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

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

Whether you decide to explore Rovaniemi on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Santa Claus Office makes a great addition to your morning plans. This worthwhile visitor center is an instagrammable place to see in Rovaniemi. Continue your discovery at Santa Claus Village, a visually striking visitor center with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Rovaniemi, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Santa's Post Office. This increasingly popular visitor center offers an eye-catching encounter with Rovaniemi. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Rovaniemi.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Scandic Rovaniemi City, an iconic dining spot in Rovaniemi. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of RAVINTOLA MEMOS, a popular restaurant in Rovaniemi. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Rock Ravintola & Café Grande, a hidden gem nestled in Rovaniemi. 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 People's Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

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

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Finland includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Rovaniemi and Saarenkylä. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kemi, where you'll spend 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the beloved Culture House Korundi and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Arktikum, a historic museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Lordi's Square, one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the beloved Angry Birds Playground.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Saarenkylä, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Rovaniemi to Saarenkylä may take around 7 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Saarenkylä, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Ounasvaara Ski Oy, a locally appreciated ski resort in Saarenkylä. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

Kemi 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 Kemi.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Lounaskahvila Kemin Paussi, a top-rated dining destination in Kemi. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pizzeria Di Mare, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kalle's Burger / Scanburger. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Kemi this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Olutravintola Kukko offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

Head back to your accommodation in Kemi and get some rest to prepare 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, including Oulu. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Oulu, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Oulu’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Kemi behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 15 min. Oulu welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit University Of Oulu Botanical Gardens, an underrated botanical garden that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Nallikari Beach and admire its mesmerizing features.

When you’re ready, continue to Nallikari Lighthouse, a frequently visited lighthouse beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Oulu Automobile Museum, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Mannerheim Park, an eye-catching place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Oulu. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting Pub Graali, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Leskinen, a bar catering to every mood and preference. 1bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Greet day 6 of your road trip in Finland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Oulu, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Oulu and Kiiminki.

Let Oulu Market Square set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect public square before continuing your journey. Oulu Market Hall is your next stop. This often recommended market is one of the best-rated sights in Oulu.

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 Hollihaka Park Oulu Outdoor Gym. This enchanting park is a sight to behold.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Kiiminki may take around 34 min. Upon your arrival in Kiiminki, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Koitelinkoski. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the waterfall before you continue to your next stop.

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

Oulu 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 Oulu.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Crecian, a top-rated dining spot in Oulu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Beijing Oy, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Pizzeria Finlandia. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Oulu.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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 place, which are Oulu. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Kajaani, where will spend 1 night.

Whatever your travel style is, Rotuaarin Pallo is an essential stop in Oulu. This curiosity-inducing art installation provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Oulu Art Museum, an instagrammable art gallery, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Tietomaa Science Centre, an often recommended science center. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the curiosity-inducing Turkansaari Open Air Museum.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Kajaani, 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 Kajaani's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Taukopaikka Nuottijärvi, a top-rated dining spot in Kajaani. If you're in the mood for something new, try Pancho Villa, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Peevee Bar Oy. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Kajaani.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar Jussila (t:mi Juha J. Immonen) is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Restaurant Saint Kukko, offering a different kind of charm.

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

On day 8 of your road trip in Finland, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Kajaani and Suomussalmi are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Ruka, where you will stay for 1 night.

No visit to Kajaani is complete without Kainuu Museum. This locally appreciated museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Kajaani Castle Ruins, another must-visit attraction.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Suomussalmi. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 35 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Hiljaisen Kansan Tilataideteos (the Silent People), an up-and-coming art installation that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at RUOK, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Villiruokaravintola Rukan Kuksa? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

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