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

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Photo of Helsinki Cathedral over city center in spring, Finland.
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Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 8-day road trip in Finland! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Helsinki, Mikkeli, Savonlinna, Kerimäki, Joensuu, Imatra, Parikkala, Lappeenranta, and Kotka.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Finland. You will spend 3 nights in Helsinki, 1 night in Mikkeli, 1 night in Joensuu, 1 night in Imatra, and 1 night in Kotka. 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 Helsinki, 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. Linnanmäki and Kauppatori are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Senate Square, learn more about the unique Temppeliaukio Church, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Esplanadi Park.

As you hit the open road and drive through Helsinki, Mikkeli, Savonlinna, Kerimäki, Joensuu, Imatra, Parikkala, Lappeenranta, and Kotka, 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

  • Helsinki - Arrival day
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  • Esplanadi park
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Welcome to Helsinki, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Finland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights discovering what to see in Helsinki before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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

Find your way to your hotel in Helsinki. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Finland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Grön, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Saaga offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Klaus K Hotel is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Helsinki.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Base Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, One Pint Pub offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Liberty Or Death is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Finland!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Helsinki
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Drive 7 km, 34 min

  • Linnanmäki
  • Senate Square
  • Helsinki Market Square
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Helsinki has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Helsinki.

Linnanmäki is must-visit amusement park and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Senate Square, a captivating public square, located just a leisurely stroll away.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Finland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Helsinki 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 Helsinki.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Helsinki by securing a table at Palace. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Finnjävel Salonki, famous for its scrumptious contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Olo, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Helsinki. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Kaisla, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Beaver Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Praha is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Helsinki
  • Mikkeli
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Drive 237 km, 3 hours 26 min

  • Art Museum Ateneum
  • Temppeliaukio Church
  • Kaivopuisto
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Helsinki. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Mikkeli, where will spend 1 night.

Enjoy all that Ateneum has to offer. This is a worthwhile museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Temppeliaukio Church, an interesting church in Helsinki.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Kaivopuisto.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Mikkeli. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Mikkeli's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ravintola Vino, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Dragon Sheng offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Angela Kebab-Pizzeria. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Mikkeli.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Jälkipeli Pub, Karaoke, Sports Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Patteri Baari is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Mikkelin Keskusbaari Oy is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Mikkeli
  • Joensuu
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Drive 238 km, 3 hours 30 min

  • Savonlinna Market Square
  • Olavinlinna Castle
  • Kerimäki Church
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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 Savonlinna and Kerimäki. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Joensuu, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Check out the increasingly popular public square, Savonlinna Market Square. Afterward, continue to Olavinlinna Castle, a castle every traveler should visit. As you explore Mikkeli’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town.

Next, make your way to Kerimäki Church. This often recommended church is an essential stop.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Joensuu. Joensuu 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Joensuu, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Summer Restaurant Tuulaaki, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out 60's Palaver, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Jet Set Bar Oy provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Joensuu
  • Imatra
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Drive 233 km, 3 hours 6 min

  • Joensuu Art Museum
  • The Courting Wolf
  • North Karelian Museum Hilma
  • Mustavaara
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Joensuu. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Imatra, where you'll spend 1 night.

Joensuu Art Museum brings Joensuu's character to life. Next, head over to North Karelian Museum Hilma, one of the city’s most locally appreciated attractions, known for its photogenic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Mustavaara. This visually striking hiking area is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Buttenhoff and Café Julia, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ravintola Havanna Kebab Pizzeria is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Kent - Pizza & Steak House. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Imatra tonight.

Keep the evening going at Osmo's Cosmos Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Kuohu Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Pub Vahti, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Imatra
  • Kotka
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Drive 259 km, 3 hours 33 min

  • Parikkala Sculpture Park
  • Imatra Rapids
  • Sandcastle Lappeenranta
  • Lappeenranta Fortress
  • Old Park, "Kissing Park
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Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in Finland includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Parikkala, Imatra, and Lappeenranta. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kotka, where you'll spend 1 night.

Start your day at Parikkala Sculpture Park. This instagrammable sculpture garden is an underrated place to see in Imatra. Then, wander over to Imatrankoski. If romantic sites excite you, this waterfall will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Sandcastle Lappeenranta.

Imatra offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Lappeenranta Fortress is an often recommended spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the historical landmark, don’t forget to check out the romantic Old Park, "kissing Park". Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this locally appreciated park.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Kotka. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Players Sports Bar, where the evening is just getting started.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Kotka
  • Helsinki
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Drive 142 km, 2 hours 26 min

  • Maritime Centre Vellamo
  • Sibelius Park
  • Sapokka Water Garden
  • Katariina Seaside Park‎
  • Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge
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On day 7 of your road trip in Finland, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Kotka are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Helsinki, where you will stay for 1 night.

Whatever your travel style is, Maritime Centre Vellamo is an essential stop in Kotka. This beloved maritime museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Sibeliuksenpuisto, a noteworthy park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Sapokka, an underrated botanical garden. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the curiosity-inducing Katariina Seaside Park‎. Round off your day at Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge, another gem in Kotka with awe-inspiring features to discover.

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

Helsinki 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 Helsinki.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Löyly Helsinki, a popular restaurant in Helsinki. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Helsinki at Ravintola Nokka, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Hotel Kämp. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Helsinki tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Riff, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Roasberg. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Helsinki - Departure day
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  • Punavuori
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Day 8 of your road trip in Finland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Helsinki before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Punavuori, a neighborhood that you shouldn't miss while in Helsinki. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

For a last-minute shopping spree in Helsinki, Stockmann Department Store is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location. Explore high-end stores offering an exquisite selection of luxury items.

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

Dine in style at Restaurant Olo, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Ravintola Teerenpeli boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

You’ll then say farewell to Helsinki. 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.
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.
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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