7-Day Finland Road Trip from Lappeenranta to Kotka, Helsinki, Varkaus, and Joensuu and surrounding area

Your road trip adventure in Finland begins as soon as you reach Lappeenranta and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Lappeenranta for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Lappeenranta is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Sandcastle Lappeenranta or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Lappeenranta. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Finland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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

This popular -awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Have a fantastic dining experience at Angus Steak & Wine, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, My Bakery Cafe Oy offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Ravintola Iskender is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Lappeenranta.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Lamppu. Alternatively, go to Pikku Pete Pub, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, GI-Ki Oy provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Finland!

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Luumäki, Parikkala, and Imatra. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Kotka, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Luumäki welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Kotkaniemi your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this farm an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 378 reviews.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Parikkala Sculpture Park. This sculpture garden is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,108 visitors.

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

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

Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of cuisine. This esteemed -recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. With its recognition, it guarantees an unforgettable dining adventure. Savor the flavors at Vausti, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Canttiini beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Keisarinsatama. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Kotka tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Players Sports Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

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

On day 3 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 Kotka. In the evening, you’ll end up in Helsinki, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Helsinki. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 32 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Maritime Centre Vellamo. This maritime museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Kotka, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,802 visitors.

Sibeliuksenpuisto is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 590 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Sapokka. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,810 reviews.

Katariina Seaside Park‎ is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a park rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,357 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge, perhaps the most famous museum in Kotka. This attraction is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,703 travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Helsinki, 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 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.

Make sure to book a table at Lappi Ravintola, a popular restaurant in Helsinki. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Experience a taste of Helsinki at Restaurant Vltava, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Löyly Helsinki. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Helsinki tonight.

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

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.

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 Varkaus, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

After soaking in Helsinki’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Varkaus. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 3 hours 30 min. When you arrive in Varkaus, it's time to take a break from the road.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Senate Square. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 18,455 reviews.

Continue your journey at Helsinki Cathedral. This lutheran cathedral is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,211 travelers from near and far.

Helsinki is also the home of Esplanadi park. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,022 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Kauppatori. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 25,097 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Varkaus. Varkaus offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. This venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Located in the heart of the city, is an ideal pick for cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences. 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 enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Ravintola Lännentie 66 Ky, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to O'Harry's Irish Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Next Step, another top-rated place in the area.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Ylä-Koli and Juurikka, 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Ylä-Koli, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Juurikka to Ylä-Koli may take around 1 hour 35 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Ylä-Koli, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Koli National Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,224 visitors.

Next, make your way to Koli Nature Center Ukko. This top attraction is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,627 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Koli. This mountain is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 345 travelers.

When you’ve had your share of Varkaus, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Juurikka. Your travel time is around 53 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is New Valamo. Previous visitors have rated this monastery an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,096 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Joensuu, 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 Joensuu's best restaurants.

Celebrated as a restaurant, it boasts an exceptional menu. This establishment consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Nestled in the city's heart, is a perfect choice for discerning cuisine enthusiasts seeking a new experience. Enjoy a sumptuous meal at Joensuun Fever Oy, a highly-rated dining destination in Joensuu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Kerubi, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Original Sokos Hotel Kimmel. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Joensuu this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Summer restaurant Tuulaaki, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, 60's Palaver offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Jet Set Bar Oy. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Kontiolahti and Joensuu. 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.

Set your GPS to Kontiolahti and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kontiolahti beckons with new experiences!

Drop by the renowned Mustavaara. This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 490 visitors.

Upon your arrival in Joensuu, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Joensuu Art Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 425 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Joensuu Church. This church building has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 292 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to The Courting Wolf. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 138 visitors.

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.

As you explore more of Lappeenranta, 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.

Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of cuisine. This distinguished -recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With an acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Meeza Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ravintola Nautilus offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss CARLOS. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lappeenranta.

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

Day 7 of your road trip in Finland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Lappeenranta before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As you approach the end of your journey in Finland, take a moment for some retail therapy in Lappeenranta’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Finland, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Finland with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

Before you conclude your road trip in Finland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Lappeenranta.

Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of cuisine. This distinguished -recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With an acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Kitchen, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kehruuhuone Oy offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Ravintola Wolkoff.

You’ll then say farewell to Lappeenranta. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Finland!