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.

Immerse yourself in Ruka’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Pieni Karhunkierros Circle Trail. This eye-catching hiking area is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the romantic features of Myllykoski, a must-visit waterfall in the hamlet.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Jyrävä Rapids, a curiosity-inducing waterfall.

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

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

Dine in style at Ravintola Roka Street Bistro, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bull Bar and Grill boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Gustav Kitchen & Bar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Rovaniemi.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Pub Pisto is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Oliver's Corner Irish Pub, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Paha Kurki Rockhouse. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Rovaniemi. You’ll stay in Rovaniemi for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Santa Claus Village, a breathtaking visitor center that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Santa's Post Office, one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots that you shouldn’t miss.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Scandic Rovaniemi City, a top-rated dining destination in Rovaniemi. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider RAVINTOLA MEMOS, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Rock Ravintola & Café Grande. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Rovaniemi this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at People's Pub, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

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

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

A blend of fun adventures, picturesque spots, and scenic views await you in Rovaniemi on today’s itinerary. First up is the up-and-coming cultural center, Culture House Korundi. Afterward, continue to Arktikum, a museum every traveler should visit.

As you explore Rovaniemi’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Lordi's Square. This worthwhile public square is an essential stop. Following that, head to Angry Birds Playground, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Ounasvaara Ski Oy, an intriguing ski resort in the city.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Lounaskahvila Kemin Paussi, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Pizzeria Di Mare offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Kalle's Burger / Scanburger is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Kemi.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Olutravintola Kukko, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

Say good night to Kemi and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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 Oulu. In the evening, you’ll end up in Oulu, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at University Of Oulu Botanical Gardens. This up-and-coming botanical garden is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Nallikari Beach, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Nallikari Lighthouse, one of the most up-and-coming places to see in Kemi. This lighthouse is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Oulu Automobile Museum. Wander around and soak in the visually striking atmosphere this museum offers. Then, head to Mannerheim Park, a top-rated park that adds another dimension to your day.

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.

As you explore more of Oulu, 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Frans & Camille Bistro, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Koivurannan kahvila offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Sauraha. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Oulu.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Pub Graali, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Leskinen is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, 1bar 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.

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Oulu, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Kierikki Stone Age Centre. This increasingly popular archeological site is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Koitelinkoski, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Oulu Market Square, one of the most underrated places to see in Oulu. This public square is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Oulu Market Hall. Wander around and soak in the eye-catching atmosphere this market offers. Then, head to Hollihaka Park Oulu Outdoor Gym, a top-rated park that adds another dimension to your day.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Oulu.

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

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

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Oulu. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kajaani, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Oulu. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Rotuaarin Pallo is the perfect place to start. This art installation is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Oulu. Next, head to Oulu Art Museum, an increasingly popular art gallery, known for its eye-catching features.

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 Tietomaa Science Centre. This picture-perfect science center is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Turkansaari Open Air Museum. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Kajaani. 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 Kajaani. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar Jussila (t:mi Juha J. Immonen). This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Restaurant Saint Kukko offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Kajaani and Suomussalmi. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Ruka, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites in the charming city of Kajaani. Your adventure starts at Kainuu Museum, an underrated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Kajaani Castle Ruins. This up-and-coming castle is known for its respected appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Kajaani's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Hiljaisen Kansan Tilataideteos (the Silent People). This picture-perfect art installation offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at RUOK, a top-rated dining spot in Ruka. If you're in the mood for something new, try Villiruokaravintola Rukan Kuksa, another premier location with a delectable menu.

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