11-Day Finland Road Trip from Helsinki to Lahti, Tampere, and Turku
Description
Summary
Description
Explore the best of Finland on a 11-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Helsinki, Kotka, Lahti, Hämeenlinna, Raikku, Tiihala, Tampere, Rauma, Turku, and Jänessaari. This road trip itinerary in Finland seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Finland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 5 nights in Helsinki, 1 night in Lahti, 2 nights in Tampere, and 2 nights 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, Lahti, Hämeenlinna, Raikku, Tiihala, Tampere, Rauma, Turku, and Jänessaari, 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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Day 1 – Helsinki - arrival day
- Helsinki - Arrival day
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- Kaisaniemi 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 4 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 Kaisaniemi 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.
Savor the flavors at Restaurant Grön, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Saaga beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Klaus K Hotel. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Helsinki tonight.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Base Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, One Pint Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Liberty or Death also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in Finland!
Day 2 – Helsinki
- Helsinki
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Drive 9 km, 33 min
- Linnanmäki
- Sibelius Monument
- Sibelius Park
- More
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.
Your sightseeing of the day begins at Linnanmäki, a remarkable amusement park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 26,571 reviews.
Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Sibelius Monument. This sculpture has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,272 travelers.
Sibelius Park is another must-visit attraction. This renowned park offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,546 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.
Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your 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.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Helsinki by reserving a table at Palace. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Olo, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Demo, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Helsinki.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Kaisla, known for its inviting atmosphere. Beaver Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Praha provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Finland.
Day 3 – Helsinki
- Helsinki
- More
Drive 4 km, 51 min
- Art Museum Ateneum
- Helsinki Cathedral
- Senate Square
- Helsinki Market Square
- Kaivopuisto
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Day 3 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.
Kick off the day at Ateneum, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. Attracting approximately 400,000 visits every year, this attraction is a must-see. This art museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,952 reviews.
Today is also your chance to visit Helsinki Cathedral. Helsinki Cathedral is a lutheran cathedral with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,060 reviews.
Senate Square is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 19,379 visitors.
Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Kauppatori. This market square is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 26,148 visitors.
Lastly, don’t miss out on Kaivopuisto, a famous neighbourhood of helsinki in Helsinki. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,806 travelers.
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 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 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.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Riff, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Roasberg is another popular option for a drink or two.
Say good night to Helsinki and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Finland!
Day 4 – Helsinki
- Helsinki
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Drive 6 km, 1 hour 5 min
- Temppeliaukio Church
- Finnish Museum of Natural History
- The National Museum of Finland
- Uspenski Cathedral
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On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Helsinki. You’ll stay in Helsinki for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Make Temppeliaukio Church one of your first sightseeing stops in Helsinki. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 12,801 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.
Finnish Museum of Natural History is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This natural history museum is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,700 reviews.
Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by National Museum of Finland. This national museum has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,216 visitors. Up to 447,139 people travel to this site annually.
If you’re keen to explore more, head to Uspenski Cathedral. A trip to this popular eastern orthodox cathedral is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.5 out of 5-star rating as given by 6,716 previous visitors.
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.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Olo, an iconic dining spot in Helsinki. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Ravintola Teerenpeli, a popular restaurant in Helsinki. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurant Pompier, a hidden gem nestled in Helsinki. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Finland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5 – Helsinki, Kotka, and Lahti
- Lahti
- Kotka
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Drive 260 km, 3 hours 28 min
- Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge
- Katariina Seaside Park
- Sapokka Water Garden
- Maritime Centre Vellamo
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Kotka. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lahti. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Helsinki, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kotka. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 35 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
An excellent attraction to start your day with is Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,753 reviews.
Continue your journey at Katariina Seaside Park. This park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,436 travelers from near and far.
Kotka is also the home of Sapokka. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,859 visitors.
You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Maritime Centre Vellamo. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,890 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Lahti, 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 Lahti. 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 Pancho Villa Lahti, a highly-rated dining destination in Lahti. If you're eager to try something different, consider Asemapäällikkö konditoria, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Coppa Eatery. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lahti this evening.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar & Bistro Lahti, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Tirra is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Wanha Mestari is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Head back to your accommodation in Lahti and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Finland!
Day 6 – Lahti, Hämeenlinna, Raikku, Tiihala, and Tampere
- Tampere
- Southern Finland
- Raikku
- Tiihala
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Drive 169 km, 2 hours 43 min
- The Artillery, Engineer and Signals Museum of Finland
- Aulanko Observation Tower
- Vehoniemi Automobile Museum
- Automobile and Road Museum Mobilia
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On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Hämeenlinna, Raikku, and Tiihala. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Tampere, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Hämeenlinna. This car ride takes around 1 hour 8 min.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to The Artillery, Engineer and Signals Museum of Finland. This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,252 reviews.
Next up, make your way to Aulanko Tower. This observation tower has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,662 reviews.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Raikku, 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 Hämeenlinna to Raikku may take around 45 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Raikku, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Make Vehoniemi automobile museum one of your first sightseeing stops in Raikku. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,148 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.
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 Tampere. Tampere 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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Tampere. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Vaakon Nakki, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Sailor's Bar & Grill offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Zeytuun is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Tampere.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Thrasherie Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Huurupiilo is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Moro Sky Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Say good night to Tampere and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Finland!
Day 7 – Tampere
- Tampere
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Drive 11 km, 52 min
- Särkänniemi
- Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower
- Hatanpää Park Arboretum
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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.
A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Särkänniemi. Previous visitors have rated this amusement park an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 5,050 reviews.
Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This cafe is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,254 reviews.
Another attraction you won't want to miss is Hatanpää Park Arboretum. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,864 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 Tampere, 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.
Dine in style at Shanghai Chinese Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Ravintola Coussicca boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Koskikeskus. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great 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, Bar K stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Kievari Kahdet Kasvot offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Save File - Pelaajan Olohuone is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Finland!
Day 8 – Tampere, Rauma, and Turku
- Turku
- Tampere
- Rauma
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Drive 237 km, 3 hours 38 min
- Finlayson Factory Area
- Koskipuisto Park
- Museokeskus Vapriikki
- Old Rauma
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Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Tampere, and Rauma, 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 Turku. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
When you're ready to see some sights, Finlayson Area is a great place to start. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,162 visitors.
Another popular attraction you can visit today is Koskipuisto. This park has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 3,840 travelers.
We also recommend a stop at Museum Centre Vapriikki. This site gets more than 185,000 visitors annually. The museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,185 visitors.
When you’ve had your share of Tampere, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Rauma. Your travel time is around 2 hours.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Old Rauma. This old town is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,791 visitors.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Turku, 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 Turku. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Turku by reserving a table at Kaskis. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. Looking for something different? Ravintola Masala offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Turku.
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.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!
Day 9 – Turku, and Jänessaari
- Turku
- Jänessaari
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Drive 19 km, 58 min
- Botanic Garden of Turku
- Turku Castle
- Adventure Park Seikkailupuisto
- Kupittaa Park
- Luostarinmäki Open-Air Museum
- More
On day 9 of your road trip in Finland, you’ll start and end your day in Jänessaari, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the village. Since you will return to Turku for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Jänessaari, and Turku to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Your sightseeing of the day begins at Turku Castle, a remarkable castle where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,121 reviews.
Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Adventure Park Seikkailupuisto. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,845 travelers.
Kupittaa is another must-visit attraction. This renowned district offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,659 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.
Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Luostarinmäki. This well-loved cup marked stones boasts a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,805 reviews.
After soaking in Turku’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Jänessaari. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 14 min. When you arrive in Jänessaari, it's time to take a break from the road.
Your sightseeing of the day begins at Botanic Garden of University of Turku, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,447 reviews.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Turku and your accommodation.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Turku's best restaurants.
Make sure to reserve a table at Panimoravintola Koulu, an iconic dining spot in Turku. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Delhi Darbar, a popular restaurant in Turku. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Viking Restaurant Harald, a hidden gem nestled in Turku. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar4 stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Uusi Apteekki Pub offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Walo Rooftop Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!
Day 10 – Turku, and Helsinki
- Helsinki
- Turku
- More
Drive 168 km, 2 hours 21 min
- Turku Art Museum
- Aboa Vetus Ars Nova
- The Old Great Square
- Turku Cathedral
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Turku. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Helsinki, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Turku Art Museum. This building is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,350 visitors. Turku Art Museum welcomes around 80,848 visitors every year.
Aboa Vetus Ars Nova is another popular attraction you could visit today. This museum has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,116 visitors.
Old Great Square is also highly recommended by travelers. This square has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,058 visitors.
Turku Cathedral is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This lutheran cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,025 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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Helsinki's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Savor the flavors at Restaurant Rioni, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Kappeli beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant Farang. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Helsinki tonight.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!
Day 11 – Helsinki - departure day
- Helsinki - Departure day
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- Esplanadi
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Day 11 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.
Make Esplanadi park one of your first sightseeing stops in Helsinki. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,380 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.
Before you conclude your road trip in Finland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Helsinki.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Bar Loose, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Merimakasiini offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant Pastis.
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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