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

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Juuma and Ruka. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Rovaniemi, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Today’s agenda in Ruka includes a hiking area and a waterfall. Pieni Karhunkierros Circle Trail is must-visit hiking area and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Myllykoski, an often recommended waterfall, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Jyrävä Rapids, a peaceful waterfall, also available for your discovery today.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Rovaniemi, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Rovaniemi's best restaurants.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Ravintola Roka Street Bistro, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bull Bar and Grill offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Gustav Kitchen & Bar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Rovaniemi.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Pub Pisto, known for its lively atmosphere. Oliver's Corner Irish Pub is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Paha Kurki Rockhouse offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Finland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Rovaniemi for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Santa Claus Village, an eye-catching visitor center that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Santa Claus Office, one of the city’s most worthwhile spots that you shouldn’t miss.

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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Rovaniemi's best restaurants.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Scandic Rovaniemi City, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, RAVINTOLA MEMOS offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Rock Ravintola & Café Grande is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Rovaniemi.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at People's Pub, a top-rated bar in the area.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Rovaniemi and Saarenkylä, 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 Kemi. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Rovaniemi, including a cultural center, a museum, a public square, a playground, a ski resort and much more! Start your day at Culture House Korundi. This instagrammable cultural center is a worthwhile place to see in Rovaniemi. Then, wander over to Arktikum. If respected sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Lordi's Square. This photogenic public square is a favorite among visitors.

Rovaniemi offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Angry Birds Playground is a locally appreciated spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the playground, don’t forget to check out the gorgeous Ounasvaara Ski Oy. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this intriguing ski resort.

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

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 enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Olutravintola Kukko, 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 5 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 Oulu, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and natural wonders in the charming city of Kemi. Your adventure starts at Tietomaa Science Centre, an often recommended local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Oulu Art Museum. This often recommended art gallery is known for its visually striking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Kemi's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Hollihaka Park Oulu Outdoor Gym. This visually striking park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Oulu Market Square is also worth visiting, along with Oulu Market Hall. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Oulu. 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 Oulu. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Dine in style at Frans & Camille Bistro, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Koivurannan kahvila boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Sauraha. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Oulu.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Pub Graali, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Leskinen offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out 1bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!

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 1 vibrant destinations - Oulu. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Kajaani. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Oulu, featuring fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and wallet-friendly activities. Start at Rotuaarin Pallo, a curiosity-inducing art installation in the city. Then, head to Nallikari Beach and soak in the ambiance of this romantic beach.

There are many interesting places to see in Oulu, and when you are ready for more, go to Nallikari Lighthouse. This is one of the city’s most worthwhile romantic spots of interest. After exploring the lighthouse, visit the intriguing University Of Oulu Botanical Gardens. Not far away, you'll also find Oulu Automobile Museum. This museum is a photogenic highlight in Oulu.

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 explore more of Kajaani, 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Taukopaikka Nuottijärvi, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Pancho Villa offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Peevee Bar Oy. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Kajaani.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Jussila (t:mi Juha J. Immonen). Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Restaurant Saint Kukko, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Kajaani and Suomussalmi. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ruka, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Start at the curiosity-inducing Kainuu Museum, a photogenic museum in Kajaani. Next, go to Kajaani Castle Ruins.

After visiting Kainuu Museum and Kajaani Castle Ruins, have a stroll along Kajaani's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Hiljaisen Kansan Tilataideteos (the Silent People). This instagrammable art installation offers a unique experience.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Ruka. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at RUOK, a popular restaurant in Ruka. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Ruka at Villiruokaravintola Rukan Kuksa, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

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