11-Day Finland Road Trip from Helsinki traveling east to Kotka, Lappeenranta, Varkaus, Kuopio, and Jyvaskyla

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 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.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Helsinki. 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 city.

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 wonderful meal at Restaurant Grön, a top-rated dining spot in Helsinki. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Saaga, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Klaus K Hotel. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Helsinki.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Base Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, One Pint Pub offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Liberty Or Death is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in Finland!

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.

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.

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.

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Helsinki by booking a table at Palace, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Helsinki, Finnjävel Salonki shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Olo is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Helsinki. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Kaisla, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Beaver Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Praha provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!

On day 3 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.

Take the opportunity to see Kaivopuisto. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,806 visitors.

Uspenski Cathedral is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This eastern orthodox cathedral has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,716 travelers.

Helsinki is also the home of Kauppatori. Around 26,148 people have rated this market square an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Senate Square. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 19,379 reviews, a visit to this point of interest is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Helsinki is also your chance to admire Helsinki Cathedral. This must-visit lutheran cathedral enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,060 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.

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 Löyly Helsinki, a top-rated dining destination in Helsinki. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ravintola Nokka, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hotel Kämp. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Helsinki this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Riff, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Roasberg offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Helsinki.

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

On day 4 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 Helsinki. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kotka, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Ateneum. This extraordinary art museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,952 visitors. Each year, around 400,000 people visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Museum Of Contemporary Art Kiasma. This museum is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 7,331 reviews.

While in Helsinki, we also recommend a visit to Finnish Museum Of Natural History. This natural history museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,700 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Temppeliaukio Church. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 12,801 travelers, this cave church is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Helsinki.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Kotka, 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Kotka. 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 Vausti, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Canttiini is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Keisarinsatama. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Kotka tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Players Sports Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Finland.

Day 5 of your road trip across Finland promises a magnificent time exploring Kotka. You have 1 night left in Kotka. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Katariina Seaside Park‎. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,436 reviews.

Sapokka is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,859 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Sibeliuksenpuisto. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 603 reviews.

Maritime Centre Vellamo is another outstanding experience in Kotka. Around 1,890 travelers have rated this maritime museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge is not far away. This museum is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,753 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Kotka, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Kotka below.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Maritime Centre Vellamo, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ravintola India Palace is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Tai Hing. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Kotka tonight.

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.

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 2 vibrant destinations - Kouvola, and Lappeenranta. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lappeenranta. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kouvola. This car ride takes around 45 min.

Kick off the day at Tykkimäen Huvipuisto, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 3,855 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Kouvola, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Lappeenranta. Your travel time is around 1 hour 3 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Sandcastle Lappeenranta. This point of interest is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Lappeenranta, with an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 3,094 visitors.

Lappeenranta Fortress is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,819 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

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 Lappeenranta. Lappeenranta 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 Lappeenranta. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Angus Steak & Wine, an iconic dining spot in Lappeenranta. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of My Bakery Cafe Oy, a popular restaurant in Lappeenranta. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ravintola Iskender, a hidden gem nestled in Lappeenranta. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Lamppu offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Pikku Pete Pub is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Gi-ki Oy is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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.

After soaking in Lappeenranta’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Imatra. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 29 min. When you arrive in Imatra, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take the opportunity to see Imatrankoski. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,146 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Imatra, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Parikkala may take around 38 min. Upon your arrival in Parikkala, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Parikkala Sculpture Park. This much-appreciated sculpture garden is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,202 reviews.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Varkaus. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Container Restaurant Morton Varkaus, a top-rated dining destination in Varkaus. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Terrace Cafe Torni, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sai Gon Kitchen. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Varkaus this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Ravintola Lännentie 66 Ky, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, O'harry's Irish Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Next Step provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Joensuu. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Kuopio, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Joensuu and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 30 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Joensuu beckons with new experiences!

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Joensuu Art Museum. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 428 reviews.

The Courting Wolf is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 138 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is North Karelian Museum Hilma. This museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 192 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Kuopio, 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 explore more of Kuopio, 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 Hygge BRO, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Isä Camillo boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Panza Kuopio. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Kuopio.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Olutravintola Malja, known for its lively atmosphere. Ale Pupi is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Hophaus Kuopio offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Finland!

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Kuopio, Siilinjärvi, and Leppävirta, 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 Jyvaskyla. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Kuopio Market Square. This much-appreciated market square is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,576 reviews.

Next up is Valkeisenlammen Puisto. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 800 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Hapelähde Park. This park has been rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 556 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Siilinjärvi. This drive usually takes around 16 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Kasurila. This village is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 830 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 Jyvaskyla. Jyvaskyla 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.

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 delightful dinner at Ravintola Teerenpeli, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Figaro Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurant Frans & Sandra as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick 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.

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

On day 10 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 Jyvaskyla, and Lahti. In the evening, you’ll end up in Helsinki, where you will stay for 1 night.

Make Nero Stairs one of your first sightseeing stops in Jyvaskyla. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 538 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Natural History Museum Of Central Finland 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 4.4 out of 5 stars from 583 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Mäki-matti Family Park. This park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 999 visitors.

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.

Drop by the renowned Laune Central Park. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,979 visitors.

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.

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.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Finland!

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.

Maximize your last day in Finland and go on a shopping spree in Helsinki’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Finland.

Kick off the day at Esplanadi Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,380 reviews.

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 delightful dinner at Restaurant Rioni, 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.

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!