Cheap One-Week Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff traveling north to Merthyr Tydfil, Swansea, and Builth Wells
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Get ready for an exciting vacation without hitting your budget hard with this 8-day cheap road trip in Wales. Venture into the heart of Cardiff, Caerphilly, Merthyr Tydfil, Abercanaid, Pant, Neath, Swansea, Rhossili, Trap, Builth Wells, Welshpool, Llanfair Caereinion, Elan Village, Raglan, Chepstow, Tintern, and Blaenavon, where every mile is packed with value and excitement. Embrace the freedom of the open road and make memories that last a lifetime, all within your budget.
Explore Wales for less and on your own terms. This customizable and cheap Wales travel package promises an exhilarating 8-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 3 nights in Cardiff, 1 night in Merthyr Tydfil, 1 night in Swansea, and 2 nights in Builth Wells. 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 8-day vacation in Wales. We'll offer you cheap flights and arrange your hotel reservations for 7 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Cardiff - arrival day
- Cardiff - Arrival day
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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.
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. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
A cheap, budget vacation in Cardiff should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Cardiff, try some of our top recommendations.
After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Cardiff, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Elevens Bar And Grill, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss Old Arcade, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.
Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Cardiff, Pennyroyal. The Borough Arms is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. Locals also recommend The Libertine Cocktail Bar, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Wales!
Day 2 – Cardiff
- Cardiff
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Drive 30 km, 1 hour 8 min
- Bute Park
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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.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a charming, a scenic, a breathtaking, a visually striking, and a remarkable. Whether you decide to explore Cardiff on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Bute Park is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this noteworthy park before continuing your journey.
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.
Savor the culinary delights of Cardiff, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.
Cafe Citta offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Clayton Hotel Cardiff. Or, try Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre, an IHG Hotel, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.
If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into The Great Western - Jd Wetherspoon, considered one of the best bars in Cardiff. You can also enjoy drinks at Rum & Fizz, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to Kongs Cardiff, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Cardiff.
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 – Cardiff, Caerphilly, and Merthyr Tydfil
- Cardiff
- Caerphilly
- Merthyr Tydfil
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Drive 45 km, 1 hour 11 min
- Cardiff Castle
- Gorsedd Gardens
- National Museum Wales Main Library
- Caerphilly Castle
- Bute Park
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Day 3 of your road trip across Wales offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Cardiff and Caerphilly. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Merthyr Tydfil, where you'll stay for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with a charming, a mesmerizing, an instagrammable, a historic, a culturally significant, and a masterful in the charming city of Cardiff. Your adventure starts at Cardiff Castle, an interesting local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Gorsedd Gardens. This worthwhile park is known for its respected 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 National Museum Cardiff. This instagrammable museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Roath Park. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the park before you continue to your next stop.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Merthyr Tydfil. This drive usually takes around 29 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Make your way to Caerphilly Castle, an often recommended castle that draws attention for its historic features.
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.
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!
Day 4 – Merthyr Tydfil, Abercanaid, Pant, Neath, and Margam
- Merthyr Tydfil
- Abercanaid
- Pant
- Swansea
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Drive 103 km, 2 hours 11 min
- Brecon Mountain Railway
- Cyfarthfa Castle Museum and Art Gallery
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Day 4 of your self-drive vacation in Wales will take you to the city of Swansea, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Swansea, you'll explore 4 popular cheap holiday destinations in Wales, including Abercanaid, Pant, Neath, and Margam.
Set your GPS to Abercanaid and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Abercanaid beckons with new experiences!
Bikepark Wales is a locally appreciated bike park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picturesque features before continuing your self-guided tour.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Abercanaid, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Pant may take around 15 min. Upon your arrival in Pant, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Begin your journey at Brecon Mountain Railway and explore the awe-inspiring features.
Cyfarthfa Castle Museum And Art Gallery is an up-and-coming museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour.
Swansea 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.
A cheap, budget vacation in Swansea should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Swansea, try some of our top recommendations.
Discover the heart of Swansea through its culinary scene, starting with The Perch. 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 Pant-y-Gwydr restaurant, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Turtle Bay Swansea, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Popworld Swansea, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of No Sign Wine Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Copper likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Wales with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Wales!
Day 5 – Swansea, Rhossili, Llanarthney, and Trap
- Swansea
- Rhossili
- Builth Wells
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Drive 175 km, 3 hours 25 min
- Clyne Gardens
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On day 5 of your cheap holiday travels in Wales, you’ll tour 3 destinations: Rhossili, Llanarthney, and Trap. You'll stay in Builth Wells for 2 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Rhossili today.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
Take your self-guided tour to Clyne Gardens, an up-and-coming botanical garden that everyone visiting Rhossili should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
Take your self-guided tour to National Trust - Rhossili And South Gower Coast, a frequently visited nature reserve that everyone visiting Rhossili should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
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.
Savor the mouthwatering delights of Builth Wells, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the town'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.
Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in Wales!
Day 6 – Builth Wells, Welshpool, Llanfair Caereinion, Elan Village, and Rhayader
- Builth Wells
- Welshpool
- Llanfair Caereinion
- Elan Village
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Drive 210 km, 3 hours 49 min
- National Trust - Powis Castle and Garden
- Caban Coch Dam
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Ready for day 6 of your road trip vacation in Wales? Discover more of Builth Wells and beyond on this leg of your journey. Explore more top attractions, dive into new cultures, and enjoy unique experiences. Today is all about maximizing your 1 night in this vibrant destination!
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Llanfair Caereinion, 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 Welshpool to Llanfair Caereinion may take around 20 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Llanfair Caereinion, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Make your way to National Trust - Powis Castle And Garden, an increasingly popular castle that draws attention for its history-steeped features.
Llanfair Caereinion’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Welshpool behind. This drive usually takes around 20 min. Llanfair Caereinion welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway, a curiosity-inducing heritage railway that draws visitors from near and far.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Elan Village. This car ride takes around 1 hour 8 min.
Your self-guided tour starts at Caban Coch Dam, an underrated dam that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Builth Wells and your accommodation.
Discovering the culinary wonders of Builth Wells 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 in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Wales!
Day 7 – Builth Wells, Raglan, Chepstow, Tintern, Blaenavon, and Cardiff
- Builth Wells
- Raglan
- Chepstow
- Tintern
- Cardiff
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Drive 196 km, 3 hours 31 min
- Raglan Castle
- Tintern Abbey / Abaty Tyndryn
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Day 7 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 4 wonderful destinations — Raglan, Chepstow, Tintern, and Blaenavon. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Cardiff, where you'll be spending 1 night.
After soaking in Raglan’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Chepstow. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 29 min. When you arrive in Chepstow, it's time to take a break from the road.
Head to Raglan Castle, a curiosity-inducing castle in Raglan. Explore its majestic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
Chepstow’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Raglan behind. This drive usually takes around 29 min. Chepstow welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Spend your afternoon discovering Castell Cas-gwent / Chepstow Castle, an intriguing castle known for its historic features.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Tintern, 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 Chepstow to Tintern may take around 14 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Tintern, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Your self-guided tour starts at Abaty Tyndyrn / Tintern Abbey, a curiosity-inducing monastery that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
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.
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.
Pasture 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, Pettigrew Tea Rooms - Bute Park offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at The Prince of Wales - JD Wetherspoon, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Lab 22, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Dead Canary. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.
Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Wales with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Wales!
Day 8 – 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 8 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Cardiff.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
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 Servini's at The Summerhouse, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Premier Inn Cardiff City Centre (Queen Street) hotel features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Bill's Cardiff Central Restaurant 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!
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