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

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

Helsinki is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots! Start at Uspenski Cathedral, an underrated church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Continue your exploration at Senate Square. This public square is one of the city’s most notable spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Helsinki at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Helsinki Cathedral. After exploring the church, head to the worthwhile Kaivopuisto. This park will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. 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.

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Kaisla offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Beaver Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Praha is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Helsinki. You’ll stay in Helsinki for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Helsinki. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Korkeasaari Zoo is the perfect place to start. This zoo is one of the most interesting places to visit in Helsinki. Next, head to National Museum Of Finland, a locally appreciated museum, known for its photogenic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Sibelius Park. This visually striking park offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Sibelius Monument adds its own distinct charm to your journey.

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

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 delightful dinner at Löyly Helsinki, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Ravintola Nokka? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Hotel Kämp as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Helsinki.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Riff is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Roasberg, offering a different kind of charm.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Helsinki. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kotka, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Immerse yourself in Helsinki’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Ateneum. This photogenic museum is sure to ignite your curiosity.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Finnish Museum Of Natural History, a locally appreciated museum. For a change of scene, check out Temppeliaukio Church, known for its gorgeous features.

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

As you explore more of Kotka, 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Vausti, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Canttiini is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Keisarinsatama. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Kotka tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Players Sports Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere.

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

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Kotka has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Kotka by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Kotka, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Katariina Seaside Park‎, an up-and-coming park in the city. Then, head to Sapokka and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching botanical garden.

There are many interesting places to see in Kotka and when you are ready for more, go to Isopuisto. This is one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing spots. After exploring the park, visit the beloved Maritime Centre Vellamo. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the often recommended Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge, an often recommended museum in the city.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Maritime Centre Vellamo, a top-rated dining spot in Kotka. If you're in the mood for something new, try Ravintola India Palace, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Tai Hing. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Kotka.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Lappeenranta, Imatra, and Parikkala, 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 Savonlinna. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in Kotka. Begin your sightseeing with Lappeenranta Fortress. This increasingly popular historical landmark is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Sandcastle Lappeenranta, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Kotka, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Imatrankoski. This frequently visited waterfall is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Parikkala Sculpture Park, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kalastajan Koju, a top-rated dining destination in Savonlinna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Konewerstas Cafe & Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Opetusravintola Paviljonki. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Savonlinna this evening.

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

On day 7 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 Savonlinna and Kerimäki. In the evening, you’ll end up in Varkaus, where you will stay for 1 night.

Savonlinna is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Savonlinna Market Square, an intriguing public square that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Olavinlinna Castle, enchanting visitors with its history-steeped appeal. Continue your exploration at Lusto – The Finnish Forest Museum. This museum is one of the town’s most worthwhile spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Savonlinna at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Kerimäki Church.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Varkaus. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

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

Dine in style at Container Restaurant Morton Varkaus, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Terrace Cafe Torni boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Sai Gon Kitchen. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Varkaus.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Ravintola Lännentie 66 Ky, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. O'harry's Irish Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Next Step is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Tampere. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Turku. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Koskipuisto. This locally appreciated park is a romantic place to see in Hämeenlinna. Continue your discovery at Finlayson Area, a history-steeped historical landmark with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Hämeenlinna, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Museum Centre Vapriikki. This worthwhile museum offers an instagrammable encounter with Hämeenlinna. Next, make your way to Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Hämeenlinna.

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

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

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.

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

Greet day 10 of your road trip in Finland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Turku for your remaining 2 nights in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Turku and Jänessaari.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Turku on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Kupittaa is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this idyllic park before continuing your journey. Adventure Park Seikkailupuisto is your next stop. This frequently visited adventure park is one of the best-rated sights in Turku.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Forum Marinum. This eye-catching maritime museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Turku Castle and Botanic Garden Of University Of Turku.

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

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Panimoravintola Koulu, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Delhi Darbar offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Viking Restaurant Harald. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Turku.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar4, known for its inviting atmosphere. Uusi Apteekki Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Walo Rooftop Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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

A blend of family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites await you in Turku on today’s itinerary. First up is the underrated museum, Luostarinmäki. Afterward, continue to Aboa Vetus Ars Nova, a museum every traveler should visit.

As you explore Turku’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Old Great Square. This curiosity-inducing public square is an essential stop. Following that, head to Turku Cathedral, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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

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

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

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Rica Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Hunter's Inn offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Kerttulin Kievari, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 12 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Naantali and Raisio. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Helsinki, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Moomin World is must-visit amusement park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Ukko-pekan Silta, Naantali, a beloved sightseeing destination, located just a leisurely stroll away.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Helsinki. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour 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.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!