9-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ruka to Rovaniemi, Kemi, Oulu, and Kajaani

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Juuma and Ruka. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Rovaniemi. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Ruka on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Pieni Karhunkierros Circle Trail is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this enchanting hiking area before continuing your journey. Myllykoski is your next stop. This beloved waterfall is one of the best-rated sights in Ruka.

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 Jyrävä Rapids. This romantic waterfall is a sight to behold.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Ravintola Roka Street Bistro, a top-rated dining spot in Rovaniemi. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bull Bar and Grill, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Gustav Kitchen & Bar. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Rovaniemi.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Pub Pisto, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Oliver's Corner Irish Pub offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Rovaniemi. Paha Kurki Rockhouse is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Rovaniemi for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Rovaniemi. Your adventure starts at Santa Claus Office, a worthwhile local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Santa Claus Village. This interesting visitor center is known for its instagrammable appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Rovaniemi's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Santa's Post Office. This instagrammable visitor center offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Scandic Rovaniemi City, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, RAVINTOLA MEMOS is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Rock Ravintola & Café Grande. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Rovaniemi tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at People's Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Rovaniemi and Saarenkylä. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kemi, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Rovaniemi. Your adventure starts at Culture House Korundi, an intriguing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Arktikum. This beloved museum is known for its picture-perfect appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Rovaniemi's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Lordi's Square. This photogenic public square offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Angry Birds Playground is also worth visiting, along with Ounasvaara Ski Oy. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Lounaskahvila Kemin Paussi, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Pizzeria Di Mare? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Kalle's Burger / Scanburger as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Kemi.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Olutravintola Kukko, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

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

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

Immerse yourself in Kemi’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at University Of Oulu Botanical Gardens. This romantic botanical garden is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the serene features of Nallikari Beach, a must-visit beach in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Nallikari Lighthouse, a curiosity-inducing lighthouse. For a change of scene, check out Oulu Automobile Museum, known for its photogenic features.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Frans & Camille Bistro, a top-rated dining destination in Oulu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Koivurannan kahvila, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sauraha. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Oulu this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Pub Graali, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Leskinen offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, 1bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Oulu, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Oulu and Kiiminki. You still have 1 night left in Oulu.

Today’s itinerary in Oulu covers several incredible sights, including an archeological site, a waterfall, a public square, a market, a park and much more! Start your adventure at Kierikki Stone Age Centre. This curiosity-inducing archeological site is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the mesmerizing wonders of Koitelinkoski, a must-see waterfall in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Oulu Market Square. This curiosity-inducing public square offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Oulu Market Hall, where you can take in standout features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Hollihaka Park Oulu Outdoor Gym and Hollihaka Park Oulu Outdoor Gym. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Oulu and your accommodation.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Oulu. 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.

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

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

On day 7 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 Oulu. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kajaani, where you will stay for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Oulu, featuring fun adventures, picturesque spots, and wallet-friendly activities. Start at Rotuaarin Pallo, a curiosity-inducing art installation in the city. Then, head to Oulu Art Museum and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect art gallery.

There are many interesting places to see in Oulu and when you are ready for more, go to Tietomaa Science Centre. This is one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots. After exploring the science center, visit the underrated Turkansaari Open Air Museum.

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

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

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar Jussila (t:mi Juha J. Immonen) after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Restaurant Saint Kukko for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

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.

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Kajaani and Suomussalmi, 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 Ruka. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Kajaani. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, a castle, and an art installation. Begin your adventure at Kainuu Museum. This is an increasingly popular museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Kajaani Castle Ruins, an increasingly popular castle in Kajaani.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Hiljaisen Kansan Tilataideteos (the Silent People).

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Ruka. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the village, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at RUOK, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Villiruokaravintola Rukan Kuksa beckons with its unique menu offerings.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!