One-Week Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Helsinki traveling east to Mikkeli, Joensuu, and Kotka

Day 2 of your road trip across Finland promises a magnificent time exploring Helsinki. You have 1 night left in Helsinki. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Today's adventure in Helsinki promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Sibelius Monument. This historic monument is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Temppeliaukio Church, another instagrammable attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Senate Square. This picture-perfect public square is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Helsinki Cathedral, a popular church, and take a stroll around the area.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Finland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Palace, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Finnjävel Salonki is one of the best restaurants for contemporary cuisine in Helsinki. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Olo. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Kaisla. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Beaver Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Praha, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

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 Helsinki. In the evening, you’ll end up in Mikkeli, where you will stay for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Helsinki today. One of the most frequently visited attractions included on the itinerary is Ateneum. This heritage-rich museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Kaivopuisto and learn what makes this romantic park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the up-and-coming Skywheel Helsinki. After exploring the observation deck, head to Korkeasaari Zoo. This locally renowned zoo is a highlight in Helsinki.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Mikkeli, 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 Mikkeli, 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ravintola Vino, a highly-rated dining destination in Mikkeli. If you're eager to try something different, consider Dragon Sheng, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Angela Kebab-Pizzeria. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Mikkeli this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Jälkipeli Pub, Karaoke, Sports Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Patteri Baari, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Mikkelin Keskusbaari Oy. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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 Savonlinna. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Joensuu, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Savonlinna. This car ride takes around 1 hour 17 min.

Your self-guided tour starts at Savonlinna Market Square, a curiosity-inducing public square that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Olavinlinna Castle and admire its romantic features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Savonlinna. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 17 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make your way to Lusto – The Finnish Forest Museum, an intriguing museum that draws attention for its photogenic 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 Joensuu. Joensuu 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 Joensuu. 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.

Make sure to book a table at Joensuun Fever Oy, a popular restaurant in Joensuu. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Joensuu at Ravintola Aittaranta, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Kerubi. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Joensuu tonight.

Keep the evening going at Summer Restaurant Tuulaaki, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to 60's Palaver, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Jet Set Bar Oy, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Kotka. You’ll stay in Kotka for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Kotka is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a maritime museum, a museum, and a botanical garden. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the up-and-coming Maritime Centre Vellamo. Just a short distance away is Maritime Museum Of Finland, an instagrammable maritime museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge, one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the beloved Sapokka.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Finland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Maritime Centre Vellamo, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Ravintola India Palace? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Tai Hing as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Kotka.

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.

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Kotka. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Helsinki, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of a charming, a gorgeous, a photogenic, a grand, a noteworthy, and a scenic. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Sibeliuksenpuisto. This curiosity-inducing park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Isopuisto, one of the city’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Maretarium, one of the most beloved places to see in Kotka. This aquarium is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Katariina Seaside Park‎. Wander around and soak in the romantic atmosphere this park offers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Helsinki, 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 Helsinki. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Riff, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Roasberg offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Helsinki.

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