12-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Tampere traveling east to Helsinki, Kotka, Savonlinna, Varkaus, and Jyvaskyla

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Tampere. You’ll stay in Tampere for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower makes a great addition to your morning plans. This often recommended observation deck is a visually striking place to see in Tampere. Continue your discovery at The Finnish Labor Museum Werstas, an instagrammable museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Tampere, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Finlayson Area. This beloved historical landmark offers a respected encounter with Tampere. Next, make your way to Museum Centre Vapriikki to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Hatanpää Park Arboretum, an up-and-coming botanical garden that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Tampere.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Finland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Tampere is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Tampere.

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar K, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Kievari Kahdet Kasvot, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Save File - Pelaajan Olohuone provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Tampere and Vantaa. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Helsinki, where you’ll be staying for 4 nights.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the underrated Tampere Cathedral and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Moomin Museum, an eye-catching museum that draws visitors from far and near.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Vantaa may take around 1 hour 45 min. Upon your arrival in Vantaa, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Heureka, a frequently visited science center that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Sipoonkorpi National Park and admire its stunning features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Helsinki. Helsinki offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Palace in Helsinki by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 2-star Michelin status, Palace offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Finnjävel Salonki, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing contemporary cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Olo, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

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.

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

Day 4 of your road trip across Finland promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Helsinki. You have 3 nights left in Helsinki. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Start your day at Uspenski Cathedral. This breathtaking church is a curiosity-inducing place to see in Helsinki. Then, wander over to Kauppatori. Nearby, you’ll also find Senate Square. This culturally significant public square is a favorite among visitors.

Helsinki offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Helsinki Cathedral is a captivating spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the church, don’t forget to check out the eye-catching Kaivopuisto. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this curiosity-inducing park.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Finland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Lappi Ravintola, a popular restaurant in Helsinki. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Helsinki at Restaurant Vltava, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Ravintola Karl-Johan Oy. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Helsinki tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Kaisla is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Beaver Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Praha. 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!

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Helsinki. You’ll stay in Helsinki for 1 night.

A top thing to do today is to explore Punavuori, a must-see neighborhood in Helsinki. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Experience Finnish Museum Of Natural History, an increasingly popular museum in the city. Then, head to Temppeliaukio Church and soak in the ambiance of this breathtaking church.

There are many interesting places to see in Helsinki, and when you are ready for more, go to National Museum Of Finland. This is one of the city’s most frequently visited heritage-rich spots of interest.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Finland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Olo, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ravintola Teerenpeli offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant Pompier. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Helsinki.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!

On day 7 of your road trip in Finland, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Helsinki are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kotka, where you will stay for 1 night.

Your adventure in Helsinki is only getting started when you visit Esplanadi Park, a well-known local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Ateneum. This increasingly popular museum is known for its romantic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Helsinki's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Museum Of Contemporary Art Kiasma. Kaisaniemi Park is also worth visiting.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Kotka. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Vausti, a popular restaurant in Kotka. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Kotka at Canttiini, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Keisarinsatama. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Kotka tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Players Sports Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Finland.

Your itinerary for day 8 of your road trip in Finland includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Kotka and Parikkala. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Savonlinna, where you'll spend 1 night.

Sibeliuksenpuisto makes a great addition to your morning plans. This curiosity-inducing park is a visually striking place to see in Kotka. Continue your discovery at Kotka, a heritage-rich church with stories to tell.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Kotka.

When you’ve had your share of Kotka, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Parikkala. Your travel time is around 2 hours 11 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Parikkala Sculpture Park. Spend some time admiring the detailed features of the sculpture garden before you continue to your next stop.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Kalastajan Koju, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Konewerstas Cafe & Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Opetusravintola Paviljonki as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Savonlinna.

Head back to your accommodation in Savonlinna and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Finland.

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Savonlinna and Kerimäki. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Varkaus, where you'll spend 1 night.

To truly experience Savonlinna, make sure to drop by Savonlinna Market Square. This increasingly popular public square is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Olavinlinna Castle, one of the town’s best highlights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Kerimäki. This drive usually takes around 19 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Kerimäki Church and explore the stunning features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Varkaus. Varkaus offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Varkaus. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

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.

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.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Kuopio and Jyvaskyla. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Jyvaskyla, where will spend 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Varkaus, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kuopio. This drive usually takes around 57 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Valkeisenlammen Puisto, an underrated park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Kuopio Market Square and admire its picture-perfect features.

When you’re ready, continue to Museum Of Kuopio, a locally appreciated museum beloved by locals and tourists alike.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Kuopio and set your GPS to Jyvaskyla. 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 53 min. Upon reaching Jyvaskyla, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Mäki-matti Family Park, an increasingly popular park that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Jyvaskyla. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Jyvaskyla, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ravintola Teerenpeli, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Boutique Hotel Yöpuu offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Kuokkala manor. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Jyvaskyla.

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

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

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Mänttä-Vilppula and Raikku. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Tampere, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

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!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Gösta Serlachius Museum, Museum Of Art, a worthwhile museum that everyone visiting Mänttä-Vilppula should see. Next, head to Serlachius Museum - Gustaf. This photogenic museum is one of the most beloved attractions in the region.

Set your GPS to Raikku and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 10 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Raikku beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Vehoniemi Automobile Museum and explore the awe-inspiring features. Next, make your way to Vehoniemi Observation Tower, another highlight in Raikku.

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.

Tampere is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Tampere.

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting Alanya Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Majava Baari Tampere, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Pub Simon likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!