One-Week Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ruka to Rovaniemi, Kemi, Oulu, and Kajaani

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Rovaniemi has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Rovaniemi by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Start your adventure at Santa's Post Office. This often recommended visitor center is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Santa Claus Village, 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 Claus Office. This frequently visited visitor center offers an enriching experience.

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 Rovaniemi's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at People's Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

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

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 Rovaniemi and Saarenkylä. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kemi, where you will stay for 1 night.

Rovaniemi is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, picturesque spots, and scenic views! Start at Culture House Korundi, an often recommended cultural center that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Arktikum, enchanting visitors with its picture-perfect appeal. Continue your exploration at Lordi's Square. This public square is one of the city’s most locally appreciated spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Rovaniemi at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Angry Birds Playground.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Rovaniemi, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Saarenkylä may take around 7 min. Upon your arrival in Saarenkylä, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Ounasvaara Ski Oy, an often recommended ski resort that draws visitors from near and far.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Kemi. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Lounaskahvila Kemin Paussi, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Pizzeria Di Mare is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Kalle's Burger / Scanburger. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Kemi tonight.

Keep the evening going at Olutravintola Kukko, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Finland!

On day 5 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.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Kemi, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Oulu. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 16 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your journey at Tietomaa Science Centre and explore the instagrammable features. Next, make your way to Oulu Art Museum, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the art gallery, continue to Hollihaka Park Oulu Outdoor Gym, a visually striking park. Nearby, you will also find Oulu Market Square. This increasingly popular public square is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Oulu Market Hall, a heritage-rich market that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Frans & Camille Bistro, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Koivurannan kahvila offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Sauraha is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Oulu.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Pub Graali, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Leskinen is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, 1bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Head back to your accommodation in Oulu and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Finland!

Dive into day 6 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 Kajaani. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Oulu allows for both. Start by heading to Rotuaarin Pallo. This locally appreciated art installation provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Nallikari Beach, a stunning beach, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Nallikari Lighthouse, an intriguing lighthouse. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the beloved University Of Oulu Botanical Gardens. Round off your day at Oulu Automobile Museum, another gem in Oulu with respected features to discover.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Kajaani, 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 Kajaani. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Jussila (t:mi Juha J. Immonen), a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Restaurant Saint Kukko provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 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.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites in the charming city of Kajaani. Your adventure starts at Kainuu Museum, a worthwhile local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Kajaani Castle Ruins. This locally appreciated castle is known for its instagrammable appeal.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Kajaani, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Suomussalmi. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 35 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take your self-guided tour to Hiljaisen Kansan Tilataideteos (the Silent People), a locally appreciated art installation that everyone visiting Suomussalmi should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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

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.

Dine in style at RUOK, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Villiruokaravintola Rukan Kuksa boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!