7-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rovaniemi traveling south to Kemi, Oulu, Kajaani, and Ruka
Description
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-day road trip through Finland. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
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.
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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Rovaniemi - arrival day
- Rovaniemi - Arrival day
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- Angry Birds Playground
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Your road trip adventure in Finland begins as soon as you reach Rovaniemi and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Rovaniemi 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.
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 taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Rovaniemi. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal 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.
Keep the evening going at Pub Pisto, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Oliver's Corner Irish Pub, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Paha Kurki Rockhouse, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Finland!
Day 2 – Rovaniemi and Kemi
- Rovaniemi
- Kemi
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Drive 134 km, 1 hour 49 min
- Santa Claus Village
- Santa Claus Office
- Santa's Post Office
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Rovaniemi. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kemi, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several an enchanting and a visually striking. Whether you decide to explore Rovaniemi on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Santa Claus Village is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this gorgeous visitor center before continuing your journey. Santa Claus Office is your next stop. This locally appreciated visitor center is one of the best-rated sights in Rovaniemi.
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 Santa's Post Office. This photogenic visitor center is a sight to behold.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Kemi's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Lounaskahvila Kemin Paussi, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Pizzeria Di Mare? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Kalle's Burger / Scanburger as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Kemi.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Olutravintola Kukko, known for its lively atmosphere.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Finland!
Day 3 – Kemi and Oulu
- Kemi
- Oulu
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Drive 118 km, 2 hours 1 min
- University of Oulu Botanical Gardens
- Nallikari beach
- Nallikari Lighthouse
- Tietomaa Science Centre
- The Oulu Museum Of Art
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Oulu, 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 Oulu. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
After soaking in Kemi’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Oulu. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 15 min. When you arrive in Oulu, it's time to take a break from the road.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is University Of Oulu Botanical Gardens. Spend some time admiring the serene features of the botanical garden before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Nallikari Beach. This locally appreciated beach is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Nallikari Lighthouse. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the lighthouse. Next, continue your journey to Tietomaa Science Centre, an often recommended science center. End your day at Oulu Art Museum, known for its instagrammable features.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Oulu. Oulu offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Oulu's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Frans & Camille Bistro, a top-rated dining destination in Oulu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Koivurannan kahvila, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sauraha. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Oulu this evening.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Pub Graali, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Leskinen. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at 1bar, another top-rated place in the area.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!
Day 4 – Oulu and Kajaani
- Oulu
- Kajaani
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Drive 187 km, 2 hours 51 min
- Oulu Market Hall
- Oulu market square
- Hollihaka Park
- Oulu Automobile Museum
- Turkansaari Open Air Museum
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On day 4 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 Oulu. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kajaani, where you will stay for 1 night.
Get ready for an exciting day in Oulu. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a market, a public square, a park, a museum and much more! Begin your adventure at Oulu Market Hall. This is an often recommended market you should not miss. Another must-see is Oulu Market Square, a locally appreciated public square in Oulu.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Hollihaka Park Oulu Outdoor Gym. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Oulu Automobile Museum, another of the city’s beloved attractions. We recommend ending your self-guided tour of the city with a historic museum. Turkansaari Open Air Museum is a truly remarkable place to visit in Oulu.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Kajaani. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Taukopaikka Nuottijärvi, an iconic dining spot in Kajaani. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Pancho Villa, a popular restaurant in Kajaani. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Peevee Bar Oy, a hidden gem nestled in Kajaani. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar Jussila (t:mi Juha J. Immonen), a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Restaurant Saint Kukko offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.
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.
Day 5 – Kajaani, Suomussalmi, and Ruka
- Kajaani
- Suomussalmi
- Ruka
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Drive 271 km, 3 hours 25 min
- Kainuu Museum
- Kajaani Castle Ruins
- The Quiet People - The Silent People
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Kajaani and Suomussalmi. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Ruka, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s route brings an eye-catching, a historic, a stunning, and a symbolic. The first attraction of today is Kainuu Museum. This often recommended museum is a visually striking place to see in Kajaani. Continue your discovery at Kajaani Castle Ruins, a breathtaking castle with stories to tell.
After soaking in Kajaani’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Suomussalmi. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 35 min. When you arrive in Suomussalmi, it's time to take a break from the road.
Begin your journey at Hiljaisen Kansan Tilataideteos (the Silent People) and explore the instagrammable features.
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.
As you explore more of Ruka, 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Ski Booster - Bar - Cafe - Grill, an iconic dining spot in Ruka. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hanki Baari, a popular restaurant in Ruka. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of RUOK, a hidden gem nestled in Ruka. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Finland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6 – Ruka, Kuusamo, and Rovaniemi
- Ruka
- Kuusamo
- Rovaniemi
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Drive 260 km, 3 hours 16 min
- The tourist center of Karhuntassu
- Hannu Hautala Nature Photography Center
- Rukatunturi
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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 - Kuusamo and Ruka. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Rovaniemi. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Start your adventure at Rukatunturi. This beloved ski resort is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience.
Ruka’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Kuusamo behind. This drive usually takes around 24 min. Ruka welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Take your self-guided tour to The Tourist Center Of Karhuntassu, a curiosity-inducing visitor center that everyone visiting Kuusamo should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Hannu Hautala Nature Photography Center. This picture-perfect museum is one of the most frequently visited attractions in the region.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Rovaniemi. Rovaniemi offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Scandic Rovaniemi City, a highly-rated dining destination in Rovaniemi. If you're eager to try something different, consider RAVINTOLA MEMOS, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Rock Ravintola & Café Grande. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Rovaniemi this evening.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at People's Pub, where the evening is just getting started.
Say good night to Rovaniemi and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Finland!
Day 7 – Rovaniemi and Saarenkylä - departure day
- Rovaniemi - Departure day
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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.
As your final day in Finland unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Rovaniemi's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Finland.
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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