One-Week Relaxed Finland Road Trip from Helsinki to Tampere
Description
Included
Description
Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 8-day road trip in Finland with this laid-back self-drive vacation.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Finland at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Helsinki, Lahti, Raikku, Tiihala, Tampere, and Hämeenlinna. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Helsinki, and 3 nights in Tampere. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Finland.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Finland. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Helsinki, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 8-day journey across Finland and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Finland with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Finland.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Finland. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Linnanmäki. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Kauppatori.
Traveling leisurely through Finland means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Senate Square. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through Finland's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Finland.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Finland. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Finland's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Finland.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Finland. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 7 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 8 days of your self-drive road trip in Finland. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 8-day vacation in Finland and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Finland today!
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Day 1 – Helsinki - arrival day
- Helsinki - Arrival day
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- Kaivopuisto
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Your relaxed road trip through Finland starts when you reach the incredible city of Helsinki, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Helsinki and begin your adventure in Finland.
Make Kaivopuisto one of your first sightseeing stops in Helsinki. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,806 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Helsinki. 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.
When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Helsinki.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant Grön, a top-rated dining spot in Helsinki. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Saaga, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Klaus K Hotel. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Helsinki.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Helsinki’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Finland.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Base Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to One Pint Pub for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Liberty or Death is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Finland. Enjoy your first taste of Helsinki as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2 – Helsinki
- Helsinki
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Drive 7 km, 34 min
- Linnanmäki
- Senate Square
- Helsinki Market Square
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Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Finland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Helsinki. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Helsinki. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Helsinki!
An excellent attraction to start your day with is Linnanmäki. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 26,571 reviews.
Continue your journey at Senate Square. This point of interest is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 19,379 travelers from near and far.
Helsinki is also the home of Kauppatori. This market square has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 26,148 visitors.
Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Helsinki, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available for your relaxed road trip across Finland.
Exploring the food culture in Helsinki offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Palace, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Finnjävel Salonki, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Helsinki is Olo, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious modern menu.
Experience the amazing nightlife in Helsinki and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Kaisla, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Beaver Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Praha offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Finland.
Day 3 – Helsinki
- Helsinki
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Drive 15 km, 3 hours 1 min
- Korkeasaari Zoo
- Art Museum Ateneum
- Temppeliaukio Church
- Sibelius Monument
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On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Finland, you’ll go deep into Helsinki, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Helsinki, and meet locals along the way!
Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Korkeasaari Zoo. This extraordinary zoo has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 12,811 visitors. Each year, around 498,266 people visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.
Next, make your way to Ateneum. This art museum welcomes around 400,000 visitors yearly and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,952 reviews.
While in Helsinki, we also recommend a visit to Temppeliaukio Church. This cave church has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 12,801 reviews.
If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Sibelius Monument. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 6,272 travelers, this sculpture is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Helsinki.
Finland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Finland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Löyly Helsinki, a top-rated dining destination in Helsinki. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ravintola Nokka, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hotel Kämp. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Helsinki this evening.
Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Helsinki. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.
Cap off your dinner by heading to The Riff, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Roasberg is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.
A leisurely self-drive holiday in Helsinki can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Finland!
Day 4 – Helsinki, Lahti, Raikku, Tiihala, and Tampere
- Tampere
- Lahti
- Raikku
- Tiihala
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Drive 236 km, 3 hours 12 min
- Laune central park
- Vehoniemi automobile museum
- Vehoniemi observation tower
- Automobile and Road Museum Mobilia
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On day 4 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Finland. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Finland.
When you’ve had your share of Helsinki, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Lahti. Your travel time is around 1 hour 19 min.
Kick off the day at Laune central park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,979 reviews.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lahti, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Raikku. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 18 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Journey into the unknown at Vehoniemi automobile museum, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable automobile museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,148 reviews.
When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Vehoniemi observation tower is a recommended place to visit. This observation tower is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 189 reviews.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Raikku, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Tiihala may take around 7 min. Upon your arrival in Tiihala, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Mobilia. This extraordinary automobile museum has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,497 visitors.
After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Tampere. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Finland by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Tampere has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Dine in style at Vaakon Nakki, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Sailor's Bar & Grill boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Zeytuun. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Tampere.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Tampere.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Thrasherie Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Huurupiilo offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Moro Sky Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Tampere!
Day 5 – Tampere
- Tampere
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Drive 11 km, 56 min
- Hatanpää Park Arboretum
- Museum Centre Vapriikki
- Finlayson Factory Area
- The Finnish Labor Museum Werstas
- Näsi Park
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Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Tampere, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Finland are extraordinary.
A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Hatanpää Park Arboretum. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,864 reviews.
Museum Centre Vapriikki is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,185 reviews. The attraction welcomes 185,000 visitors every year.
Another attraction you won't want to miss is Finlayson Area. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 5,162 reviews.
The Finnish Labor Museum Werstas is another outstanding experience in Tampere. Around 1,104 travelers have rated this museum an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.
If you long for more, Näsi Park is not far away. This park is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,319 reviews. The attraction gets an estimated 185,000 visitors every year.
Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across Finland. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in Finland.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Finland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Tampere.
Savor the flavors at Shanghai Chinese Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Ravintola Coussicca beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Koskikeskus. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Tampere tonight.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Tampere.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar K, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Kievari Kahdet Kasvot offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Tampere. Save File - Pelaajan Olohuone is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Finland!
Day 6 – Tampere
- Tampere
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Drive 5 km, 59 min
- Särkänniemi
- Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower
- Southern Park
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Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Finland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Tampere. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Tampere. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Tampere!
Journey into the unknown at Särkänniemi, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable amusement park has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 5,050 reviews.
When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower is a recommended place to visit. This cafe is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,254 reviews.
Another must-see attraction in Tampere is Southern Park, Tampere. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,017 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Tampere offers an experience you will remember.
Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Finland. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Finland and ensure the experience of a lifetime.
When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Tampere, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Make sure to reserve a table at Bar Inez, an iconic dining spot in Tampere. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Museokeskus Vapriikki, a popular restaurant in Tampere. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Café Pispala, a hidden gem nestled in Tampere. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Alanya Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Majava Baari Tampere, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Pub Golden Monkey likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Finland!
Day 7 – Tampere, Hämeenlinna, and Helsinki
- Helsinki
- Tampere
- Southern Finland
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Drive 192 km, 2 hours 54 min
- Koskipuisto
- Tampere Cathedral
- Moomin Museum
- Aulanko Observation Tower
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Day 7 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Finland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Tampere. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Helsinki, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.
Kick off the day at Koskipuisto, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 3,840 reviews.
Today is also your chance to visit Tampere Cathedral. Tampere Cathedral is a lutheran cathedral with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,575 reviews.
Moomin Museum is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,592 visitors.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Tampere and set your GPS to Hämeenlinna. 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 57 min. Upon reaching Hämeenlinna, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Aulanko Tower. This observation tower is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,662 visitors.
Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Finland at Helsinki. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Finland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Helsinki.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Olo, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ravintola Teerenpeli is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant Pompier. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Helsinki tonight.
Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.
Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Finland!
Day 8 – Helsinki - departure day
- Helsinki - Departure day
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- Esplanadi park
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Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in Finland is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Helsinki.
Maximize your last day in Finland and go on a shopping spree in Helsinki’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Finland.
If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.
One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Helsinki is the remarkable Esplanadi park. This park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,380 visitors.
Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Helsinki or just grab something light to keep you going.
Savor the flavors at Restaurant Rioni, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Kappeli beckons with its unique menu offerings.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Helsinki and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in Finland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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