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

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Select dates
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
All inclusive app
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Explore the best of Wales on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Cardiff, Tenby, St Florence, St Davids, Aberystwyth, Betws y Coed, Dinorwig, Llanberis, Caernarfon, Portmeirion, Harlech, Porthmadog, Beddgelert, and Conwy. 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, 2 nights in Tenby, and 3 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 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 Conwy Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable St Fagans National Museum Of History, learn more about the unique Portmeirion, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of National Museum Cardiff.

As you hit the open road and drive through Cardiff, Tenby, St Florence, St Davids, Aberystwyth, Betws y Coed, Dinorwig, Llanberis, Caernarfon, Portmeirion, Harlech, Porthmadog, Beddgelert, and Conwy, 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!

Read more

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Cardiff

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65
I live in

Itinerary summary

See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize

Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Bute Park
St Fagans National Museum of History buildingLlandaff CathedralNational Museum Wales Main LibraryRoath Recreation GroundRoath Park
National Trust - Tudor Merchant's HouseManor Wildlife ParkHeatherton World of ActivitiesTenby Castle
St David's CathedralCeltic Quest CoasteeringBlue Lagoon - Abereiddi
Aberystwyth Castle GroundsWar MemorialAberystwyth Cliff RailwayConwy Valley Railway MuseumRhaeadr Y Graig LwydPont-y-Pair Bridge
Llyn Padarn and Llanberis View PointNational Slate MuseumLlanberis Lake RailwayRhaeadr Ewynnol Swallow Falls Waterfall

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Day 1

  • Cardiff - Arrival day
  • More
  • Bute Park
  • More

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 2 nights immersing yourself in Cardiff's charm 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, or just taking a stroll in the city center. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Cardiff, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Cardiff, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Elevens Bar And Grill is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Old Arcade. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cardiff tonight.

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 9-day road trip in Wales!

Read more
Day 2

Day 2

  • Cardiff
  • More

Drive 25 km, 1 hour 16 min

  • St Fagans National Museum of History building
  • Llandaff Cathedral
  • National Museum Wales Main Library
  • Roath Recreation Ground
  • Roath Park
  • More

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.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots await you in Cardiff on today’s itinerary. First up is the interesting museum, St Fagans National Museum Of History. Afterward, continue to Llandaff Cathedral, a church every traveler should visit.

As you explore Cardiff’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to National Museum Cardiff. This locally appreciated museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to Roath Recreation Ground, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Roath Park, an increasingly popular park 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.

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

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 culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Great Western - Jd Wetherspoon stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Rum & Fizz offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Kongs Cardiff is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Cardiff and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Wales!

Read more
Day 3

Day 3

  • Cardiff
  • Tenby
  • More

Drive 161 km, 2 hours 31 min

  • National Trust - Tudor Merchant's House
  • Manor Wildlife Park
  • Heatherton World of Activities
  • Tenby 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 Tenby and St Florence. In the evening, you’ll end up in Tenby, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. 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. National Trust - Tudor Merchant's House is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this standout museum before continuing your journey. Manor Wildlife Park is your next stop. This curiosity-inducing wildlife reserve 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 Heatherton World Of Activities. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Tenby Castle.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Tap & Tân, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Top Joe's Tenby? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Indie Burger as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Tenby.

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

Read more
Day 4

Day 4

  • Tenby
  • More

Drive 132 km, 2 hours 35 min

  • St David's Cathedral
  • Celtic Quest Coasteering
  • Blue Lagoon - Abereiddi
  • More

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in Wales. With 1 night left in Tenby, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

Today’s agenda in Tenby includes a church, an adventure park, and a lake. St. David's Cathedral School is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Celtic Quest Coasteering, a beloved adventure park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Blue Lagoon - Abereiddi, an awe-inspiring lake, also available for your discovery today.

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

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

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.

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

Read more
Day 5

Day 5

  • Tenby
  • Betws y Coed
  • More

Drive 243 km, 4 hours 41 min

  • Aberystwyth Castle Grounds
  • War Memorial
  • Aberystwyth Cliff Railway
  • Conwy Valley Railway Museum
  • Rhaeadr Y Graig Lwyd
  • Pont-y-Pair Bridge
  • More

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Wales, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Aberystwyth, Betws y Coed, and Capel Garmon. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Betws y Coed, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Immerse yourself in Tenby’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Castell Aberystwyth Castle. This visually striking castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the historic features of War Memorial, a must-visit war memorial 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 Aberystwyth Cliff Railway, a locally appreciated heritage railway. For a change of scene, check out Conwy Valley Railway Museum, known for its history-steeped features. We also recommend visiting Rhaeadr Y Graig Lwyd. This waterfall is a must for anyone looking to experience the town to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to Pont-y-pair Bridge, yet another locally appreciated attraction in Tenby.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Betws y Coed, 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 Betws y Coed, 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.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Wales!

Read more
Day 6

Day 6

  • Betws y Coed
  • More

Drive 69 km, 3 hours 21 min

  • Llyn Padarn and Llanberis View Point
  • National Slate Museum
  • Llanberis Lake Railway
  • Rhaeadr Ewynnol Swallow Falls Waterfall
  • More

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Betws y Coed, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Betws y Coed. Begin your sightseeing with Llyn Padarn And Llanberis View Point. This often recommended lake is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to National Slate Museum, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Betws y Coed, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Llanberis Lake Railway. This underrated heritage railway is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Rhaeadr Ewynnol / Swallow Falls Waterfall, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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

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

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

Read more
Day 7

Day 7

  • Betws y Coed
  • More

Drive 143 km, 3 hours 2 min

  • Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum
  • Portmeirion North Wales
  • Harlech Castle
  • Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways
  • Gelert's Grave
  • More

On day 7 of your road trip in Wales, you’ll start and end your day in Betws y Coed, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the village. Since you will return to Betws y Coed for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Caernarfon, Portmeirion, Harlech, Porthmadog, and Beddgelert to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Whether you decide to explore Betws y Coed on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this respected museum before continuing your journey. Portmeirion is your next stop. This increasingly popular village is one of the best-rated sights in Betws y Coed.

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 Harlech Castle. This breathtaking castle is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways and Bedd Gelert.

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

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Wales!

Read more
Day 8

Day 8

  • Betws y Coed
  • Cardiff
  • More

Drive 335 km, 4 hours 39 min

  • Plas Mawr
  • Smallest House in Great Britain
  • Conwy Castle
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Wales. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Conwy. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cardiff. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s agenda in Betws y Coed includes a museum, a historical landmark, and a castle. Plas Mawr is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Smallest House In Great Britain, a beloved historical landmark, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Conwy Castle, a culturally significant castle, also available for your discovery today.

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 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Pasture Restaurant Cardiff, an iconic dining spot in Cardiff. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Pettigrew Tea Rooms - Bute Park, a popular restaurant in Cardiff. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Prince of Wales - JD Wetherspoon, a hidden gem nestled in Cardiff. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

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

Read more
Day 9

Day 9

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

Day 9 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 popular place to see in the city.

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!

Read more

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in the United Kingdom

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.