10-Day Finland Road Trip from Helsinki to Kotka, Tampere, and Turku
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 10-day road trip through Finland. Explore the diverse landscapes and local cultures of Helsinki, Kotka, Vantaa, Tampere, Raikku, Rauma, Raisio, Naantali, and Turku. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Finland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 4 nights in Helsinki, 1 night in Kotka, 3 nights in Tampere, and 1 night in Turku. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Finland. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Helsinki, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Finland on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Finland. Linnanmäki and Kauppatori are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Helsinki, Kotka, Vantaa, Tampere, Raikku, Rauma, Raisio, Naantali, and Turku, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Finland. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Finland.
Throughout your road trip in Finland, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Finland.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Finland fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Finland today!
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Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1 – Helsinki - arrival day
- Helsinki - Arrival day
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- Esplanadi park
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Welcome to Helsinki, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Finland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 3 nights immersing yourself in Helsinki's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Helsinki is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Esplanadi park or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Helsinki. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Helsinki. 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 Restaurant Grön, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Saaga is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Klaus K Hotel. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Helsinki tonight.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Base Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, One Pint Pub provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Liberty or Death offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in Finland!
Day 2 – Helsinki
- Helsinki
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Drive 4 km, 1 hour 6 min
- Helsinki Cathedral
- Kaisaniemi Park
- Senate Square
- Helsinki Market Square
- Uspenski Cathedral
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Helsinki has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Helsinki by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Helsinki Cathedral. This extraordinary lutheran cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,060 visitors.
Next, make your way to Kaisaniemi Park. This park is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 5,016 reviews.
While in Helsinki, we also recommend a visit to Senate Square. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 19,379 reviews.
If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Kauppatori. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 26,148 travelers, this market square is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Helsinki.
Make your way to Uspenski Cathedral, perhaps the most famous eastern orthodox cathedral in Helsinki. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,716 reviews.
To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.
As you explore more of Helsinki, 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.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Helsinki by securing a table at Palace. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Finnjävel Salonki, famous for its scrumptious contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Olo, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Helsinki. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Kaisla after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Beaver Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Praha also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Finland!
Day 3 – Helsinki
- Helsinki
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Drive 9 km, 33 min
- Linnanmäki
- Sibelius Monument
- Sibelius Park
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Day 3 of your road trip across Finland promises a magnificent time exploring Helsinki. You have 1 night left in Helsinki. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Linnanmäki. This amusement park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Helsinki, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 26,571 visitors.
Sibelius Monument is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,272 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.
If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Sibelius Park. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 5,546 reviews.
One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Helsinki has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Helsinki offers and add your favorites to your Finland travel package below.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Helsinki's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Löyly Helsinki, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ravintola Nokka is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Hotel Kämp. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Helsinki tonight.
Cap off your dinner by heading to The Riff, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Roasberg is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Finland.
Day 4 – Helsinki, and Kotka
- Kotka
- Helsinki
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Drive 134 km, 2 hours 8 min
- Art Museum Ateneum
- Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma
- Finnish Museum of Natural History
- Temppeliaukio Church
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Helsinki. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Kotka, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Journey into the unknown at Ateneum, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable art museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,952 reviews. Every year, Ateneum welcomes more than 400,000 curious visitors.
When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma is a recommended place to visit. This museum is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 7,331 reviews.
Another must-see attraction in Helsinki is Finnish Museum of Natural History. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,700 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Helsinki offers an experience you will remember.
Temppeliaukio Church is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Helsinki. This cave church promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.4 out of 5 stars in 12,801 reviews.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Kotka. Kotka offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Kotka. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Vausti, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Canttiini beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Keisarinsatama. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Kotka tonight.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Players Sports Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Finland.
Day 5 – Kotka, Vantaa, and Tampere
- Tampere
- Kotka
- Vantaa
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Drive 304 km, 3 hours 35 min
- Maritime Centre Vellamo
- Sapokka Water Garden
- Katariina Seaside Park
- Heureka
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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 Kotka, and Vantaa. In the evening, you’ll end up in Tampere, where you will stay for 3 nights.
An excellent attraction to start your day with is Maritime Centre Vellamo. This maritime museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,890 reviews.
Continue your journey at Sapokka. This park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,859 travelers from near and far.
Kotka is also the home of Katariina Seaside Park. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,436 visitors.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Kotka, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Vantaa. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 25 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Be one of the day’s first visitors at Heureka. This science center is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 9,170 visitors.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Tampere, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Tampere's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Vaakon Nakki, a top-rated dining spot in Tampere. If you're in the mood for something new, try Sailor's Bar & Grill, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Zeytuun. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Tampere.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Thrasherie Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Huurupiilo, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Moro Sky Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Finland!
Day 6 – Tampere, and Raikku
- Tampere
- Raikku
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Drive 65 km, 1 hour 42 min
- Vehoniemi automobile museum
- Moomin Museum
- Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower
- Southern Park
- Hatanpää Park Arboretum
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Greet day 6 of your road trip in Finland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Tampere for your remaining 2 nights 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 Raikku, and Tampere.
Take the opportunity to see Moomin Museum. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,592 visitors.
Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This cafe has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,254 travelers.
Tampere is also the home of Southern Park, Tampere. Around 1,017 people have rated this park an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.
Another place you’ll want to visit is Hatanpää Park Arboretum. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 3,864 reviews, a visit to this park is a great idea.
After soaking in Tampere’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Raikku. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 27 min. When you arrive in Raikku, it's time to take a break from the road.
Take the opportunity to see Vehoniemi automobile museum. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,148 visitors.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Tampere.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Tampere. 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Shanghai Chinese Restaurant, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Ravintola Coussicca offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Koskikeskus is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Tampere.
Continue your lively evening at Bar K, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Kievari Kahdet Kasvot is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Save File - Pelaajan Olohuone ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Finland!
Day 7 – Tampere
- Tampere
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Drive 4 km, 55 min
- Näsi Park
- Museum Centre Vapriikki
- Tampere Cathedral
- Koskipuisto
- Finlayson Factory Area
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Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Tampere for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Make Näsi Park one of your first sightseeing stops in Tampere. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,319 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.
Museum Centre Vapriikki is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This museum is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,185 reviews. Up to 185,000 travelers visit this site every year to make their time in Tampere special.
Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Tampere Cathedral. This lutheran cathedral has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,575 visitors.
If you’re keen to explore more, head to Koskipuisto. A trip to this popular park is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.3 out of 5-star rating as given by 3,840 previous visitors.
Another top place to visit is Finlayson Area. This point of interest enjoys an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 5,162 local and international travelers.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. 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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Tampere. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Bar Inez, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Museokeskus Vapriikki offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Café Pispala. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Tampere.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Alanya Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Majava Baari Tampere offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Pub Golden Monkey is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Head back to your accommodation in Tampere and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Finland!
Day 8 – Tampere, Rauma, Raisio, Naantali, and Turku
- Turku
- Rauma
- Raisio
- Naantali
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Drive 254 km, 3 hours 46 min
- Church of the Holy Cross
- Old Rauma
- Rhododendron Park
- Naantali Church
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Rauma, Raisio, and Naantali. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Turku, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Tampere, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Rauma may take around 1 hour 54 min. Upon your arrival in Rauma, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Make Church of the Holy Cross one of your first sightseeing stops in Rauma. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 436 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.
Old Rauma is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This old town is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,791 reviews.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Raisio. This car ride takes around 1 hour 6 min.
A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Rhododendron Park. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,021 reviews.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Turku, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Turku. 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.
Have a memorable dining experience in Turku by booking a table at Kaskis, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Ravintola Masala, a popular restaurant in Turku. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Edison after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Rento, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Pikku Havanna also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Head back to your accommodation in Turku and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Finland!
Day 9 – Turku, and Helsinki
- Helsinki
- Turku
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Drive 176 km, 2 hours 39 min
- Turku Cathedral
- old Great Square
- Kupittaa Park
- Adventure Park Seikkailupuisto
- Turku Castle
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Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Turku, 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 Helsinki. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Make Turku Cathedral your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this lutheran cathedral an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,025 reviews.
Next up, make a stop at Old Great Square. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,058 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this square every year.
Kupittaa is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This district has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,659 visitors.
When you’re finished at Kupittaa, the perfect next stop is Adventure Park Seikkailupuisto. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,845 reviews.
If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Turku Castle. This castle is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,121 reviews.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Helsinki. Helsinki offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Helsinki's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Olo, a highly-rated dining destination in Helsinki. If you're eager to try something different, consider Ravintola Teerenpeli, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Pompier. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Helsinki this evening.
Say good night to Helsinki and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Finland!
Day 10 – Helsinki - departure day
- Helsinki - Departure day
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- Kaivopuisto
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Day 10 of your road trip in Finland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Helsinki before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
On your last day in Finland, take time to indulge in shopping at Helsinki’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Kaivopuisto. This neighbourhood of helsinki is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Helsinki, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,806 visitors.
Before you conclude your road trip in Finland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Helsinki.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Kappeli, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Helsinki. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Finland!
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