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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Oulu has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Oulu by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Oulu is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a botanical garden, a market, a church, an art gallery, a science center and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the frequently visited University Of Oulu Botanical Gardens and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Oulu Market Hall, a standout market that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Oulu Cathedral, one of the city’s most underrated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the often recommended Oulu Art Museum. When you're finished at the art gallery, Tietomaa Science Centre awaits your visit. This science center is a picture-perfect highlight on today's itinerary.

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.

Bring home unique finds from Oulu's bustling shopping hub, Ideapark Oulu. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Ideapark Oulu offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Oulu. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Crecian, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Beijing Oy beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Pizzeria Finlandia. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Oulu tonight.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Rovaniemi, 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 Rovaniemi. You’ll stay here 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 often recommended visitor center provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Santa Claus Office, an eye-catching visitor center, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Santa Claus Village, a notable visitor center.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Ravintola Roka Street Bistro, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bull Bar and Grill beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Gustav Kitchen & Bar. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Rovaniemi tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Pub Pisto offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Oliver's Corner Irish Pub is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Paha Kurki Rockhouse is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day 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.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Rovaniemi, including a botanical garden, a museum, a church, a playground, a ski resort, a cultural center, a safari park and much more! Start your adventure at Arktikum Arboretum. This underrated botanical garden is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Arktikum located in Rovaniemi for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Rovaniemi Church. Its eye-catching features will captivate you. After the church, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Angry Birds Playground. Visitors usually appreciate the instagrammable features of this playground. Next up is Ounasvaara Ski Oy, a highly recommended ski resort. For a change of pace, head to Culture House Korundi. As one of the most underrated attractions in Rovaniemi, this cultural center is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Scandic Rovaniemi City, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, RAVINTOLA MEMOS is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Rock Ravintola & Café Grande. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Rovaniemi tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting People's Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Finland.

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.

Today's adventure in Rovaniemi promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Särestöniemen Museosäätiö. This respected museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Levin Sammuntupa And Reindeer Farm, another enchanting attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Kolari. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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.

Today’s itinerary in Kolari covers several incredible sights, including a canyon, a museum, a ski resort, a national park, a waterfall and much more! Start your adventure at Varkaankuru Ravine. This worthwhile canyon is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the photogenic wonders of Samiland Exhibition, a must-see museum in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Oy Levi Ski Resort. This up-and-coming ski resort offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Pallas-yllästunturi National Park, where you can take in romantic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Äijäkoski Rapids. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

As you explore more of Kolari, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Kittilän Liikenneasema Oy / Teboil Kittilä, a top-rated dining destination in Kolari.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Finland!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Ivalo and Saariselkä. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Saariselkä, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Wild Spirit Park. This increasingly popular wildlife reserve is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Aurora Day Hut, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out North Village St. Paul's Chapel, one of the most beloved places to see in Kolari. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Saariselkä. 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Laanilan Kievari, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kaunispään Huippu Oy? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

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

On day 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Saariselkä, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Ivalo. You still have 1 night left in Saariselkä.

Saariselkä is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Jäniskoski Rapids, a beloved waterfall that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Siida, enchanting visitors with its photogenic appeal. Continue your exploration at Pielpajärvi Wilderness Church. This church is one of the town’s most underrated spots.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Ravintola Pub Teerenpesä, an iconic dining spot in Saariselkä. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world.

Head back to your accommodation in Saariselkä and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip 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.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Saariselkä. Some of the region’s most loved attractions await! Oulanka National Park is the perfect place to start. This national park is one of the most increasingly popular places to visit in Saariselkä. Next, head to Rukatunturi, a frequently visited ski resort, known for its enchanting features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Ruka Pedestrian Village. This eye-catching ski resort is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Ruka. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ski Booster - Bar - Cafe - Grill, a highly-rated dining destination in Ruka. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hanki Baari, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RUOK. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Ruka this evening.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous 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 fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the worthwhile Riisitunturi National Park, a stunning 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 serene waterfall offers a unique experience.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Oulun Baari Oy, a top-rated dining destination in Oulu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Lapland Hotels Oulu, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Jumpru Pub. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Oulu this evening.

Say good night to Oulu and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Finland!