7-Day Finland Road Trip from Lappeenranta to Helsinki

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 3 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lappeenranta and set your GPS to Kotka. 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 1 hour 18 min. Upon reaching Kotka, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Journey into the unknown at Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,753 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Katariina Seaside Park‎ is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,436 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Kotka is Sapokka. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,859 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.

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.

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Helsinki by booking a table at Palace, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Helsinki, Finnjävel Salonki shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Olo is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Helsinki. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Helsinki. You’ll stay in Helsinki for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Uspenski Cathedral. This eastern orthodox cathedral is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,716 reviews.

Continue your journey at Kauppatori. This market square is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 26,148 travelers from near and far.

Helsinki is also the home of Senate Square. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 19,379 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Helsinki Cathedral. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,060 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Kaivopuisto. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,806 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this neighbourhood of helsinki.

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

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

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

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

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Helsinki. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lappeenranta, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, Esplanadi Park is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,380 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Ateneum. This art museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,952 travelers. Every year, 400,000 travelers come to experience this site to make the most of their time in Helsinki.

We also recommend a stop at Finnish Museum Of Natural History. The natural history museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,700 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Temppeliaukio Church. This cave church is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 12,801 reviews.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lappeenranta. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

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