13-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Helsinki to Kotka, Savonlinna, Varkaus, Hämeenlinna, and Turku and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Helsinki has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Helsinki.

Whether you decide to explore Helsinki on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

No visit to Helsinki is complete without Uspenski Cathedral. This worthwhile church is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Kauppatori, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Helsinki, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Senate Square. This locally renowned public square is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Helsinki Cathedral, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Kaivopuisto is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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.

Helsinki 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 Helsinki.

Discover the culinary delights of Helsinki by securing a reservation at Palace. Esteemed for its 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Finnjävel Salonki, renowned for its delicious contemporary dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Olo, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Kaisla, known for its lively atmosphere. Beaver Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Praha offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!

On day 3 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.

Whatever your travel style is, Korkeasaari Zoo is an essential stop in Helsinki. This locally renowned zoo provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover National Museum Of Finland, a visually striking museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Sibelius Park, a curiosity-inducing park. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the frequently visited Sibelius Monument.

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.

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

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

Continue your lively evening at The Riff, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Roasberg is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

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

On day 4 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 2 nights.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the worthwhile Ateneum and allow yourself time to explore.

Continue your journey to Finnish Museum Of Natural History, one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally renowned Temppeliaukio Church.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Kotka, 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 Kotka's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Don’t miss out on dining at Vausti, a top-rated dining destination in Kotka. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Canttiini, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Keisarinsatama. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Kotka this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Players Sports Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 5 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Helsinki. You’ll stay in Kotka for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the locally appreciated Katariina Seaside Park‎ and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Sapokka, a romantic botanical garden that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Isopuisto, one of the city’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the often recommended Maritime Centre Vellamo. When you're finished at the maritime museum, Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge awaits your visit. This museum is a picture-perfect highlight on today's itinerary.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Maritime Centre Vellamo, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ravintola India Palace offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Tai Hing. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Kotka.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Lappeenranta, Imatra, and Parikkala. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Savonlinna, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Kotka, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Lappeenranta. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 25 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Lappeenranta Fortress. Spend some time admiring the breathtaking features of the historical landmark before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Sandcastle Lappeenranta. This intriguing point of interest is a traveler-favorite in the city.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Imatra. This drive usually takes around 32 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Imatrankoski, a curiosity-inducing waterfall known for its eye-catching features.

Set your GPS to Parikkala and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 38 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Parikkala 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 Parikkala Sculpture Park, an often recommended sculpture garden that everyone visiting Parikkala should see.

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

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 Savonlinna, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Savonlinna and Kerimäki. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Varkaus, where will spend 1 night.

Awaiting your discovery is the worthwhile Savonlinna Market Square, an instagrammable public square in Savonlinna. Next, go to Olavinlinna Castle.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Savonlinna, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kerimäki. This drive usually takes around 19 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Kerimäki is Kerimäki Church, an often recommended church that draws attention for its historic 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.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Container Restaurant Morton Varkaus, a top-rated dining spot in Varkaus. If you're in the mood for something new, try Terrace Cafe Torni, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Sai Gon Kitchen. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Varkaus.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Ravintola Lännentie 66 Ky, known for its lively atmosphere. O'harry's Irish Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Next Step offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Finland.

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Tampere. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Turku, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Hämeenlinna and set your GPS to Tampere. 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 55 min. Upon reaching Tampere, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Koskipuisto, a worthwhile park known for its romantic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Finlayson Area, a beloved historical landmark.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Museum Centre Vapriikki and uncover the details of this history-steeped museum. Make sure to also explore Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower, an up-and-coming observation deck.

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

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Kaskis in Turku by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Kaskis offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're looking to mix things up, Ravintola Masala offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

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

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

On day 10 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Turku and Jänessaari. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Turku, where you still have 2 nights left to stay.

No visit to Turku is complete without Kupittaa. This up-and-coming park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Adventure Park Seikkailupuisto, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Turku, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Forum Marinum. This increasingly popular maritime museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Turku Castle, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Jänessaari. This car ride takes around 8 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Botanic Garden Of University Of Turku. Spend some time admiring the serene features of the botanical garden before you continue to your next stop.

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

Turku 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 Turku.

Don’t miss out on dining at Panimoravintola Koulu, a top-rated dining destination in Turku. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Delhi Darbar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Viking Restaurant Harald. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Turku this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar4, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Uusi Apteekki Pub, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Walo Rooftop Bar 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!

Day 11 of your road trip across Finland promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Turku. You have 1 night left in Turku. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Experience Luostarinmäki, a frequently visited museum in the city. Then, head to Aboa Vetus Ars Nova and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Turku, and when you are ready for more, go to Old Great Square. This is one of the city’s most increasingly popular history-steeped spots of interest. After exploring the public square, visit the curiosity-inducing Turku Cathedral.

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 Turku. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Dine in style at Pizzeria Via Tribunali Turku, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, OOBU boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Cosmic Comic Cafe. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Turku.

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

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

On day 12 of your road trip in Finland, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Naantali and Raisio are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Helsinki, where you will stay for 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Naantali may take around 23 min. Upon your arrival in Naantali, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Moomin World and explore the awe-inspiring features. Next, make your way to Ukko-pekan Silta, Naantali, another highlight in Naantali.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Raisio may take around 13 min. Upon your arrival in Raisio, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Rhododendron Park. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the botanical garden before you continue to your next stop.

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.

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

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