One-Week Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Oulu to Hiekkasärkät, Seinäjoki, Vaasa, and Kokkola
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through Finland. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Finland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Oulu, 1 night in Hiekkasärkät, 1 night in Seinäjoki, 1 night in Vaasa, and 1 night in Kokkola. 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 got you covered.
Upon arriving in Oulu, 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. Ähtäri Zoo and Oulu Market Square are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Tietomaa Science Centre, learn more about the unique Oulu Market Hall, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Wanha Markki.
As you hit the open road and drive through Oulu, Marjaniemi, Hiekkasärkät, Lapua, Ylistaro, Seinäjoki, Ähtäri, Vaasa, Kurikka, Kokkola, Korpilahti, and Lohtaja, 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, accommodation, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Oulu - Arrival day
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- Hollihaka Park
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Your road trip adventure in Finland begins as soon as you reach Oulu and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Oulu for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Oulu 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 Hollihaka Park Oulu Outdoor Gym or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Oulu. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading 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 Oulu, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Don’t miss out on dining at Frans & Camille Bistro, a top-rated dining destination in Oulu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Koivurannan kahvila, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sauraha. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Oulu this evening.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Pub Graali, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Leskinen. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at 1bar, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Finland!
Day 2
- Oulu
- Marjaniemi
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Drive 140 km, 3 hours 26 min
- Marjaniemi lighthouse
- Tietomaa Science Centre
- Nallikari Lighthouse
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On day 2 of your road trip in Finland, you’ll start and end your day in Oulu, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Oulu for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Marjaniemi and Oulu to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences. Start at the underrated Tietomaa Science Centre, a picture-perfect science center in Oulu. Next, go to Nallikari Lighthouse.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Marjaniemi. This car ride takes around 1 hour 34 min.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Marjaniemi Lighthouse, an underrated lighthouse that draws visitors from near and far.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Oulu and your accommodation.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Oulu's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Crecian, a top-rated dining destination in Oulu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Beijing Oy, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Pizzeria Finlandia. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Oulu this evening.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Finland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- Oulu
- Kalajoen Hiekkasärkät
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Drive 155 km, 2 hours 24 min
- Oulu Market Hall
- Oulu market square
- Oulu Cathedral
- University of Oulu Botanical Gardens
- Oulu Automobile Museum
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On day 3 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 Hiekkasärkät, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Immerse yourself in Oulu’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Oulu Market Hall. This standout market is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the instagrammable features of Oulu Market Square, a must-visit public square in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Oulu Cathedral, an intriguing church. For a change of scene, check out University Of Oulu Botanical Gardens, known for its mesmerizing features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Hiekkasärkät. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the village.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Hiekkasärkät's best restaurants.
Head back to your accommodation in Hiekkasärkät and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Finland!
Day 4
- Kalajoen Hiekkasärkät
- Lapua
- Ylistaro
- Seinäjoki
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Drive 235 km, 3 hours 14 min
- Vanha Paukku Cultural Center
- Lapua Cathedral
- Wanha Markki
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Lapua and Ylistaro. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Seinäjoki. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
After soaking in Hiekkasärkät’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Lapua. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 18 min. When you arrive in Lapua, it's time to take a break from the road.
Begin your journey at Vanha Paukku Cultural Center and explore the photogenic features. Next, make your way to Lapua Cathedral, another highlight in the town.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Ylistaro. This car ride takes around 19 min.
Wanha Markki is a worthwhile point of interest we recommend making time to visit today.
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 Seinäjoki. Seinäjoki 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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Seinäjoki. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Mallaskoski Brewery Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Mallas Kabacka offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Pancho Villa Seinäjoki. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Seinäjoki.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Pub Härmän Häjy, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar 15 is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Kultainen Kulaus also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Finland!
Day 5
- Seinäjoki
- Ähtäri
- Ylistaro
- Vaasa
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Drive 254 km, 3 hours 20 min
- Ähtäri Zoo
- Snowpanda House
- Ylistaro Church
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Ähtäri and Ylistaro, 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 Vaasa. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Set your GPS to Ähtäri and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 8 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Ähtäri beckons with new experiences!
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Ähtäri Zoo. Spend some time admiring the mesmerizing features of the zoo before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Snowpanda House. This beloved zoo is a traveler-favorite in the city.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Ylistaro. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 25 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Begin your journey at Ylistaro Church and explore the standout features.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Vaasa, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Vaasa's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Faros Restaurant Ship, a top-rated dining spot in Vaasa. If you're in the mood for something new, try Vasklot Matservering, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Ravintola Juku Vaasa. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Vaasa.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Littlepub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Finland.
Day 6
- Vaasa
- Kurikka
- Seinäjoki
- Kokkola
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Drive 266 km, 3 hours 26 min
- Luova Observation Tower
- Southern Ostrobothnia Provincial Museum
- Lakeuden Risti Church
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Kurikka and Seinäjoki. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kokkola, which will be your home away from home 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 Kurikka. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 1 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Spend your afternoon discovering Luova Observation Tower, a worthwhile observation deck known for its instagrammable features.
When you’ve had your share of Kurikka, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Seinäjoki. Your travel time is around 32 min.
Make your way to Southern Ostrobothnia Provincial Museum, an often recommended museum that draws attention for its visually striking features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Cross Of The Plains Church, a breathtaking church that stands out in the city.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Kokkola. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Kokkola, 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Istanbul Restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in Kokkola. If you're eager to try something different, consider Kokkolan Picante Oy, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cafe Eden. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Kokkola this evening.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Oluthuone Huismann, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Karaoke Bar Jolene Kokkola, a bar that offers unique local touches.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!
Day 7
- Kokkola
- Korpilahti
- Lohtaja
- Oulu
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Drive 215 km, 3 hours 7 min
- Potin ranta
- Toivonen farm animal park and farming museum
- Jukkolanmäen navetanvintti
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On day 7 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 Kokkola, Korpilahti, and Lohtaja. In the evening, you’ll end up in Oulu, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Kokkola on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Potin Ranta is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic pier before continuing your journey.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Korpilahti, 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 Kokkola to Korpilahti may take around 18 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Korpilahti, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Spend your afternoon discovering Toivonen Farm Animal Park And Farming Museum, a frequently visited farm known for its enchanting features.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lohtaja. This car ride takes around 20 min.
Jukkolanmäki Attic is a worthwhile sightseeing destination we recommend making time to visit today.
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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Oulu. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Oulun Baari Oy, a popular restaurant in Oulu. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Oulu at Lapland Hotels Oulu, 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 Jumpru Pub. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Oulu tonight.
Say good night to Oulu and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Finland!
Day 8
- Oulu - Departure day
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- Rotuaarin pallo
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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 Oulu before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Make the most of your final day in Finland by visiting Oulu’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Rotuaari. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Finland. Savor your final moments in Finland at a cozy cafe while relaxing with a cup of coffee or tea.
Rotuaarin Pallo is must-visit art installation and a great starting point for the day.
Before you conclude your road trip in Finland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Oulu.
Savor the flavors at Friends & Brgrs Oulu, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, 45 Special beckons with its unique menu offerings.
You’ll then say farewell to Oulu. 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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