Cheap 11-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff to Builth Wells, Rhyl, Bangor, and Merthyr Tydfil

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Kickstart an unforgettable journey with this 11-day cheap road trip in Wales, tailored for travelers on a budget. Explore Cardiff, Caldicot, Tintern, Chepstow, Abergavenny, Raglan, Builth Wells, Welshpool, Chirk, Trevor, Rhyl, Colwyn Bay, Conwy, Llandudno, Bangor, Beaumaris, Trearddur, Caernarfon, Porthmadog, Portmeirion, Trawsfynydd, Merthyr Tydfil, Ystrad Mynach, Caerphilly, and Cefn Hengoed, where every turn is a new discovery.

Explore Wales for less and on your own terms. This customizable and cheap Wales travel package promises an exhilarating 11-day adventure. We'll introduce you to many famous and affordable vacation spots in the country.

Stay comfortably at a top-rated budget hotel for 5 nights in Cardiff, 1 night in Builth Wells, 1 night in Rhyl, 2 nights in Bangor, and 1 night in Merthyr Tydfil. Dine with locals at popular restaurants and bars across Wales and get a taste of the people’s hospitality and authentic food. We'll help you have an unforgettable road trip experience in Wales at the lowest price!

On arrival in Cardiff, you'll pick up your rental vehicle. From there, you'll begin your journey to the best and cheapest places to travel to in Wales. Wales offers a wealth of world-class natural and scenic beauty you wouldn't want to miss!

During your cheap holiday in Wales, the choice of accommodation is entirely yours. Enjoy the freedom to select the ideal budget-friendly stay that perfectly matches your needs. Rest assured, your affordable accommodation will provide a welcoming retreat after a day of exploration and discovery.

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 affordable holiday package includes everything you need for a fantastic 11-day vacation in Wales. We'll offer you cheap flights and arrange your hotel reservations for 10 nights. We'll also provide you with the best budget rental car in Wales with CDW insurance.

You can customize your Wales travel plan for a more personalized holiday experience. Choose from popular and competitively-priced tours and tickets in Wales and add your picks to your itinerary. For example, get cheap tour tickets to uncover the stories behind Wales's famous sights. Or, try out some of the most fantastic excursions. There's no better way to add more culture and inspiration to your trip!

Booking this cheap holiday package in Wales offers you many perks. You'll get 24/7 travel support. In addition, you'll have access to a step-by-step guide in our mobile app. Here, you'll find all your travel documents organized in one place.

So what are you waiting for? Enjoy a hassle-free vacation in Wales with this cheap holiday deal! The best and most affordable tours in Wales fill up fast, so book your adventure today!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Alexandra Gardens
National Museum Wales Main LibraryCardiff CastleGorsedd GardensBute Park
Bute Park
Bute Park
Caldicot CastleTintern Abbey / Abaty TyndrynBute Park
National Trust - Powis Castle and GardenNational Trust - Erddig

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Day 1

Day 1 – Cardiff - arrival day

  • Cardiff - Arrival day
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  • Alexandra Gardens
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Your exciting road trip through Wales starts when you reach the incredible city of Cardiff, where you'll stay for 4 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Cardiff and begin your adventure in Wales.

More than a city in Wales, Cardiff is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You’ll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

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 Alexandra Gardens or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Cardiff, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Cardiff stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, Elevens Bar And Grill offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Old Arcade, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Cardiff, Pennyroyal. Alternatively, visit The Borough Arms, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by The Libertine Cocktail Bar, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Wales!

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Day 2

Day 2 – Cardiff

  • Cardiff
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Drive 13 km, 1 hour 8 min

  • National Museum Wales Main Library
  • Cardiff Castle
  • Gorsedd Gardens
  • Bute Park
  • More

Day 2’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Cardiff, proving that cheap holidays in Wales can be extraordinary. You have 3 nights left in Cardiff. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Get ready for a day filled with an eye-catching, a historically significant, a charming, a breathtaking, a culturally significant, a remarkable, and a scenic in the charming city of Cardiff. Your adventure starts at National Museum Cardiff, a locally appreciated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Cardiff Castle. This captivating castle is known for its photogenic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Cardiff's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Gorsedd Gardens. This noteworthy park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Bute Park is also worth visiting.

Make your vacation in Wales more memorable and epic without spending a fortune. Take advantage of the cheap holiday deals you'll find in Wales and add budget-friendly activities to your travel plan.

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Cardiff. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

Cafe Citta stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, Clayton Hotel Cardiff offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre, an IHG Hotel, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

The Great Western - Jd Wetherspoon is an excellent example of a great bar in Cardiff offering drinks at reasonable prices. You can also hang out at Rum & Fizz, another of locals’ go-to bars in Cardiff. But if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in Cardiff, Kongs Cardiff is for you.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Wales with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Wales!

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Day 3

Day 3 – Cardiff

  • Cardiff
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Drive 19 km, 1 hour 7 min

  • Bute Park
  • More

On day 3 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Wales, you’ll go deep into Cardiff and see some of the destination’s most unforgettable attractions. Enjoy a feast at the end of the day, making the most of the time you have in the city of Cardiff — 2 nights.

Beyond the above-mentioned locations, today is the perfect opportunity to join a popular activity in Cardiff. Plenty of budget-friendly tours in Cardiff offer enriching experiences that will make your cheap holiday in Wales worth remembering for a lifetime.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Cardiff, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

Start your foodie adventure at Pasture Restaurant Cardiff, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Pettigrew Tea Rooms - Bute Park, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss The Prince of Wales - JD Wetherspoon, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

Lab 22 offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Cardiff, check out The Dead Canary.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Cardiff!

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Day 4

Day 4 – Cardiff

  • Cardiff
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Drive 26 km, 1 hour 4 min

  • Bute Park
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Day 4 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories on your cheap holiday in Wales. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Cardiff and its top sights! Conclude your day with a lovely dinner.

Take the opportunity to embark on a unique experience in Cardiff. You’ll be excited to learn that there are plenty of easy to challenging tour options you can choose from and add to this cheap vacation package.

Make the most of your budget vacation in Wales by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Cardiff that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Discover the heart of Cardiff through its culinary scene, starting with Servini's at The Summerhouse. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Premier Inn Cardiff City Centre (Queen Street) hotel, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Bill's Cardiff Central Restaurant, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Wales with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Wales!

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Day 5

Day 5 – Cardiff, Caldicot, Tintern, Chepstow, Abergavenny, and Raglan

  • Cardiff
  • Caldicot
  • Tintern
  • Chepstow
  • Builth Wells
  • More

Drive 191 km, 3 hours 21 min

  • Caldicot Castle
  • Tintern Abbey / Abaty Tyndryn
  • Bute Park
  • More

Day 5 of your road trip across Wales is another proof that cheap holidays in Wales can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 5 wonderful destinations — Caldicot, Tintern, Chepstow, Abergavenny, and Raglan. You’ll explore along your route leading to the town of Builth Wells, where you'll be spending 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Cardiff, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Caldicot may take around 43 min. Upon your arrival in Caldicot, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Caldicot Castle. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Tintern. This car ride takes around 21 min.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Abaty Tyndyrn / Tintern Abbey, an increasingly popular monastery that draws visitors from near and far.

Set your GPS to Chepstow and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 12 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Chepstow beckons with new experiences!

Make your way to Castell Cas-gwent / Chepstow Castle, an increasingly popular castle that draws attention for its culturally significant features.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the town of Builth Wells. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Builth Wells, relax and restore your energy at your preferred affordable place to stay.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Builth Wells, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the town's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

A road trip vacation in Caldicot can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Wales!

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Day 6

Day 6 – Builth Wells, Welshpool, Chirk, Marchwiel, Trevor, and Rhyl

  • Builth Wells
  • Welshpool
  • Chirk
  • Rhyl
  • More

Drive 218 km, 3 hours 40 min

  • National Trust - Powis Castle and Garden
  • National Trust - Erddig
  • More

Day 6 of your road trip across Wales offers you the chance to visit 4 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Welshpool, Chirk, Marchwiel, and Trevor. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Rhyl, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Chirk and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 50 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Chirk beckons with new experiences!

Take your self-guided tour to National Trust - Powis Castle And Garden, an up-and-coming castle that everyone visiting Welshpool should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Welshpool and set your GPS to Chirk. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 50 min. Upon reaching Chirk, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take your self-guided tour to National Trust - Chirk Castle, an increasingly popular castle that everyone visiting Chirk should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

After soaking in Chirk’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Marchwiel. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 20 min. When you arrive in Marchwiel, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Erddig, a curiosity-inducing museum known for its breathtaking features.

While exploring Wales is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Rhyl has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Rhyl on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the town.

A cheap, budget vacation in Rhyl should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Rhyl, try some of our top recommendations.

Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Wales!

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Day 7

Day 7 – Rhyl, Colwyn Bay, Conwy, Llandudno, and Graig

  • Rhyl
  • Colwyn Bay
  • Conwy
  • Llandudno
  • Bangor
  • More

Drive 103 km, 2 hours 7 min

  • Welsh Mountain Zoo
  • Conwy Castle
  • Venue Cymru
  • More

On day 7 of your cheap holiday travels in Wales, you’ll tour 4 destinations: Colwyn Bay, Conwy, Llandudno, and Graig. You'll stay in Bangor for 2 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Colwyn Bay. This drive usually takes around 25 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Welsh Mountain Zoo, an often recommended zoo known for its visually striking features.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Colwyn Bay, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Conwy may take around 9 min. Upon your arrival in Conwy, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make your way to Conwy Castle, an interesting castle that draws attention for its picture-perfect features.

When you’ve had your share of Conwy, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Llandudno. Your travel time is around 9 min.

Venue Cymru is an increasingly popular performing arts theater we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its charming features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Bangor offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Wales. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Bangor is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Bangor!

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Day 8

Day 8 – Bangor, Llangoed, Beaumaris, Llanddaniel Fab, and Trearddur

  • Bangor
  • Beaumaris
  • More

Drive 128 km, 2 hours 28 min

  • Beaumaris Castle
  • More

On day 8 of your affordable vacation in Wales, prepare for another exciting road trip adventure within and immediately outside Bangor. You’ll stay in Bangor for another 1 night. You’ll visit more of the best attractions in Wales, discover new cultures, and take in unique experiences.

When you’ve had your share of Llangoed, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Beaumaris. Your travel time is around 14 min.

Make your way to Trwyn Penmon Point, a frequently visited lighthouse that draws attention for its serene features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Beaumaris. This car ride takes around 14 min.

Beaumaris Castle is an underrated castle we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its respected features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Llanddaniel Fab, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Beaumaris to Llanddaniel Fab may take around 17 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Llanddaniel Fab, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering National Trust - Plas Newydd House And Gardens, an up-and-coming castle known for its romantic features.

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

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Bangor offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Wales.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Bangor!

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Day 9

Day 9 – Bangor, Caernarfon, Porthmadog, Portmeirion, Trawsfynydd, and Merthyr Tydfil

  • Bangor
  • Caernarfon
  • Porthmadog
  • Portmeirion
  • Merthyr Tydfil
  • More

Drive 266 km, 4 hours 22 min

  • Caernarfon Castle
  • Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways
  • Portmeirion North Wales
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Day 9 of your self-drive vacation in Wales will take you to the town of Merthyr Tydfil, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Merthyr Tydfil, you'll explore 4 popular cheap holiday destinations in Wales, including Caernarfon, Porthmadog, Portmeirion, and Trawsfynydd.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Caernarfon, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Porthmadog. This drive usually takes around 31 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your journey at Caernarfon Castle and explore the culturally significant features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Porthmadog. This drive usually takes around 31 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your self-guided tour starts at Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways, a curiosity-inducing heritage railway that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Porthmadog and set your GPS to Portmeirion. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 8 min. Upon reaching Portmeirion, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your self-guided tour starts at Portmeirion, a curiosity-inducing village that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the town of Merthyr Tydfil. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Merthyr Tydfil, relax and restore your energy at your preferred affordable place to stay.

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Merthyr Tydfil has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Wales! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the town of Merthyr Tydfil!

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Day 10

Day 10 – Merthyr Tydfil, Ystrad Mynach, Caerphilly, Cefn Hengoed, and Cardiff

  • Merthyr Tydfil
  • Ystrad Mynach
  • Caerphilly
  • Cardiff
  • More

Drive 72 km, 1 hour 50 min

  • Caerphilly Castle
  • More

On day 10 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Wales, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Ystrad Mynach, Caerphilly, and Cefn Hengoed. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Cardiff, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Ystrad Mynach. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Parc Cwm Darran, a locally appreciated park that draws visitors from near and far.

After soaking in Ystrad Mynach’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Caerphilly. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 20 min. When you arrive in Caerphilly, it's time to take a break from the road.

Llancaiach Fawr Manor is a curiosity-inducing museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its history-steeped features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Caerphilly’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Ystrad Mynach behind. This drive usually takes around 20 min. Caerphilly welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your journey at Morgan Jones Park and explore the idyllic features. Next, make your way to Caerphilly Castle, another highlight in the town.

While exploring Wales is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Cardiff has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Cardiff on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Cardiff, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

The Potted Pig offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Mowgli Street Food. Or, try Angel Hotel Cardiff, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Wales with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Wales!

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Day 11

Day 11 – Cardiff - departure day

  • Cardiff - Departure day
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  • Bute Park
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Your budget road trip vacation in Wales is about to end. Day 11 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Cardiff.

Make the most of your final day in Wales by visiting Cardiff’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Wales.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Cardiff, consider a top-rated restaurant like Bar 44 Cardiff, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. The Alchemist Cardiff is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Park Plaza Cardiff, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories 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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