12-Day Finland Road Trip from Helsinki traveling east to Mikkeli, Varkaus, Joensuu, Imatra, Lappeenranta, and Kotka

Your road trip adventure in Finland begins as soon as you reach Helsinki and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Helsinki for 3 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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.

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, Olo shines as one of the top destinations known for its delicious modern cuisine in Helsinki. 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, Demo 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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Base Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to One Pint Pub, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Liberty or Death also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Helsinki. You’ll stay in Helsinki for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Uspenski Cathedral. This extraordinary eastern orthodox cathedral has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,716 visitors.

Next, make your way to SkyWheel Helsinki. This ferris wheel is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 4,140 reviews.

While in Helsinki, we also recommend a visit to Kauppatori. This market square has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 26,148 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Senate Square. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 19,379 travelers, this point of interest is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Helsinki.

Make your way to Helsinki Cathedral, perhaps the most famous lutheran cathedral in Helsinki. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,060 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.

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

Dine in style at Lappi Ravintola, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Vltava boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ravintola Karl-Johan Oy. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice 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 across Finland promises a magnificent time exploring Helsinki. You have 1 night left in Helsinki. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

When you're ready to see some sights, Linnanmäki is a great place to start. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 26,571 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Sibelius Monument. This sculpture has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,272 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Sibelius Park. The park has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,546 visitors.

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.

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.

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.

Continue your lively evening at The Riff, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Roasberg is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Helsinki. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Mikkeli, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Ateneum. This much-appreciated art museum is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,952 reviews. Each year, 400,000 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

Next up is Finnish Museum of Natural History. This natural history museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,700 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Temppeliaukio Church. This cave church has been rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 12,801 reviews.

Kaivopuisto is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This neighbourhood of helsinki has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,806 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Mikkeli, 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 Mikkeli's best restaurants.

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Ravintola Vino, an iconic dining spot in Mikkeli. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Dragon Sheng, a popular restaurant in Mikkeli. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Angela Kebab-Pizzeria, a hidden gem nestled in Mikkeli. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Jälkipeli Pub, Karaoke, Sports Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Patteri Baari, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Mikkelin Keskusbaari Oy. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 5 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 Savonlinna. In the evening, you’ll end up in Varkaus, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Savonlinna and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 17 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Savonlinna beckons with new experiences!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Savonlinna Market Square. This much-appreciated point of interest is rated 4.2 out of 5 stars in 3,775 reviews.

Next up is Riihisaari – Savonlinnan museo, Savonlinna Museum. This museum has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 375 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Olavinlinna Castle. This stronghold has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,840 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 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Ravintola Lännentie 66 Ky, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, O'Harry's Irish Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Next Step. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Kuopio. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Joensuu, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Kuopio, 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 Kuopio may take around 57 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Kuopio, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Valkeisenlammen puisto. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 800 reviews.

Continue your journey at Kuopio Market Square. This market square is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,576 travelers from near and far.

Kuopio is also the home of Museum of Kuopio. This museum has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 677 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Old Kuopio Museum. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 469 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

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

Dine in style at Joensuun Fever Oy, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Ravintola Aittaranta boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Kerubi. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Joensuu.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Summer restaurant Tuulaaki. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, 60's Palaver offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Jet Set Bar Oy, 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 7 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Joensuu. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Imatra. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Take the opportunity to see Joensuu Art Museum. This attraction has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 428 visitors.

The Courting Wolf is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 138 travelers.

Joensuu is also the home of North Karelian Museum Hilma. Around 192 people have rated this museum an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Buttenhoff and Café Julia, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ravintola Havanna Kebab Pizzeria offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Kent - Pizza & Steak House. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Imatra.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Osmo's Cosmos Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Kuohu Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Pub Vahti provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Parikkala, Imatra, 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.

Drop by the renowned Imatrankoski. This popular rapids has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,146 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Kruununpuisto. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 285 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

When you arrive in Parikkala, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Parikkala Sculpture Park. This sculpture garden is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Parikkala, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,202 visitors.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Angus Steak & Wine, a top-rated dining destination in Lappeenranta. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider My Bakery Cafe Oy, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ravintola Iskender. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lappeenranta this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Lamppu after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Pikku Pete Pub, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, GI-Ki Oy also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Kouvola, and Hamina. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Kotka, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kouvola. This car ride takes around 58 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Tykkimäen huvipuisto. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 3,855 visitors.

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

Kick off the day at Hamina Summer Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4 out of 5 stars in 206 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit The largest flag of Finland. The largest flag of Finland is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 269 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Kotka, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you explore more of Kotka, 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 much-enjoyed restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Vausti, a top-rated dining spot in Kotka. If you're in the mood for something new, try Canttiini, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Keisarinsatama. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Kotka.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Players Sports Bar, a top-rated bar in the area.

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

Day 10 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Kotka has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Kotka by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Make Maritime Centre Vellamo your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this maritime museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,890 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Maritime Museum of Finland. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,216 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this maritime museum every year.

Kotka is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This town has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 328 visitors.

When you’re finished at Kotka, the perfect next stop is Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,753 reviews.

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 Kotka 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.

As you explore more of Kotka, 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.

Make sure to book a table at Maritime Centre Vellamo, a popular restaurant in Kotka. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Kotka at Ravintola India Palace, 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 Tai Hing. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Kotka tonight.

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

On day 11 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 Kotka. In the evening, you’ll end up in Helsinki, where you will stay for 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at Sibeliuksenpuisto, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 603 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Isopuisto is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 617 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Kotka is Maretarium. Rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 1,604 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Kotka offers an experience you will remember.

Sapokka is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Kotka. This park promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,859 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Katariina Seaside Park‎. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,436 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Helsinki, 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 Helsinki's best restaurants.

Make sure to book a table at Restaurant Olo, a popular restaurant in Helsinki. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Helsinki at Ravintola Teerenpeli, 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 Restaurant Pompier. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to 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.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Esplanadi park. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Helsinki, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,380 visitors.

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

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’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!