Relaxed 12-Day Wales Road Trip from Cardiff to Swansea and Merthyr Tydfil

Your slow-paced and relaxed road trip through Wales begins when you reach Cardiff, where you’ll stay for a total of 5 nights.

Cardiff is an outstanding hub for culture, comfort, and exploration. The city offers travelers plenty of experiences to look forward to, including the magnificent Alexandra Gardens. Around 548 visitors have rated this fascinating park and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

When you're done sightseeing for the day, you'll check in at one of the best hotels or places to stay in the city. Take your pick and make it your home during your leisurely tour of the city.

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.

An excellent example is Cafe Citta. This restaurant offers a menu of comforting meals and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 504 customers.

Bill's Cardiff Central Restaurant serves great food and is a favorite among hungry travelers and locals. This popular restaurant in Cardiff has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,663 reviews.

The Alchemist Cardiff is another one of the city’s best restaurants. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,213 customers, The Alchemist Cardiff is sure to provide you with an unforgettable dining experience.

If you’re curious about what Cardiff looks like at night, a trip to some of the best bars near your accommodation is what you need next. Experience the local nightlife at The Dead Canary, our top recommendation in the city. Customers have rated this bar an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 700 reviews.

Old Arcade offers a variety of refreshing drinks and is one of the best places to relax in Cardiff. This well-known city bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,079 customers.

Locals like unwinding at Pasture Restaurant Cardiff. This bar has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 697 customers and is a perfect place for socializing.

Free your mind of worries and enjoy your first taste of relaxation in Wales! Expect more to come as you continue this laid-back and relaxed road trip in Wales!

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Wales, you'll explore the best attractions in St Fagans at your own pace and immerse in the neighborhood's unique local culture. Today's laid-back tour features some of the best restaurants and bars in St Fagans, where you can sample some delicious local food.

The accommodation you’ll be staying at for another 4 nights will be conveniently located close to several attractions, like the famous St Fagans National Museum of History. This incredible open-air museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,708 travelers, and is visited by 610,155 people every year.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 2 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Wales. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your St Fagans itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful neighborhood. Add a highly recommended tour to your vacation package now and make this refreshing new day of your self-drive through Wales extra special!

After a long day exploring the popular attractions in the neighborhood, it’s time to sample the different kinds of mouthwatering foods served at the best restaurants in St Fagans. One of our top recommendations includes a selection of delicious meals on its menu, Pettigrew Tea Rooms - Bute Park. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 759 customers.

You may also try the variety of dishes served at Bar 44 Cardiff, which is an excellent choice if you want a nice place to eat near your accommodation. Bar 44 Cardiff is rated 4.5 stars out of 5 by 733 customers.

You can also eat at the highly recommended The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Cardiff. This amazing restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 774 food lovers.

After finishing your meal, it’s time to experience the amazing nightlife in St Fagans and unwind at the coolest bars in the neighborhood. Drink the night away and celebrate this day of your relaxed road trip at the popular Kongs Cardiff. This vibrant bar is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 915 customers.

If you want to try a different bar, check out the popular Elevens Bar And Grill. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 787 customers, this bar is a great place to try some excellent liquor.

Another recommendation you shouldn’t miss is Lab 22. Drink up and relax in this amazing bar that serves different kinds of alcoholic beverages and cocktail drinks. Lab 22 has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 493 bar goers.

Enjoy the rest of day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Wales, and prepare for another day of unhurried adventure!

Day 3 of your comfortable self-drive tour across Wales gives you another chance to explore the magnificent city of Cardiff and visit more of its attractions.

Cardiff has plenty of activities and sights, so you won’t be short of things to do during your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Wales. Fortunately, your accommodation, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights more is conveniently located near several of the city’s best attractions.

One of the best stops on your hassle-free journey is the popular Roath Park, one of the top attractions in the city. In fact, the incredible Roath Park has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,598 visitors.

You could also spend some time relaxing at the amazing Roath Pleasure Gardens. This city feature got an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from its 840 guests.

Another place of interest in the city of Cardiff is the notable Roath Recreation Ground. The popular Roath Recreation Ground is a highlight of many travel packages in Cardiff. As a matter of fact, this remarkable park has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from around 1,636 travelers.

Aside from the above-mentioned attractions in Cardiff, you also have the opportunity to stop by the marvelous National Museum Cardiff. Take your time exploring this wonderful museum building and one of the city’s most notable places. This magnificent site has a rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 8,751 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to the outstanding Gorsedd Gardens. With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 901 travelers, a trip to the spectacular Gorsedd Gardens is something to look forward to in Cardiff.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Cardiff by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities. You’ll be happy to learn that there are plenty of top-rated tours and activities in Cardiff.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Cardiff, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations below and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Mowgli Street Food is one of the top restaurants in the city. This Cardiff-based food place has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 573 guests.

If you’re looking for another option near your accommodation, Park Plaza Cardiff is also one of the best restaurants you can try in the city. Park Plaza Cardiff proved an excellent choice for around 1,689 visitors, who gave the restaurant an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Another local favorite in Cardiff is The Potted Pig, which has an average score of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 492 individuals’ reviews.

After your meal, consider getting a drink at one of the top bars in Cardiff, The Borough Arms. This bar enjoys an average rating of 4.4 over 5 stars given by 802 customers.

Another drinking place in the city we recommend you try out is Laguna Kitchen & Bar Cardiff. Check out its selection of liquors, and learn why it has been rated 4.4 over 5 stars by 348 customers.

If you prefer another place to unwind, Pennyroyal may be a more excellent choice for you. This bar offers a variety of drinks you can choose from. Around 151 customers have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Toast to an amazing time in Cardiff and end day 3 of your slow-paced and relaxed road trip in Wales on a great note!

Day 4 of your comfortable self-drive tour across Wales gives you another chance to explore the magnificent city of Cardiff and visit more of its attractions.

Cardiff has plenty of activities and sights, so you won’t be short of things to do during your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Wales. Fortunately, your accommodation, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights more is conveniently located near several of the city’s best attractions.

One of the best stops on your hassle-free journey is the popular Hailey Park, one of the top attractions in the city. In fact, the incredible Hailey Park has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 880 visitors.

You could also spend some time relaxing at the amazing Insole Court. This city feature got an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from its 1,093 guests.

Another place of interest in the city of Cardiff is the notable Llandaff Cathedral. The popular Llandaff Cathedral is a highlight of many travel packages in Cardiff. As a matter of fact, this remarkable anglican or episcopal cathedral has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 714 travelers.

Aside from the above-mentioned attractions in Cardiff, you also have the opportunity to stop by the marvelous SWALEC Stadium. Take your time exploring this wonderful sports venue and one of the city’s most notable places. This magnificent site has a rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from 6,286 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to the outstanding Cardiff Castle. With a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,028 travelers, a trip to the spectacular Cardiff Castle is something to look forward to in Cardiff.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Cardiff by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities. You’ll be happy to learn that there are plenty of top-rated tours and activities in Cardiff.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Cardiff, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations below and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Servini's at The Summerhouse is one of the top restaurants in the city. This Cardiff-based food place has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 403 guests.

If you’re looking for another option near your accommodation, The Prince of Wales - JD Wetherspoon is also one of the best restaurants you can try in the city. The Prince of Wales - JD Wetherspoon proved an excellent choice for around 6,543 visitors, who gave the restaurant an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars.

After your meal, consider getting a drink at one of the top bars in Cardiff, The Great Western - JD Wetherspoon. This bar enjoys an average rating of 4 over 5 stars given by 4,066 customers.

Another drinking place in the city we recommend you try out is Angel Hotel Cardiff. Check out its selection of liquors, and learn why it has been rated 4 over 5 stars by 1,598 customers.

If you prefer another place to unwind, The Libertine Cocktail Bar may be a more excellent choice for you. This bar offers a variety of drinks you can choose from. Around 213 customers have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Toast to an amazing time in Cardiff and end day 4 of your slow-paced and relaxed road trip in Wales on a great note!

Day 5 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Wales gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience two places in one day. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Swansea, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 4 nights.

When you’re ready to head to your first attraction of the day, the wonderful Cosmeston Lakes Country Park & Medieval Village is waiting for you. This park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,637 visitors.

There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your relaxed road trip in Wales. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

Turn on some soothing tunes in the car because it’s now time to drive to the city of Swansea. In Swansea, you can choose among the best hotels and places to rest and recharge to complement your relaxed road trip experience in Wales.

After a long day of driving and exploring along your relaxed road trip route, sitting down for a well-cooked restaurant meal in St. Nicholas is an excellent idea.

A popular restaurant we recommend you try is Turtle Bay Swansea, one of the best restaurants in St. Nicholas. With a lovely menu and an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,808 customers, you can’t go wrong with choosing Turtle Bay Swansea.

Locals also recommend Madeira Restaurante Swansea as one of the top restaurants in the area. So if you’re feeling hungry, don’t forget to check out the menu at Madeira Restaurante Swansea as well. This local-favorite restaurant is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 856 customers.

If you feel like having something else, you could also book a table at Bouchon De Rossi. Bouchon De Rossi is another of the most popular places to eat in St. Nicholas. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 452 customers.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

If you would like to celebrate your vacation with a drink, we recommend going to a place like No Sign Wine Bar. No Sign Wine Bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 879 customers and is one of the best bars you can visit tonight.

Another lively bar worth checking out tonight is Steak By Night. This is the perfect place to enjoy a couple of drinks if you want to continue your celebrations. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 423 customers gives you an idea of what to expect from this bar.

Alternatively, head to Popworld Swansea. This popular bar will bring up your mood and give you a good ending to your night. Popworld Swansea is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 300 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration and anticipation of your memorable and relaxing road trip adventure through Wales!

Day 6 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip through Wales serves as your introduction to Rhossili. This is your chance to experience the very best of the city and appreciate Wales and its distinct culture and people.

Upon arriving in Rhossili, you can check in at the accommodation of your choice for a quick break.

These recommendations are among the most popular places to stay in Rhossili. If any of these options are not available during your stay in the city, we’ll provide you with the best alternatives. Our flexible booking system will automatically offer you a selection of accommodations that fit your budget and needs.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Rhossili, allowing you to explore the city at a relaxed pace. For example, you can take in the unique atmosphere of the city from the outstanding Wreck of the Helvetia. This top-tier point of interest and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in Rhossili. The fascinating Wreck of the Helvetia has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 505 travelers.

Rhossili is also home to the captivating National Trust - Rhosili and South Gower Coast, a local park and another popular attraction in the city. About 5,365 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.9 out of 5 stars.

The extraordinary Old Coastguard Station is another unforgettable place you can visit on your easy and relaxed road trip across Wales. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 522 travelers, Old Coastguard Station proves to be one of the top sights in the area.

A trip to this wonderful site will inspire you.

Every year, travelers gather around this fascinating sightseeing spot to appreciate its unique features.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Rhossili, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available on this day of your relaxed road trip across Wales.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Wales. After a day of appreciating the best places to visit in Rhossili, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Ranking high on our list of the best restaurants in Rhossili is Belle Vue Bistro Swansea ltd. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 284 customers, you really have to try the savory dishes of this excellent restaurant.

Locals love Pant-y-Gwydr restaurant for its delicious meals, and we recommend you visit the restaurant at least once during your stay in Rhossili. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 215 customers.

Another alternative is Swansea Grand Theatre. This restaurant serves a variety of comforting food and drinks and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,017 customers.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Rhossili. At Copper, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 335 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your relaxed road trip at The Hanbury, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 164 reviews.

Sleep comfortably and prepare for another day of your laid-back adventure in Wales!

On day 7 of your relaxed road trip across Wales, you'll explore the best attractions in Mumbles at your own pace and immerse in the neighborhood's unique local culture. Today's laid-back tour features some of the best restaurants and bars in Mumbles, where you can sample some delicious local food.

The accommodation you’ll be staying at for another 2 nights will be conveniently located close to several attractions, like the famous Clyne Gardens. This incredible park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,610 travelers.

Make the most of your slow-paced travel adventure in Wales by seeing another popular site in Mumbles, the wonderful Oystermouth Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,610 travelers.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 7 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Wales. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Mumbles itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful neighborhood. Add a highly recommended tour to your vacation package now and make this refreshing new day of your self-drive through Wales extra special!

After a long day exploring the popular attractions in the neighborhood, it’s time to sample the different kinds of mouthwatering foods served at the best restaurants in Mumbles. One of our top recommendations includes a selection of delicious meals on its menu, Kardomah Restaurant. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 504 customers.

You may also try the variety of dishes served at Gershwins Coffee House, which is an excellent choice if you want a nice place to eat near your accommodation. Gershwins Coffee House is rated 4.5 stars out of 5 by 324 customers.

You can also eat at the highly recommended Hanson at the Chelsea Restaurant. This amazing restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 283 food lovers.

After finishing your meal, it’s time to experience the amazing nightlife in Mumbles and unwind at the coolest bars in the neighborhood.

Drink up and relax in this amazing bar that serves different kinds of alcoholic beverages and cocktail drinks.

Enjoy the rest of day 7 of your relaxed road trip across Wales, and prepare for another day of unhurried adventure!

Fortunately, your accommodation, where you’ll be staying for 1 night more is conveniently located near several of the neighborhood’s best attractions.

One of the best stops on your hassle-free journey is the popular Penllergaer Valley Woods, one of the top attractions in the neighborhood. In fact, the incredible Penllergaer Valley Woods has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,044 visitors.

Explore more of the neighborhood’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities.

When it’s time to eat, the neighborhood has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Or, check out our top recommendations below and treat yourself to a nice meal.

The Perch is one of the top restaurants in the neighborhood.

If you’re looking for another option near your accommodation, Premier Inn Swansea City Centre hotel is also one of the best restaurants you can try in the neighborhood. Premier Inn Swansea City Centre hotel proved an excellent choice for around 887 visitors, who gave the restaurant an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars.

This bar offers a variety of drinks you can choose from.

Day 9 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Wales gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience two places in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Neath. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Merthyr Tydfil, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to head to your first attraction of the day, the wonderful Gnoll Estate Country Park is waiting for you. This country park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,695 visitors.

Make the most of your relaxed road trip vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Neath has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your relaxed road trip in Wales. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

Turn on some soothing tunes in the car because it’s now time to drive to the city of Merthyr Tydfil. In Merthyr Tydfil, you can choose among the best hotels and places to rest and recharge to complement your relaxed road trip experience in Wales.

After a long day of driving and exploring along your relaxed road trip route, sitting down for a well-cooked restaurant meal in Margam is an excellent idea.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the hamlet.

This is the perfect place to enjoy a couple of drinks if you want to continue your celebrations.

This popular bar will bring up your mood and give you a good ending to your night.

Raise your glass in celebration and anticipation of your memorable and relaxing road trip adventure through Wales!

Day 10 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip through Wales serves as your introduction to Abercanaid. This is your chance to experience the very best of the city and appreciate Wales and its distinct culture and people.

Upon arriving in Abercanaid, you can check in at the accommodation of your choice for a quick break.

With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 23 guests, Bikehaus@The Colliers Arms is the best luxury apartment option we recommend while in the city.

The 3-star Premier Inn Merthyr Tydfil offers comfort at an affordable price, perfect for practical travelers.

These recommendations are among the most popular places to stay in Abercanaid. If any of these options are not available during your stay in the city, we’ll provide you with the best alternatives. Our flexible booking system will automatically offer you a selection of accommodations that fit your budget and needs.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Abercanaid, allowing you to explore the city at a relaxed pace. For example, you can take in the unique atmosphere of the city from the outstanding BikePark Wales. This cafe and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in Abercanaid. The fascinating BikePark Wales has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,688 travelers.

A trip to this wonderful site will inspire you.

Every year, travelers gather around this fascinating sightseeing spot to appreciate its unique features.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Abercanaid, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available on this day of your relaxed road trip across Wales.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Wales. After a day of appreciating the best places to visit in Abercanaid, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Abercanaid.

Sleep comfortably and prepare for another day of your laid-back adventure in Wales!

Day 11 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Wales gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience two places in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Caerphilly. 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.

When you’re ready to head to your first attraction of the day, the wonderful Morgan Jones Park is waiting for you. This park has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 973 visitors.

The next stop on your road trip vacation is Caerphilly Castle. This unique castle is a highly recommended place to visit, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,237 visitors.

Make the most of your relaxed road trip vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Caerphilly has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your relaxed road trip in Wales. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

Turn on some soothing tunes in the car because it’s now time to drive to the city of Cardiff. In Cardiff, you can choose among the best hotels and places to rest and recharge to complement your relaxed road trip experience in Wales.

After a long day of driving and exploring along your relaxed road trip route, sitting down for a well-cooked restaurant meal in Ystrad Mynach is an excellent idea.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

This is the perfect place to enjoy a couple of drinks if you want to continue your celebrations.

This popular bar will bring up your mood and give you a good ending to your night.

Raise your glass in celebration and anticipation of your memorable and relaxing road trip adventure through Wales!

Day 12 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.

Depending on when you need to leave, you might be able to fit in some sightseeing or shopping. Embrace the beauty of Cardiff once more and find some souvenirs to help you remember your time in the city. To end your relaxing road trip in Wales on top, we recommend visiting some of the following attractions.

Bute Park is an extraordinary attraction that is perfect for your last day in Cardiff. This top sight is a popular park, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,423 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 12 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.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Cardiff and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 12-day relaxed road trip in Wales is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.