7-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rovaniemi traveling south to Kemi, Oulu, Kajaani, and Ruka

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Select dates
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
All inclusive app
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Explore the best of Finland on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Rovaniemi, Kemi, Oulu, Kajaani, Suomussalmi, Ruka, Kuusamo, and Saarenkylä. This road trip itinerary in Finland seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Finland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Rovaniemi, 1 night in Kemi, 1 night in Oulu, 1 night in Kajaani, and 1 night in Ruka. 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 got 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 Rukatunturi are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Santa Claus Office, learn more about the unique Oulu Market Square, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Tietomaa Science Centre.

As you hit the open road and drive through Rovaniemi, Kemi, Oulu, Kajaani, Suomussalmi, Ruka, Kuusamo, and Saarenkylä, 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, accommodation, 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!

Read more

Itinerary summary

See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize

Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Angry Birds Playground
Santa Claus VillageSanta Claus OfficeSanta's Post Office
University of Oulu Botanical GardensNallikari beachNallikari LighthouseTietomaa Science CentreThe Oulu Museum Of Art
Oulu Market HallOulu market squareHollihaka ParkOulu Automobile MuseumTurkansaari Open Air Museum
Kainuu MuseumKajaani Castle RuinsThe Quiet People - The Silent People
The tourist center of KarhuntassuHannu Hautala Nature Photography CenterRukatunturi
Ounasvaara Ski Oy

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Day 1

  • Rovaniemi - Arrival day
  • More
  • Angry Birds Playground
  • More

Welcome to Rovaniemi, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Finland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Rovaniemi's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Rovaniemi. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Finland. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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.

Dine in style at Ravintola Roka Street Bistro, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bull Bar and Grill boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Gustav Kitchen & Bar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Rovaniemi.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Pub Pisto, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Oliver's Corner Irish Pub offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Paha Kurki Rockhouse provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Read more
Day 2

Day 2

  • Rovaniemi
  • Kemi
  • More

Drive 134 km, 1 hour 49 min

  • Santa Claus Village
  • Santa Claus Office
  • Santa's Post Office
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Rovaniemi, 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 Kemi. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Start your adventure at Santa Claus Village. This popular visitor center is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Santa Claus Office, a must-see visitor center in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Santa's Post Office. This up-and-coming visitor center offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Lounaskahvila Kemin Paussi, a top-rated dining destination in Kemi. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pizzeria Di Mare, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kalle's Burger / Scanburger. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Kemi this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Olutravintola Kukko after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

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.

Read more
Day 3

Day 3

  • Kemi
  • Oulu
  • More

Drive 118 km, 2 hours 1 min

  • University of Oulu Botanical Gardens
  • Nallikari beach
  • Nallikari Lighthouse
  • Tietomaa Science Centre
  • The Oulu Museum Of Art
  • More

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

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is University Of Oulu Botanical Gardens. This frequently visited botanical garden is a serene place to see in Kemi. Continue your discovery at Nallikari Beach, a stunning beach with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Kemi, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Nallikari Lighthouse. This locally appreciated lighthouse offers a romantic encounter with Kemi. Next, make your way to Tietomaa Science Centre to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Oulu Art Museum, a curiosity-inducing art gallery that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Kemi.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Frans & Camille Bistro, an iconic dining spot in Oulu. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Koivurannan kahvila, a popular restaurant in Oulu. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Sauraha, a hidden gem nestled in Oulu. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Pub Graali, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Leskinen offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out 1bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Read more
Day 4

Day 4

  • Oulu
  • Kajaani
  • More

Drive 187 km, 2 hours 51 min

  • Oulu Market Hall
  • Oulu market square
  • Hollihaka Park
  • Oulu Automobile Museum
  • Turkansaari Open Air Museum
  • More

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 Oulu. 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 adventure in Oulu promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Oulu Market Hall. This photogenic market is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Oulu Market Square, another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Hollihaka Park Oulu Outdoor Gym, one of the city’s most underrated attractions, known for its awe-inspiring features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Oulu Automobile Museum. This eye-catching museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Turkansaari Open Air Museum, an increasingly popular museum, and take a stroll around the area.

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

As you explore more of Kajaani, 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 wonderful meal at Taukopaikka Nuottijärvi, a top-rated dining spot in Kajaani. If you're in the mood for something new, try Pancho Villa, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Peevee Bar Oy. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Kajaani.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar Jussila (t:mi Juha J. Immonen) offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Restaurant Saint Kukko is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting.

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

Read more
Day 5

Day 5

  • Kajaani
  • Ruka
  • More

Drive 271 km, 3 hours 25 min

  • Kainuu Museum
  • Kajaani Castle Ruins
  • The Quiet People - The Silent People
  • More

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 - Kajaani and Suomussalmi. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ruka. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Kajaani is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures! Start at Kainuu Museum, a curiosity-inducing museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Kajaani Castle Ruins, enchanting visitors with its instagrammable appeal. Continue your exploration at Hiljaisen Kansan Tilataideteos (the Silent People). This art installation is one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots.

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.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Ski Booster - Bar - Cafe - Grill, a top-rated dining destination in Ruka. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hanki Baari, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RUOK. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Ruka this evening.

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

Read more
Day 6

Day 6

  • Ruka
  • Rovaniemi
  • More

Drive 260 km, 3 hours 16 min

  • The tourist center of Karhuntassu
  • Hannu Hautala Nature Photography Center
  • Rukatunturi
  • More

On day 6 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 Kuusamo and Ruka. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rovaniemi, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, wallet-friendly activities, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Ruka on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. The Tourist Center Of Karhuntassu is the first of them. Hannu Hautala Nature Photography Center is your next stop. This intriguing museum is one of the best-rated sights in Ruka.

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 Rukatunturi. This stunning ski resort is a sight to behold.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Rovaniemi. Rovaniemi 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 Rovaniemi. 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 Scandic Rovaniemi City, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, RAVINTOLA MEMOS offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Rock Ravintola & Café Grande is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Rovaniemi.

Continue your lively evening at People's Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

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

Read more
Day 7

Day 7

  • Rovaniemi - Departure day
  • More
  • Ounasvaara Ski Oy
  • More

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, we recommend visiting Ounasvaara Ski Oy, a picture-perfect ski resort before you head out.

On your last day in Finland, take time to indulge in shopping at Rovaniemi’s popular marketplace, Lordi's Square. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

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

Savor the flavors at Rovaniemen Asemaravintola, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Kauppayhtiö beckons with its unique menu offerings.

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!

Read more

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in Finland

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.