7-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rovaniemi to Pyhäjärvi and Saariselkä

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Photo of Reindeer sledding caravan safari with people in winter forest at Rovaniemi, Lapland, Northern Finland.
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Explore the best of Finland on a remarkable 7-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Rovaniemi, Pelkosenniemi, Pyhäjärvi, Sodankylä, Saariselkä, and Ivalo.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Finland. You will spend 2 nights in Rovaniemi, 2 nights in Pyhäjärvi, and 2 nights in Saariselkä. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Finland. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have you covered.

Upon arriving in Rovaniemi, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Finland on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Finland. Santa Claus Village and Siida are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Angry Birds Playground, learn more about the unique Pyhä-luosto National Park, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Rovaniemi Church.

As you hit the open road and drive through Rovaniemi, Pelkosenniemi, Pyhäjärvi, Sodankylä, Saariselkä, and Ivalo, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Finland. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Finland.

Throughout your road trip in Finland, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Finland.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodations, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Finland fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Finland today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day 1

Day 1

  • Rovaniemi - Arrival day
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  • Rovaniemi Church
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Say hello to Rovaniemi! Your exciting road trip through Finland is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Rovaniemi for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Rovaniemi 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 Rovaniemi Church, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Rovaniemi. Make yourself at home and unwind before heading out again.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Ravintola Roka Street Bistro, a top-rated dining destination in Rovaniemi. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bull Bar and Grill, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gustav Kitchen & Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Rovaniemi this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Pub Pisto. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Oliver's Corner Irish Pub offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Paha Kurki Rockhouse, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Rovaniemi
  • Pyhäjärvi
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Drive 186 km, 2 hours 35 min

  • Santa Claus Village
  • Pyhä-Luosto National Park
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Your itinerary for day 2 of your road trip in Finland includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Rovaniemi and Pelkosenniemi. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Pyhäjärvi, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Start your day at Santa Claus Village. This mesmerizing visitor center is a locally renowned place to see in Rovaniemi. Then, wander over to Pyhä-luosto National Park. If gorgeous sites excite you, this national park will be right up your alley.

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

Pyhäjärvi 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 Pyhäjärvi.

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.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Pyhäjärvi
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Drive 54 km, 58 min

  • Pyhätunturi
  • Lampivaaran Ametistikaivos, Pyhä-Luosto, Lappi
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On day 3 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Pelkosenniemi. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Pyhäjärvi, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Pelkosenniemi is brimming with adventures.

Check out the up-and-coming ski resort, Pyhätunturi. Afterward, continue to Luosto, a cave every traveler should visit. As you explore Pyhäjärvi’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

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

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

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Pyhäjärvi
  • Saariselkä
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Drive 216 km, 3 hours 2 min

  • Sodankylä Old Church
  • Pyhä-Nattanen
  • Aurora Day Hut
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Sodankylä and Saariselkä. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Saariselkä, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Make time for Sodankylä Old Church, an increasingly popular church that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Pyhä-nattanen, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at Aurora Day Hut. This hiking area is one of the town’s most curiosity-inducing spots.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Saariselkä. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Laanilan Kievari, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Kaunispään Huippu Oy is another top choice with a popular menu.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Saariselkä
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Drive 355 km, 4 hours 18 min

  • Kopara Reindeer Park
  • Jaakkola Reindeer Farm
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Greet day 5 of your road trip in Finland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Saariselkä, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Pelkosenniemi and Sodankylä.

Awaiting your discovery is the often recommended Kopara Reindeer Park, a visually striking petting zoo in Saariselkä. Next, go to Jaakkola Reindeer Farm.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Ravintola Pub Teerenpesä, a top-rated dining spot in Saariselkä.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Saariselkä
  • Rovaniemi
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Drive 404 km, 4 hours 55 min

  • Siida
  • Jäniskoski Rapids
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Ivalo. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Rovaniemi, where you'll spend 1 night.

Catch Siida before the crowds roll in. This photogenic museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the mesmerizing features of Jäniskoski Rapids, a must-visit waterfall in the town.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Scandic Rovaniemi City, an iconic dining spot in Rovaniemi. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of RAVINTOLA MEMOS, a popular restaurant in Rovaniemi. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Rock Ravintola & Café Grande, a hidden gem nestled in Rovaniemi. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the evening going at People's Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

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

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Angry Birds Playground. This increasingly popular playground is a hotspot among locals.

For a shopping spree in Rovaniemi, we recommend the lively Ounasvaara Shopping Center. Here, you'll find a range of shops you can browse for some souvenir shopping.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Rovaniemi. 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!

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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
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Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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