Relaxed 7-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil
Description
Included
Description
Experience Wales like never before on this 7-day relaxed road trip, traversing through Cardiff, Barry, Penarth, Ogmore Village, Merthyr Tydfil, Abercanaid, Pant, Ystrad Mynach, Crosskeys, and Caerphilly. This self-drive vacation offers a tranquil journey through the heart-stopping beauty found in Wales.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Wales at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Cardiff, Barry, Penarth, Ogmore Village, Merthyr Tydfil, Abercanaid, Pant, Ystrad Mynach, Crosskeys, and Caerphilly. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Cardiff and 2 nights in Merthyr Tydfil. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Wales.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Wales. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Cardiff, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 7-day journey across Wales and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Wales with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Wales.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Wales. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Cardiff Castle. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating St Fagans National Museum Of History.
Traveling leisurely through Wales means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent National Museum Cardiff. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Caerphilly Castle. Get close to the spectacular Wales Millennium Centre and the wonderful Bute Park. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through Wales's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Wales.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Wales. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Wales's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Wales.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Wales. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 6 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 7 days of your self-drive road trip in Wales. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 7-day vacation in Wales and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Wales today!
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Cardiff - Arrival day
- More
- Sophia Gardens
- More
Your relaxed road trip through Wales starts when you reach the incredible city of Cardiff, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Cardiff and begin your adventure in Wales.
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 Swalec Stadium, 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 hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars 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 dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Cardiff and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Pennyroyal, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Borough Arms offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Libertine Cocktail Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Wales. Enjoy your first taste of Cardiff as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2
- Cardiff
- More
Drive 7 km, 44 min
- Roath Park
- Roath Pleasure Gardens
- Roath Recreation Ground
- National Museum Wales Main Library
- Cardiff Castle
- More
On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Wales, you’ll go deep into Cardiff, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Cardiff, and meet locals along the way!
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Cardiff. Begin your sightseeing with Roath Park. This beloved park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Roath Pleasure Gardens, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Cardiff, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Roath Recreation Ground. This beloved park is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find National Museum Cardiff, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Conclude your day at Cardiff Castle and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most notable attractions.
Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Wales. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Wales and ensure the experience of a lifetime.
Exploring the food culture in Cardiff offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Cafe Citta, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Clayton Hotel Cardiff is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre, an IHG Hotel. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cardiff tonight.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Cardiff.
Cap off your dinner by heading to The Great Western - Jd Wetherspoon, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Rum & Fizz is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Kongs Cardiff is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Wales.
Day 3
- Cardiff
- More
Drive 26 km, 1 hour
- Insole Court
- St Fagans National Museum of History building
- Techniquest
- Roald Dahl Plass
- Wales Millennium Centre
- More
Day 3 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Cardiff, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Wales are extraordinary.
Cardiff is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots! Start at Insole Court, an increasingly popular museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find St Fagans National Museum Of History, enchanting visitors with its instagrammable appeal. Continue your exploration at Techniquest. This science center is one of the city’s most beloved spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Cardiff at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Roald Dahl Plass. After exploring the public square, head to the up-and-coming Wales Millennium Centre. This performing arts theater will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.
Wales makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Wales also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.
Bring home unique finds from Cardiff's bustling shopping hub, St. David's Dewi Sant. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, St. David's Dewi Sant offers plenty of options, including restaurants, cafes, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Wales. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Cardiff, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
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.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Cardiff’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Wales.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Lab 22 offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Dead Canary is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Wales!
Day 4
- Cardiff
- Merthyr Tydfil
- More
Drive 133 km, 2 hours 37 min
- Cold Knap beach
- Cosmeston Lakes Country Park & Medieval Village
- Penarth Pier Pavilion
- National Trust - Dyffryn Gardens
- Ogmore Castle
- More
Day 4 of your self-drive tour in Wales is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the town of Barry and end it in the town of Merthyr Tydfil. You’ll stay in Merthyr Tydfil for 2 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Wales.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Cardiff. Begin your sightseeing with Cold Knap Beach. This frequently visited beach is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Cosmeston Lakes Country Park & Medieval Village, another must-visit attraction that enhances the town’s allure.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Cardiff, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Penarth Pier Pavilion. This up-and-coming pier is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find National Trust - Dyffryn Gardens, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Conclude your day at Ogmore Castle and uncover why it's recognized as one of the town's most underrated attractions.
In the town of Merthyr Tydfil, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Wales.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the town for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Merthyr Tydfil.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Merthyr Tydfil’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Wales.
Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Wales.
Day 5
- Merthyr Tydfil
- More
Drive 26 km, 48 min
- BikePark Wales
- Cyfarthfa Castle Museum and Art Gallery
- Brecon Mountain Railway
- Morlais Castle
- More
On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Wales, you’ll explore the area around Merthyr Tydfil, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Merthyr Tydfil will make you fall even more in love with the town and uniqueness of Wales.
Merthyr Tydfil is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views! Start at Bikepark Wales, a worthwhile bike park that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Cyfarthfa Castle Museum And Art Gallery, enchanting visitors with its stunning appeal. Continue your exploration at Brecon Mountain Railway. This heritage railway is one of the village’s most beloved spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Merthyr Tydfil at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Morlais Castle.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Merthyr Tydfil and your accommodation.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Wales, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Merthyr Tydfil.
Experience the amazing nightlife in Merthyr Tydfil and unwind at the coolest bars in the town.
Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Wales!
Day 6
- Merthyr Tydfil
- Cardiff
- More
Drive 74 km, 2 hours 2 min
- Parc Cwm Darran
- Llancaiach Fawr Manor
- Waunfawr Park
- Morgan Jones Park
- Caerphilly Castle
- More
Day 6 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Wales gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the town of Ystrad Mynach. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Cardiff, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.
Start by visiting Parc Cwm Darran, a prime spot to begin your journey. This picturesque park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Llancaiach Fawr Manor, another must-visit landmark and frequently visited museum renowned for its heritage-rich features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Merthyr Tydfil by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Waunfawr Park. This peaceful park is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Morgan Jones Park also adds charm to your journey, and Caerphilly Castle wraps up your day with its historic appeal.
After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Cardiff. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Wales by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Wales. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Cardiff, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Don’t miss out on dining at Servini's at The Summerhouse, a top-rated dining destination in Cardiff. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Premier Inn Cardiff City Centre (Queen Street) hotel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bill's Cardiff Central Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cardiff this evening.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Cardiff and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Cardiff!
Day 7
- Cardiff - Departure day
- More
- Bute Park
- More
Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in Wales is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Cardiff.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Take a break with a cup of coffee or tea while savoring the local vibe in a coffee shop.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Bute Park, a mesmerizing park before you head out.
Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Cardiff or just grab something light to keep you going.
Enjoy a lovely meal at The Potted Pig, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Mowgli Street Food is another top choice with a popular menu.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Cardiff and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in Wales is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in the United Kingdom
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.