12-Day Finland Road Trip from Helsinki to Lappeenranta, Varkaus, Jyvaskyla, Tampere, and Turku

Say hello to Helsinki! 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 city. You will stay in Helsinki for 4 nights before you continue your adventure!

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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Helsinki by reserving a table at Palace. Known for its 2-star Michelin reputation, Palace captivates its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Finnjävel Salonki, renowned for its delectable contemporary 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 Olo, 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 Base Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. One Pint Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Liberty or Death provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in Finland!

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.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Uspenski Cathedral. This eastern orthodox cathedral is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,716 reviews.

Continue your journey at Kauppatori. This market square is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 26,148 travelers from near and far.

Helsinki is also the home of Senate Square. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 19,379 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Helsinki Cathedral. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,060 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Kaivopuisto. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,806 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this neighbourhood of helsinki.

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 Helsinki has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. Scroll down and select tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Lappi Ravintola, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Vltava? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Ravintola Karl-Johan Oy as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Helsinki.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Kaisla, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Beaver Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Praha is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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.

Journey into the unknown at Linnanmäki, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable amusement park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 26,571 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Sibelius Monument is a recommended place to visit. This sculpture is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 6,272 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Helsinki is Sibelius Park. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,546 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Helsinki offers an experience you will remember.

Your discoveries in Helsinki do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Helsinki on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

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

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Löyly Helsinki, 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 Nokka, 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 Hotel Kämp, a hidden gem nestled in Helsinki. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Riff. Alternatively, go to Roasberg, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

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

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.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Ateneum, a remarkable art museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,952 reviews. Each year, this popular place of interest welcomes approximately 400,000 visitors.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Finnish Museum of Natural History. This natural history museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,700 travelers.

Temppeliaukio Church is another must-visit attraction. This renowned cave church offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 12,801 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 National Museum of Finland. This well-loved national museum boasts a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 6,216 reviews. In a single year, approximately 447,139 visitors add this sightseeing spot to their travel itineraries.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Helsinki, 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 Helsinki 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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Olo, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ravintola Teerenpeli is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant Pompier. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Helsinki tonight.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Kotka. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lappeenranta, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Kotka, 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 Helsinki to Kotka may take around 1 hour 40 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Kotka, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Katariina Seaside Park‎. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,436 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Sapokka. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,859 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Maritime Centre Vellamo. This maritime museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,890 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,753 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Lappeenranta, 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 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Angus Steak & Wine, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try My Bakery Cafe Oy? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Ravintola Iskender as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Lappeenranta.

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 and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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 - Lappeenranta, and Imatra. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Varkaus. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Lappeenranta Museum of Art. This museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 175 reviews.

Continue your journey at Lappeenranta Fortress. This point of interest is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,819 travelers from near and far.

Lappeenranta is also the home of Sandcastle Lappeenranta. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 3,094 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Imatra, 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 Lappeenranta to Imatra may take around 32 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Imatra, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Imatrankoski. This rapids is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,146 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Varkaus. Varkaus 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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Varkaus. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Container Restaurant Morton Varkaus, a highly-rated dining destination in Varkaus. If you're eager to try something different, consider Terrace Cafe Torni, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sai Gon Kitchen. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Varkaus this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Ravintola Lännentie 66 Ky, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, O'Harry's Irish Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Varkaus. Next Step is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Kuopio, and Jyvaskyla. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Jyvaskyla, where you’ll be staying 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 Kuopio. This drive usually takes around 57 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Valkeisenlammen puisto, 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 800 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Kuopio Market Square. This market square has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,576 travelers.

Museum of Kuopio is another must-visit attraction. This renowned museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 677 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Jyvaskyla. This car ride takes around 1 hour 53 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Mäki-Matti Family Park, 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 999 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Jyvaskyla, 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 Jyvaskyla. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Matsi Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Poppari is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Harry's also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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 Mänttä-Vilppula, and Raikku. In the evening, you’ll end up in Tampere, where you will stay for 2 nights.

After soaking in Jyvaskyla’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Mänttä-Vilppula. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 11 min. When you arrive in Mänttä-Vilppula, it's time to take a break from the road.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Gösta Serlachius Museum, Museum of Art. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,285 reviews.

Continue your journey at Serlachius Museum - Gustaf. This museum is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 921 travelers from near and far.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Raikku. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 10 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Vehoniemi automobile museum is a great place to start. This automobile museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,148 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Vehoniemi observation tower. This observation tower has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 189 travelers.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Vaakon Nakki, a top-rated dining destination in Tampere. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sailor's Bar & Grill, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Zeytuun. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Tampere this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Thrasherie Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Huurupiilo provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Moro Sky Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 9 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Tampere for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Kick off the day at Hatanpää Park Arboretum, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,864 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Tampere Cathedral. Tampere Cathedral is a lutheran cathedral with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,575 reviews.

Koskipuisto is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,840 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Finlayson Area. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,162 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Museum Centre Vapriikki, a famous museum in Tampere. This attraction welcomes 185,000 visitors annually and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,185 travelers.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Tampere 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 Tampere. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Shanghai Chinese Restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in Tampere. If you're eager to try something different, consider Ravintola Coussicca, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Koskikeskus. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Tampere this evening.

Keep the evening going at Bar K, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Kievari Kahdet Kasvot, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Save File - Pelaajan Olohuone, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Dive into day 10 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 1 night.

Drop by the renowned Moomin Museum. This popular museum has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,592 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,254 visitors, this cafe deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Amuri Museum of Workers' Housing. This museum has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 883 reviews.

Set your GPS to Rauma and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 56 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rauma beckons with new experiences!

Make Old Rauma your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this old town an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,791 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Turku. Turku 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Turku. 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.

Discover the culinary delights of Turku by securing a reservation at Kaskis. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. Alternatively, Ravintola Masala beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Smör. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Turku tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Bar Edison is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Rento, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Pikku Havanna. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 11 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.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Turku Cathedral. Previous visitors have rated this lutheran cathedral an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,025 reviews.

Old Great Square is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This square is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 2,058 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Kupittaa. This district is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 4,659 reviews.

Adventure Park Seikkailupuisto is another outstanding experience in Turku. Around 1,845 travelers have rated this point of interest an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Turku Castle is not far away. This castle is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,121 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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Rioni, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Kappeli is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant Farang. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Helsinki tonight.

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

Day 12 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.

Make the most of your final day in Finland by visiting Helsinki’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.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Esplanadi park. This much-appreciated park is rated 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.

Dine in style at Bar Loose, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Merimakasiini boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

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!