11-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Helsinki traveling east to Porvoo, Lappeenranta, Varkaus, Kuopio, and Jyvaskyla

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.

A top thing to do today is to explore Kallio, a must-see neighborhood in Helsinki. It's the perfect starting point for exploring the top attractions in the area.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Helsinki on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Finnish Museum Of Natural History is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking museum before continuing your journey. Temppeliaukio Church is your next stop. This locally renowned church is one of the best-rated sights in Helsinki.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Korkeasaari Zoo. This breathtaking zoo is a sight to behold.

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 Helsinki's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Palace, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Finnjävel Salonki, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Helsinki is Olo, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern menu.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Kaisla stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Beaver Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Praha 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 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.

Immerse yourself in Helsinki’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Uspenski Cathedral. This breathtaking church is sure to ignite your curiosity.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Senate Square, a captivating public square. For a change of scene, check out Helsinki Cathedral, known for its romantic 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.

Visit Helsinki Central Market in Helsinki for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Helsinki Central Market has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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 delicious dinner at Restaurant Olo, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ravintola Teerenpeli offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant Pompier. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Helsinki.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!

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 Porvoo. 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 40 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Katariina Seaside Park‎, a locally appreciated park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Sapokka, where you can soak in the mesmerizing surroundings. Next, explore Maritime Museum Of Finland, yet another worthwhile place to see in the area. After the maritime museum, make time to go to Maritime Centre Vellamo. This historic maritime museum is well worthwhile the visit.

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 Porvoo. Porvoo 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 Porvoo's best restaurants.

Have a memorable dining experience in Porvoo by booking a table at VÅR, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Taste_Porvoo, a popular restaurant in Porvoo. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Porvoon Paahtimo Bar & Café offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Kouvola and Lappeenranta, 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 Lappeenranta. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Porvoo, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kouvola. Your travel time is around 1 hour 5 min.

Your self-guided tour starts at Tykkimäen Huvipuisto, a locally appreciated amusement park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Kouvola, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Lappeenranta. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 3 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take your self-guided tour to Sandcastle Lappeenranta, an up-and-coming sightseeing destination that everyone visiting Lappeenranta should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Lappeenranta Fortress. This respected historical landmark is one of the most underrated attractions in the region.

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

As you explore more of Lappeenranta, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Angus Steak & Wine, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, My Bakery Cafe Oy is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Ravintola Iskender. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Lappeenranta tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Lamppu, known for its inviting atmosphere. Pikku Pete Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Gi-ki Oy provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Imatra, Parikkala, and Savonlinna. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Varkaus, which will be your home away from home 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 Imatra. This drive usually takes around 29 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make your way to Imatrankoski, an underrated waterfall that draws attention for its awe-inspiring features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Parikkala. This car ride takes around 38 min.

Make your way to Parikkala Sculpture Park, a beloved sculpture garden that draws attention for its eye-catching features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Savonlinna. This drive usually takes around 31 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your journey at Lusto – The Finnish Forest Museum and explore the standout features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Varkaus, 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 Varkaus. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Container Restaurant Morton Varkaus, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Terrace Cafe Torni? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Sai Gon Kitchen as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Varkaus.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Ravintola Lännentie 66 Ky, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. O'harry's Irish Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Next Step is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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 Juurikka, Varistaipale, and Palokki. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kuopio, where you will stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Juurikka, 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 Varkaus to Juurikka may take around 53 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Juurikka, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering New Valamo, an increasingly popular monastery known for its stunning features.

Set your GPS to Varistaipale and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 12 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Varistaipale beckons with new experiences!

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Varistaipale Canal, an underrated historical landmark that draws visitors from near and far.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Palokki, 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 Varistaipale to Palokki may take around 6 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Palokki, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your self-guided tour starts at Lintula Holy Trinity Convent, a beloved monastery that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring 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 Kuopio. Kuopio 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 Kuopio. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Hygge BRO, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Sabor House Kitchen & Bar, Sawohouse Underground ja Boutique Hotel Sawohouse beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider ABC Pitkälahti Kuopio. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Kuopio tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Olutravintola Malja is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Ale Pupi, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Hophaus Kuopio. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Kuopio. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Jyvaskyla, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Kuopio, featuring family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and wallet-friendly activities. Start at Kuopio Market Square, an often recommended market in the city. Then, head to Kuopio Art Museum and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking art gallery.

There are many interesting places to see in Kuopio and when you are ready for more, go to Museum Of Kuopio. This is one of the city’s most frequently visited spots. After exploring the museum, visit the intriguing Hapelähde Park. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the increasingly popular Valkeisenlammen Puisto, an increasingly popular park in the city.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ravintola Teerenpeli, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Boutique Hotel Yöpuu offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Kuokkala manor. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Jyvaskyla.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Matsi Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Poppari offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Harry's, another top-rated bar in the area.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Finland.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Jyvaskyla and Lahti. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Helsinki. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today's adventure in Jyvaskyla promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Craft Museum Of Finland. This heritage-rich handicraft museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Nero Stairs, another eye-catching attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Mäki-matti Family Park, one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing attractions, known for its photogenic features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Lahti, 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 Jyvaskyla to Lahti may take around 2 hours without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lahti, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Laune Central Park, a frequently visited park known for its picture-perfect features.

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.

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.

Dine in style at Restaurant Rioni, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kappeli boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurant Farang. 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!