Wales is a country filled with a unique a blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural experiences that any traveler will love. Our seven day itinerary aims to provide an example of what you can do on your trip that will immerse you in the beautiful landscapes, culture, and stories that make Wales truly special. From medieval castles, to serene lakes and lush valleys, this itinerary will help you plan a week of sights, tastes, and tours that will show you the magic of Wales!
A Brief Recap of the History of Wales
Wales is a nation steeped in history and vibrant culture. With a legacy dating back to ancient Celtic times, Wales has weathered invasions, conquests, and revolutions which has shaped its resilient and distinct identity. The medieval period left a plethora of well-preserved castles that dot the landscape, bearing witness to both battles and royal intrigues. The Welsh language, which is one of Europe’s oldest, reflects the resilience of cultural spirit along with Wales’ traditional music and folklore. Today, Wales remains a captivating blend of ancient traditions and contemporary vibrancy, inviting visitors to explore its historical depths and embrace its living culture.
Related: Read our Portmeirion Day Trip Guide! Portmeirion didn’t make it into this Wales road trip itinerary, but it’s worth a stop if you have time!
Day 1: Cardiff
- Explore Cardiff Castle: History, architecture, and guided tours.
- Stroll through Bute Park and along the River Taff.
- Visit the National Museum Cardiff for art and cultural exhibits.
- Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Cardiff Bay and Mermaid Quay.
Cardiff Castle:
Start day one at Cardiff Castle. There is loads to explore on the castle grounds. The castle itself is beautiful and full of sights but the grounds include a trebuchet and various attractions dating all the way back to roman times.
The tours are inexpensive if that is your style (around $5 with free admission under 5 years old) and they also offer an audio guide to learn while wandering on your own. Don’t forget to climb to the top of the Norman Keep for the amazing views of the city and surrounding area!
Check out the Cardiff Castle website for up to date information on tour and event information.
Bute Park and the River Taff:
Once you have had your fill exploring the history and architecture of Cardiff Castle, make your way to Bute Park and the River Taff. Take in the natural beauty of the surrounding areas and gardens, rent a rowboat or take a river taxi, visit one of the countless attractions or activities offered, or just grab some coffee and a snack and relax.
There are countless things to do in Bute Park, or at least too many to list one here ranging from nature trails, to bee hives, sculptures, and educational areas for kids and adults alike. It is also near Principality Stadium, the national stadium of Wales. Wander around and explore or check out the Bute Park website to pre plan your visit.
National Museum Cardiff:
After the morning’s explorations, spend the afternoon perusing at the National Museum Cardiff. Enjoy the history and art of Wales and learn a thing or two along the way. On site parking is about $7 for the day and they have locker storage for any extra bags you may not want to carry throughout the museum.
Aside from the natural history exhibits and art featuring Welsh and international artists, there are a multitude of rotating exhibits to check out. The museum also frequently has events on the calendar so check out the National Museum Cardiff website for the current exhibits and up and coming events.
Cardiff Bay and Mermaid Quay:
When you have finished at the museum, head over to Cardiff Bay and Mermaid Quay for an upbeat and relaxing evening full of cafes, shops, and entertainment. There are tons of restaurants to choose from overlooking the waterfront and there are events and entertainment galore in the area.
Choose between wandering and shopping, snacking and relaxing, or take a boat tour at sunset to relax and wander at the same time! Check out the Cardiff Bay website and the Mermaid Quay website for a full list of all the goings on about town and set yourself up for the perfect evening!
Nightlife: City Center
If you are a nightlife person or just have the energy and or drive to keep out and about after perusing the waterfront, Cardiff city center is where you’ll want to be next! St. Mary street and Mill Lane are great options for pubs as well as bars and clubs. Take a lap around the city center and grab a drink, mingle, or catch some live music.
Overnight Stay in the City Center:
Cardiff city center is also a great option to select for accommodations for the first night. There are a plethora of hotels, guest houses, and the like to fit any budget or preference. You’ll be close enough to everything to have a few more late night snacking options and will have the option to wander about the city center whenever you’re in the mood.
As always, booking in advance is important. Especially so during the busy seasons. Plus the deals are usually better when you plan ahead a bit.
Day 2: Brecon Beacons National Park
- Drive to Brecon Beacons: Scenic routes and viewpoints.
- Hike to Pen y Fan, the highest peak in southern Britain.
- Explore waterfalls like Sgwd yr Eira and Henrhyd Falls.
- Overnight stay in a charming B&B or country inn.
Brecon Beacons: Scenic Drive
Heading out early on day two, take the A470 north out of Cardiff and enjoy a scenic drive through Brecon Beacons National Park. You’ll get the whole round of picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and jaw dropping viewpoints during the drive. The drive takes about an hour plus any time spent stopping to take in the scenery on the way to Brecon town.
Another great route, albeit slightly more out of the way, is to head from Cardiff to Brynamman and then head up the A4069 to Post-ar-llechau and then over to Brecon town. This takes you through the Black Mountain Pass which is another gorgeous scenic drive through the park. This route will take about 2 hours and 15 minutes plus stopping and staring time.
Brecon Town:
After your scenic drive through the park has taken you through to Brecon town, grab some breakfast or snacks for the day ahead and walk the cozy town. The historic streets and the local shops make for a great pause before heading back into the park for adventure. Don’t forget to check out Brecon Cathedral because you most definitely wont regret it.
Hike to Pen y Fan: Conquer the Highest Peak in Southern Britain
Once you have wandered the town of Brecon head out to Pen y Fan and hike up to the tallest peak in the south of Britain. There are four main routes to the top depending on your preference and how hard you want to work at it. The easiest route is doable with children and takes about 2 hours each way.
It’s rewarding once you have made it up so take it all in and enjoy the views of the neighboring mountains and the Brecon Beacons park. Have a picnic at the top or relax and head back down and enjoy the downhill section of the hike.
Lunch Amidst Nature: Picnic or Local Pub
Enjoy a well-deserved picnic at the summit or find a cozy spot in the park for lunch. If you prefer a sit-down meal, visit a local pub in the nearby villages like Talybont-on-Usk.
Sgwd yr Eira and Henrhyd Falls
Head over to Sgwd Yr Eira and hike around in the four waterfalls region of the park. There are multiple car park options as a starting point and you can hike as many or as few of these iconic waterfalls as you wish.
All four falls will take some time but it is well worth it and there are signs guiding the trails for the whole loop. Pick a section, two, or all, and go for it to see a whole lot in a relatively short time. Henrhyd Falls is the tallest waterfall in south Wales.
Overnight Stay in a Charming B&B or Country Inn
Choose a village anywhere in the villages of Brecon Beacons to relax after your nature day. There are loads to choose from to fit your needs.
Day 3: Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
- Travel to the stunning Pembrokeshire Coast.
- Visit St. David’s Cathedral and Bishops Palace.
- Walk the Pembrokeshire Coast Path for breathtaking views.
- Relax on Barafundle Bay, one of the best beaches in the UK.
St. David’s Cathedral:
We start day three by exploring St. David’s Cathedral. It is one of Wales’ most iconic religious sites due to its Cloisters, architecture, and, of course, the Shrine of St David. You can attend a morning service if you arrive early enough and want a unique experience.
There are multiple chapels to visit along with the library, treasury, shrine of St. David, and their community garden. There is a recommended donation to enter but no admission fee. If you would like a tour and tour guide, however, you must book in advance. Visit the St David’s Cathedral website for the most up to date information on events and scheduling.
Bishops Palace:
Once you have finished at St. David’s, head over to the Bishop’s Palace. Have some coffee and a snack and wander the garden, check out the chapel, or partake in one of the numerous events offered. Climbing to the top of the tower will get you a beautiful panoramic view of St. David’s and the surrounding city and landscape.
Lunch in St. David’s:
After your wanderings at St David’s and the Bishop’s Palace, head into St David and grab a bite to eat. Try some traditional Welsh cuisine and enjoy the town atmosphere in one of Britain’s smallest cities.
Pembrokeshire Coast Path:
Now that you have taken in the architecture and ambiance of St. David, it is time to head out and meander along the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path. There are a few different sections to choose from to walk based on your preferences and fitness levels. The stretch between St David’s Head and Whitesands Bay is a popular option.
This handy guide is available for planning the stretch you would like to walk with more in depth details about them. You can also park at any of the entrance points and wander a little to your hearts content and skip the full sections if you like. Regardless of what you choose the scenery and nature is abundant and mesmerizing.
Visit Whitesands Bay:
After the walkabout the coast, head into Whitesands Bay for an energetic beach atmosphere. Whether you prefer to sunbathe and relax, engaging in water sports, or just enjoying the views of the distant Ramsey Island, the expansive beach area at white sands bay will serve to recharge and energize you.
Explore St. Non’s Chapel and Well:
After your beach stop, head out to the chapel of St. Non. The ruins of this chapel are a peaceful reflection setting with views of the cliffs and bay add to the amazement of the area.
There is a holy well leading up to the chapel that is said to have curative properties and the area is a pilgrimage destination. The location is said to be the birthplace of St. David and is named for his mother.
Dinner with a View in Porthgain:
For dinner, make your way to Porthgain. It is a small harbor town on the north coast of St David’s peninsula. The Sloop Inn and the Shed Bistro offer seafood with views of the harbor and there are art galleries and load of maritime history packed into a charming little town.
Overnight Stay in a Coastal Retreat:
Choose accommodation in a cozy bed and breakfast or a boutique hotel along the Pembrokeshire Coast. Enjoy the the sea air in one of the many quaint B&Bs in the area.
Day 4: Tenby
- Spend the day in the picturesque town of Tenby.
- Explore the cobbled streets and pastel-colored houses.
- Visit Tenby Castle and the Tudor Merchant’s House.
- Relax on Tenby’s beautiful beaches.
Sunrise on Tenby’s Beaches:
For the morning on day 4 of your Wales excursion make your way to Castle Beach or North Beach in Tenby for sunrise and golden hour. The pastel colors on the waterfront houses mixed with the sunrise glow make for a magical start to the day.
Explore Tenby’s Historic Streets:
After the sun has ascended it’s time to meander through the cobbled streets of Tenby. There is lots to see with the medieval architecture and the Tudor Merchant’s House intermingled in the town. Don’t forget to see the Five Arches Gatehouse for a little history and another dose of past building styles.
Lunch at a Seaside Café:
Grab some lunch at one of the seaside cafes or restaurants overlooking the harbor. Local specialties include cockles and laverbread. Try some or indulge in a classic fish and chips while watching the water.
Boat Trip to Caldey Island:
Take the afternoon and board a boat from Tenby harbor out to Caldey Island. The island boasts a medieval monastery which is inhabited by Cistercian monks and a perfume factory which are both worth a visit. It is a peaceful and tranquil day as well as educational.
Relax on Castle Beach:
Once you have boat tripped to and from Caldey Island, spend the rest of the day relaxing at Tenby’s Castle Beach. Admire the views of St Catherine’s island and its 19th century Palmerston Fort as you sunbathe, swim, relax, or explore the rock pools.
Tenby Castle and Museum:
With the remainder of your afternoon, make the walk up to Tenby Castle located (you guessed it) on Castle Hill. The castle itself is partly in ruins but there is still enough to see and explore with the added bonus of a panoramic view of the town and coastline. There is also a museum and art gallery to peruse and learn more about the town’s history and art scene.
Dinner in the Town Center:
When the time comes, the town center is the perfect place to grab a bite for dinner. Tenby has loads to offer in the way of traditional Welsh as well as international cuisine. Another great option is eating at one of the historic pubs in town for a cozy atmosphere.
Nighttime Promenade:
The esplanade in Tenby is the perfect location for an after dinner stroll. The reflection of the town and harbor in calm waters and the illuminating lights are peaceful and set a great ambiance.
Traditional Pub Experience:
Opt to end your evening at one of the traditional pubs in Tenby. Try out a Welsh ale and absorb the atmosphere that only these pubs can provide.
Overnight Stay in a Seaside Guesthouse:
Be sure to book ahead for the best deals and perfect accommodations and choose a cozy spot with a view for the night. Tenby has a great selection of boutique hotels, guest houses, and bed and breakfasts. You’ll be sure to find one that fits your price range and vibe.
Day 5: Snowdonia National Park
- Drive to Snowdonia: Spectacular landscapes en route.
- Take the Snowdon Mountain Railway to the summit.
- Explore Swallow Falls and the picturesque village of Betws-y-Coed.
- Overnight stay in a cozy mountain cottage.
- Check out our post on the best hikes in Snowdonia!
Journey to Snowdonia:
On your way to Llanberis, take the A5 through Ogden Valley and catch some stunning views of mountains and lakes and all the good stuff. It’s a solid bit of driving (about 4 hours) but with the scenery it won’t quite feel like enough. Just remember to grab breakfast or snacks before you head out for the day.
Arrive in Llanberis:
Heading in to Llanberis at the end of the drive lands you in a charming village that is known as the “gateway to snowdon.” There are a bunch of various activities and attractions here to explore but first…
Snowdon Mountain Railway:
Book a ride on the Snowdon Mountain Railway and be in awe of the countryside as the vintage train cruises you up to the highest peak in Wales. By far the most relaxing route to the summit, the train takes you straight up to the panoramic views of the lan scapes and lakes that you want from a mountain peak.
Lunch in Llanberis:
When you’ve arrived back in Llanberis after your train ride, sit down in one of the local pubs of cafes and have a bite. You have the option of enjoying a meal with views of the lakes or heading closer to the village center for the cozy village vibes.
Swallow Falls and Betws-y-Coed:
After lunch in Llanberis head over to Swallow Falls on the way to Betws-y-Coed. It is a short walk to enjoy the cascading waters of one of the most famous waterfalls in Wales.
Explore the village of Betws-y-Coed nestled in the Conwy Valley and enjoy the picturesque town with its stone bridges and fairy glen. This charming village is one of those that looks like it’s been ripped from a post card.
Betws-y-Coed Railway Museum:
Once you have perused the town be sure to check out the Railway Museum in Betws-y-Coed. Learn a little about the regions railway heritage and get a look at vintage locomotives. It’s about $6 for a full family ticket and is well worth the price.
Dinner in Conwy:
Drive to Conwy, a medieval walled town with a UNESCO World Heritage-listed castle. Enjoy some traditional Welsh dishes or any number of international options and take in the view of the castle in the historic setting.
Explore Conwy Castle and Town Walls:
Take a walk around Conwy Castle after dinner and see one of the best preserved medieval fortifications the UK has to offer. Be sure to walk the town walls and take in the views of the surrounding landscape. You can make a full lap of the battlements if you like for the complete 360.
If you don’t have time or can’t get to it all don’t fret as there will be some time tomorrow to head back if you missed anything you ran out of time or daylight for.
Conwy Quay at Sunset:
Conwy Quay is the perfect location to take in a sunset. The castle in the background and the changing colors of the sky makes for a fairy-tale end to the day.
Overnight Stay in Conwy:
Stay the night in the historic area of Conwy. There are plenty of options that will boast views of the town walls and or castle. As always, book in advance to make sure you get the perfect place to kick back.
Day 6: Conwy and Caernarfon
- Visit Conwy Castle and walk the town walls.
- Explore Plas Mawr, a beautifully preserved Elizabethan townhouse.
- Drive to Caernarfon Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Wander around the historic town and waterfront.
Breakfast in Conwy:
Start day 6 off right with a breakfast in one of Conwy’s tearooms or cafes. Get yourself a good baseline for the day ahead and start it off right!
Plas Mawr:
Head over to Plas Mawr, an elizabethan townhouse right in the middle of Conwy. You can book tours and tickets ahead of time or right at the door. It’s really cool to see the elegance life had to offer in the 16th century. It’s really a beautiful place.
Explore Conwy Town:
Continue the day strolling through and enjoying the shops and art galleries in Conwy. Stop over for a traditional Welsh afternoon tea at some point. Its a great place to unwind and roam.
Dinner with a View:
Stop in for dinner somewhere that strikes your fancy during your afternoon wandering and continue to enjoy the ambiance and scenery of the city. Watch the streetlights come on during dinner and simply enjoy.
Nighttime Walk along the Quay:
Once the sun sets and you’ve had your fill of Welsh cuisine, take a stroll along the quay to get another breathtaking view of the castle, city, and waterfront.
Day 7: Llangollen
- Drive to Llangollen along scenic routes.
- Take a stroll along the Llangollen Canal and over the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.
- Visit the medieval ruins of Valle Crucis Abbey.
- Experience the Llangollen Railway, a heritage steam railway.
Drive to Llangollen:
For the morning of day 7 take the A5 or another scenic route towards Llangollen. If you take the A5 the drive should take about an hour and twenty minutes minus any stops along the way to bask in nature or get snacks. Enjoy the views of the rolling hills and the lush Welsh landscape.
Llangollen Canal and Pontcysyllte Aqueduct:
When you get in to Llangollen head over towards the canal and the Pontcycyllte Aqueduct. Wander on your own or take a boat ride along the canal. Marvel at the engineering feat the aqueduct as it carries the canal over the River Dee. Both an impressive sight and a beautiful one.
Lunch in Llangollen:
Choose a nice spot to have lunch overlooking the river at one of Llangollen’s cafes or restaurants. The views always sit well with a cozy lunch.
Valle Crucis Abbey:
For the afternoon we go to the Valle Crucis Abbey and travel back in time to the 13th century. This gorgeous abbey is well preserved and includes the church, chapter house, and monks dormitory. Entry is about $5 and just seeing the place and experiencing the ambiance is worth it, in my opinion.
Llangollen Railway:
After the abbey, take a train ride on a heritage steam railway through the Dee Valley via the Llangollen Railway. It’s got great reviews and is a winner of tourism awards. Booking ahead of time online guarantees your ticket and saves you some money!
Dinner in Llangollen:
Choose one of the local Llangollen restaurants or pubs for dinner and enjoy anything from contemporary cuisine to the traditional Welsh meals.
Nighttime Riverside Walk:
Tonight is the perfect night for another walk along the riverfront. The sounds of nature and ambiance after dinner is always a winner.
Overnight Stay in Llangollen:
Llangollen offers a solid range of bed and breakfasts, boutique hotels, and charming inns so choose a spot you find comfortable and relax.
Conclusion
After your 7 days road-tripping in Wales reflect upon the then hospitality and community of the Welsh people. Think of all of the amazing scenery and history you have experienced throughout your trip and try to take it all it. Every step in the itinerary doesn’t always fit into everyone’s preferences so while you are looking into bookings change it up to fit your style if need be.
Pro Tips:
- Remember to check out and book your stays in advance for the best possible accommodations and deals.
- Pack your bags for various weather conditions and remember to check the weather ahead of time for the time of year you will be visiting.
- There are many options to pivot on an itinerary in case the weather or unforeseen situations arise so remember to be flexible and have a back up or two in the back of your mind.
- Never forget to be in the moment when you are adventuring. Immerse yourself in what you are doing and commit for the best possible experience.
Free Tavel Tips
sign up for my newsletter and receive my 10 best travel tips!
By using this form you agree with this site's privacy policy.
