniences. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

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 lovely dining experience at The Perch, a popular restaurant in Swansea. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Swansea at Pant-y-Gwydr restaurant, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Turtle Bay Swansea. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Swansea tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Popworld Swansea, known for its lively atmosphere. No Sign Wine Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Copper offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Wales and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Swansea
  • St Davids
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Drive 142 km, 3 hours 13 min

  • St David's Cathedral
  • St Davids Bishop's Palace/ Llys yr Esgob Tyddewi
  • St Non's Chapel and Well
  • Porthclais Harbour Authority
  • Celtic Quest Coasteering
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Wales. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of St Davids and Abereiddy. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in St Davids, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Swansea, including a church, a palace, a marina, an adventure park and much more! Start your day with a visit to St. David's Cathedral School. This often recommended church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Llys Yr Esgob, Tyddewi / St Davids Bishop's Palace, which may be one of the most breathtaking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Swansea 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 St Non's Chapel And Well, an underrated church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Porthclais Harbour Authority and Celtic Quest Coasteering.

At the end of the day, you will drive to St Davids, 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 St Davids. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • St Davids
  • Betws y Coed
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Drive 373 km, 6 hours 37 min

  • Gelert's Grave
  • Rhaeadr Ewynnol Swallow Falls Waterfall
  • Smallest House in Great Britain
  • Portmeirion North Wales
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Wales. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Beddgelert, Conwy, and Portmeirion. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Betws y Coed. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Bedd Gelert is must-visit monument and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Rhaeadr Ewynnol / Swallow Falls Waterfall, an often recommended waterfall, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Smallest House In Great Britain, a photogenic historical landmark, also available for your discovery today.

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

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Wales!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Betws y Coed
  • Cardiff
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Drive 350 km, 5 hours 19 min

  • Conwy Castle
  • Llandudno Pier
  • Pwll y Wrach nature reserve
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Wales. Today you will explore Conwy, Llandudno, and Talgarth, 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.

Immerse yourself in Betws y Coed’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Conwy Castle. This picture-perfect castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the stunning features of Llandudno Pier, a must-visit pier in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Pwll Y Wrach Nature Reserve, an underrated nature reserve.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Servini's at The Summerhouse, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Premier Inn Cardiff City Centre (Queen Street) hotel? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bill's Cardiff Central Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cardiff.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Wales!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Cardiff - Departure day
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  • Cardiff Castle
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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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Cardiff Castle, an enchanting castle before you head out.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Take a break with a cup of coffee or tea while savoring the local vibe in a coffee shop.

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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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.

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

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