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

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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Uspenski Cathedral. This eastern orthodox cathedral is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,716 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Kauppatori. This market square has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 26,148 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Senate Square. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 19,379 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Helsinki Cathedral. This lutheran cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,060 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Kaivopuisto. This neighbourhood of helsinki is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,806 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 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.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Helsinki by securing a table at Palace. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Finnjävel Salonki, famous for its scrumptious contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Olo, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Helsinki. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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

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

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Helsinki has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Helsinki by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Ateneum. This extraordinary art museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,952 visitors. Each year, around 400,000 people visit this site to learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma. This top attraction is a museum with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 7,331 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Finnish Museum of Natural History. This natural history museum is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,700 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Temppeliaukio Church. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 12,801 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.

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

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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.

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

When you're ready to see some sights, Katariina Seaside Park‎ is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,436 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Sapokka. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,859 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Maritime Centre Vellamo. The maritime museum has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,890 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Maritime Museum of Finland. This maritime museum is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,216 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 Lappeenranta. Lappeenranta offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Lamppu, known for its inviting atmosphere. Pikku Pete Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, GI-Ki Oy provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 6 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 Imatra, Parikkala, and Savonlinna. In the evening, you’ll end up in Varkaus, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lappeenranta and set your GPS to Imatra. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 29 min. Upon reaching Imatra, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Imatrankoski, a remarkable rapids where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,146 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Parikkala. This car ride takes around 38 min.

Take the opportunity to see Parikkala Sculpture Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,202 visitors.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Container Restaurant Morton Varkaus, an iconic dining spot in Varkaus. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Terrace Cafe Torni, a popular restaurant in Varkaus. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Sai Gon Kitchen, a hidden gem nestled in Varkaus. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Ravintola Lännentie 66 Ky after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to O'Harry's Irish Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Next Step also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

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.

After soaking in Varkaus’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Kuopio. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 57 min. When you arrive in Kuopio, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Valkeisenlammen puisto. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 800 visitors.

Next, make your way to Kuopio Market Square. This top attraction is a market square with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,576 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 Jyvaskyla may take around 1 hour 50 min. Upon your arrival in Jyvaskyla, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready to see some sights, Mäki-Matti Family Park is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 999 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Natural History Museum of Central Finland. This natural history museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 583 travelers.

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.

Savor the flavors at Ravintola Teerenpeli, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Figaro Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant Frans & Sandra. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Jyvaskyla tonight.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Mänttä-Vilppula, and Raikku. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Tampere. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Set your GPS to Mänttä-Vilppula and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Mänttä-Vilppula beckons with new experiences!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Gösta Serlachius Museum, Museum of Art. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,285 reviews.

Next up is Serlachius Museum - Gustaf. This museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 921 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Mänttä-Vilppula, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Raikku. Your travel time is around 1 hour 10 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Vehoniemi automobile museum. This automobile museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Raikku, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,148 visitors.

Vehoniemi observation tower is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 189 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Tampere. Tampere 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 Tampere, 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 wonderful meal at Vaakon Nakki, a top-rated dining spot in Tampere. If you're in the mood for something new, try Sailor's Bar & Grill, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Zeytuun. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Tampere.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Thrasherie Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Huurupiilo, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Moro Sky Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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.

Make Hatanpää Park Arboretum one of your first sightseeing stops in Tampere. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,864 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Tampere Cathedral is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This lutheran cathedral is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,575 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Koskipuisto. This park has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,840 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Finlayson Area. A trip to this popular sightseeing destination is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.3 out of 5-star rating as given by 5,162 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Museum Centre Vapriikki. This museum enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,185 local and international travelers. Approximately 185,000 people visit this attraction every year.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Tampere, 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 Tampere below.

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

Dine in style at Shanghai Chinese Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Ravintola Coussicca boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Koskikeskus. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Tampere.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar K. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Kievari Kahdet Kasvot offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Save File - Pelaajan Olohuone, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Moomin Museum. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,592 visitors.

Next, make your way to Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower. This cafe is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,254 reviews.

While in Tampere, 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.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Tampere and set your GPS to Rauma. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 56 min. Upon reaching Rauma, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Turku by reserving a table at Kaskis. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. Looking for something different? Ravintola Masala offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Turku.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting 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.

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

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.

Make Turku Cathedral your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this lutheran cathedral an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,025 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Old Great Square. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,058 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this square every year.

Kupittaa is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This district has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,659 visitors.

When you’re finished at Kupittaa, the perfect next stop is Adventure Park Seikkailupuisto. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,845 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Turku Castle. This castle is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Helsinki. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!