9-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ruka to Rovaniemi, Kemi, Oulu, and Kajaani

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Juuma and Ruka. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Rovaniemi. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Immerse yourself in Ruka’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Pieni Karhunkierros Circle Trail. This visually striking hiking area is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the romantic features of Myllykoski, a must-visit waterfall in the hamlet.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Jyrävä Rapids, an up-and-coming waterfall.

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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Ravintola Roka Street Bistro, a popular restaurant in Rovaniemi. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Rovaniemi at Bull Bar and Grill, 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 Gustav Kitchen & Bar. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Rovaniemi tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Pub Pisto, known for its inviting atmosphere. Oliver's Corner Irish Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Paha Kurki Rockhouse provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Rovaniemi has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Rovaniemi by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Start your adventure at Santa Claus Office. This up-and-coming visitor center is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring wonders of Santa Claus Village, a must-see visitor center 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 Santa's Post Office. This frequently visited visitor center offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Scandic Rovaniemi City, an iconic dining spot in Rovaniemi. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of RAVINTOLA MEMOS, a popular restaurant in Rovaniemi. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Rock Ravintola & Café Grande, a hidden gem nestled in Rovaniemi. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to People's Pub, known for its inviting atmosphere.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Rovaniemi and Saarenkylä. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kemi, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Rovaniemi, featuring fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and scenic views. Start at Culture House Korundi, a worthwhile cultural center in the city. Then, head to Arktikum and soak in the ambiance of this gorgeous museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Rovaniemi, and when you are ready for more, go to Lordi's Square. This is one of the city’s most frequently visited picture-perfect spots of interest. After exploring the public square, visit the worthwhile Angry Birds Playground. Not far away, you'll also find Ounasvaara Ski Oy. This ski resort is a mesmerizing highlight in Rovaniemi.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Kemi. 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 Kemi. 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 Lounaskahvila Kemin Paussi, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Pizzeria Di Mare? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Kalle's Burger / Scanburger as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Kemi.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Olutravintola Kukko, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

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

On day 5 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 Oulu. In the evening, you’ll end up in Oulu, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the beloved University Of Oulu Botanical Gardens, a romantic botanical garden in Kemi. Next, go to Nallikari Beach.

After visiting University Of Oulu Botanical Gardens and Nallikari Beach, have a stroll along Kemi's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Nallikari Lighthouse. This visually striking lighthouse offers a unique experience. Oulu Automobile Museum is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Mannerheim Park, one of the most picture-perfect places to visit in Kemi.

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.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Frans & Camille Bistro, a highly-rated dining destination in Oulu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Koivurannan kahvila, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sauraha. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Oulu this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Pub Graali, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Leskinen offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Oulu. 1bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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 Oulu for your remaining 1 night in the city 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 Oulu and Kiiminki.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Oulu today. One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is Kierikki Stone Age Centre. This awe-inspiring archeological site will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Koitelinkoski and learn what makes this peaceful waterfall unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the increasingly popular Oulu Market Square. After exploring the public square, head to Oulu Market Hall. This locally appreciated market is a highlight in Oulu. As your day continues, stop by Hollihaka Park Oulu Outdoor Gym, known for its awe-inspiring features.

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

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

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Oulu, 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 Kajaani. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Oulu today. One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is Rotuaarin Pallo. This detailed art installation will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Oulu Art Museum and learn what makes this instagrammable art gallery unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the beloved Tietomaa Science Centre. After exploring the science center, head to Turkansaari Open Air Museum. This underrated museum is a highlight in Oulu.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Kajaani. Kajaani 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 Kajaani. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Taukopaikka Nuottijärvi, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Pancho Villa offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Peevee Bar Oy. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Kajaani.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar Jussila (t:mi Juha J. Immonen), a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Restaurant Saint Kukko. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

Head back to your accommodation in Kajaani and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Finland!

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Kajaani and Suomussalmi. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Ruka, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Kajaani covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a castle, and an art installation. Start your adventure at Kainuu Museum. This increasingly popular museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Kajaani Castle Ruins, a must-see castle 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 Hiljaisen Kansan Tilataideteos (the Silent People). This frequently visited art installation offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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

Savor the flavors at RUOK, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Villiruokaravintola Rukan Kuksa beckons with its unique menu offerings.

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