13-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rovaniemi traveling south to Ruka, Kajaani, Joensuu, Lappeenranta, Helsinki, Tampere, Kokkola, and Oulu

On day 2 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 Rovaniemi. In the evening, you’ll end up in Ruka, where you will stay for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and budget-friendly activities in Rovaniemi. Begin your sightseeing with Santa's Post Office. This intriguing visitor center is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Santa Claus Village, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Rovaniemi, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Santa Claus Office. This curiosity-inducing visitor center is a traveler-favorite.

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.

As you explore more of Ruka, 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 Ski Booster - Bar - Cafe - Grill, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hanki Baari offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss RUOK. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Ruka.

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 3 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Ruka, Suomussalmi, and Kajaani. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kajaani, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Ruka Pedestrian Village. This locally appreciated ski resort is a breathtaking place to see in Ruka. Continue your discovery at Rukatunturi, a visually striking ski resort with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Ruka, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Hiljaisen Kansan Tilataideteos (the Silent People). This often recommended art installation offers a detailed encounter with Ruka. Next, make your way to Kajaani Castle Ruins 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 Ruka.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.

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

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

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.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Kuopio, 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 Joensuu. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Kajaani is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Valkeisenlammen Puisto, a beloved park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Kuopio Market Square, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at Museum Of Kuopio. This museum is one of the city’s most beloved spots.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Joensuu. 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 Joensuu. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dine in style at Joensuun Fever Oy, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Ravintola Aittaranta boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Kerubi. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Joensuu.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Summer Restaurant Tuulaaki, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of 60's Palaver, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Jet Set Bar Oy likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 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 Imatra. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lappeenranta. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming town of Joensuu. Your adventure starts at Olavinlinna Castle, a beloved local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Savonlinna Market Square. This underrated public square is known for its history-steeped appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Joensuu's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Imatrankoski. This serene waterfall offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lappeenranta, 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 Lappeenranta's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Angus Steak & Wine, a top-rated dining destination in Lappeenranta. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider My Bakery Cafe Oy, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ravintola Iskender. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lappeenranta this evening.

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.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Vantaa and Espoo. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Helsinki, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Lappeenranta today. One of the most worthwhile attractions included on the itinerary is Sipoonkorpi National Park. This majestic national park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Heureka and learn what makes this instagrammable science center unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally appreciated Nuuksio National Park.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Helsinki by securing a table at Palace. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Finnjävel Salonki, famous for its scrumptious contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Olo, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Helsinki. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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

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 7 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 often recommended 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 well-known 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 up-and-coming Kaivopuisto.

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.

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Kaisla after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Beaver Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Praha also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Day 8 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Helsinki has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Helsinki by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Get ready for an exciting day in Helsinki. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a zoo, a park, and a museum. Begin your adventure at Korkeasaari Zoo. This is a locally renowned zoo you should not miss. Another must-see is Kaisaniemi Park, a worthwhile park in Helsinki.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Ateneum. From there, take a leisurely stroll to National Museum Of Finland, another of the city’s underrated attractions.

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 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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Löyly Helsinki, a popular restaurant in Helsinki. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Helsinki at Ravintola Nokka, 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 Hotel Kämp. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Helsinki tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Riff. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Roasberg offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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 Helsinki. In the evening, you’ll end up in Tampere, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Helsinki, including a park, a museum, a church, a monument and much more! Start your day with a visit to Esplanadi Park. This captivating park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Finnish Museum Of Natural History, which may be one of the most picture-perfect places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Helsinki on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Temppeliaukio Church, a popular church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Sibelius Park and Sibelius Monument.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Vaakon Nakki, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Sailor's Bar & Grill is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Zeytuun. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Tampere tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Thrasherie Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Huurupiilo, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Moro Sky Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Tampere and Lapua. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kokkola, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Tampere’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Finlayson Area. This visually striking historical landmark is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the noteworthy features of Hatanpää Park Arboretum, a must-visit botanical garden in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower, a beloved observation deck. For a change of scene, check out Vanha Paukku Cultural Center, known for its instagrammable features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Kokkola, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you explore more of Kokkola, 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 delightful dinner at Istanbul Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kokkolan Picante Oy? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Cafe Eden as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Kokkola.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Oluthuone Huismann, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Karaoke Bar Jolene Kokkola. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

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

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Oulu, 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 Oulu. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Whether you decide to explore Kokkola on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Oulu Automobile Museum is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this history-steeped museum before continuing your journey. Hollihaka Park Oulu Outdoor Gym is your next stop. This worthwhile park is one of the best-rated sights in Kokkola.

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 Oulu Market Square. This photogenic public square is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Oulu Market Hall and Rotuaarin Pallo.

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

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

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

Keep the evening going at Pub Graali, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Leskinen, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is 1bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 12 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Oulu. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Rovaniemi. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Oulu, featuring fun adventures, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences. Start at Oulu Art Museum, an often recommended art gallery in the city. Then, head to Tietomaa Science Centre and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching science center.

There are many interesting places to see in Oulu, and when you are ready for more, go to Nallikari Lighthouse. This is one of the city’s most up-and-coming enchanting spots of interest. After exploring the lighthouse, visit the intriguing Nallikari Beach.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Rovaniemi. 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 Rovaniemi. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Scandic Rovaniemi City, a popular restaurant in Rovaniemi. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Rovaniemi at RAVINTOLA MEMOS, 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 Rock Ravintola & Café Grande. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Rovaniemi tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to People's Pub, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

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