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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Tampere has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Tampere by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Särkänniemi. This up-and-coming amusement park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower, one of the city’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Hatanpää Park Arboretum, one of the most frequently visited places to see in Tampere. This botanical garden is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Shanghai Chinese Restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ravintola Coussicca is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Koskikeskus. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Tampere tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Bar K, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Kievari Kahdet Kasvot is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Save File - Pelaajan Olohuone ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 3 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 Tampere and Raikku. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lahti, where you will stay for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Tampere. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Finlayson Area is the perfect place to start. This historical landmark is one of the most often recommended places to visit in Tampere. Next, head to Museum Centre Vapriikki, an intriguing museum, known for its historic 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 Moomin Museum. This instagrammable museum offers a unique experience that is highly recommended.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Raikku. This drive usually takes around 25 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Head to Vehoniemi Automobile Museum, an underrated museum in Raikku. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Pancho Villa Lahti, a popular restaurant in Lahti. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Lahti at Asemapäällikkö konditoria, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Coppa Eatery. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Lahti tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar & Bistro Lahti, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Tirra provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Wanha Mestari offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Kouvola and Lappeenranta. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lappeenranta. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

After soaking in Lahti’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Kouvola. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 55 min. When you arrive in Kouvola, it's time to take a break from the road.

Head to Tykkimäen Huvipuisto, a beloved amusement park in Kouvola. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lappeenranta. This car ride takes around 1 hour 3 min.

Next, make your way to Lappeenranta Fortress, another highlight in the city.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Angus Steak & Wine, an iconic dining spot in Lappeenranta. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of My Bakery Cafe Oy, a popular restaurant in Lappeenranta. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ravintola Iskender, a hidden gem nestled in Lappeenranta. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Lamppu, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Pikku Pete Pub, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Gi-ki Oy likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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 Helsinki. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Kotka, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Lappeenranta to Kotka may take around 1 hour 18 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Kotka, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take your self-guided tour to Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge, an increasingly popular museum that everyone visiting Kotka should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Katariina Seaside Park‎. This eye-catching park is one of the most increasingly popular attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Sapokka, a masterful botanical garden, popular among locals as well as travelers. Maritime Centre Vellamo is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this increasingly popular maritime museum before you continue your journey.

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 Helsinki. Helsinki 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.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Helsinki by securing a reservation at Palace. Esteemed for its 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Olo, renowned for its delicious modern dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Demo, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Base Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out One Pint Pub, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Liberty Or Death provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Helsinki for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Begin your adventure at Uspenski Cathedral. This is a beloved church you should not miss. Another must-see is Kauppatori, an interesting market square in Helsinki.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Esplanadi Park. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Senate Square, another of the city’s captivating attractions. We recommend ending your self-guided tour of the city with a culturally significant church. Helsinki Cathedral is a truly remarkable place to visit 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.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Lappi Ravintola, 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 Restaurant Vltava, 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 Ravintola Karl-Johan Oy, a hidden gem nestled in Helsinki. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Kaisla, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Beaver Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Praha. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

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

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites in the charming city of Helsinki. Your adventure starts at Ateneum, an often recommended local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Museum Of Contemporary Art Kiasma. This underrated museum is known for its visually striking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Helsinki's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Finnish Museum Of Natural History. This photogenic museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Temppeliaukio Church is also worth visiting.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Bar Inez, an iconic dining spot in Tampere. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Museokeskus Vapriikki, a popular restaurant in Tampere. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Café Pispala, a hidden gem nestled in Tampere. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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