12-Day Finland Road Trip from Helsinki traveling north to Lappeenranta, Varkaus, Jyvaskyla, Hämeenlinna, and Turku

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 4 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 Esplanadi 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.

Make sure to book a table at Restaurant Grön, 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 Restaurant Saaga, 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 Klaus K Hotel. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Helsinki tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Base Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, One Pint Pub offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Liberty or Death. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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 3 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Kick off the day at Uspenski Cathedral, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This eastern orthodox cathedral is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,716 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit SkyWheel Helsinki. SkyWheel Helsinki is a ferris wheel with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,140 reviews.

Kauppatori is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This market square is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 26,148 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Senate Square. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 19,379 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Helsinki Cathedral, a famous lutheran cathedral in Helsinki. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,060 travelers.

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.

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 an extraordinary dining experience at Palace, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Finnjävel Salonki is one of the best restaurants for contemporary cuisine in Helsinki. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Olo. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

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

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

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Helsinki for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Sibelius Monument. This sculpture is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Helsinki, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 6,272 visitors.

Sibelius Park is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 5,546 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Temppeliaukio Church. Visitors have rated this cave church an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 12,801 reviews.

National Museum of Finland, boasting an annual visitor count of up to 447,139 people, is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a national museum rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,216 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Kaivopuisto, perhaps the most famous neighbourhood of helsinki in Helsinki. This attraction is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,806 travelers.

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.

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

Make sure to book a table at Löyly Helsinki, 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 Nokka, 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 Hotel Kämp. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Helsinki tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Riff. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Roasberg, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!

Day 4 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.

Journey into the unknown at Korkeasaari Zoo, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable zoo has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 12,811 reviews. Every year, Korkeasaari Zoo welcomes more than 498,266 curious visitors.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Kaisaniemi Park is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 5,016 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Helsinki is Ateneum. This spectacular art museum gets over 400,000 visitors every year. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,952 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Helsinki offers an experience you will remember.

Finnish Museum of Natural History is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Helsinki. This natural history museum promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,700 reviews.

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.

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

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Kotka. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lappeenranta, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Helsinki, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Kotka may take around 1 hour 35 min. Upon your arrival in Kotka, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Journey into the unknown at Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,753 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Katariina Seaside Park‎ is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,436 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Kotka is Sapokka. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,859 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Kotka offers an experience you will remember.

Maritime Centre Vellamo is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Kotka. This maritime museum promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,890 reviews.

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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Angus Steak & Wine, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, My Bakery Cafe Oy offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Ravintola Iskender is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Lappeenranta.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Lamppu, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Pikku Pete Pub. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at GI-Ki Oy, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 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.

Set your GPS to Imatra and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 29 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Imatra beckons with new experiences!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Imatrankoski. This rapids is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,146 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Parikkala. This drive usually takes around 38 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Parikkala Sculpture Park, a remarkable sculpture garden where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,202 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 Varkaus. Varkaus 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Varkaus. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Container Restaurant Morton Varkaus, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Terrace Cafe Torni offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Sai Gon Kitchen. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Varkaus.

Keep the evening going at Ravintola Lännentie 66 Ky, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to O'Harry's Irish Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Next Step, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Head back to your accommodation in Varkaus and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip 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 2 vibrant destinations - Kuopio, and Siilinjärvi. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Jyvaskyla. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

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.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Valkeisenlammen puisto. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 800 visitors.

When you’re finished at Valkeisenlammen puisto, head to Kuopio Market Square. This one-of-a-kind market square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,576 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Hapelähde Park. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 556 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Puijo ski jumping hill. This ski jumping hill is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 261 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Kuopio, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Siilinjärvi may take around 17 min. Upon your arrival in Siilinjärvi, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned Kasurila. This popular village has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 830 visitors.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ravintola Teerenpeli, a top-rated dining destination in Jyvaskyla. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Figaro Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Frans & Sandra. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Jyvaskyla this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Matsi Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Poppari, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Harry's also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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 Raikku, and Tampere. In the evening, you’ll end up in Hämeenlinna, where you will stay 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 Raikku. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 52 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Vehoniemi automobile museum. Previous visitors have rated this automobile museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,148 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Raikku, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Tampere. This drive usually takes around 28 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Moomin Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,592 visitors.

Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower is another popular attraction you could visit today. This cafe has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,254 visitors.

Hatanpää Park Arboretum is also highly recommended by travelers. This park has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,864 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Hämeenlinna, 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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Hämeenlinna. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dine in style at Himalaya Kitchen Ravintola, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Popino boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Miller's BBQ. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Hämeenlinna.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Olutravintola Birger, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Juliuksen Olohuone is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Voudin Kellari also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Tampere, 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 2 nights.

Tampere’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Hämeenlinna behind. This drive usually takes around 54 min. Tampere welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Tampere Cathedral one of your first sightseeing stops in Tampere. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,575 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Museum Centre Vapriikki is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This museum is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,185 reviews. Up to 185,000 travelers visit this site every year to make their time in Tampere special.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Finlayson Area. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,162 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Koskipuisto. A trip to this popular park is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.3 out of 5-star rating as given by 3,840 previous visitors.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Kaskis, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Turku at Ravintola Masala, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Edison, known for its inviting atmosphere. Rento is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Pikku Havanna provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Turku, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

When you’ve had your share of Turku, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Naantali. Your travel time is around 23 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Moomin World. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,009 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Naantali, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Raisio may take around 18 min. Upon your arrival in Raisio, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Rhododendron Park. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,021 reviews.

When you're ready to see some sights, Kurjenrahka National Park is a great place to start. This national park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,272 visitors. Kurjenrahka National Park attracts more than 2,015 visitors every year.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Turku and your accommodation.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Panimoravintola Koulu, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Delhi Darbar offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Viking Restaurant Harald is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Turku.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar4, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Uusi Apteekki Pub is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Walo Rooftop Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Turku Cathedral. This extraordinary lutheran cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,025 visitors.

Next, make your way to Old Great Square. This top attraction is a square with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,058 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Kupittaa. This district is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,659 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Adventure Park Seikkailupuisto. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,845 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Turku Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,121 travelers.

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 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 Restaurant Rioni, 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 Kappeli, 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 Restaurant Farang, a hidden gem nestled in Helsinki. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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 Old Church Park. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Helsinki, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,607 visitors.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Merimakasiini, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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!