9-Day Finland Road Trip from Lappeenranta traveling north to Imatra, Joensuu, and Savonlinna

Photo of Lappeenranta. Fonland. Small wooden pier with seagulls on The Saimaa Lake.
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Summary

Duration
9 days & 8 nights
Available
Jan. - Dec.
Hotel
8 nights included
Car rental
9 days included
Flights
Optional
Travel app
All vouchers, itinerary, & map

Description

Have the adventure of a lifetime with this 9-day road trip through Finland.

This incredible self-drive vacation package will take you through the best destinations in Finland. With this perfectly planned travel package, you will stay 4 nights in Lappeenranta, 1 night in Imatra, 2 nights in Joensuu, and 1 night in Savonlinna, experiencing the ultimate road trip in Finland. Your road trip will enable you to discover the country's most popular attractions and restaurants in Lappeenranta, Imatra, Joensuu, and Savonlinna. We'll help you experience the best 9 days in Finland you can imagine so you can leave happy and inspired.

Upon arriving in Lappeenranta, you'll collect the rental vehicle of your choice. From there, you'll be off to discover some of the most popular attractions in Finland, including the stunning Imatrankoski and Savonlinna Market Square.

You'll have an extensive selection of accommodations to choose from throughout your road trip. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, catering to all budgets. Whether you're in the mood for luxurious five-star hotels or cozy, budget-friendly accommodations, we've got you covered.

Your road trip will bring you close to the best attractions and most incredible sights in Finland. From the magnificent Olavinlinna Castle to the breathtaking Parikkala Sculpture Park and Sandcastle Lappeenranta, your journey will take you on a thrilling adventure through some of the most iconic travel destinations in the country. Your discovery doesn't end there. Make sure to marvel at the remarkable Koli National Park and learn more about the unique New Valamo to truly immerse yourself in the local culture. As you hit the open road and drive through Lappeenranta, Imatra, Joensuu, and Savonlinna, you'll also have plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Finland. Whether you're exploring enchanting small towns, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there's always something new and exciting to experience in Finland.

Add tours and tickets to each day of your trip to make the most of your time in Finland. You'll have the opportunity to choose from the best tours and activities that your travel destinations have to offer, meaning you'll never have a boring moment on your road trip through Finland.

Your travel plan itinerary also gives you multiple opportunities to look for souvenirs to memorialize your road trip in Finland.

You'll return home having experienced the very best of everything Finland has to offer. Each twist and turn of the journey adds a unique charm to your travel tales.

You can customize each day of your road trip vacation itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking. Enjoy the benefits of exploring all these great attractions at your own speed.

Your travel plan includes everything you need to experience the best of Finland. You'll be booked at the best hotels for 8 nights, with plenty of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll provide you with the best car rental for 8 days during your self-drive road trip, including CDW insurance.

You'll have access to 24/7 travel support, a personal travel agent, and a step-by-step guide via our flexible mobile app. You can choose and add your flight preferences as needed. Make your vacation in Finland extra special by adding tours and tickets to each day of your itinerary.

The best services in Finland fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your self-drive road trip in Finland today!

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Included

Hotel, 8 nights
Rental car, 9 days
CDW Insurance
Step-by-step guide
Personal travel agent
24/7 travel support

Destinations

Photo of the town of Lappeenranta from the fortress Linnoitus.Lappeenranta / 4 nights
Photo of aerial view of beautiful landscape of lakes and forest in Imatra, Finland.Imatra / 1 night
Joensuu - city in FinlandJoensuu / 2 nights
Savonlinna - city in FinlandSavonlinna / 1 night
Outokumpu

Map

Attractions

Photo of bridge to the Olavinlinna Olofsborg, the 15th-century medieval three-tower castle located in Savonlinna, Finland.Olavinlinna Castle
Koli National Park, Lieksa, Pielisen Karjalan seutukunta, North Karelia, Regional State Administrative Agency for Eastern Finland, Mainland Finland, FinlandKoli National Park
Savonlinna Market SquareSavonlinna Market Square
Photo of spillway on hydroelectric power station dam Imatrankoski, Imatra, Finland.Imatrankoski
Sandcastle Lappeenranta, Lappeenranta, Lappeenrannan seutukunta, South Karelia, Southern Finland, Mainland Finland, FinlandSandcastle Lappeenranta
Parikkala Sculpture Park, Parikkala, Imatran seutukunta, South Karelia, Southern Finland, Mainland Finland, FinlandParikkala Sculpture Park
Photo of the main church of the New Valamo Orthodox monastery in Heinavesi, Finland.New Valamo
Lappeenranta Fortress, Lappeenranta, Lappeenrannan seutukunta, South Karelia, Southern Finland, Mainland Finland, FinlandLappeenranta Fortress
Koli Nature Center Ukko, Lieksa, Pielisen Karjalan seutukunta, North Karelia, Regional State Administrative Agency for Eastern Finland, Mainland Finland, FinlandKoli Nature Center Ukko
Lusto's main building on the right and the extension on the left.Lusto – The Finnish Forest Museum
Photo of Kerimäki Church in Finland, built in 1847, is one of the biggest wooden churches in the world.Kerimäki church
Outokumpu Old Mine and Mining Museum, Outokumpu, Joensuun seutukunta, North Karelia, Regional State Administrative Agency for Eastern Finland, Mainland Finland, FinlandOutokumpu Old Mine and Mining Museum
Mustavaara, Kontiolahti, Joensuun seutukunta, North Karelia, Regional State Administrative Agency for Eastern Finland, Mainland Finland, FinlandMustavaara
Photo of Kotkaniemi in Luumäki, Finland.Kotkaniemi
Koli
Kruununpuisto, Imatra, Imatran seutukunta, South Karelia, Southern Finland, Mainland Finland, FinlandKruununpuisto
Aerial view of Joensuu ChurchJoensuu Church
Old Park, "Kissing Park", Lappeenranta, Lappeenrannan seutukunta, South Karelia, Southern Finland, Mainland Finland, FinlandOld Park, "Kissing Park
Taavetti Fortress, Luumäki, Lappeenrannan seutukunta, South Karelia, Southern Finland, Mainland Finland, FinlandTaavetti Fortress
Joensuu Bunker Museum, Joensuun kantakaupunki, Joensuu, Joensuun seutukunta, North Karelia, Regional State Administrative Agency for Eastern Finland, Mainland Finland, FinlandJoensuu Bunker Museum
Domestic Animal Park Korpikeidas, Lappeenranta, Lappeenrannan seutukunta, South Karelia, Southern Finland, Mainland Finland, FinlandDomestic Animal Park Korpikeidas
Kärnäkoski FortressKärnäkoski Fortress
Canal museum, Museum of Saimaa Canal, Lappeenranta, Lappeenrannan seutukunta, South Karelia, Southern Finland, Mainland Finland, FinlandCanal museum, Museum of Saimaa Canal
The Courting Wolf, Joensuun kantakaupunki, Joensuu, Joensuun seutukunta, North Karelia, Regional State Administrative Agency for Eastern Finland, Mainland Finland, FinlandThe Courting Wolf
The Church of the Three Crosses

Flights
Yes
No

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy

Travel details

Flights

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy
Travel dates

Include flights?

Yes
No

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Car
Yes
No

Car

Small car

Small car

Category
small car
Transmission
People
Large bags
Medium car

Medium car

Category
Medium
Transmission
People
Large bags
Premium car

Premium car

Category
premium car
Transmission
People
Large bags

Hotels

Personalize your itinerary

Day 1 – Lappeenranta - arrival day

Day 1

Day 1 – Lappeenranta - arrival day

  • Lappeenranta - Arrival day
  • More
  • Lappeenranta Fortress
  • More

Lappeenranta has many popular destinations you can explore. You could visit attractions like the incredible Lappeenranta Fortress. This attraction is a must-see tourist destination and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,767 visitors.

Your stay promises to be a delightful continuation of your exploration, providing comfort and tranquility to recharge for the adventures that lie ahead.

When you’re ready for dinner, we recommend you try one of the best restaurants in the city of Lappeenranta, The Kitchen. The restaurant is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 813 customers.

Another of the best restaurants in the city of Lappeenranta is Angus Steak & Wine. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 739 customers.

Locals recommend Kehruuhuone Oy as one of the best restaurants in the city of Lappeenranta. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 610 customers.

Lappeenranta also has several great bars that will fit all travel budgets. One of the best bars in the city of Lappeenranta is Ravintola Wolkoff. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 310 customers.

Enjoy toasting the start of your 9-day vacation in Finland!

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Experiences

Day 2 – Lappeenranta

Day 2

Day 2 – Lappeenranta

  • Lappeenranta
  • Imatra
  • More

Drive 191 km, 2 hours 31 min

  • Parikkala Sculpture Park
  • The Church of the Three Crosses
  • Domestic Animal Park Korpikeidas
  • More

You still have 3 nights left in Lappeenranta.

One of the best travel destinations you can make time for at the start of this day is Parikkala Sculpture Park. This incredible attraction is a sculpture garden and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,108 visitors.

Church of the Three Crosses is another popular attraction you'll visit. This spectacular attraction is rated 4.1 out of 5 stars by 109 visitors.

To do something one-of-a-kind today, you can join a popular tour. Check out all the fun and eye-opening experiences you can try out in Finland to make your travel experience in the country more memorable.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your accommodation in the city of Lappeenranta.

We recommend eating at one of the best restaurants in the city of Lappeenranta, like Lalo. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,647 customers.

Ravintola Dharahara is another of the best restaurant options in the city of Lappeenranta. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 305 customers.

Locals enjoy Ravintola Nautilus, one of the most popular restaurants in the city of Lappeenranta. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 249 customers.

After dinner, visit one of the best bars in the city of Lappeenranta, CARLOS. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 265 customers.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your road trip adventure through Finland!

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Experiences

Day 3 – Lappeenranta

Day 3

Day 3 – Lappeenranta

  • Lappeenranta
  • More

Drive 132 km, 1 hour 59 min

  • Kärnäkoski Fortress
  • Taavetti Fortress
  • Kotkaniemi
  • More

You still have 2 nights left in Lappeenranta.

One of the best travel destinations you can make time for at the start of this day is Kärnäkoski Fortress. This incredible attraction is a fortress and has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 213 visitors.

Taavetti Fortress is another popular attraction you'll visit. This spectacular attraction is rated 4.1 out of 5 stars by 289 visitors.

Another of the best travel destinations you can visit is Kotkaniemi. This amazing attraction is a farm and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 378 visitors.

To do something one-of-a-kind today, you can join a popular tour. Check out all the fun and eye-opening experiences you can try out in Finland to make your travel experience in the country more memorable.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your accommodation in the city of Lappeenranta.

We recommend eating at one of the best restaurants in the city of Lappeenranta, like Cafe Bar G. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 151 customers.

Ravintola Iskender is another of the best restaurant options in the city of Lappeenranta. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 331 customers.

Locals enjoy Välimeren Kebab, one of the most popular restaurants in the city of Lappeenranta. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 227 customers.

After dinner, visit one of the best bars in the city of Lappeenranta, Jussin Tupa. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 211 customers.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your road trip adventure through Finland!

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Experiences

Day 4 – Lappeenranta and Imatra

Day 4

Day 4 – Lappeenranta and Imatra

  • Imatra
  • Lappeenranta
  • More

Drive 45 km, 1 hour 12 min

  • Sandcastle Lappeenranta
  • Canal museum, Museum of Saimaa Canal
  • Kruununpuisto
  • Imatrankoski
  • More

Today, you'll hit the road once again, setting off on a journey towards the stunning city of Imatra. You’ll stay in Imatra for 1 night. But before you begin your drive, we recommend taking the time to explore some of Lappeenranta’s must-see attractions and local hotspots.

If you’re curious to see more of Lappeenranta, start your day with a visit to the amazing Sandcastle Lappeenranta. This much-appreciated top-tier point of interest and attraction is rated 4.1 out of 5 stars by 3,011 visitors.

You could also stop at another of the best local travel destinations in the area, the fascinating Canal museum, Museum of Saimaa Canal. This best-rated sightseeing destination and spectacular attraction has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 213 visitors.

We also recommend you spend some time at the popular Kruununpuisto to make the most of your road trip across Finland. The spectacular Kruununpuisto is a park that has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 283 visitors.

The lovely Imatrankoski is yet another attraction you could pay a visit. Around 3,034 visitors have left this rapids average ratings of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

After soaking up all the sights and sounds that Lappeenranta has to offer, you'll be ready to hit the open road and continue your unforgettable road trip towards the city of Imatra. Imatra offers plenty of options for top-rated hotels and other places to stay that fit all travel budgets.

After you’ve settled into your accommodation, we recommend a dinner at the popular Konnichiwa Sushi Imatra Mansikkala. This popular restaurant is one of the locals’ most recommended restaurants in the city, with ratings of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 258 reviews.

The remarkable Kent - Pizza & Steak House is another top restaurant in Imatra we recommend. This restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 395 customers.

If you would rather go somewhere else, the famous Restaurant Xiangfu is also an excellent choice. This well-loved restaurant is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 275 customers.

After your meal, we recommend you drink at one of the best bars in Imatra, the fantastic Kuohu Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 190 customers.

Celebrate another amazing vacation day filled with adventure in Finland!

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Experiences

Day 5 – Joensuu

Day 5

Day 5 – Joensuu

  • Joensuu
  • More

Drive 246 km, 3 hours 22 min

  • Mustavaara
  • Joensuu Bunker Museum
  • Joensuu Church
  • More

Day 5 of your road trip through Finland gives you the opportunity to experience two places in one day. You will stay in Joensuu for 2 nights. Have a hearty breakfast and get excited for a wonderful day ahead!

One of the best places to visit today in Joensuu is the amazing Mustavaara. This attraction is a best-rated sightseeing destination that is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 490 visitors.

You could also stop at the incredible museum, Joensuu Bunker Museum. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 270 visitors, this attraction is one of the top sights in the area.

Another unforgettable travel destination in the Joensuu is the outstanding Joensuu Church. This popular church building and travel destination has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 292 visitors.

There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your road trip in Finland. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before it's too late.

At the end of the day, you will drive to the city of Joensuu, where you will access the best hotels and places to stay.

After a long day of driving and exploring, we recommend you try Ravintola Kreeta, one of the best restaurants in the city of Joensuu. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 949 customers.

Locals also recommend Pizzeria Roihu as one of the best restaurants in the city of Joensuu. Pizzeria Roihu is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 832 customers.

After dinner, visit Ravintola Filipof, which is considered one of the best bars in the city of Joensuu. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 258 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like Kahvila Rento. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 177 customers.

Alternatively, Sointula is one of the best bars that locals recommend in the city of Joensuu. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 176 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure through Finland!

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Experiences

Day 6 – Joensuu

Day 6

Day 6 – Joensuu

  • Joensuu
  • More

Drive 124 km, 1 hour 58 min

  • Koli Nature Center Ukko
  • Koli National Park
  • Koli
  • More

You still have 1 night left in Joensuu.

One of the best travel destinations you can make time for at the start of this day is Koli Nature Center Ukko. This incredible attraction is a must-see tourist destination and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,627 visitors.

Koli National Park is another popular attraction you'll visit. This spectacular attraction is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,224 visitors.

Another of the best travel destinations you can visit is Koli. This amazing attraction is a mountain and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 345 visitors.

To do something one-of-a-kind today, you can join a popular tour. Check out all the fun and eye-opening experiences you can try out in Finland to make your travel experience in the country more memorable.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your accommodation in the city of Joensuu.

We recommend eating at one of the best restaurants in the city of Joensuu, like Local Bistro. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 543 customers.

Deli China is another of the best restaurant options in the city of Joensuu. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 531 customers.

Locals enjoy Kielo, one of the most popular restaurants in the city of Joensuu. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 228 customers.

After dinner, visit one of the best bars in the city of Joensuu, Gastropub Vispiläkauppa. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 122 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar that locals recommend, like 60's Palaver. This bar has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 398 customers.

Jet Set Bar Oy is another of the best bars in the city of Joensuu. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 349 customers.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your road trip adventure through Finland!

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Experiences

Day 7 – Joensuu and Savonlinna

Day 7

Day 7 – Joensuu and Savonlinna

  • Joensuu
  • Outokumpu
  • Savonlinna
  • More

Drive 212 km, 3 hours 9 min

  • The Courting Wolf
  • Outokumpu Old Mine and Mining Museum
  • New Valamo
  • More

Today, you'll hit the road once again, setting off on a journey towards the stunning city of Savonlinna. You’ll stay in Savonlinna for 1 night. But before you begin your drive, we recommend taking the time to explore some of Joensuu’s must-see attractions and local hotspots.

If you’re curious to see more of Joensuu, start your day with a visit to the amazing The Courting Wolf. This much-appreciated best-rated sightseeing destination and attraction is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 138 visitors.

You could also stop at another of the best local travel destinations in the area, the fascinating Outokumpu Old Mine and Mining Museum. This museum and spectacular attraction has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 835 visitors.

We also recommend you spend some time at the popular New Valamo to make the most of your road trip across Finland. The spectacular New Valamo is a monastery that has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,096 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights and sounds that Joensuu has to offer, you'll be ready to hit the open road and continue your unforgettable road trip towards the city of Savonlinna. Savonlinna offers plenty of options for top-rated hotels and other places to stay that fit all travel budgets.

After you’ve settled into your accommodation, we recommend a dinner at the popular Kalastajan Koju. This popular restaurant is one of the locals’ most recommended restaurants in the city, with ratings of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 767 reviews.

The remarkable Ravintola Majakka is another top restaurant in Savonlinna we recommend. This restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 887 customers.

If you would rather go somewhere else, the famous Pizzeria Capero is also an excellent choice. This well-loved restaurant is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 743 customers.

After your meal, we recommend you drink at one of the best bars in Savonlinna, the fantastic Olutravintola Sillansuu. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 548 customers.

Celebrate another amazing vacation day filled with adventure in Finland!

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Experiences

Day 8 – Savonlinna and Lappeenranta

Day 8

Day 8 – Savonlinna and Lappeenranta

  • Savonlinna
  • Lappeenranta
  • More

Drive 173 km, 2 hours 36 min

  • Savonlinna Market Square
  • Olavinlinna Castle
  • Kerimäki church
  • Lusto – The Finnish Forest Museum
  • More

Day 8 of your road trip through Finland gives you the opportunity to experience two places in one day. You'll start your day with some exploring in the city of Savonlinna and end it at a top-rated hotel in the city of Lappeenranta. You will stay in Lappeenranta for 1 night. Have a hearty breakfast and get excited for a wonderful day ahead!

One of the best places to visit today in Savonlinna is the amazing Savonlinna Market Square. This attraction is a top-tier point of interest that is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 3,683 visitors.

You could also stop at the incredible stronghold, Olavinlinna Castle. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,676 visitors, this attraction is one of the top sights in the area.

Another unforgettable travel destination in the Savonlinna is the outstanding Kerimäki Church. This popular church building and travel destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,022 visitors.

The spectacular Lusto – The Finnish Forest Museum is another popular attraction you can visit today. This fascinating museum and attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,571 visitors.

You can make the most of your new day in Savonlinna by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else the city has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your road trip in Finland. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before it's too late.

At the end of the day, you will drive to the city of Lappeenranta, where you will access the best hotels and places to stay.

After dinner, visit Cafe Bar G, which is considered one of the best bars in the city of Lappeenranta. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 151 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure through Finland!

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Experiences

Day 9 – Lappeenranta - departure day

Day 9

Day 9 – Lappeenranta - departure day

  • Lappeenranta - Departure day
  • More
  • Old Park, "Kissing Park
  • More

Day 9 of your road trip in Finland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch one last glimpse of Lappeenranta before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. When you have time to explore the area before you make your way home, we recommend visiting some of the following attractions.

Old Park, "Kissing Park" is an extraordinary attraction you could visit to enjoy your last day in Lappeenranta. This park and popular site of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 297 visitors.

Take a stroll along the main shopping streets of Lappeenranta and find some souvenirs to remind you of your road trip in Finland.

You’ll then say farewell to Lappeenranta. We wish you a pleasant journey home, with many wonderful memories of your unforgettable vacation in Finland!

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Experiences

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