9-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff traveling north to Tenby 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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Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 9-day road trip in Wales! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Cardiff, Tenby, St Florence, St Davids, Aberystwyth, Betws y Coed, Dinorwig, Llanberis, Caernarfon, Portmeirion, Harlech, Porthmadog, Beddgelert, and Conwy.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Wales. 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 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, accommodations, 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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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day 1

Day 1

  • Cardiff - Arrival day
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  • Bute Park
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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 discovering what to see in Cardiff 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 central location for easy access to key areas 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 dining experience at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Cardiff, a popular restaurant in Cardiff. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cardiff at Elevens Bar And Grill, 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 Old Arcade. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cardiff tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Pennyroyal, known for its lively atmosphere. The Borough Arms is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Libertine Cocktail Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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 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
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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 the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Cardiff.

Enjoy all that St Fagans National Museum Of History has to offer. This is a notable museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Llandaff Cathedral, a beloved church in Cardiff.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to National Museum Cardiff. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Roath Recreation Ground, another of the city’s underrated attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Roath Park, an instagrammable place of interest in the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Wales. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

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.

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.

Say good night to Cardiff and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Wales!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Cardiff
  • Tenby
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Drive 161 km, 2 hours 31 min

  • National Trust - Tudor Merchant's House
  • Manor Wildlife Park
  • Heatherton World of Activities
  • Tenby Castle
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Wales. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Tenby and St Florence. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Tenby, where will spend 2 nights.

Visiting National Trust - Tudor Merchant's House is always a good idea. This up-and-coming museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the enchanting wonders of Manor Wildlife Park, a must-see wildlife reserve 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 Heatherton World Of Activities. This frequently visited adventure park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Tenby Castle, where you can take in respected features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Tenby, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Tap & Tân, a popular restaurant in Tenby. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Tenby at Top Joe's Tenby, 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 Indie Burger. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Tenby tonight.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Tenby
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Drive 132 km, 2 hours 35 min

  • St David's Cathedral
  • Celtic Quest Coasteering
  • Blue Lagoon - Abereiddi
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Wake up to day 4 of your road trip in Wales. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of St Davids and Abereiddy. With 1 night to stay in Tenby, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

Whatever your travel style is, St. David's Cathedral School is an essential stop in Tenby. This intriguing church provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Celtic Quest Coasteering, a peaceful adventure park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Blue Lagoon - Abereiddi, a locally appreciated lake.

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

Tenby is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Tenby.

Savor the flavors at Heywood Spa Hotel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Premier Inn Tenby Town Centre beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Atlantic Hotel. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Tenby tonight.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Tenby
  • Betws y Coed
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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
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On day 5 of your road trip in Wales, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Aberystwyth, Betws y Coed, and Capel Garmon are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Betws y Coed, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Make time for Castell Aberystwyth Castle, a beloved castle that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find War Memorial, enchanting visitors with its historic appeal. Continue your exploration at Aberystwyth Cliff Railway. This heritage railway is one of the town’s most up-and-coming spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Tenby at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Conwy Valley Railway Museum. After exploring the museum, head to the intriguing Rhaeadr Y Graig Lwyd. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Pont-y-pair Bridge, a place of enchanting interest in Tenby.

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

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.

Head back to your accommodation in Betws y Coed and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Wales.

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Betws y Coed
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Drive 69 km, 3 hours 21 min

  • Llyn Padarn and Llanberis View Point
  • National Slate Museum
  • Llanberis Lake Railway
  • Rhaeadr Ewynnol Swallow Falls Waterfall
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Greet day 6 of your road trip in Wales with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 2 nights to stay in Betws y Coed, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Dinorwig and Llanberis.

Check out the worthwhile lake, Llyn Padarn And Llanberis View Point. Afterward, continue to National Slate Museum, a museum every traveler should visit. As you explore Betws y Coed’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village.

Next, make your way to Llanberis Lake Railway. This often recommended heritage railway is an essential stop. Following that, head to Rhaeadr Ewynnol / Swallow Falls Waterfall, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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

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

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Betws y Coed
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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 still have 1 night to spend in Betws y Coed, there’s no need to rush. Experience Caernarfon, Portmeirion, Harlech, Porthmadog, and Beddgelert to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum is an ideal stop early in the day. This curiosity-inducing museum is a must-visit in the town.

One of the best things about exploring Betws y Coed 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 Harlech Castle, an underrated castle in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways and Bedd Gelert.

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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Betws y Coed, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Betws y Coed.

Say good night to Betws y Coed and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Wales!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Betws y Coed
  • Cardiff
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Drive 335 km, 4 hours 39 min

  • Plas Mawr
  • Smallest House in Great Britain
  • Conwy Castle
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Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Wales. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Conwy. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Cardiff, where you'll spend 1 night.

Experience Plas Mawr, a worthwhile museum in the town. Then, head to Smallest House In Great Britain and soak in the ambiance of this heritage-rich historical landmark.

There are many interesting places to see in Betws y Coed, and when you are ready for more, go to Conwy Castle. This is one of the town’s most notable culturally significant spots of interest.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Cardiff, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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.

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.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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, begin at Cardiff Castle. This well-known castle is a hotspot among locals.

For a last-minute shopping spree in Cardiff, St. David's Dewi Sant is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location. When you need a break, visit a cafe and relax with a cup of coffee or tea.

Before you conclude your road trip in Wales, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Cardiff.

Dine in style at Servini's at The Summerhouse, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Premier Inn Cardiff City Centre (Queen Street) hotel boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

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.
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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.
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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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