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

Day 2 of your road trip across Finland promises a magnificent time exploring Helsinki. You have 2 nights left in Helsinki. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Uspenski Cathedral. This extraordinary eastern orthodox cathedral has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,716 visitors.

Next, make your way to Kauppatori. This market square is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 26,148 reviews.

While in Helsinki, we also recommend a visit to Senate Square. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 19,379 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Helsinki Cathedral. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,060 travelers, this lutheran cathedral is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Helsinki.

Make your way to Kaivopuisto, perhaps the most famous neighbourhood of helsinki in Helsinki. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,806 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.

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.

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

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

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Korkeasaari Zoo. This zoo typically receives around 498,266 visitors every year and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 12,811 reviews.

Continue your journey at National Museum Of Finland. This national museum is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,216 travelers from near and far. Approximately 447,139 people come to this place of interest every year to enjoy a unique experience in Helsinki.

Helsinki is also the home of Sibelius Park. This park has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 5,546 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Sibelius Monument. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 6,272 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

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.

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

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

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Riff. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Roasberg, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Helsinki, 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 Kotka. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Ateneum. This art museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,952 visitors. Attracting more than 400,000 yearly visitors, it’s a top sight you don’t want to miss.

When you’re finished at Ateneum, head to Museum Of Contemporary Art Kiasma. This one-of-a-kind museum is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 7,331 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Finnish Museum Of Natural History. This natural history museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,700 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Temppeliaukio Church. This cave church is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 12,801 visitors.

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 Kotka. Kotka 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.

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.

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 satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Kotka this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Players Sports Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Kotka for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Journey into the unknown at Katariina Seaside Park‎, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,436 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Sapokka is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,859 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Kotka is Isopuisto. Rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 617 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Kotka offers an experience you will remember.

Maritime Centre Vellamo is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Kotka. This maritime museum promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,890 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,753 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Kotka on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Maritime Centre Vellamo, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Ravintola India Palace? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Tai Hing as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Kotka.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Lappeenranta, Imatra, and Parikkala. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Savonlinna, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Kotka, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Lappeenranta may take around 1 hour 25 min. Upon your arrival in Lappeenranta, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready to see some sights, Lappeenranta Fortress is a great place to start. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,819 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Sandcastle Lappeenranta. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 3,094 travelers.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lappeenranta, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Imatra. This drive usually takes around 32 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Imatrankoski. This rapids is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,146 visitors.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Kalastajan Koju, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Konewerstas Cafe & Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Opetusravintola Paviljonki. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Savonlinna tonight.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing 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 2 vibrant destinations - Savonlinna, and Kerimäki. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Varkaus. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Take the opportunity to see Savonlinna Market Square. This attraction has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 3,775 visitors.

Olavinlinna Castle is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This stronghold has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,840 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Varkaus, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Container Restaurant Morton Varkaus, a top-rated dining destination in Varkaus. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Terrace Cafe Torni, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sai Gon Kitchen. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Varkaus this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Ravintola Lännentie 66 Ky after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to O'harry's Irish Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Next Step is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

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

Set your GPS to Tampere and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 55 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Tampere beckons with new experiences!

Take the opportunity to see Koskipuisto. This attraction has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 3,840 visitors.

Finlayson Area is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,162 travelers.

Tampere is also the home of Museum Centre Vapriikki. This museum gets more than 185,000 visitors on an annual basis. Around 6,185 people have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 6,254 reviews, a visit to this cafe is a great idea.

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.

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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Kaskis in Turku by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Kaskis delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Ravintola Masala? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

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

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

Wake up to day 10 of your extraordinary road trip in Finland. With 2 nights left in Turku, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

When you're ready to see some sights, Kupittaa is a great place to start. This district is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,659 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Adventure Park Seikkailupuisto. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,845 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Forum Marinum. This site gets more than 56,000 visitors annually. The maritime museum has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,242 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Turku Castle. This castle is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,121 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Turku, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Jänessaari. Your travel time is around 8 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Botanic Garden Of University Of Turku. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,447 visitors.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Panimoravintola Koulu, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Delhi Darbar offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Viking Restaurant Harald is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Turku.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar4, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Uusi Apteekki Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Walo Rooftop Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!

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.

Kick off the day at Luostarinmäki, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This cup marked stones is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,805 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Aboa Vetus Ars Nova. Aboa Vetus Ars Nova is a museum with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,116 reviews.

Old Great Square is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This square is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,058 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Turku Cathedral. This lutheran cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,025 visitors.

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.

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 delicious dinner at Pizzeria Via Tribunali Turku, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? OOBU offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Cosmic Comic Cafe. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Turku.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Rica Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Hunter's Inn for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Kerttulin Kievari is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Dive into day 12 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Naantali, and Raisio, 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 Helsinki. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Turku and set your GPS to Naantali. 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 23 min. Upon reaching Naantali, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Moomin World. This much-appreciated amusement park is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 4,009 reviews.

Next up is Ukko-pekan Silta, Naantali. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 323 visitors.

Set your GPS to Raisio 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. Raisio beckons with new experiences!

Drop by the renowned Rhododendron Park. This popular point of interest has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,021 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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Olo, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Ravintola Teerenpeli offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurant Pompier is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Helsinki.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!