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Exploring Wales by car
A Wales road trip takes you right across the green idyll. Go on a rental car tour and explore the wild coast with its charming fishing villages, the spectacular Brecon Beacons and Snowdonia National Parks and other magical places. Here are some suggestions for discovering Wales by car.
Marvin Luczynski
Travel expert for Great Britain
Updated on 07/01/2025
Wales' Magical Route
On a picturesque journey through Wales, you will discover the unspoiled nature of the Brecon Beacons National Park before falling in love with the wild and romantic coastal landscape of Pembrokeshire.
Enjoy cultural treasures in Aberystwyth before immersing yourself in an almost fairytale world in Portmeirion.
Highlights: Brecon-Beacons NP ➢ Pembrokeshire ➢ Aberystwyth ➢ Portmeirion
➔ PLAN a road trip through WALES
| Overview | Details |
|---|---|
| 🛫 Arrival: | Approx. 3 hours |
| 🔆 Best time to travel: | May to September |
| ⌛ Trip duration: | From 7 days |
| ⭐ Accommodations: | 3- to 4-star accommodations |
| 🍴 Meals: | Breakfast |
| ⛵ Activities: | Hiking - City tour - Castle visits |
| 🚗 Transportation: | Rental car |
| 💰 Price: | From $1255 p.p. (excl. flight) |
1. The Brecon Beacons National Park
Make a stop in the charming market town of Crickhowell to set off on an outdoor adventure in the Brecon Beacons National Park. The majestic mountain peaks here form a magnificent panorama that provides a wonderful backdrop for hikes.
2. The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
Discover the picturesque Welsh coast in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. Walk along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, watch the seabirds and visit sights such as Upton Castle Gardens or the ruins of Carew Castle.
3 Aberystwyth
Aberystwith, with its Victorian promenade, is not only a classic seaside resort, but also an ideal base for a tour along the Coast Way. We also recommend the nearby Penglais Nature Park and the Aberystwith Cliff Railway.
4. Portmeirion
Portmeirion is a Mediterranean-style village on the coast of Snowdonia. Take a guided tour of the village and take advantage of its proximity to other Snowdonia highlights, including the highest mountain in Wales, Snowdon.
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The most beautiful panoramic routes
North Wales Way
The North Wales Way is particularly recommended for history buffs, as this route takes you past some of the country's most beautiful castles. The three best known are Conwy, Caernarfon and Beaumaris Castle, but some of the smaller, lesser-known castles are also worth a closer look.
Other historical attractions include St. Asaph Cathedral, which dates back to the 13th century, and a prehistoric stone formation on the Isle of Anglesey.
Coastal Way
The Coastal Way guides you along Wales’ spectacular shoreline, offering some of the most unforgettable landscapes in the United Kingdom. From St Davids to Aberdaron, spot dolphins and seals in the water and explore charming fishing villages along the 180 miles of Cardigan Bay. Highlights include Cardigan Castle, the sandy beaches of New Quay, and the waterfalls at Devil’s Bridge.
Llŷn Peninsula
The Llŷn Peninsula draws visitors with stunning coastal views and can be explored as a stand-alone route or as part of your Coastal Way adventure. The beaches here are especially memorable, from the four-mile stretch of sand at Porth Neigwl to the “whistling sands” of Porthor. Don’t miss the local Maritime Museum or Plas yn Rhiw, a 17th-century manor house with beautiful gardens.
FAQ & travel tips
When planning a road trip through Wales, you should take into account the changeable weather conditions. Pack appropriate clothing and equipment for rain and sunshine. Allow enough time for the often narrow and winding roads and don't forget to try the local culinary specialties.
To rent a car in Wales, you’ll need a valid driver’s license — an international license isn’t required. Drivers must be at least 21 years old, and a credit card is needed for the deposit. Be sure to check whether you’ll also need to show a passport or other form of ID.
Wales has left-hand traffic, which is a change for travelers from countries with right-hand traffic. The roads range from well-maintained highways to narrow, winding country roads. Traffic is mostly moderate, but in rural areas sheep may cross your path unexpectedly. Careful driving is advisable, especially in the mountainous regions.
Further information can be found on the website of the Federal Foreign Office, for example.
The best time for a road trip through Wales is between spring and fall. From May to September you can enjoy mild weather and longer days, ideal for exploring. The Welsh summer offers the full splendor of the countryside, while spring and autumn enchant with fewer tourists.
The cost of a road trip through Wales can vary widely, depending on your car rental, accommodations, meals, and activities. Budget travelers might spend around $55–$75 per day, while more comfortable options can easily top $160 per day. Don’t forget to factor in fuel costs as well.
