10-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ruka to Rovaniemi, Kemi, Oulu, and Kajaani
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Finland as you embark on an unforgettable 10-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Ruka, Rovaniemi, Saarenkylä, Kemi, Oulu, Kiiminki, Kajaani, and Suomussalmi.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Finland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Ruka, 3 nights in Rovaniemi, 1 night in Kemi, 2 nights in Oulu, and 1 night in Kajaani. 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 Ruka, 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. Santa Claus Village and Rukatunturi are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Santa Claus Office, learn more about the unique Oulu Market Square, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Tietomaa Science Centre.
As you hit the open road and drive through Ruka, Rovaniemi, Saarenkylä, Kemi, Oulu, Kiiminki, Kajaani, and Suomussalmi, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Ruka - Arrival day
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- Ruka Pedestrian Village
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Say hello to Ruka! 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 village. You will stay in Ruka for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
Ruka is a beautiful village 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 Ruka Pedestrian Village or taking a stroll in the village center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Ruka. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Finland. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the village.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Ruka, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Ski Booster - Bar - Cafe - Grill, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hanki Baari is another top choice with a popular menu.
Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in Finland!
Day 2
- Ruka
- Rovaniemi
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Drive 249 km, 3 hours 26 min
- Pieni Karhunkierros Circle Trail
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Ruka and Juuma. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Rovaniemi, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Ruka. Some of the region’s most loved attractions await.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Juuma, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Kuusamo to Juuma may take around 10 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Juuma, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Pieni Karhunkierros Circle Trail, a beloved hiking area that draws visitors from near and far.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Rovaniemi. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Rovaniemi's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at Ravintola Roka Street Bistro, 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 Bull Bar and Grill, 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 Gustav Kitchen & Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Rovaniemi. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Pub Pisto, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Oliver's Corner Irish Pub, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Paha Kurki Rockhouse provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Finland!
Day 3
- Rovaniemi
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Drive 19 km, 26 min
- Santa Claus Office
- Santa Claus Village
- Santa's Post Office
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On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Rovaniemi. You’ll stay in Rovaniemi for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Today's adventure in Rovaniemi promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Santa Claus Office. This visually striking visitor center is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Santa Claus Village, another eye-catching attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Santa's Post Office, one of the city’s most beloved attractions, known for its eye-catching features.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Rovaniemi's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Scandic Rovaniemi City, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try RAVINTOLA MEMOS? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Rock Ravintola & Café Grande as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Rovaniemi.
Round off your dining experience by visiting People's Pub, a prime location for a drink.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!
Day 4
- Rovaniemi
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Drive 50 km, 1 hour 12 min
- Culture House Korundi
- Lordi's Square
- Arktikum Science Museum
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Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Rovaniemi for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Start by visiting Culture House Korundi, a prime spot to begin your journey. This picture-perfect cultural center is sure to impress. Next on your list is Lordi's Square, another must-visit landmark and worthwhile public square renowned for its instagrammable features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Rovaniemi by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Arktikum. This breathtaking museum is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience.
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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Rovaniemi. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Rovaniemen Asemaravintola, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Kauppayhtiö offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Yuca is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Rovaniemi.
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.
Day 5
- Rovaniemi
- Saarenkylä
- Kemi
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Drive 133 km, 1 hour 57 min
- Angry Birds Playground
- Ounasvaara Ski Oy
- SantaPark - the Home Cavern of Santa Claus
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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 Rovaniemi and Saarenkylä. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kemi, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Rovaniemi promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Angry Birds Playground. This photogenic playground is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Santapark - The Home Cavern Of Santa Claus, another photogenic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Saarenkylä.
Make your way to Ounasvaara Ski Oy, an intriguing ski resort that draws attention for its eye-catching features.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Kemi, 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 Kemi. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Lounaskahvila Kemin Paussi, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Pizzeria Di Mare offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Kalle's Burger / Scanburger is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Kemi.
Keep the evening going at Olutravintola Kukko, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Finland!
Day 6
- Kemi
- Oulu
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Drive 161 km, 2 hours 26 min
- University of Oulu Botanical Gardens
- Oulu market square
- Oulu Market Hall
- Rotuaarin pallo
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Oulu. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Oulu, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Oulu, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Kemi to Oulu may take around 1 hour 17 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Oulu, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Take your self-guided tour to University Of Oulu Botanical Gardens, an underrated botanical garden that everyone visiting Oulu should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Oulu Market Square. This instagrammable public square is one of the most worthwhile attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Oulu Market Hall, a photogenic market, popular among locals as well as travelers. Rotuaarin Pallo is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this underrated art installation before you continue your journey.
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 Oulu. Oulu 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 Oulu. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at Frans & Camille Bistro, a top-rated dining destination in Oulu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Koivurannan kahvila, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sauraha. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Oulu this evening.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Pub Graali after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Leskinen, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, 1bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Head back to your accommodation in Oulu and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Finland!
Day 7
- Oulu
- Kiiminki
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Drive 60 km, 1 hour 23 min
- Koitelinkoski
- The Oulu Museum Of Art
- Tietomaa Science Centre
- Nallikari beach
- Nallikari Lighthouse
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Greet day 7 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 Kiiminki and Oulu.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Oulu, including an art gallery, a science center, a beach, a lighthouse and much more! Start your day with a visit to Oulu Art Museum. This up-and-coming art gallery is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Tietomaa Science Centre, which may be one of the most instagrammable places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Oulu 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 Nallikari Beach, one of the town’s most frequently visited beach. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Nallikari Lighthouse.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kiiminki. This car ride takes around 27 min.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Koitelinkoski, an often recommended waterfall that draws visitors from near and far.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Oulu and your accommodation.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Oulu. 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 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.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Finland.
Day 8
- Oulu
- Kajaani
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Drive 187 km, 2 hours 53 min
- Mannerheim park
- Heinätorinpuisto park
- Hollihaka Park
- Oulu Automobile Museum
- Turkansaari Open Air Museum
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Dive into day 8 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.
Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and budget-friendly activities. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Mannerheim Park. This increasingly popular park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Heinätorinpuisto Park, one of the city’s most promising highlights.
Next, check out Hollihaka Park Oulu Outdoor Gym, one of the most intriguing places to see in Oulu. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Oulu Automobile Museum. Wander around and soak in the eye-catching atmosphere this museum offers. Finally, take the path to the intriguing Turkansaari Open Air Museum, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Kajaani. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Kajaani. 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 delicious meal at Taukopaikka Nuottijärvi, a top-rated dining destination in Kajaani. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pancho Villa, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Peevee Bar Oy. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Kajaani this evening.
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.
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.
Day 9
- Kajaani
- Suomussalmi
- Ruka
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Drive 271 km, 3 hours 25 min
- Kainuu Museum
- Kajaani Castle Ruins
- The Quiet People - The Silent People
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Kajaani and Suomussalmi. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ruka. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Kajaani is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a museum and a castle. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the curiosity-inducing Kainuu Museum. Just a short distance away is Kajaani Castle Ruins, a stunning castle that draws visitors from far and near.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Kajaani, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Suomussalmi. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 35 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Head to Hiljaisen Kansan Tilataideteos (the Silent People), a frequently visited art installation in Suomussalmi. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Ruka's best restaurants.
Savor the flavors at RUOK, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Villiruokaravintola Rukan Kuksa beckons with its unique menu offerings.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Finland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 10
- Ruka - Departure day
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- Rukatunturi
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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 Ruka before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Make the most of your final day in Finland by visiting Ruka’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Finland.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Ruka today. One of the most intriguing attractions included on the itinerary is Rukatunturi. This visually striking ski resort will help you start your sightseeing on top.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
Before you conclude your road trip in Finland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Ruka.
You’ll then say farewell to Ruka. 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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