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

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

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lappeenranta and set your GPS to Imatra. 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 30 min. Upon reaching Imatra, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Kruununpuisto, a curiosity-inducing park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Imatrankoski and admire its standout features.

Parikkala’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Imatra behind. This drive usually takes around 38 min. Parikkala welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Our first attraction recommendation in Parikkala is Parikkala Sculpture Park, a worthwhile sculpture garden that draws attention for its instagrammable features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Luumäki. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 10 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Kotkaniemi, a locally appreciated museum that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Kotka. Check in and relax 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 Kotka. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Dine in style at Vausti, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Canttiini boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Keisarinsatama. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Kotka.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Players Sports Bar, 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, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Kotka are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Helsinki, where you will stay for 1 night.

Maritime Centre Vellamo brings Kotka's character to life. This gorgeous maritime museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Sibeliuksenpuisto, another culturally significant attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Sapokka, one of the city’s most beloved attractions, known for its serene features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Katariina Seaside Park‎. This eye-catching park is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge, an intriguing museum, and take a stroll around the area.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Helsinki by reserving a table at Palace. Renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Finnjävel Salonki, recognized for its delicious contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Olo, a local favorite known for its delightful modern cuisine in Helsinki. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Base Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out One Pint Pub, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Liberty Or Death provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Finland includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Helsinki. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Varkaus, where you'll spend 1 night.

Senate Square is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This historic public square is sure to impress. Next on your list is Helsinki Cathedral, another must-visit landmark and captivating church renowned for its inviting features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Helsinki by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Esplanadi Park. This eye-catching park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Helsinki experience. We also recommend visiting Kauppatori, a notable market square.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Varkaus, 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Varkaus, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting Ravintola Lännentie 66 Ky, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of O'harry's Irish Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Next Step likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Juurikka and Ylä-Koli. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Joensuu, where you'll spend 1 night.

Set your GPS to Juurikka and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 53 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Juurikka beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering New Valamo, an up-and-coming monastery known for its picture-perfect features.

Set your GPS to Ylä-Koli and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 35 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Ylä-Koli beckons with new experiences!

Savor the day by heading to Koli National Park, a frequently visited national park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Koli Nature Center Ukko, where you can soak in the enchanting surroundings.

Next, explore Koli, yet another beloved place to see in the area.

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

Joensuu 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 Joensuu.

Don’t miss out on dining at Joensuun Fever Oy, a top-rated dining destination in Joensuu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ravintola Aittaranta, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kerubi. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Joensuu this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Summer Restaurant Tuulaaki. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to 60's Palaver, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Jet Set Bar Oy provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!