11-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Oulu to Rovaniemi, Kolari, Saariselkä, and Ruka

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Oulu. You’ll stay in Oulu for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the beloved University Of Oulu Botanical Gardens, an eye-catching botanical garden in Oulu. Next, go to Oulu Market Hall.

After visiting University Of Oulu Botanical Gardens and Oulu Market Hall, have a stroll along Oulu's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Oulu Cathedral. This historic church offers a unique experience. Oulu Art Museum is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Tietomaa Science Centre, one of the most visually striking places to visit in Oulu.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Finland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Oulu's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Crecian, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Beijing Oy is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Pizzeria Finlandia. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Oulu tonight.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Finland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Rovaniemi. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rovaniemi, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Oulu allows for both. Start by heading to Santa's Post Office. This locally appreciated visitor center provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Santa Claus Office, a visually striking visitor center, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Santa Claus Village, a well-known visitor center.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Rovaniemi, 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 Rovaniemi. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Ravintola Roka Street Bistro, a top-rated dining destination in Rovaniemi. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bull Bar and Grill, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gustav Kitchen & Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Rovaniemi this evening.

Keep the evening going at Pub Pisto, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Oliver's Corner Irish Pub, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Paha Kurki Rockhouse, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Finland.

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Rovaniemi, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Rovaniemi on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Arktikum Arboretum is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic botanical garden before continuing your journey. Arktikum is your next stop. This frequently visited museum is one of the best-rated sights in Rovaniemi.

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 Rovaniemi Church. This photogenic church is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Angry Birds Playground and Ounasvaara Ski Oy. If time allows, end your day with Culture House Korundi, a photogenic cultural center that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Rovaniemi and your accommodation.

As you explore more of Rovaniemi, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Scandic Rovaniemi City, a top-rated dining spot in Rovaniemi. If you're in the mood for something new, try RAVINTOLA MEMOS, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Rock Ravintola & Café Grande. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Rovaniemi.

Continue your lively evening at People's Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Finland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Kolari and Sirkka. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Kolari, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

A blend of fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites await you in Rovaniemi on today’s itinerary. First up is the curiosity-inducing museum, Särestöniemen Museosäätiö. Afterward, continue to Levin Sammuntupa And Reindeer Farm, a farm every traveler should visit.

As you explore Rovaniemi’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Santa's Cabin. This intriguing sightseeing destination is an essential stop.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Kolari. Kolari 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 Kolari. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kotipizza, a highly-rated dining destination in Kolari.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Finland!

Greet day 6 of your road trip in Finland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Kolari for your remaining 1 night in the town 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 Kolari, Sirkka, Muonio, and Koskenranta.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Kolari, including a canyon, a museum, a ski resort, a national park, a waterfall and much more! Start your adventure at Varkaankuru Ravine. This often recommended canyon is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Samiland Exhibition located in Kolari for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Oy Levi Ski Resort. Its gorgeous features will captivate you. After the ski resort, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Pallas-yllästunturi National Park. Visitors usually appreciate the eye-catching features of this national park. Next up is Äijäkoski Rapids, a highly recommended waterfall.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Kolari.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Kolari. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Kittilän Liikenneasema Oy / Teboil Kittilä, an iconic dining spot in Kolari. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Ivalo and Saariselkä, 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 Saariselkä. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Start your day with a visit to Wild Spirit Park. This often recommended wildlife reserve is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Aurora Day Hut, which may be one of the most romantic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Kolari on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to North Village St. Paul's Chapel, an intriguing church in the town.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Saariselkä. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Saariselkä's best restaurants.

Make sure to reserve a table at Laanilan Kievari, an iconic dining spot in Saariselkä. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Kaunispään Huippu Oy, a popular restaurant in Saariselkä. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Finland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Saariselkä, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Saariselkä on today’s itinerary. First up is the worthwhile waterfall, Jäniskoski Rapids. Afterward, continue to Siida, a museum every traveler should visit.

As you explore Saariselkä’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Pielpajärvi Wilderness Church. This beloved church is an essential stop.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Saariselkä and your accommodation.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Saariselkä's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ravintola Pub Teerenpesä, a top-rated dining destination in Saariselkä.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Finland!

On day 9 of your road trip in Finland, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Kuusamo and Ruka. In the evening, you’ll end up in Ruka, where you will stay for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Saariselkä, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Oulanka National Park, an underrated national park in the region. Then, head to Rukatunturi and soak in the ambiance of this instagrammable ski resort.

There are many interesting places to see in Saariselkä, and when you are ready for more, go to Ruka Pedestrian Village. This is one of the region’s most increasingly popular gorgeous spots of interest.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Ruka, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you explore more of Ruka, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Ski Booster - Bar - Cafe - Grill, a popular restaurant in Ruka. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Ruka at Hanki Baari, 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 RUOK. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Ruka tonight.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Posio. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Oulu. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the underrated Riisitunturi National Park, a peaceful national park in Ruka. Next, go to Riisitunturi Starting Point.

After visiting Riisitunturi National Park and Riisitunturi Starting Point, have a stroll along Ruka's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Ruskea Virta. This romantic waterfall offers a unique experience.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Oulu. Oulu offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Oulu's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Oulun Baari Oy, a top-rated dining spot in Oulu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Lapland Hotels Oulu, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Jumpru Pub. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Oulu.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Finland!