9-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Helsinki traveling north to Lahti, Tampere, and Turku

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Helsinki has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Helsinki by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Helsinki on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Kauppatori is the first of them. Senate Square is your next stop. This notable public square is one of the best-rated sights in Helsinki.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Helsinki Cathedral. This romantic church is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Korkeasaari Zoo.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Löyly Helsinki, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Ravintola Nokka offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Hotel Kämp is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Helsinki.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Riff. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Roasberg offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two.

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

On day 4 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.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. The first attraction of today is Ateneum. This intriguing museum is a standout place to see in Helsinki. Continue your discovery at Finnish Museum Of Natural History, a photogenic 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 National Museum Of Finland. This curiosity-inducing museum offers a heritage-rich encounter with Helsinki. Temppeliaukio Church is the last of our recommendations for today. 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 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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Helsinki. 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 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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Kotka, 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 Lahti. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Helsinki, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kotka. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 35 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge, a locally appreciated museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Katariina Seaside Park‎, where you can soak in the peaceful surroundings. Next, explore Sapokka, yet another curiosity-inducing place to see in the area. After the botanical garden, make time to go to Maritime Centre Vellamo. This stunning maritime museum is well worthwhile the visit.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Pancho Villa Lahti, a top-rated dining destination in Lahti. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Asemapäällikkö konditoria, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Coppa Eatery. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lahti this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar & Bistro Lahti, known for its inviting atmosphere. Tirra is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Wanha Mestari provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Hämeenlinna, Raikku, and Kangasala. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Tampere, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Hämeenlinna. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Lahti, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Hämeenlinna may take around 1 hour 8 min. Upon your arrival in Hämeenlinna, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is The Artillery, Engineer And Signals Museum Of Finland. Spend some time admiring the heritage-rich features of the military museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Aulanko Tower. This curiosity-inducing observation deck is a traveler-favorite in the city.

After soaking in Hämeenlinna’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Raikku. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 45 min. When you arrive in Raikku, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make your way to Vehoniemi Automobile Museum, a beloved museum that draws attention for its gorgeous features.

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

Begin your journey at Mobilia and explore the visually striking features.

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 Tampere. Tampere 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.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Vaakon Nakki, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Sailor's Bar & Grill beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Zeytuun. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Tampere tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Thrasherie Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Huurupiilo offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Moro Sky Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Whether you decide to explore Tampere on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Finlayson Area is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching historical landmark before continuing your journey. Koskipuisto is your next stop. This underrated park is one of the best-rated sights in Tampere.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Museum Centre Vapriikki. This instagrammable museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower and Hatanpää Park Arboretum.

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.

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

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.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!

On day 8 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 Jänessaari and Turku. In the evening, you’ll end up in Helsinki, where you will stay for 1 night.

Turku is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots! Start at Turku Castle, an underrated castle that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Turku Cathedral, enchanting visitors with its historic appeal. Continue your exploration at Old Great Square. This public square is one of the village’s most locally appreciated spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Turku at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Kupittaa.

When you arrive in Jänessaari, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take your self-guided tour to Botanic Garden Of University Of Turku, an often recommended botanical garden that everyone visiting Jänessaari should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Rioni, a top-rated dining destination in Helsinki. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kappeli, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Farang. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Helsinki this evening.

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