9-Day Wales Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cardiff traveling north to Tenby and Betws y Coed
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-day road trip through Wales. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Wales takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Cardiff, 2 nights in Tenby, and 3 nights in Betws y Coed. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Wales. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Cardiff, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Wales on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Wales. Cardiff Castle and Conwy Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable St Fagans National Museum Of History, learn more about the unique Portmeirion, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of National Museum Cardiff.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cardiff, Tenby, St Florence, St Davids, Aberystwyth, Betws y Coed, Dinorwig, Llanberis, Caernarfon, Portmeirion, Harlech, Porthmadog, Beddgelert, and Conwy, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Wales. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Wales.
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 package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Wales fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Wales today!
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Day 1
- Cardiff - Arrival day
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- Bute Park
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Welcome to Cardiff, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Wales! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Cardiff's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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 Bute Park, 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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Cardiff, a top-rated dining spot in Cardiff. If you're in the mood for something new, try Elevens Bar And Grill, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Old Arcade. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cardiff.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Pennyroyal offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Borough Arms is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Libertine Cocktail Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Wales!
Day 2
- Cardiff
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Drive 25 km, 1 hour 16 min
- St Fagans National Museum of History building
- Llandaff Cathedral
- National Museum Wales Main Library
- Roath Recreation Ground
- Roath Park
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Day 2 of your road trip across Wales promises a magnificent time exploring Cardiff. You have 1 night left in Cardiff. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Cardiff today. One of the most captivating attractions included on the itinerary is St Fagans National Museum Of History. This standout museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Llandaff Cathedral and learn what makes this breathtaking church unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the up-and-coming National Museum Cardiff. After exploring the museum, head to Roath Recreation Ground. This underrated park is a highlight in Cardiff. As your day continues, stop by Roath Park, known for its romantic features.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Wales is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cardiff's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Cafe Citta, 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 Clayton Hotel Cardiff, 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 Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre, an IHG Hotel. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cardiff tonight.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Great Western - Jd Wetherspoon, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Rum & Fizz offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cardiff. Kongs Cardiff is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Wales!
Day 3
- Cardiff
- Tenby
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Drive 161 km, 2 hours 31 min
- National Trust - Tudor Merchant's House
- Manor Wildlife Park
- Heatherton World of Activities
- Tenby Castle
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Wales. Today you will explore Tenby and St Florence, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Tenby. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Cardiff today. One of the most frequently visited attractions included on the itinerary is National Trust - Tudor Merchant's House. This heritage-rich museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Manor Wildlife Park and learn what makes this enchanting wildlife reserve unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the up-and-coming Heatherton World Of Activities. After exploring the adventure park, head to Tenby Castle. This worthwhile castle is a highlight in Cardiff.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Tenby. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Tenby. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Tap & Tân, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Top Joe's Tenby is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Indie Burger. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Tenby tonight.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Wales!
Day 4
- Tenby
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Drive 132 km, 2 hours 35 min
- St David's Cathedral
- Celtic Quest Coasteering
- Blue Lagoon - Abereiddi
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Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in Wales. With 1 night left in Tenby, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Tenby. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! St. David's Cathedral School is the perfect place to start. This church is one of the most locally appreciated places to visit in Tenby. Next, head to Celtic Quest Coasteering, an intriguing adventure park, known for its visually striking features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Blue Lagoon - Abereiddi. This romantic lake is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Tenby and your accommodation.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Tenby. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at Heywood Spa Hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Tenby. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Premier Inn Tenby Town Centre, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Atlantic Hotel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Tenby this evening.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Wales!
Day 5
- Tenby
- Betws y Coed
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Drive 243 km, 4 hours 41 min
- Aberystwyth Castle Grounds
- War Memorial
- Aberystwyth Cliff Railway
- Conwy Valley Railway Museum
- Rhaeadr Y Graig Lwyd
- Pont-y-Pair Bridge
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Wales. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Aberystwyth, Betws y Coed, and Capel Garmon. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Betws y Coed, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Tenby on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Castell Aberystwyth Castle is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this majestic castle before continuing your journey. War Memorial is your next stop. This up-and-coming war memorial is one of the best-rated sights in Tenby.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Aberystwyth Cliff Railway. This breathtaking heritage railway is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Conwy Valley Railway Museum and Rhaeadr Y Graig Lwyd. If time allows, end your day with Pont-y-pair Bridge, an enchanting historical landmark that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Betws y Coed, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Betws y Coed. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Wales.
Day 6
- Betws y Coed
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Drive 69 km, 3 hours 21 min
- Llyn Padarn and Llanberis View Point
- National Slate Museum
- Llanberis Lake Railway
- Rhaeadr Ewynnol Swallow Falls Waterfall
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Betws y Coed, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.
Get ready for an exciting day in Betws y Coed. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a lake, a museum, a heritage railway, a waterfall and much more! Begin your adventure at Llyn Padarn And Llanberis View Point. This is a beloved lake you should not miss. Another must-see is National Slate Museum, an often recommended museum in Betws y Coed.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Llanberis Lake Railway. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Rhaeadr Ewynnol / Swallow Falls Waterfall, another of the village’s frequently visited attractions.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Betws y Coed.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Betws y Coed. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the village, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Say good night to Betws y Coed and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Wales!
Day 7
- Betws y Coed
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Drive 143 km, 3 hours 2 min
- Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum
- Portmeirion North Wales
- Harlech Castle
- Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways
- Gelert's Grave
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Greet day 7 of your road trip in Wales with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Betws y Coed for your remaining 1 night in the village later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Caernarfon, Portmeirion, Harlech, Porthmadog, and Beddgelert.
Today's adventure in Betws y Coed promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum. This respected museum is a highlight of any visit in the town. Next, head over to Harlech Castle, one of the town’s most worthwhile attractions, known for its UNESCO world heritage-listed features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways. This standout heritage railway is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Bedd Gelert, an intriguing monument, and take a stroll around the area.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Betws y Coed and your accommodation.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Betws y Coed. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Wales.
Day 8
- Betws y Coed
- Cardiff
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Drive 335 km, 4 hours 39 min
- Plas Mawr
- Smallest House in Great Britain
- Conwy Castle
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On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Wales, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Conwy. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cardiff, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Betws y Coed covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a historical landmark, and a castle. Start your adventure at Plas Mawr. This underrated museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the respected wonders of Smallest House In Great Britain, a must-see historical landmark in the town.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Conwy Castle. This interesting castle offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Cardiff. Cardiff offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Cardiff. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Pasture 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 Pettigrew Tea Rooms - Bute Park, 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 The Prince of Wales - JD Wetherspoon. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cardiff tonight.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Lab 22, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Dead Canary is another popular option for a drink or two.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Wales.
Day 9
- Cardiff - Departure day
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- Cardiff Castle
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Day 9 of your road trip in Wales is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Cardiff before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Cardiff Castle, a history-steeped castle before you head out.
Make the most of your final day in Wales by visiting Cardiff’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing St. David's Dewi Sant. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Wales. Savor your final moments in Wales at a cozy cafe while relaxing with a cup of coffee or tea.
Before you conclude your road trip in Wales, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience 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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