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

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Helsinki. You’ll stay in Helsinki for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Uspenski Cathedral leaves a lasting impression. This church is one of the most often recommended places to visit in Helsinki.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Senate Square. This picture-perfect public square is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Helsinki Cathedral and Kaivopuisto. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

Helsinki 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 Helsinki.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Palace, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Finnjävel Salonki, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Helsinki is Olo, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern menu.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Kaisla, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Beaver Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Praha offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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 1 place, which are Helsinki. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Mikkeli, where will spend 1 night.

One of the most up-and-coming attractions included on the itinerary is Ateneum. This photogenic museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Finnish Museum Of Natural History and learn what makes this eye-catching museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the interesting Temppeliaukio Church.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Mikkeli's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Ravintola Vino, a popular restaurant in Mikkeli. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Mikkeli at Dragon Sheng, 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 Angela Kebab-Pizzeria. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Mikkeli tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Jälkipeli Pub, Karaoke, Sports Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Patteri Baari is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Mikkelin Keskusbaari Oy provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Finland includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Savonlinna and Kerimäki. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Joensuu, where you'll spend 1 night.

Whatever your travel style is, Savonlinna Market Square is an essential stop in Mikkeli. This underrated public square provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Olavinlinna Castle, a history-steeped castle, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Kerimäki Church, a frequently visited church.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Joensuu. Joensuu offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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.

Dine in style at Joensuun Fever Oy, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Ravintola Aittaranta boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Kerubi. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Joensuu.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Summer Restaurant Tuulaaki, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of 60's Palaver, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Jet Set Bar Oy likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Joensuu. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Imatra, where you'll spend 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the locally appreciated The Courting Wolf and allow yourself time to explore.

Continue your journey to Joensuu Bunker Museum, one of the city’s most intriguing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the beloved Mustavaara.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Buttenhoff and Café Julia, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ravintola Havanna Kebab Pizzeria offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Kent - Pizza & Steak House. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Imatra.

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.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Finland!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Imatra, Lappeenranta, and Kouvola. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Lahti, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Imatrankoski is an ideal stop early in the day. This curiosity-inducing waterfall is a must-visit in the town.

One of the best things about exploring Imatra on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Tykkimäen Huvipuisto, an intriguing amusement park in the town.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lahti. 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 Lahti, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar & Bistro Lahti, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Tirra is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Wanha Mestari also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 8 of your road trip in Finland, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Kotka are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Helsinki, where you will stay for 1 night.

Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge brings Lahti's character to life. This picture-perfect museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Katariina Seaside Park‎, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Sapokka, one of the city’s most underrated attractions, known for its awe-inspiring features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Maritime Centre Vellamo. This picture-perfect maritime museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Helsinki. Helsinki offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Helsinki 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 Helsinki.

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

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!