10-Day Finland Road Trip from Helsinki traveling east to Lahti, Savonlinna, Joensuu, and Mikkeli

Say hello to Helsinki! Your exciting road trip through Finland is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Helsinki for 4 nights before you continue your adventure!

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.

Find your way to your hotel in Helsinki. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Finland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Lappi Ravintola, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Vltava? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Löyly Helsinki as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Helsinki.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Base Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out One Pint Pub, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Liberty or Death provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in Finland!

Day 2 of your road trip across Finland promises a magnificent time exploring Helsinki. You have 3 nights left in Helsinki. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Ateneum. This much-appreciated art museum is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,449 reviews. Each year, 400,000 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

Next up is Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma. This museum has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 7,063 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Finnish Museum of Natural History. This natural history museum has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,155 reviews.

Temppeliaukio Church is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This cave church has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 11,662 reviews.

You can learn more about Helsinki today by going on a tour. Helsinki offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Ravintola Nokka, a top-rated dining spot in Helsinki. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hotel Kämp, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Ravintola Teerenpeli. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Helsinki.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Kaisla. Alternatively, go to Beaver Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Praha provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Helsinki. You’ll stay in Helsinki for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Korkeasaari Zoo. Over 498,266 travelers visit this attraction every year. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 12,452 reviews.

National Museum of Finland is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This national museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,147 reviews. The attraction welcomes 447,139 visitors every year.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Sibelius Park. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 5,509 reviews.

Sibelius Monument is another outstanding experience in Helsinki. Around 6,019 travelers have rated this sculpture an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

The attraction gets an estimated 447,139 visitors every year.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Helsinki on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant Pompier, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kappeli? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurant Farang as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Helsinki.

Keep the evening going at The Riff, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Roasberg, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

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

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Helsinki for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Uspenski Cathedral. This eastern orthodox cathedral is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,146 visitors.

When you’re finished at Uspenski Cathedral, head to Kauppatori. This one-of-a-kind market square is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 25,097 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Senate Square. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 18,455 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Helsinki Cathedral. This lutheran cathedral is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,211 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Kaivopuisto. This famous neighbourhood of helsinki is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,621 travelers.

Your discoveries in Helsinki do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Helsinki on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bar Loose, a highly-rated dining destination in Helsinki. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Merimakasiini, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Elite. 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!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Kouvola and Verla. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lahti, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you arrive in Kouvola, it's time to take a break from the road.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Repovesi National Park. This national park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,147 visitors. Attracting more than 172,900 yearly visitors, it’s a top sight you don’t want to miss.

When you’re finished at Repovesi National Park, head to Kimolan kanava. This one-of-a-kind sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 207 reviews.

When you arrive in Verla, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Verla mill museum. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Verla, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,645 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Lahti. Lahti offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lahti.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Pancho Villa Lahti, a top-rated dining spot in Lahti. If you're in the mood for something new, try Asemapäällikkö konditoria, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Coppa Eatery. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lahti.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar & Bistro Lahti, known for its inviting atmosphere. Tirra is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Wanha Mestari provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Lappeenranta, Parikkala, and Imatra. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Savonlinna. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Lappeenranta’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lahti behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 53 min. Lappeenranta welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Lappeenranta Fortress. This extraordinary sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,767 visitors.

Next, make your way to Sandcastle Lappeenranta. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 3,011 reviews.

Parikkala welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Drop by the renowned Parikkala Sculpture Park. This popular sculpture garden has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,108 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Savonlinna, 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 Savonlinna, 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.

Make sure to book a table at Kalastajan Koju, a popular restaurant in Savonlinna. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Savonlinna at Muikkuterassi Savonlinna, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Pizzeria Capero. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Savonlinna tonight.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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 Kerimäki and Savonlinna. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Joensuu, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Kerimäki Church. This extraordinary church building is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,022 visitors.

Set your GPS to Joensuu and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 34 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Joensuu beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Savonlinna Market Square. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 3,683 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Olavinlinna Castle. This stronghold has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,676 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Joensuu, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Joensuun Fever Oy, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Kerubi is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Original Sokos Hotel Kimmel. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Joensuu tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Summer restaurant Tuulaaki, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, 60's Palaver provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Jet Set Bar Oy offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

On day 8 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 Ylä-Koli and Joensuu. In the evening, you’ll end up in Mikkeli, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Ylä-Koli. This drive usually takes around 57 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Koli Nature Center Ukko is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,627 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Koli National Park. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,224 travelers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Ylä-Koli. This car ride takes around 57 min.

Take the opportunity to see Joensuu Art Museum. This attraction has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 425 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Mikkeli. Mikkeli offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ravintola Vino, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Dragon Sheng? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Angela Kebab-Pizzeria as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Mikkeli.

Continue your lively evening at Jälkipeli Pub, Karaoke, Sports Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Patteri Baari is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Mikkelin Keskusbaari Oy ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Kotka, 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.

Set your GPS to Kotka and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 2 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kotka beckons with new experiences!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Katariina Seaside Park‎. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,357 reviews.

Next up is Sapokka. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,810 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Sibeliuksenpuisto. This park has been rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 590 reviews.

Maritime Centre Vellamo is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This maritime museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,802 reviews.

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

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

Dine in style at Ravintola Ragu, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Savotta boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurant Kuu. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Helsinki.

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

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.

Maximize your last day in Finland and go on a shopping spree in Helsinki’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Finland, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Finland home with you through these charming souvenirs.

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 in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Teatteri, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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!