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

Day 2 of your road trip across Finland promises a magnificent time exploring Helsinki. You have 2 nights left in Helsinki. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Helsinki. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Uspenski Cathedral is the perfect place to start. 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 awe-inspiring 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 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 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Helsinki by reserving a table at Palace. Renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Finnjävel Salonki, recognized for its delicious contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Olo, a local favorite known for its delightful modern cuisine in Helsinki. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Helsinki, 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 Mikkeli. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Helsinki today. One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is Ateneum. This eye-catching 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 photogenic museum unique.

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

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Mikkeli. Check in and spend some time relaxing 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 an authentic adventure.

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

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Jälkipeli Pub, Karaoke, Sports Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Patteri Baari for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Mikkelin Keskusbaari Oy is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 5 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 Savonlinna and Kerimäki. In the evening, you’ll end up in Joensuu, where you will stay for 1 night.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Mikkeli on today’s itinerary. First up is the worthwhile public square, Savonlinna Market Square. Afterward, continue to Olavinlinna Castle, a castle every traveler should visit.

As you explore Mikkeli’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Kerimäki Church. This up-and-coming church is an essential stop.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.

As you explore more of Joensuu, 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.

Savor the flavors at Joensuun Fever Oy, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Ravintola Aittaranta beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Kerubi. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Joensuu tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Summer Restaurant Tuulaaki, known for its inviting atmosphere. 60's Palaver is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Jet Set Bar Oy provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Joensuu. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Imatra, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. The first attraction of today is The Courting Wolf.

As you stroll around Joensuu, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Joensuu Bunker Museum. This worthwhile military museum offers a standout encounter with Joensuu. Next, make your way to Mustavaara 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 Joensuu.

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.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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.

Continue your journey to Tykkimäen Huvipuisto, one of the town’s most beloved spots that you shouldn’t miss.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lahti. 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 Lahti. 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 Pancho Villa Lahti, a top-rated dining spot in Lahti. If you're in the mood for something new, try Asemapäällikkö konditoria, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Coppa Eatery. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lahti.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar & Bistro Lahti, known for its lively atmosphere. Tirra is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Wanha Mestari offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Kotka. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Helsinki, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Lahti includes a museum, a park, a botanical garden, a maritime museum and much more! Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Katariina Seaside Park‎, an up-and-coming park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Sapokka, a serene botanical garden, also available for your discovery today.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.

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.

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

Say good night to Helsinki and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Finland!