13-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Wales, England, and Scotland With Itinerary from Cardiff to Betws y Coed, Chester, Windermere, Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Hawes

Greet day 2 of your multi-country road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Cardiff for your remaining 1 night in the city later today.

Whether you decide to explore Cardiff on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Your adventure in Cardiff is only getting started when you visit National Museum Cardiff, an increasingly popular local hot spot.

Our first attraction recommendation in Cardiff is St Fagans National Museum Of History, an interesting museum that draws attention for its respected features.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Swalec Stadium and explore the instagrammable features.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Cardiff’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Wales, England, and Scotland.

Savor the flavors at Cafe Citta, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Clayton Hotel Cardiff beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre, an IHG Hotel. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cardiff tonight.

Continue your lively evening at The Great Western - Jd Wetherspoon, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Rum & Fizz is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Kongs Cardiff ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

On day 4 of your European tour in Wales, England, and Scotland, you’ll start and end your day in Llanberis, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the town, including Llanberis in Wales. Betws y Coed remains your base for 1 night more.

Set your GPS to Llanberis and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 32 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Llanberis beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Ceunant Mawr, a worthwhile waterfall known for its romantic features.

When you’ve had your share of Llanberis, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Betws y Coed. Your travel time is around 34 min.

Savor the day by heading to Yr Wyddfa, a frequently visited mountain range that draws visitors from near and far.

Beddgelert’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Betws y Coed behind. This drive usually takes around 17 min. Beddgelert welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Welsh Highland Railway - (beddgelert, Station), a beloved heritage railway in Beddgelert. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Bedd Gelert. This up-and-coming monument is a top recommendation in the area.

Get ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy a lively evening in Betws y Coed. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland.

As the night falls in Betws y Coed, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your multi-country journey across Wales, England, and Scotland. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Chester in England. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Chester where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for England! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Chester may take around 1 hour 15 min. Upon your arrival in Chester, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit The Grosvenor Museum, a curiosity-inducing museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Chester Roman Gardens and admire its stunning features.

When you’re ready, continue to Queens Park Bridge, an often recommended point of interest beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Eastgate And Eastgate Clock, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Chester Cathedral, a breathtaking place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Chester. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Chester’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Wales, England, and Scotland.

Have a fantastic dining experience at 1539 Restaurant and Bar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Church Chester Bar & Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, BarLounge - Chester is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Chester.

Continue your lively evening at Prohibition, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Liquor And Co is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Craft & Company ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Wales, England, and Scotland! Enjoy your evening in Chester to the fullest!

On day 6 of your multi-country road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Troutbeck Bridge in England. In the evening, you’ll end up in Windermere, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Troutbeck Bridge. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 59 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Holehird Gardens is a frequently visited botanical garden we recommend visiting today. Discover its serene features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Windermere’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Troutbeck Bridge behind. This drive usually takes around 4 min. Windermere welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Queen Adelaide's Hill, a frequently visited landmark that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’ve had your share of Troutbeck Bridge, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Windermere. Your travel time is around 4 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit The World Of Beatrix Potter Attraction, a curiosity-inducing museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Windermere and admire its eye-catching features.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Windermere of your choice.

As the sun sets, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Windermere. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in England in a new light.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip through Wales, England, and Scotland. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Grasmere in England. With 1 night left in Windermere, seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

When you’ve had your share of Windermere, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Grasmere. Your travel time is around 25 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to National Trust - Allan Bank And Grasmere, an increasingly popular point of interest in Grasmere.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Rydal. This car ride takes around 7 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Rydal Cave, a curiosity-inducing cave that everyone visiting Rydal should see. Next, head to Rydal Mount. This history-steeped museum is one of the most intriguing attractions in the region.

As the sun sets on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Windermere's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the town’s local nightlife.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Edinburgh in Scotland. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Edinburgh, your home for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Windermere, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Edinburgh, Scotland. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Scotland. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 7 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is National Museum Of Scotland. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to St Giles' Cathedral. This beloved church is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Royal Mile. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the street.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Edinburgh.

Get ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy a lively evening in Edinburgh. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Chaophraya Thai Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Theatre Royal Bar as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Edinburgh.

Keep the evening going at Nightcap - Cocktail Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Juniper Edinburgh, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Panda & Sons, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

As the night falls in Edinburgh, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

Day 9 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Edinburgh. Enjoy time off the road as you have 1 night left in the city.

Don’t miss Leith today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh makes a great addition to your morning plans. This notable botanical garden is an eye-catching place to see in Edinburgh. Continue your discovery at Edinburgh Castle, a stunning castle with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Edinburgh, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Holyrood Palace. This popular palace offers a picture-perfect encounter with Edinburgh. Next, make your way to Arthur's Seat to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Edinburgh.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that Edinburgh boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of the region.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) hotel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Novotel Edinburgh Centre? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Tigerlily as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Edinburgh.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Cafe Royal offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Ensign Ewart is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Tonic is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

On day 10 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Wales, England, and Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence Stirling in Scotland. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Glasgow, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Stirling. This car ride takes around 1 hour 2 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Stirling Castle and explore the culturally significant features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Glasgow. This car ride takes around 42 min.

Glasgow Cathedral is a frequently visited church we recommend visiting today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour to Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum, a respected museum that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Kelvingrove Park, a remarkable park. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit George Square, a picture-perfect and truly unique public square.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Glasgow. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that Glasgow boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of the region.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Piper Whisky Bar, an iconic dining spot in Glasgow. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of The National Piping Centre, a popular restaurant in Glasgow. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Pasha Glasgow, a hidden gem nestled in Glasgow. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Gallery Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Steps Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bar 91 also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland. Today's main destinations are Hardraw in England, 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 Hawes. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

As you explore Hardraw’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the hamlet.

After soaking in Glasgow’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Hardraw, England. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 49 min. When you arrive in Hardraw, it's time to take a break from the road.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Hardraw Force, a frequently visited waterfall that everyone visiting Hardraw should see.

Our first attraction recommendation in Hardraw is Yorkshire Dales National Park, a notable national park that draws attention for its eye-catching features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Hawes. This car ride takes around 21 min.

Cauldron Falls is a worthwhile waterfall we recommend visiting today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Hawes’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Wales, England, and Scotland, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Hawes.

Celebrate day 11 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!