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

On day 2 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 Luumäki, Imatra, and Parikkala. In the evening, you’ll end up in Joensuu, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Luumäki, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Lappeenranta to Luumäki may take around 19 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Luumäki, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Kotkaniemi. This farm is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Luumäki, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 387 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Luumäki, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Imatra may take around 41 min. Upon your arrival in Imatra, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Kruununpuisto. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 285 reviews.

Continue your journey at Imatrankoski. This rapids is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,146 travelers from near and far.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Joensuun Fever Oy, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Ravintola Aittaranta offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Kerubi is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Joensuu.

Continue your lively evening at Summer Restaurant Tuulaaki, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. 60's Palaver is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Jet Set Bar Oy ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Day 3 of your road trip across Finland promises a magnificent time exploring Kontiolahti. You have 2 nights left in Joensuu. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Kick off the day at Joensuu Art Museum, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This museum is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 428 reviews.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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.

Dine in style at Original Sokos Hotel Kimmel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Pizza Express & Cafe boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ravintola Wanha Aitta. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Joensuu.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar Play Joensuu is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Ravintola Mikko, offering a different kind of charm.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Joensuu, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Joensuu, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Outokumpu. This drive usually takes around 38 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Outokumpu Old Mine And Mining Museum. This extraordinary museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 875 visitors.

After soaking in Outokumpu’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Juurikka. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 40 min. When you arrive in Juurikka, it's time to take a break from the road.

Drop by the renowned New Valamo. This popular monastery has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,151 visitors.

Set your GPS to Varistaipale and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 12 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Varistaipale beckons with new experiences!

Drop by the renowned Varistaipale Canal. This popular river has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 234 visitors.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Joensuu.

As you explore more of Joensuu, 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.

Savor the flavors at Mrs. Asia, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Vesikioski beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Deli China. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Joensuu tonight.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Tampere. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Helsinki, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Jyvaskyla, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Tampere. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 58 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Koskipuisto. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,840 visitors.

Next, make your way to Finlayson Area. This top attraction is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,162 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower. This cafe is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,254 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Hatanpää Park Arboretum. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,864 travelers.

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 Helsinki. Helsinki 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 you explore more of Helsinki, 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.

Discover the culinary delights of Helsinki by securing a reservation at Palace. Esteemed for its 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Finnjävel Salonki, renowned for its delicious contemporary dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Olo, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Base Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to One Pint Pub, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Liberty Or Death provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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, Helsinki. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lappeenranta, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Senate Square. This extraordinary point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 19,379 visitors.

Next, make your way to Helsinki Cathedral. This top attraction is a lutheran cathedral with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,060 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Esplanadi Park. This park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,380 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Kaivopuisto. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,806 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Kauppatori. This market square is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 26,148 travelers.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lappeenranta. 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.

Don’t miss out on dining 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 satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lappeenranta this evening.

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