9-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Helsinki traveling east to Mikkeli, Joensuu, Imatra, and Lahti

Day 3 of your road trip across Finland promises a magnificent time exploring Helsinki. You have 1 night left in Helsinki. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Uspenski Cathedral is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Kauppatori, a well-known market square, located just a leisurely stroll away.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Helsinki. If you’re looking for more, Helsinki Cathedral is also a locally renowned attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Kaivopuisto, a worthwhile gem to see in the city.

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.

Savor the flavors at Löyly Helsinki, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Ravintola Nokka beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Hotel Kämp. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Helsinki tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The Riff, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Roasberg offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!

On day 4 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 Helsinki. In the evening, you’ll end up in Mikkeli, where you will stay for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Helsinki allows for both. Start by heading to Ateneum. This beloved museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Kaisaniemi Park, a serene park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Finnish Museum Of Natural History, an intriguing museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the captivating Temppeliaukio Church.

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 Mikkeli. Mikkeli 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 Mikkeli. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Ravintola Vino, an iconic dining spot in Mikkeli. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Dragon Sheng, a popular restaurant in Mikkeli. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Angela Kebab-Pizzeria, a hidden gem nestled in Mikkeli. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the evening going at Jälkipeli Pub, Karaoke, Sports Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Patteri Baari, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Mikkelin Keskusbaari Oy, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Savonlinna and Kerimäki. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Joensuu, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Mikkeli, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Savonlinna. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 17 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Savonlinna Market Square, a worthwhile public square that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Olavinlinna Castle, where you can soak in the visually striking surroundings.

Set your GPS to Kerimäki and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 24 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kerimäki beckons with new experiences!

Make your way to Kerimäki Church, an intriguing church that draws attention for its picture-perfect features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Joensuu. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Joensuun Fever Oy, a highly-rated dining destination in Joensuu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Ravintola Aittaranta, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kerubi. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Joensuu this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Summer Restaurant Tuulaaki, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. 60's Palaver is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Jet Set Bar Oy is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Finland.

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Joensuu, 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 Imatra. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Joensuu’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Joensuu Art Museum.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Joensuu Bunker Museum, an intriguing military museum.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Imatra. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Buttenhoff and Café Julia, an iconic dining spot in Imatra. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Ravintola Havanna Kebab Pizzeria, a popular restaurant in Imatra. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Kent - Pizza & Steak House, a hidden gem nestled in Imatra. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at Osmo's Cosmos Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Kuohu Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Pub Vahti ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Head back to your accommodation in Imatra and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Finland!

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 3 vibrant destinations - Imatra, Lappeenranta, and Kouvola. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lahti. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Imatra today. One of the most frequently visited attractions included on the itinerary is Imatrankoski. This serene waterfall will help you start your sightseeing on top.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

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 Lappeenranta. Your travel time is around 32 min.

Take your self-guided tour to Sandcastle Lappeenranta, an up-and-coming point of interest that everyone visiting Lappeenranta should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lappeenranta, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kouvola. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 2 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Tykkimäen Huvipuisto, a locally appreciated amusement park that draws visitors from near and far.

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 Lahti. Lahti 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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Lahti's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar & Bistro Lahti, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Tirra offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Wanha Mestari provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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 Kotka. 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 adventure in Kotka promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences!

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Kotka. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 26 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take your self-guided tour to Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge, a beloved museum that everyone visiting Kotka should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Katariina Seaside Park‎. This idyllic park is one of the most up-and-coming attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Sapokka, a detailed botanical garden, popular among locals as well as travelers. Maritime Centre Vellamo is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this frequently visited maritime museum before you continue your journey.

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.

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.

Dine in style at Restaurant Olo, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Ravintola Teerenpeli boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurant Pompier. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Helsinki.

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.