13-Day Finland Road Trip from Helsinki to Lappeenranta, Lahti, Tampere, Pori, 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 Kaisaniemi Park or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Helsinki. 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 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Helsinki by reserving a table at Palace. Known for its 2-star Michelin reputation, Palace captivates its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious 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.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 13-day road trip in Finland!

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Helsinki has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights 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 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 point of interest 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.

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.

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.

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Lappi Ravintola, 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 Restaurant Vltava, 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 Ravintola Karl-Johan Oy, a hidden gem nestled in Helsinki. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Say good night to Helsinki and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Linnanmäki. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 26,571 visitors.

When you’re finished at Linnanmäki, head to Sibelius Monument. This one-of-a-kind sculpture is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 6,272 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Sibelius Park. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,546 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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Löyly Helsinki, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ravintola Nokka offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hotel Kämp. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Helsinki.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Riff, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Roasberg is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous 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 Temppeliaukio Church, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable cave church has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 12,801 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Finnish Museum of Natural History is a recommended place to visit. This natural history museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,700 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Helsinki is Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma. Rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 7,331 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Helsinki offers an experience you will remember.

Ateneum is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Helsinki. This art museum promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,952 reviews. Each year, approximately 400,000 people travel to visit Ateneum.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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 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.

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

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.

After soaking in Helsinki’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Kotka. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 40 min. When you arrive in Kotka, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Katariina Seaside Park‎. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,436 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Sapokka. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,859 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Maritime Centre Vellamo. This maritime museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,890 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,753 visitors.

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.

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Angus Steak & Wine, an iconic dining spot in Lappeenranta. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of My Bakery Cafe Oy, a popular restaurant in Lappeenranta. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ravintola Iskender, a hidden gem nestled in Lappeenranta. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Lamppu after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Pikku Pete Pub for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, GI-Ki Oy is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Make Lappeenranta Fortress your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,819 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Sandcastle Lappeenranta. With an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 3,094 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sightseeing destination every year.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lappeenranta, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kouvola. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 2 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Kick off the day at Tykkimäen huvipuisto, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 3,855 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Lahti. Lahti offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Pancho Villa Lahti, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Asemapäällikkö konditoria offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Coppa Eatery is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Lahti.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar & Bistro Lahti, known for its inviting atmosphere. Tirra is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Wanha Mestari provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Head back to your accommodation in Lahti 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 4 vibrant destinations - Riihimäki, Hämeenlinna, Raikku, and Tiihala. 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Riihimäki, 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 Lahti to Riihimäki may take around 55 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Riihimäki, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take the opportunity to see The Finnish Glass Museum. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,079 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Riihimäki and set your GPS to Hämeenlinna. 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 34 min. Upon reaching Hämeenlinna, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Aulanko Tower. This observation tower is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,662 visitors.

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

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

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

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

On day 8 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Tampere. You’ll stay in Tampere for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Kick off the day at Särkänniemi, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 5,050 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower. Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower is a cafe with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,254 reviews.

Hatanpää Park Arboretum is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,864 visitors.

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 Tampere's best restaurants.

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar K, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Kievari Kahdet Kasvot offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Save File - Pelaajan Olohuone provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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 9 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 Tampere, and Pori. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pori, where you will stay for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Finlayson Area. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 5,162 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Museum Centre Vapriikki. This museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,185 reviews. Usually, around 185,000 people visit Museum Centre Vapriikki every year.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Koskipuisto. This park has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 3,840 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Moomin Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,592 visitors.

Pori’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Tampere behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 30 min. Pori welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Pelle Hermanni playground. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,777 reviews.

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

Esteemed as a much-enjoyed restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Cafe Anton, a top-rated dining spot in Pori. If you're in the mood for something new, try Panimoravintola Beer Hunter's, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Torero. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Pori.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Space Bowling & Billiards, Pori, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, One For The Road offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Rattis provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Rauma, Askainen, Raisio, and Naantali, 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.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Rauma. This car ride takes around 43 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Church of the Holy Cross. This much-appreciated parish church is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 436 reviews.

Next up is Old Rauma. This old town has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,791 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Rauma, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Askainen. Your travel time is around 1 hour 11 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Louhisaari Manor, a remarkable château where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 847 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Turku. Turku offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in 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.

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. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Smör. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Turku tonight.

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

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

Day 11 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Turku has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Turku by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Adventure Park Seikkailupuisto. This much-appreciated point of interest is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,845 reviews.

Next up is Kupittaa. This district has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,659 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Aboa Vetus Ars Nova. This museum has been rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 2,116 reviews.

Old Great Square is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This square has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,058 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Turku Cathedral. This lutheran cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,025 reviews.

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

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.

Esteemed as a much-enjoyed restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Panimoravintola Koulu, a top-rated dining spot in Turku. If you're in the mood for something new, try Delhi Darbar, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Viking Restaurant Harald. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Turku.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar4, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Uusi Apteekki Pub. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Walo Rooftop Bar, 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.

On day 12 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Turku, and Jänessaari. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Helsinki, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Make Luostarinmäki one of your first sightseeing stops in Turku. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,805 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Forum Marinum is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This maritime museum is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,242 reviews. Up to 56,000 travelers visit this site every year to make their time in Turku special.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Turku Castle. This castle has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,121 visitors.

Set your GPS to Jänessaari and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Jänessaari beckons with new experiences!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Botanic Garden of University of Turku. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,447 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.

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 Restaurant Rioni, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kappeli offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant Farang. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Helsinki.

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

Day 13 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.

Make the most of your final day in Finland by visiting Helsinki’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Finland.

Kick off the day at Esplanadi park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,380 reviews.

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

Dine in style at Bar Loose, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Merimakasiini boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

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!