11-Day Finland Road Trip from Rovaniemi to Kemi, Oulu, Kajaani, and Ruka

Welcome to Rovaniemi, 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 Rovaniemi's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Rovaniemi 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 Angry Birds Playground 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 Rovaniemi. 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 Rovaniemi. 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 Ravintola Roka Street Bistro, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bull Bar and Grill beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Gustav Kitchen & Bar. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Rovaniemi tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Pub Pisto, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Oliver's Corner Irish Pub, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Paha Kurki Rockhouse likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On day 2 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.

Make Santa's Post Office one of your first sightseeing stops in Rovaniemi. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 656 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Santa Claus Village is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This amusement park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 22,072 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Santa Claus Office. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,392 visitors.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Finland that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Rovaniemi has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Finland by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

As you explore more of Rovaniemi, 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.

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at people's Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

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

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Rovaniemi for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Arktikum. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 995 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Culture House Korundi. This cafe has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 806 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Rovaniemi Church. This church has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 601 visitors.

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.

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

Savor the flavors at Saigon Noodle Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Santa Claus Holiday Village beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Ravintola Valdemari. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Rovaniemi tonight.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Rovaniemi. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kemi, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Ounasvaara Ski Oy. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 787 reviews.

Continue your journey at SantaPark - the Home Cavern of Santa Claus. This amusement park is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,688 travelers from near and far.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Lounaskahvila Kemin Paussi, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Pizzeria Di Mare? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Kalle's Burger / Scanburger as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Kemi.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Olutravintola Kukko, a prime location for a drink.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Oulu and Kiiminki, 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 Oulu. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Oulu and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Oulu beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Oulu market square. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 2,162 visitors.

Oulu Market Hall is another popular attraction you could visit today. This market hall has a rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 903 visitors.

Rotuaarin pallo is also highly recommended by travelers. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 418 visitors.

Kiiminki welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Koitelinkoski. This much-appreciated rapids is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 300 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Oulu, 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 Oulu's best restaurants.

Savor the flavors at Frans & Camille Bistro, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Koivurannan kahvila beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Sauraha. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Oulu tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Pub Graali stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Leskinen offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. 1bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!

Day 6 of your road trip across Finland promises a magnificent time exploring Oulu. You have 1 night left in Oulu. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Nallikari Lighthouse. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 412 visitors.

When you’re finished at Nallikari Lighthouse, head to Nallikari beach. This one-of-a-kind beach is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 402 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit The Oulu Museum Of Art. This cafe is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 777 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Tietomaa Science Centre. This museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 1,871 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to University of Oulu Botanical Gardens. This famous botanical garden is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 584 travelers.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Crecian, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Lapland Hotels Oulu offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Jumpru Pub is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Oulu.

Continue your lively evening at Mallaskellari, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Oulu. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Kajaani. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Mannerheim park. This park is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 348 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Heinätorinpuisto park. This park has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 192 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Hollihaka Park Oulu outdoor gym. This outdoor gym has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 694 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Oulu Automobile Museum. This automobile museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 549 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Turkansaari Open Air Museum. This open-air museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 390 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Kajaani. Kajaani 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 you explore more of Kajaani, 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.

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

Keep the evening going at Bar Jussila (T:mi Juha J. Immonen), a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Restaurant Saint Kukko, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

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.

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 Kajaani and Suomussalmi. In the evening, you’ll end up in Ruka, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Take the opportunity to see Kainuu Museum. This attraction has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 154 visitors.

Kajaani Castle Ruins is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 1,005 travelers.

Upon your arrival in Suomussalmi, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to The Silent People. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 688 reviews.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Ski Booster - Bar - Cafe - Grill, a top-rated dining destination in Ruka. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hanki Baari, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

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

Day 9 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Ruka has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Ruka by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Ruka has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Ruka offers and add your favorites to your Finland travel package below.

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

Make sure to book a table at RUOK, a popular restaurant in Ruka. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Ruka at Villiruokaravintola Rukan Kuksa, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

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

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Kuusamo and Ruka. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Rovaniemi, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Rukatunturi. Previous visitors have rated this fell an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,713 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Kuusamo, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Ruka may take around 22 min. Upon your arrival in Ruka, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make The tourist center of Karhuntassu one of your first sightseeing stops in Kuusamo. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 131 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Hannu Hautala Nature Photography Center is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This art gallery is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 164 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Rovaniemi, 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 Rovaniemi. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to book a table at Arctic Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Rovaniemi. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Rovaniemi at Hemingway's Rovaniemi, 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 Cafe & Bar 21. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Rovaniemi tonight.

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

Day 11 of your road trip in Finland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Rovaniemi before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As you approach the end of your journey in Finland, take a moment for some retail therapy in Rovaniemi’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Finland, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Finland with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

Make Lordi's Square your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 927 reviews.

Before you conclude your road trip in Finland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Rovaniemi.

You’ll then say farewell to Rovaniemi. 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!