9-Day Finland Road Trip from Turku traveling east to Tampere, Lahti, and Helsinki

On day 2 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 Turku, and Jänessaari. In the evening, you’ll end up in Tampere, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Make Lönnrot’s Park / Lönnrotinpuisto / Lönnrotsskvären one of your first sightseeing stops in Turku. Rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 408 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Turku Cathedral is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This lutheran cathedral is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,025 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Old Great Square. This square has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,058 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Turku Castle. A trip to this popular castle is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.5 out of 5-star rating as given by 9,121 previous visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Turku, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Jänessaari. Your travel time is around 8 min.

Take the opportunity to see Botanic Garden Of University Of Turku. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,447 visitors.

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.

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

Make sure to book a table at Vaakon Nakki, a popular restaurant in Tampere. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Tampere at Sailor's Bar & Grill, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Zeytuun. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Tampere tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Thrasherie Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Huurupiilo, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Moro Sky Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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.

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

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Näsi Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,319 visitors.

Next, make your way to Särkänniemi. This top attraction is an amusement park with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,050 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower. This cafe is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,254 travelers.

You can learn more about Tampere today by going on a tour. Tampere offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Shanghai Chinese Restaurant, a top-rated dining spot in Tampere. If you're in the mood for something new, try Ravintola Coussicca, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Koskikeskus. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Tampere.

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.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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 1 vibrant destinations - Tampere. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lahti. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you're ready to see some sights, Finlayson Area is a great place to start. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,162 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Museum Centre Vapriikki. This museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,185 travelers. Every year, 185,000 travelers come to experience this site to make the most of their time in Tampere.

We also recommend a stop at Koskipuisto. The park has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,840 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Moomin Museum. This museum is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,592 reviews.

Hatanpää Park Arboretum is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this park, rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,864 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

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 Lahti. Lahti 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.

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

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar & Bistro Lahti, known for its inviting atmosphere. Tirra is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Wanha Mestari provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing 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, Kotka. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Helsinki, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lahti, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kotka. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 37 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Katariina Seaside Park‎. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,436 reviews.

Continue your journey at Sapokka. This park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,859 travelers from near and far.

Kotka is also the home of Maritime Centre Vellamo. This maritime museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,890 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,753 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Helsinki, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Helsinki by securing a reservation at Palace. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Finnjävel Salonki, celebrated for its delectable contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Olo, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Base Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out One Pint Pub, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Liberty Or Death. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Finland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Helsinki has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Helsinki by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Helsinki Cathedral. This lutheran cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,060 visitors.

Senate Square is another popular attraction you could visit today. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 19,379 visitors.

Esplanadi Park is also highly recommended by travelers. This park has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,380 visitors.

Kauppatori is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This market square is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 26,148 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Uspenski Cathedral. This eastern orthodox cathedral has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,716 travelers.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Helsinki, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Helsinki below.

As you explore more of Helsinki, 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 Lappi Ravintola, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Vltava offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Ravintola Karl-Johan Oy. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Helsinki.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Kaisla offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Beaver Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Praha is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Finland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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

Drop by the renowned Ateneum. This popular art museum has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,952 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 400,000 travelers every year.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Finnish Museum Of Natural History. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,700 visitors, this natural history museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to National Museum Of Finland. Hosting around 447,139 visitors every year, the fascinating National Museum Of Finland is one of the best places to visit in Helsinki. This national museum has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,216 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Temppeliaukio Church. This cave church and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 12,801 local and international travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Turku, 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 Turku, 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Turku by booking a table at Kaskis. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Delhi Darbar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Continue your lively evening at Bar4, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Uusi Apteekki Pub is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Walo Rooftop Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!