12-Day Finland Road Trip from Tampere to Vaasa, Turku, and Helsinki and surrounding area

Welcome to Tampere, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Finland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Tampere's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Tampere 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 Koskipuisto or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Tampere. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Finland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Tampere. 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 Vaakon Nakki, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Sailor's Bar & Grill offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Zeytuun is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Tampere.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Thrasherie Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Huurupiilo offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Tampere. Moro Sky Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Tampere for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Hatanpää Park Arboretum. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,864 visitors.

Next, make your way to Moomin Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,592 reviews.

While in Tampere, we also recommend a visit to Tampere Cathedral. This lutheran cathedral has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,575 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Museum Centre Vapriikki. This attraction gets around 185,000 yearly visitors. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,185 travelers, this museum is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Tampere.

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

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

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar K, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Kievari Kahdet Kasvot offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Save File - Pelaajan Olohuone. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

On day 3 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 Kurikka, Lapua, and Ylistaro. In the evening, you’ll end up in Vaasa, where you will stay for 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Tampere, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kurikka. Your travel time is around 2 hours 1 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Luova Observation Tower. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 294 reviews.

Set your GPS to Lapua and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 52 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Lapua beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Vanha Paukku Cultural Center. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Lapua, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 682 visitors.

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

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Littlepub, 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!

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Vaasa, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Korsholm, Vaasa, Solf, and Sundom. You still have 1 night left in Vaasa.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Vaasa Automobile and Motor Museum. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Vaasa, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 402 visitors.

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Bodvattnet Runt Circular Trail. This landmark is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 587 visitors.

Replot Bridge is another popular attraction you could visit today. This bridge has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 266 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Solf, 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 Vaasa to Solf may take around 19 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Solf, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Stundars Agricultural Handicraft Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 310 visitors.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Vaasa.

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

Dine in style at Hotel Astor, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Pancho Villa Vaasa boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bock's Corner Brewery. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Vaasa.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Pori. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Turku, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Pori and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 23 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Pori beckons with new experiences!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Central Pori Church. This extraordinary church building has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 502 visitors.

Next, make your way to Nature Center Ark. This museum is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 196 reviews.

While in Pori, we also recommend a visit to Pelle Hermanni playground. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,777 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 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.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Turku by booking a table at Kaskis, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Ravintola Masala, a popular restaurant in Turku. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Edison, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Rento, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Pikku Havanna likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Turku. You’ll stay in Turku for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Suomen Joutsen. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 751 visitors.

When you’re finished at Suomen Joutsen, head to Forum Marinum. This one-of-a-kind maritime museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,242 reviews. Every year, approximately 56,000 travelers come here to experience the maritime museum for themselves.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Turku Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,121 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Luostarinmäki. This cup marked stones is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,805 visitors.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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

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

Continue your lively evening at Bar4, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Uusi Apteekki Pub is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Walo Rooftop Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg 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 1 vibrant destinations - Turku. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Helsinki. You will spend 4 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Old Great Square, a remarkable square where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 2,058 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Turku Cathedral. This lutheran cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,025 travelers.

Aboa Vetus Ars Nova 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 2,116 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 Adventure Park Seikkailupuisto. This well-loved point of interest boasts a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,845 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Kupittaa awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a district, this is a top pick rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,659 previous visitors.

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.

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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Helsinki by reserving a table at Palace. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of 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 savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Base Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, One Pint Pub offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Helsinki. Liberty or Death is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Helsinki, where you'll stay for 3 nights more.

When you’ve had your share of Helsinki, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Raisio. Your travel time is around 1 hour 54 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Rhododendron Park. This extraordinary sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,021 visitors.

Set your GPS to Naantali and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 13 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Naantali beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Ukko-Pekan silta, Naantali. This extraordinary point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 323 visitors.

Next, make your way to Kultaranta. This top attraction is an official residence with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 343 visitors.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Lappi Ravintola, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Vltava offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Ravintola Karl-Johan Oy. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic 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.

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

Day 9 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.

Kick off the day at Vanhankaupunginkoski, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This rapids is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,551 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Helsinki Cathedral. Helsinki Cathedral is a lutheran cathedral with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,060 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 SkyWheel Helsinki. This ferris wheel is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,140 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Uspenski Cathedral, a famous eastern orthodox cathedral in Helsinki. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,716 travelers.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. Finland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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 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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Riff, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Roasberg is another popular option for a drink or two.

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

Day 10 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.

Take the opportunity to see Kaivopuisto. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,806 visitors.

Esplanadi park is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,380 travelers.

Helsinki is also the home of Finnish Museum of Natural History. Around 5,700 people have rated this natural history museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Temppeliaukio Church. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from a total of 12,801 reviews, a visit to this cave church is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Helsinki is also your chance to admire Sibelius Monument. This must-visit sculpture enjoys an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,272 reviews.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Olo, 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 Teerenpeli, 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 Pompier, a hidden gem nestled in Helsinki. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Helsinki, and Vantaa. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Tampere, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, Senate Square is a great place to start. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 19,379 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Ateneum. This art museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,952 travelers. Every year, 400,000 travelers come to experience this site to make the most of their time in Helsinki.

We also recommend a stop at Korkeasaari Zoo. This site gets more than 498,266 visitors annually. The zoo has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 12,811 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Vantaa. This car ride takes around 25 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Heureka. Previous visitors have rated this science center an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 9,170 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Tampere, 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 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.

Make sure to book a table at Bar Inez, a popular restaurant in Tampere. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Tampere at Museokeskus Vapriikki, 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 Café Pispala. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Tampere tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Alanya Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Majava Baari Tampere is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Pub Golden Monkey also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Head back to your accommodation in Tampere 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 Tampere 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.

Make Southern Park, Tampere one of your first sightseeing stops in Tampere. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,017 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Tampere. 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!