Cheap 5-Day Wales Road Trip from Cardiff traveling north to Aberystwyth

Your exciting road trip through Wales starts when you reach the incredible city of Cardiff, where you'll stay for 1 night. 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.

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 offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Elevens Bar And Grill. Or, try Old Arcade, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Pennyroyal and try some of its cocktails and snacks. The Borough Arms is another great place to hang out and unwind. If you want to have a drink or two with locals, you'll want to visit The Libertine Cocktail Bar, offering the perfect setting to unwind and savor the evening.

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

On day 2 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Wales, you’ll experience 1 charming destinations — Cardiff. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the town of Aberystwyth, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

Kick off the day at Wales Millennium Centre, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This convention center is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,729 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Cardiff.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Cardiff Castle. This extraordinary castle has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,028 visitors.

Next, make your way to National Museum Cardiff. This museum building welcomes around 373,191 visitors yearly and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,751 reviews.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is St Fagans National Museum of History. This open-air museum typically receives around 610,155 visitors every year and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 10,708 reviews.

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

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, Aberystwyth 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 town's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Baravin, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Y Consti is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Little Devil's Café.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Kanes Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Libertine offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Y Bañera. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

On day 3 of your affordable vacation in Wales, prepare for another exciting road trip adventure within and immediately outside Aberystwyth. You’ll stay in Aberystwyth for another 1 night. You’ll visit more of the best attractions in Wales, discover new cultures, and take in unique experiences.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Portmeirion. This car ride takes around 8 min.

Kick off the day at Portmeirion, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This village is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,584 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Harlech, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Porthmadog. Your travel time is around 18 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,019 reviews.

After soaking in Harlech’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Porthmadog. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 18 min. When you arrive in Porthmadog, it's time to take a break from the road.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Harlech Castle. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,554 reviews.

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

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

Discover the heart of Aberystwyth through its culinary scene, starting with Mama Fay's. 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 Ultracomida, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Yr Hen Orsaf - JD Wetherspoon, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

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

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Wales. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Wales!

Day 4 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 3 wonderful destinations — Devil's Bridge, Aberystwyth, and Goginan. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Cardiff, where you'll be spending 1 night.

After soaking in Devil's Bridge’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cardiff. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 23 min. When you arrive in Cardiff, it's time to take a break from the road.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Devil's Bridge Falls. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,170 reviews.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Vale of Rheidol Railway Museum. This extraordinary railway museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,834 visitors.

Next, make your way to Aberystwyth Castle Grounds. This top attraction is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,914 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Aberystwyth Cliff Railway. This funicular is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,167 travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Goginan.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Bwlch Nant yr Arian Forest Visitor Centre, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 2,682 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.

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.

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

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Great Western - JD Wetherspoon, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Rum & Fizz offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Kongs Cardiff provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Make the most of your final day in Wales by visiting Cardiff’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Wales. Take home a piece of Wales with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

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 Pettigrew Tea Rooms - Bute Park, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. The Prince of Wales - JD Wetherspoon is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Servini's at The Summerhouse, 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!