9-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff traveling north to Aberystwyth and Bangor

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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, Brecon, Hay on Wye, Aberystwyth, Betws y Coed, Bangor, Dinorwig, Llanberis, Caernarfon, Porthmadog, Portmeirion, and Llangollen. 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 5 nights in Cardiff, 1 night in Aberystwyth, and 2 nights in Bangor. 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 Caernarfon 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, Brecon, Hay on Wye, Aberystwyth, Betws y Coed, Bangor, Dinorwig, Llanberis, Caernarfon, Porthmadog, Portmeirion, and Llangollen, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Bute Park
Wales Millennium CentreSt Fagans National Museum of History buildingNational Museum Wales Main LibraryRoath Park
The Royal Welsh Regimental MuseumBrecon Canal BasinBrecon Cathedral
Hay CastleElan Valley Waterfall TrailCraig Goch Dam
Vale of Rheidol RailwayAberystwyth Castle GroundsAmgueddfa Ceredigion MuseumAberystwyth Cliff RailwayAberystwyth Arts Centre
Gorsaf Copa'r Wyddfa Summit StationSnowdonPont-y-Pair Bridge

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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 4 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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Cardiff, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Elevens Bar And Grill offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Old Arcade. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cardiff.

Keep the evening going at Pennyroyal, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Borough Arms, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Libertine Cocktail Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Wales!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Cardiff
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Drive 34 km, 1 hour 6 min

  • Wales Millennium Centre
  • St Fagans National Museum of History building
  • National Museum Wales Main Library
  • Roath Park
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cardiff for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Cardiff is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Wales Millennium Centre, an up-and-coming performing arts theater that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find St Fagans National Museum Of History, enchanting visitors with its historic appeal. Continue your exploration at National Museum Cardiff. This museum is one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Cardiff at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to 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 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Cafe Citta, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Clayton Hotel Cardiff offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre, an IHG Hotel is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cardiff.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Great Western - Jd Wetherspoon, known for its lively atmosphere. Rum & Fizz is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Kongs Cardiff offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Cardiff
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Drive 136 km, 2 hours 26 min

  • The Royal Welsh Regimental Museum
  • Brecon Canal Basin
  • Brecon Cathedral
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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. You still have 2 nights left in Cardiff.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. The first attraction of today is The Royal Welsh Regimental Museum. This curiosity-inducing military museum is a historic place to see in Cardiff. Continue your discovery at Brecon Canal Basin, a romantic marina with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Cardiff, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Brecon Cathedral. This curiosity-inducing church offers a breathtaking encounter with Cardiff. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Cardiff.

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

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Lab 22 after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Dead Canary, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

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
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Drive 313 km, 4 hours 59 min

  • Hay Castle
  • Elan Valley Waterfall Trail
  • Craig Goch Dam
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Greet day 4 of your road trip in Wales with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Cardiff for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Hay on Wye and Rhayader.

Today’s itinerary in Cardiff covers several incredible sights, including a castle, a waterfall, and a monument. Start your adventure at Hay Castle. This beloved castle is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the serene wonders of Elan Valley Waterfall Trail, a must-see waterfall 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 Craig Goch Dam. This frequently visited monument offers an enriching experience.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Servini's at The Summerhouse, a highly-rated dining destination in Cardiff. If you're eager to try something different, consider Premier Inn Cardiff City Centre (Queen Street) hotel, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bill's Cardiff Central Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cardiff this evening.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Cardiff
  • Aberystwyth
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Drive 166 km, 3 hours 21 min

  • Vale of Rheidol Railway
  • Aberystwyth Castle Grounds
  • Amgueddfa Ceredigion Museum
  • Aberystwyth Cliff Railway
  • Aberystwyth Arts Centre
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On day 5 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 Aberystwyth. In the evening, you’ll end up in Aberystwyth, where you will stay for 1 night.

Cardiff is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a heritage railway, a castle, a museum, an art gallery and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the often recommended Vale Of Rheidol Railway Museum. Just a short distance away is Castell Aberystwyth Castle, a history-steeped castle that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Ceredigion Museum, one of the town’s most up-and-coming spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the often recommended Aberystwyth Cliff Railway. Last up on today’s itinerary is an art gallery. Make your way to Aberystwyth Arts Centre for some final sightseeing. Each attraction will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of Cardiff.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Aberystwyth. Aberystwyth 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 Aberystwyth. 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Baravin, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Y Consti is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Little Devil's Café. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Aberystwyth tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Kanes Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Libertine offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Y Bañera, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Wales!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Aberystwyth
  • Bangor
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Drive 165 km, 3 hours 8 min

  • Gorsaf Copa'r Wyddfa Summit Station
  • Snowdon
  • Pont-y-Pair Bridge
  • More

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Wales. Today you will explore Betws Garmon and Betws y Coed, 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 Bangor. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Aberystwyth covers several incredible sights, including a visitor center, a mountain range, and a historical landmark. Start your adventure at Gorsaf Copa'r Wyddfa Summit Station. This beloved visitor center is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the mesmerizing wonders of Yr Wyddfa, a must-see mountain range in the village.

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 Pont-y-pair Bridge. This intriguing historical landmark offers an enriching experience.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Wales!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Bangor
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Drive 50 km, 1 hour 26 min

  • Llanberis Station
  • National Slate Museum
  • Dolbadarn Castle
  • Llanberis Lake Railway
  • Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum
  • Caernarfon Castle
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Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip in Wales. With 1 night left in Bangor, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Today’s agenda in Bangor includes a heritage railway, a museum, and a castle. Llanberis Station is must-visit heritage railway and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to National Slate Museum, an up-and-coming museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Dolbadarn Castle, a gorgeous castle, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Bangor. If you’re looking for more, Llanberis Lake Railway is also a locally appreciated attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum, an up-and-coming gem to see in the village.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bangor. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Wales!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Bangor
  • Cardiff
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Drive 353 km, 5 hours 31 min

  • Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways
  • Portmeirion North Wales
  • Llangollen & Corwen Railway
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Wales. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Porthmadog, Portmeirion, and Llangollen. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cardiff, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bangor, featuring fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways, a curiosity-inducing heritage railway in the town.

There are many interesting places to see in Bangor and when you are ready for more, go to Llangollen Railway Station. This is one of the town’s most often recommended spots.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Potted Pig, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Mowgli Street Food offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Angel Hotel Cardiff. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cardiff.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Wales.

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Cardiff - Departure day
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  • Cardiff Castle
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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, 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. Discover boutiques offering an array of stylish fashion choices.

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 Bar 44 Cardiff, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Alchemist Cardiff 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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