9-Day Road Trip to Wales, England, and Scotland

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Wales, England, and Scotland begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring region of Cardiff in Wales. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Cardiff for 2 nights.

Catch an early flight to Wales to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Cardiff before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the region’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

A tour of Cardiff is not complete without a visit to the famous SWALEC Stadium. This incredible sports venue and attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,286 travelers.

You’ll choose from the best hotels and places to stay in Cardiff. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Wales's delectable cuisine at one of Cardiff's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the region’s most recommended bars.

Don't miss out on experiencing Cafe Citta, a renowned dining spot in Cardiff. This restaurant's rich flavors have left a lasting impression on diners. Its dedication to culinary perfection is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 504 satisfied guests.

Make a reservation at Bill's Cardiff Central Restaurant while immersing yourself in Cardiff. This distinguished restaurant offers imaginative dishes, with a remarkable rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,663 guests.

Discover the culinary treasures of Pasture Restaurant Cardiff, a beloved dining establishment within Cardiff. Its exquisite menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to culinary bliss. Renowned for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 697 satisfied customers.

Quench your thirst after a long day of adventure at The Dead Canary, a prime hotspot for fun and relaxation seekers in the region. The Dead Canary boasts an impressive 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 700 customers.

Or, try the exciting drinks at The Alchemist Cardiff, a vibrant place where locals and travelers converge for spirited toasts and amazing stories. The Alchemist Cardiff has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,213 customers.

As the sun dips below the horizon, make a stop at another famous bar in the area, Old Arcade. This bar is a local favorite, with an impressive rating of 4.5 out of 5-star from 1,213 customers.

Your multi-country road trip in Wales, England, and Scotland has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.

Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in Wales, England, and Scotland has in store for you! You will be staying in Cardiff for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Cardiff, including the outstanding Roath Park. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,598 reviews, this fascinating park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the region.

Cardiff is also home to the captivating Roath Recreation Ground, a local park considered one of the highlights of the region. About 1,636 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.5 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Alexandra Gardens is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Cardiff. This extraordinary park and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 548 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Cardiff Castle will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing castle and attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 19,028 reviews.

Soak in Cardiff's rich culture at the fantastic St Fagans National Museum of History. Further proving its status as one of the best places to visit in Cardiff is its overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 10,708 visitor reviews. Every year, travelers of more than 610,155 in count gather around this fascinating open-air museum and sightseeing spot to appreciate its unique features.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Cardiff, its culture, and people.

So be sure to reserve your slot early so you won’t miss the chance to join this highly recommended activity in Cardiff.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Cardiff’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the region’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Wales, England, and Scotland.

Have a delightful culinary experience when you dine at Pettigrew Tea Rooms - Bute Park. Favored by many foreign travelers and locals, this restaurant in Cardiff boasts a carefully curated and enticing menu. Its delectable dishes have earned it an impressive rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from around 759 visitors.

Another dining spot you shouldn’t miss while in Cardiff is Bar 44 Cardiff. It has garnered a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 733 diners thanks to its impeccable menu options and flavors.

Experience a celebration of flavors when you dine in at Elevens Bar And Grill, in Cardiff. Its delightful menu and flavorful dishes have earned it a stellar rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 787 satisfied customers.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Cardiff. At Pasture Restaurant Cardiff, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 697 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your adventure at Kongs Cardiff, another popular bar in the region. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 915 reviews.

The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Cardiff is also one of the best places in Cardiff where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 774 customers.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Cardiff in Wales and Preston in England, 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 Preston. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Gorsedd Gardens. This outstanding park and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from 901 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Gorsedd Gardens is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating National Museum Cardiff is another of the region's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This museum building and tourist destination welcomes approximately 373,191 visitors every year and boasts an average review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,751 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing convention center, Wales Millennium Centre. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,729 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated Roald Dahl Plass, an outstanding park, is one place you should visit while in Cardiff considering its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 998 travelers.

After soaking in Cardiff’s unique atmosphere, jump back into your car with a full heart, and drive in the direction of your next destination: Preston, England. Expect your car journey to last a minimum of 3 hours 51 min.

Make the most of your vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Cardiff has in store for you.

There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your adventure in Wales. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Preston. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Preston. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in England in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Make a reservation at Bistrot Pierre, a popular dining spot in Preston. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 1,124 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at Angelo's while indulging in the charm of Preston. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, cherished by 758 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of We Don't Give a Fork, a treasured establishment in Preston. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 611 satisfied guests.

Spend the night with your favorite cocktail in hand at Turtle Bay Preston. This bar is among the most recommended in the city, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,728 customers.

Embrace relaxation as you toast to a fantastic night at The Cafe Bar. This popular bar in Preston is a local favorite with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 786 customers.

If you want to check out another bar in the area, you’ll love Black Horse. This bar is known for its many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Black Horse has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 774 reviews.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Wales, England, and Scotland! Enjoy your evening in Preston to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply just relaxing.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your multi-country journey across Wales, England, and Scotland. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Edinburgh in Scotland. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat for a restful slumber at one of the best hotels in Edinburgh. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Preston, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Edinburgh in Scotland. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Scotland. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 34 min.

Elevate your experience in Edinburgh by engaging in exhilarating activities and joining tours that uncover the hidden wonders of this beautiful region.

Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to include a unique blend of top-rated experiences to your travel diary. Browse all of your options below and reserve your slot before it's too late.

It’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Edinburgh. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Edinburgh’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the region’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Wales, England, and Scotland.

Do not miss out on an incredible dining experience at Heron, one of the finest restaurants in Edinburgh, boasting 1 Michelin stars. Featuring delightful food options and modern offerings, Heron has garnered acclaim from numerous satisfied diners.

For local recommendations, look no further than Condita. This food haven in Edinburgh has been awarded 1 Michelin stars. Featuring modern cuisine, this well-loved Bib Gourmand restaurant stands out as a favorite among local and international customers.

In the mood for something different? Consider reserving a table at The Kitchin. This celebrated dining spot in Edinburgh is renowned for its sumptuous meals and modern menu. Countless patrons sing this Bib Gourmand restaurant's praises, adding to its 1 Michelin-star prestige.

Unwind after a long day in one of the best and most popular bars in Edinburgh, Makars Gourmet Mash Bar (Edinburgh). This famous place has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,814 customers.

Another trendy bar is Panda & Sons. This bar’s extensive drink menu, amazing vibe, and friendly atmosphere have earned it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars, based on the reviews of 1,617 customers.

Locals also recommend The Dome. This bar’s welcoming atmosphere has earned it an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to the reviews of 6,433 delighted customers.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

On day 5, you will wake up in Edinburgh with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Edinburgh before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Wales, England, and Scotland.

A tour of Edinburgh is not complete without a visit to the famous Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This incredible botanical garden and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,765 travelers.

Make the most of your Edinburgh travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Edinburgh Castle. This castle and unique destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 90,949 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible National Museum of Scotland for an experience worth remembering. This local national museum and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 45,476 visitors.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous Holyrood Palace. This amazing site is a wonderful official residence with more than 17,746 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Make the most of your vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Edinburgh has in store for you.

There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your adventure in Wales. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy lively vibes in central Edinburgh. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland.

Make sure to book a table at Dishoom Edinburgh, a popular restaurant in Edinburgh. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 5,852 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre during your stay in Edinburgh. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 2,950 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Cafe Andaluz, a renowned dining destination in Edinburgh. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 3,019 satisfied guests.

Unwind after a long day in one of the best and most popular bars in Edinburgh, Whiski Bar & Restaurant. This famous place has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,669 customers.

Another trendy bar is Chaophraya Thai Restaurant. This bar’s extensive drink menu, amazing vibe, and friendly atmosphere have earned it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars, based on the reviews of 2,238 customers.

Locals also recommend The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh. This bar’s welcoming atmosphere has earned it an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to the reviews of 2,314 delighted customers.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Wales, England, and Scotland! Enjoy your evening in Edinburgh to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the region center, or simply just relaxing.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this European tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Scottish Borders in Scotland and Leeds in England. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Leeds. Leeds will be your home for 1 night.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Scottish Borders today.

Get comfortable in your rental car and blast some good music as you continue your road trip in Europe, and drive to your next destination, Leeds, England. This car ride takes around 4 hours 10 min.

We recommend checking out all the tours and activities you can add to your package. Embarking on a tour is an excellent way of learning something new in Scottish Borders, Wales.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Leeds.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland by rewarding yourself with a taste of Leeds’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Make sure to book a table at Prashad, a luxury dining venue in Leeds. This local gem’s delectable indian vegetarian cuisine is sure to leave a lasting impression. Prashad is highly regarded in the culinary world and boasts an impressive track record of satisfied customers.

Treat yourself to culinary excellence at The Man Behind The Curtain, offering a Bib-Gourmand awarded dining experience. With its 1 Michelin star rating, it caters to the most discerning palates. The incredible creative cuisine at The Man Behind The Curtain has earned praise globally.

Discover the culinary treasures of Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Leeds, a beloved dining establishment within Leeds. Its exquisite menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to culinary bliss. Renowned for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,548 satisfied customers.

Quench your thirst after a long day of adventure at Whitelock's Ale House, a prime hotspot for fun and relaxation seekers in the city. Whitelock's Ale House boasts an impressive 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 2,044 customers.

Or, try the exciting drinks at Cosy Club, a vibrant place where locals and travelers converge for spirited toasts and amazing stories. Cosy Club has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,636 customers.

As the sun dips below the horizon, make a stop at another famous bar in the area, The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Leeds. This bar is a local favorite, with an impressive rating of 4.3 out of 5-star from 1,636 customers.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

On day 7 of your multi-country road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland, 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 to see in London in England. In the evening, you’ll end up in London, where you will stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and journey to your next stop. Turn on the radio and notice the scenic views transition from Leeds to the enchanting landscapes of London. Keep in mind that your travel time may take around 3 hours 38 min without traffic disruptions.

To double the fun and excitement on your vacation in Wales, we also recommend adding tours to your travel itinerary. Tours are a great way to engage in immersive activities, meet other vacationers like you, and experience London's unique culture.

This fantastic excursion will show you around famous sights in London.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in London of your choice.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of London boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of England.

Have a delightful culinary experience when you dine at Burger & Lobster Leicester Square. Favored by many foreign travelers and locals, this restaurant in London boasts a carefully curated and enticing menu. Its delectable dishes have earned it an impressive rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from around 4,454 visitors.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Scarfes Bar, one of the top bars in the city. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, Scarfes Bar has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 883 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at The Connaught Bar, a crowd-favorite. Around 654 customers have rated their experience at The Connaught Bar an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

On day 8 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Wales, England, and Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, London in England and Cardiff in Wales. When you’re not exploring the region and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cardiff, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

One place travelers keep coming back to in London is the magnificent London Eye. Around 171,401 visitors have rated this excellent ferris wheel and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Borough Market on this leg of your adventure in England. This attraction is a well-known building that has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from around 95,151 travelers.

The remarkable Tower Bridge is known to be one of the best places to visit in London, and its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 151,949 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into London by exploring the captivating Tower of London, which draws the attention of nearly 2,741,126 visitors annually. With a stellar average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 101,481 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your London exploration list!

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of London, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your European road trip adventure. Set course for Wales! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Cardiff may take around 2 hours 47 min.

Make more amazing memories during your vacation in Wales by adding tours and activities to your travel itinerary. Tours are another exciting way to experience the best of London, immersing in local customs and meeting new friends.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Cardiff’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

If you've been looking forward to all the culinary delights you’ll get the opportunity to try along your multi-country road trip in Wales, England, and Scotland, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Cardiff. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Plan ahead and secure a table at Mowgli Street Food, an acclaimed dining establishment in Cardiff. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 573 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of Park Plaza Cardiff while experiencing the best of Cardiff. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 1,689 discerning diners.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the region, Elevens Bar And Grill. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 787 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Lab 22. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 493 customers.

Celebrate day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 9 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Cardiff before it’s time to leave.

Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

Optimize your last day in Wales and go on a shopping spree in Cardiff’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Wales, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery.

In Cardiff, the extraordinary Bute Park awaits. This attraction is a valued park that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,423 travelers' reviews.

Get a last taste of Wales’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Cardiff and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland.

The time has come to say farewell to Cardiff for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 9-day European road trip in Wales, England, and Scotland with fond memories. Safe travels!