13-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rovaniemi to Kemi, Oulu, Kajaani, and Ruka

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Rovaniemi. You’ll stay in Rovaniemi for 2 nights.

Make time for Santa Claus Office, an often recommended visitor center that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Santa Claus Village, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at Santa's Post Office. This visitor center is one of the city’s most intriguing spots.

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 Rovaniemi's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Scandic Rovaniemi City, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? RAVINTOLA MEMOS offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Rock Ravintola & Café Grande. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Rovaniemi.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like People's Pub, known for its lively atmosphere.

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

On day 3 of your road trip in Finland, you’ll start and end your day in Rovaniemi, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Rovaniemi, there’s no need to rush. Experience Rovaniemi and Saarenkylä to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Awaiting your discovery is the increasingly popular Santapark - The Home Cavern Of Santa Claus, an eye-catching amusement park in Rovaniemi.

When you’ve had your share of Rovaniemi, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Saarenkylä. Your travel time is around 37 min.

Savor the day by heading to Ounasvaara Ski Oy, a worthwhile ski resort that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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

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

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Rovaniemi. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Kemi, where you'll spend 1 night.

Awaiting your discovery is the increasingly popular Rovaniemi Church, a history-steeped church in Rovaniemi. Next, go to Culture House Korundi.

After visiting Rovaniemi Church and Culture House Korundi, have a stroll along Rovaniemi's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Arktikum. This historic museum offers a unique experience. Arktikum Arboretum is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Kemi, 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 Kemi. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Lounaskahvila Kemin Paussi, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Pizzeria Di Mare offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Kalle's Burger / Scanburger is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Kemi.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Olutravintola Kukko. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

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

On day 5 of your road trip in Finland, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Oulu are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Oulu, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Oulu’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Kemi behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 15 min. Oulu welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at University Of Oulu Botanical Gardens and explore the mesmerizing features. Next, make your way to Tietomaa Science Centre, another highlight in Oulu. When you’re done exploring the science center, continue to Oulu Art Museum, an eye-catching art gallery.

Nearby, you will also find Rotuaarin Pallo. This up-and-coming art installation is a top place to see in the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Oulu. 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 Oulu. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Frans & Camille Bistro, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Koivurannan kahvila offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Sauraha. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Oulu.

Continue your lively evening at Pub Graali, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Leskinen is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, 1bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Oulu has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Oulu.

Nallikari Lighthouse leaves a lasting impression. This lighthouse is one of the most curiosity-inducing places to visit in Oulu. Next, head to Nallikari Beach, an increasingly popular beach, known for its eye-catching 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 Vauhtipuisto - Amusement Park. This eye-catching amusement park is a highly recommended experience.

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.

Oulu 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 Oulu.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Oulun Baari Oy, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Lapland Hotels Oulu? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Jumpru Pub as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Oulu.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Oulu. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Kajaani, where will spend 2 nights.

Mannerheim Park makes a great addition to your morning plans. This locally appreciated park is a photogenic place to see in Oulu. Continue your discovery at Heinätorinpuisto Park, a mesmerizing park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Oulu, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Hollihaka Park Oulu Outdoor Gym. This up-and-coming park offers an idyllic encounter with Oulu. Next, make your way to Oulu Automobile Museum to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Turkansaari Open Air Museum, an intriguing museum 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 Oulu.

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

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

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

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar Jussila (t:mi Juha J. Immonen) stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Restaurant Saint Kukko offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

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 road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Kajaani and Vuokatti. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Kajaani, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the curiosity-inducing Kajaani Castle Ruins and allow yourself time to explore.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Kajaani, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Vuokatti. This drive usually takes around 31 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Vuokatti Hill and explore the stunning features. Next, make your way to Superpark Vuokatti, another highlight in Vuokatti.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Ranch, a popular restaurant in Kajaani. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Kajaani at Jongrak Thai Ravintola Kajaani, 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 Purolan Grilli. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Kajaani tonight.

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

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Kajaani and Suomussalmi. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Ruka, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

No visit to Kajaani is complete without Kainuu Museum. This underrated museum is one of the top attractions in the city.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Suomussalmi. This car ride takes around 1 hour 18 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Suomussalmi is Musical Forest, a frequently visited art installation that draws attention for its picture-perfect features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Hiljaisen Kansan Tilataideteos (the Silent People), a picture-perfect art installation that stands out in the city.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Ski Booster - Bar - Cafe - Grill, a top-rated dining destination in Ruka. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hanki Baari, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

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

Your itinerary for day 12 of your road trip in Finland includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Kuusamo and Ruka. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rovaniemi, where you'll spend 1 night.

To truly experience Ruka, make sure to drop by Rukatunturi. This locally appreciated ski resort is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Kuusamo and set your GPS to Ruka. 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 24 min. Upon reaching Ruka, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to The Tourist Center Of Karhuntassu, a locally appreciated visitor center that everyone visiting Kuusamo should see. Next, head to Hannu Hautala Nature Photography Center. This photogenic museum is one of the most beloved attractions in the region.

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

Rovaniemi 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 Rovaniemi.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!