Cheap 11-Day Finland Road Trip from Helsinki traveling east to Kotka, Lappeenranta, Varkaus, Kuopio, and Jyvaskyla

Your exciting road trip through Finland starts when you reach the incredible city of Helsinki, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Helsinki and begin your adventure in Finland.

Helsinki is a popular cheap holiday destination in Finland with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Finland, Helsinki is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You’ll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

Kick off the day at Kaisaniemi Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 5,016 reviews.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Helsinki offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Finland.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Restaurant Grön, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Restaurant Saaga offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Klaus K Hotel is the perfect spot for you!

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at Base Bar, a must-visit destination for a great night out. Locals also enjoy the cocktails at One Pint Pub, where you can relax and have some fun in a welcoming environment. Another fantastic option is Liberty Or Death, known for offering a variety of snacks and drinks at affordable prices.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Finland!

Day 2 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Helsinki, proving that cheap holidays in Finland can be extraordinary. Have fun exploring the best places to visit in the city. At the end of the day, enjoy wining and dining at Helsinki, with 2 nights to stay in the area.

Make Linnanmäki one of your first sightseeing stops in Helsinki. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 26,571 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Sibelius Monument is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This sculpture is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,272 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Sibelius Park. This park has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,546 visitors.

Make your vacation in Finland more memorable and epic without spending a fortune. Take advantage of the cheap holiday deals you'll find in Finland and add budget-friendly activities to your travel plan.

Make the most of your budget vacation in Finland by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Helsinki that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Kaisla is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. Alternatively, Beaver Bar is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day. You might also want to cap the night off at Praha, a fascinating bar that offers a unique ambiance and a wide selection of cocktails.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in Finland!

Day 3 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories on your cheap holiday in Finland. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Helsinki and its top sights! Conclude your day with a lovely dinner.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Kaivopuisto. This extraordinary neighbourhood of helsinki is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,806 visitors.

Next, make your way to Uspenski Cathedral. This top attraction is an eastern orthodox cathedral with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,716 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Kauppatori. This market square is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 26,148 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Senate Square. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 19,379 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Helsinki Cathedral. This lutheran cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,060 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned locations, today is the perfect opportunity to join a popular activity in Helsinki. Plenty of budget-friendly tours in Helsinki offer enriching experiences that will make your cheap holiday in Finland worth remembering for a lifetime.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Helsinki, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

Start your foodie adventure at Löyly Helsinki, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Ravintola Nokka, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Hotel Kämp, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into The Riff, considered one of the best bars in Helsinki. You can also enjoy drinks at Roasberg, known for its fun atmosphere.

A road trip vacation in Helsinki can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Finland!

Day 4 of your road trip across Finland offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Helsinki. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Kotka, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Ateneum. Over 400,000 travelers visit this attraction every year. Previous visitors have rated this art museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,952 reviews.

Museum Of Contemporary Art Kiasma is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 7,331 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Finnish Museum Of Natural History. This natural history museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,700 reviews.

Temppeliaukio Church is another outstanding experience in Helsinki. Around 12,801 travelers have rated this cave church an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

While exploring Finland is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Kotka has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Kotka on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Savor the culinary delights of Kotka, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

Vausti offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Canttiini. Or, try Keisarinsatama, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Players Sports Bar, where the evening is just getting started.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Finland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Finland!

Day 5 means another chance to make the best memories in Kotka. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Kotka and check out the most popular dining spots. You still have 1 night left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

Kick off the day at Katariina Seaside Park‎, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,436 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Sapokka. Sapokka is a park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,859 reviews.

Sibeliuksenpuisto is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 603 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Maritime Centre Vellamo. This maritime museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,890 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge, a famous museum in Kotka. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,753 travelers.

Your discovery of Kotka does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Kotka on a personal level. Check out the fantastic selection of affordable tours and tickets offered on this leg of your journey across this top cheap holiday destination in Europe, Finland.

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Kotka. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Maritime Centre Vellamo, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Ravintola India Palace is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Tai Hing, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Finland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Finland!

On day 6 of your cheap holiday travels in Finland, you’ll tour 2 destinations: Kouvola, and Lappeenranta. You'll stay in Lappeenranta for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kouvola. This car ride takes around 45 min.

Journey into the unknown at Tykkimäen Huvipuisto, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable amusement park has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 3,855 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Lappeenranta. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 3 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Sandcastle Lappeenranta. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 3,094 visitors.

Next, make your way to Lappeenranta Fortress. This top attraction is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,819 visitors.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Lappeenranta. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Lappeenranta, relax and restore your energy at your preferred affordable place to stay.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Lappeenranta offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Finland.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Angus Steak & Wine, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by My Bakery Cafe Oy - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Ravintola Iskender promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Lamppu stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Pikku Pete Pub offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Gi-ki Oy is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Finland. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Finland!

Day 7 of your road trip across Finland is another proof that cheap holidays in Finland can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 3 wonderful destinations — Imatra, Parikkala, and Savonlinna. You’ll explore along your route leading to the town of Varkaus, where you'll be spending 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Lappeenranta, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Imatra. Your travel time is around 29 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Imatrankoski. This rapids is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,146 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Imatra, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Parikkala. Your travel time is around 38 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Parikkala Sculpture Park, a remarkable sculpture garden where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,202 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Savonlinna, 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 Parikkala to Savonlinna may take around 31 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Savonlinna, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make Lusto – The Finnish Forest Museum one of your first sightseeing stops in Savonlinna. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,608 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Varkaus offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Finland. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the town.

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Varkaus has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Container Restaurant Morton Varkaus stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, Terrace Cafe Torni offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Sai Gon Kitchen, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Ravintola Lännentie 66 Ky is an excellent place to start. You could also check out O'harry's Irish Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Next Step. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Finland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Finland!

On day 8 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Finland, you’ll experience 1 charming destinations — Joensuu. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Kuopio, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Joensuu’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Varkaus behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 30 min. Joensuu welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Joensuu Art Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 428 reviews.

Next up, make your way to The Courting Wolf. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 138 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to North Karelian Museum Hilma. This museum has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 192 visitors.

While exploring Finland is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Kuopio has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Kuopio on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Kuopio, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Hygge BRO, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Restaurant Isä Camillo, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss Panza Kuopio, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

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

A road trip vacation in Joensuu can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Finland!

Day 9 of your self-drive vacation in Finland will take you to the city of Jyvaskyla, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Jyvaskyla, you'll explore 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in Finland, including Kuopio, Siilinjärvi, and Leppävirta.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Kuopio Market Square, a remarkable market square where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,576 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Valkeisenlammen Puisto. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 800 travelers.

Hapelähde Park is another must-visit attraction. This renowned park offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 556 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Kuopio, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Siilinjärvi. This drive usually takes around 16 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Kasurila. This village is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 830 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Leppävirta. This car ride takes around 50 min.

Kick off the day at Moomin Ice Cave, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 706 reviews.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Jyvaskyla. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Jyvaskyla, relax and restore your energy at your preferred affordable place to stay.

Going on cheap, budget vacations in Finland shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Jyvaskyla is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Ravintola Teerenpeli, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Figaro Restaurant is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Restaurant Frans & Sandra.

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

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Finland!

Day 10 of your road trip across Finland offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Jyvaskyla, and Lahti. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Helsinki, where you'll stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Nero Stairs. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 538 reviews.

Next up is Natural History Museum Of Central Finland. This natural history museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 583 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Mäki-matti Family Park. This park has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 999 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lahti. This car ride takes around 2 hours.

Make Laune Central Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,979 reviews.

Helsinki offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Finland. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

Make the most of your budget vacation in Finland by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Helsinki that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Restaurant Olo, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Ravintola Teerenpeli offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Restaurant Pompier is the perfect spot for you!

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Helsinki!

Your budget road trip vacation in Finland is about to end. Day 11 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Helsinki.

On your last day in Finland, take time to indulge in shopping at Helsinki’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Helsinki is the remarkable Esplanadi Park. This park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,380 visitors.

Before you conclude your road trip in Finland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Helsinki.

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Helsinki, consider a top-rated restaurant like Restaurant Rioni, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Kappeli is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Restaurant Farang, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Helsinki.

You’ll then say farewell to Helsinki. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Finland!