Cheap 5-Day Wales Road Trip from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil and surrounding area

Your exciting road trip through Wales starts when you reach the incredible city of Cardiff, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Cardiff and begin your adventure in Wales.

Cardiff is a popular cheap holiday destination in Wales with something to offer every traveler. 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.

Going on cheap, budget vacations in Wales shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Cardiff is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

Start your flavor-filled journey at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Cardiff, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Elevens Bar And Grill offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Old Arcade is the perfect spot for you!

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at Pennyroyal, a must-visit destination for a great night out. Locals also enjoy the cocktails at The Borough Arms, where you can relax and have some fun in a welcoming environment. Another fantastic option is The Libertine Cocktail Bar, known for offering a variety of snacks and drinks at affordable prices.

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

Day 2 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Cardiff, proving that cheap holidays in Wales can be extraordinary. Have fun exploring the best places to visit in the city. At the end of the day, enjoy wining and dining at Cardiff, with 1 night to stay in the area.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like National Museum Cardiff. This extraordinary museum building has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,751 visitors. Each year, around 373,191 people visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.

Your discovery of Cardiff does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Cardiff on a personal level. Check out the fantastic selection of affordable tours and tickets offered on this leg of your journey across this top cheap holiday destination in Europe, Wales.

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

Discover the heart of Cardiff through its culinary scene, starting with Cafe Citta. 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 Clayton Hotel Cardiff, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Pasture Restaurant Cardiff, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

The Great Western - JD Wetherspoon is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. Alternatively, Rum & Fizz is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day. You might also want to cap the night off at Kongs Cardiff, a fascinating bar that offers a unique ambiance and a wide selection of cocktails.

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

Day 3 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 5 popular cheap holiday destinations in Wales, including Cardiff, Caldicot, Chepstow, Tintern, and Raglan.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Cardiff Castle. This castle is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Cardiff, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,028 visitors.

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 44 min. Upon your arrival in Caldicot, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Caldicot Castle. This extraordinary museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,074 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Caldicot and set your GPS to Chepstow. 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 15 min. Upon reaching Chepstow, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Chepstow Castle / Castell Cas-gwent. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,594 visitors.

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

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 Merthyr Tydfil that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the town of Merthyr Tydfil!

On day 4 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Wales, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Caerphilly, St. Nicholas, and Barry. 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.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Caerphilly. This drive usually takes around 30 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Caerphilly Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,237 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Caerphilly, you’ll hit the road in the direction of St. Nicholas. This drive usually takes around 28 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you're ready to see some sights, National Trust - Dyffryn Gardens is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,481 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Barry. This car ride takes around 16 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Cold Knap beach. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,617 reviews.

Cardiff 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.

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.

Discover the heart of Cardiff through its culinary scene, starting with Pettigrew Tea Rooms - Bute Park. 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 The Prince of Wales - JD Wetherspoon, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Servini's at The Summerhouse, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Lab 22 is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Dead Canary, offering a different kind of charm.

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

Your budget road trip vacation in Wales is about to end. Day 5 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Cardiff.

Maximize 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. Bring a bit of Wales home with you through these charming souvenirs.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Cardiff is the remarkable Bute Park. This park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,423 visitors.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Cardiff, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Premier Inn Cardiff City Centre (Queen Street) hotel, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Bill's Cardiff Central Restaurant features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, The Potted Pig is a highly recommended spot.

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!