9-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Helsinki to Kotka, Tampere, and Turku and surrounding area

Day 3 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Helsinki. You’ll stay in Helsinki for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Temppeliaukio Church makes a great addition to your morning plans. This locally renowned church is a culturally significant place to see in Helsinki. Continue your discovery at Finnish Museum Of Natural History, an eye-catching museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Helsinki, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Museum Of Contemporary Art Kiasma. Next, make your way to Ateneum to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Helsinki.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Finland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Löyly Helsinki, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ravintola Nokka is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Hotel Kämp. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Helsinki tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Riff, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Roasberg is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

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

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Finland includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Helsinki. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kotka, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Enjoy all that Kauppatori has to offer. This is an interesting market square you should not miss. Another must-see is Uspenski Cathedral, a beloved church in Helsinki.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Senate Square. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Helsinki Cathedral, another of the city’s interesting attractions.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Vausti, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Canttiini is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Keisarinsatama. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Kotka tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Players Sports Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Kotka has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Kotka.

Whether you decide to explore Kotka on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Experience Katariina Seaside Park‎, an often recommended park in the city. Then, head to Sapokka and soak in the ambiance of this romantic botanical garden.

There are many interesting places to see in Kotka, and when you are ready for more, go to Isopuisto. This is one of the city’s most increasingly popular eye-catching spots of interest. After exploring the park, visit the locally appreciated Maritime Museum Of Finland. Not far away, you'll also find Maritime Centre Vellamo. This maritime museum is a picture-perfect highlight in Kotka.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Finland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Kotka 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 Kotka.

Don’t miss out on dining at Maritime Centre Vellamo, a top-rated dining destination in Kotka. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ravintola India Palace, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Tai Hing. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Kotka this evening.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Finland.

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Kouvola and Raikku. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Tampere, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Kouvola may take around 49 min. Upon your arrival in Kouvola, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Kouvola is Poikilo Museums, a curiosity-inducing museum that draws attention for its photogenic features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Raikku may take around 2 hours 7 min. Upon your arrival in Raikku, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Vehoniemi Automobile Museum, a curiosity-inducing museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Vehoniemi Observation Tower and admire its romantic features.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Vaakon Nakki, an iconic dining spot in Tampere. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Sailor's Bar & Grill, a popular restaurant in Tampere. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Zeytuun, a hidden gem nestled in Tampere. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 7 of your road trip in Finland, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Tampere are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Turku, where you will stay for 1 night.

No visit to Tampere is complete without Finlayson Area. This curiosity-inducing historical landmark is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Koskipuisto, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Tampere, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Museum Centre Vapriikki. This intriguing museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Hatanpää Park Arboretum is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Turku, 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 Turku. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Turku by booking a table at Kaskis, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Ravintola Masala, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar Edison after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Rento for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Pikku Havanna is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Head back to your accommodation in Turku and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Finland.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Turku. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Helsinki, where will spend 1 night.

Check out the locally appreciated church, Turku Cathedral. Afterward, continue to Old Great Square, a public square every traveler should visit. As you explore Turku’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Next, make your way to Kupittaa. This increasingly popular park is an essential stop. Following that, head to Turku Castle, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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.

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

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