One-Week Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Lappeenranta to Joensuu, Jyvaskyla, and Helsinki and surrounding area

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Luumäki, Imatra, and Parikkala. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Joensuu, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lappeenranta and set your GPS to Luumäki. 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 19 min. Upon reaching Luumäki, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Kotkaniemi. Spend some time admiring the respected features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Imatra. This car ride takes around 41 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Kruununpuisto. Spend some time admiring the respected features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Imatrankoski. This beloved waterfall is a traveler-favorite in the city.

When you’ve had your share of Imatra, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Parikkala. Your travel time is around 38 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Parikkala Sculpture Park and explore the stunning features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Joensuu, 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 Joensuu's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Joensuun Fever Oy, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Ravintola Aittaranta? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Kerubi as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Joensuu.

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.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Finland.

On day 4 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Outokumpu, Juurikka, Varistaipale, and Palokki. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Joensuu, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Outokumpu may take around 38 min. Upon your arrival in Outokumpu, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Outokumpu Old Mine And Mining Museum. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

When you’ve had your share of Outokumpu, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Juurikka. Your travel time is around 40 min.

Savor the day by heading to New Valamo, an up-and-coming monastery that draws visitors from near and far.

After soaking in Juurikka’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Varistaipale. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 12 min. When you arrive in Varistaipale, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Varistaipale is Varistaipale Canal, a locally appreciated historical landmark that draws attention for its breathtaking features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Joensuu and your accommodation.

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.

Dine in style at Mrs. Asia, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Vesikioski boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Deli China. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Joensuu.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 5 of your road trip in Finland, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Siilinjärvi and Kuopio are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Jyvaskyla, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Siilinjärvi. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 42 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Siilinjärvi is Kasurila, an often recommended ski resort that draws attention for its mesmerizing features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Kuopio. This drive usually takes around 18 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Hapelähde Park, a frequently visited park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Kuopio Market Square, where you can soak in the picture-perfect surroundings.

Next, explore Valkeisenlammen Puisto, yet another frequently visited place to see in the area.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Jyvaskyla. Jyvaskyla 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 Jyvaskyla. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Ravintola Teerenpeli, a popular restaurant in Jyvaskyla. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Jyvaskyla at Boutique Hotel Yöpuu, 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 Kuokkala manor. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Jyvaskyla tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Matsi Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Poppari, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Harry's also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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 place, which are Tampere. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Helsinki, where will spend 1 night.

Set your GPS to Tampere and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 58 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Tampere beckons with new experiences!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Koskipuisto, a beloved park that everyone visiting Tampere should see. Next, head to Finlayson Area. This respected historical landmark is one of the most underrated attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower, a romantic observation deck popular among locals as well as travelers. Hatanpää Park Arboretum is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this beloved botanical garden before you continue your journey.

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

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 memorable dining experience in Helsinki by booking a table at Palace, a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Helsinki, Finnjävel Salonki shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee consistently earns high praises, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Olo is known as a top local spot in Helsinki for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Base Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, One Pint Pub offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Liberty Or Death provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Helsinki. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Lappeenranta, where you'll spend 1 night.

Whatever your travel style is, Senate Square is an essential stop in Helsinki. This interesting public square provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Helsinki Cathedral, a history-steeped church, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Esplanadi Park, a popular park. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the often recommended Kaivopuisto.

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

Lappeenranta 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 Lappeenranta.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Meeza Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Lappeenranta. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ravintola Nautilus, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at CARLOS. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lappeenranta this evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!