9-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Helsinki to Kotka, Tampere, and Turku and surrounding area
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Finland as you embark on an unforgettable 9-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Helsinki, Kotka, Kouvola, Raikku, Tampere, and Turku.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Finland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 4 nights in Helsinki, 2 nights in Kotka, 1 night in Tampere, and 1 night in Turku. 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 Helsinki, 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. Linnanmäki and Kauppatori are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Helsinki, Kotka, Kouvola, Raikku, Tampere, and Turku, 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 – Helsinki - arrival day
- Helsinki - Arrival day
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- Esplanadi park
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Welcome to Helsinki, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Finland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 3 nights immersing yourself in Helsinki's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Helsinki 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 Esplanadi Park 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 Helsinki. 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 in Helsinki. 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.
Savor the flavors at Restaurant Grön, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Saaga beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Klaus K Hotel. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Helsinki tonight.
Continue your lively evening at Base Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. One Pint Pub is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Liberty Or Death ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Finland!
Day 2 – Helsinki
- Helsinki
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Drive 9 km, 33 min
- Linnanmäki
- Sibelius Monument
- Sibelius Park
- Helsinki Market Square
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Helsinki for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Immerse yourself in Helsinki’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Linnanmäki. This eye-catching amusement park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the historic features of Sibelius Monument, a must-visit monument 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 Sibelius Park, a frequently visited park.
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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Helsinki. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
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.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Kaisla, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Beaver Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Praha is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Finland.
Day 3 – Helsinki
- Helsinki
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Drive 3 km, 36 min
- Art Museum Ateneum
- Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma
- Finnish Museum of Natural History
- Temppeliaukio Church
- Helsinki Market Square
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On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Helsinki. You’ll stay in Helsinki for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Set out on a day brimming with an eye-catching, a historic, a stunning, and a profound. Start at the intriguing Ateneum, a standout museum in Helsinki. Next, go to Museum Of Contemporary Art Kiasma.
After visiting Ateneum and Museum Of Contemporary Art Kiasma, take time to explore Helsinki's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Finnish Museum Of Natural History. This instagrammable museum offers a unique experience. Temppeliaukio Church is another noteworthy stop.
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.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Löyly Helsinki, an iconic dining spot in Helsinki. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Ravintola Nokka, a popular restaurant in Helsinki. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Hotel Kämp, a hidden gem nestled in Helsinki. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Riff, known for its inviting atmosphere. Roasberg is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Finland!
Day 4 – Helsinki and Kotka
- Helsinki
- Kotka
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Drive 139 km, 2 hours 19 min
- Helsinki Cathedral
- Senate Square
- Helsinki Market Square
- Uspenski Cathedral
- Kaivopuisto
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On day 4 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 Kotka, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Get ready for an exciting day in Helsinki. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church, a public square, and a park. Begin your adventure at Helsinki Cathedral. This is an interesting church you should not miss. Another must-see is Senate Square, an interesting public square in Helsinki.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Uspenski Cathedral. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Kaivopuisto, another of the city’s curiosity-inducing attractions.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Kotka. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Kotka's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to book a table at Vausti, a popular restaurant in Kotka. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Kotka at Canttiini, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Keisarinsatama. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Kotka tonight.
Continue your lively evening at Players Sports Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Finland!
Day 5 – Kotka
- Kotka
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Drive 19 km, 1 hour 7 min
- Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge
- Katariina Seaside Park
- Sapokka Water Garden
- Sibelius Park
- Maritime Centre Vellamo
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Day 5 of your road trip across Finland promises a magnificent time exploring Kotka. You have 1 night left in Kotka. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Kotka, including a museum, a park, a botanical garden, a maritime museum and much more! Start your day at Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge. This historic museum is a beloved place to see in Kotka. Then, wander over to Katariina Seaside Park. If peaceful sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Sapokka. This remarkable botanical garden is a favorite among visitors.
Kotka offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Sibeliuksenpuisto is a worthwhile spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the park, don’t forget to check out the picture-perfect Maritime Centre Vellamo. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this beloved maritime museum in Kotka.
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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Kotka. 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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Maritime Centre Vellamo, a top-rated dining spot in Kotka. If you're in the mood for something new, try Ravintola India Palace, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Tai Hing. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Kotka.
Head back to your accommodation in Kotka and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Finland!
Day 6 – Kotka, Kouvola, Raikku, and Tampere
- Kotka
- Kouvola
- Raikku
- Tampere
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Drive 248 km, 3 hours 25 min
- Poikilo Museums
- Vehoniemi automobile museum
- Vehoniemi observation tower
- Sapokka Water Garden
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On day 6 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 Kouvola and Raikku. In the evening, you’ll end up in Tampere, where you will stay for 1 night.
Set your GPS to Kouvola and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 49 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kouvola beckons with new experiences!
Spend your afternoon discovering Poikilo Museums, an often recommended museum known for its historic features.
Raikku’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Kouvola behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 7 min. Raikku welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Vehoniemi Automobile Museum is a beloved museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Vehoniemi Observation Tower, a visually striking observation deck that’s well-regarded in the area.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Tampere, 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 Tampere, 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 lovely meal at Vaakon Nakki, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Sailor's Bar & Grill is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Zeytuun. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Tampere tonight.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Thrasherie Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Huurupiilo. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Moro Sky Bar, another top-rated place in the area.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!
Day 7 – Tampere and Turku
- Tampere
- Turku
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Drive 170 km, 2 hours 42 min
- Finlayson Factory Area
- Koskipuisto
- Museum Centre Vapriikki
- Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower
- Hatanpää Park Arboretum
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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 1 vibrant destinations - Tampere. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Turku. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Tampere, including a historical landmark, a park, a museum, an observation deck, a botanical garden and much more! Start your day at Finlayson Area. This heritage-rich historical landmark is a frequently visited place to see in Tampere. Then, wander over to Koskipuisto. If eye-catching sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Museum Centre Vapriikki. This eye-catching museum is a favorite among visitors.
Tampere offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower is a curiosity-inducing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the observation deck, don’t forget to check out the eye-catching Hatanpää Park Arboretum. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this beloved botanical garden in Tampere.
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 Turku. Turku 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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Turku's best restaurants.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Turku by reserving a table at Kaskis. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ravintola Masala, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
Keep the evening going at Bar Edison, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Rento, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Pikku Havanna, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Finland!
Day 8 – Turku and Helsinki
- Turku
- Helsinki
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Drive 176 km, 2 hours 39 min
- Turku Cathedral
- old Great Square
- Kupittaa Park
- Adventure Park Seikkailupuisto
- Turku Castle
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Turku. 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.
Today’s itinerary in Turku covers several incredible sights, including a church, a public square, a park, an adventure park, a castle and much more! Start your adventure at Turku Cathedral. This beloved church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the stunning wonders of Old Great Square, a must-see public square 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 Kupittaa. This up-and-coming park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Adventure Park Seikkailupuisto, where you can take in its instagrammable features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Turku Castle. This picture-perfect castle offers a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Helsinki. 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 Helsinki. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Olo, an iconic dining spot in Helsinki. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Ravintola Teerenpeli, a popular restaurant in Helsinki. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurant Pompier, a hidden gem nestled in Helsinki. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Finland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 9 – Helsinki - departure day
- Helsinki - Departure day
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- Kaisaniemi Park
- Helsinki Market Square
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Day 9 of your road trip in Finland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Helsinki 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 Helsinki’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Finland.
Helsinki is home to plenty of attractions that offer a charming, a majestic, a breathtaking, and a visually striking! Start at Kaisaniemi Park, a worthwhile park that is worthwhile a visit in the city.
Before you conclude your road trip in Finland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Helsinki.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kappeli, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Helsinki. 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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