Cheap 12-Day Finland Road Trip from Helsinki to Lappeenranta, Varkaus, Jyvaskyla, Tampere, and Turku

Your exciting road trip through Finland starts when you reach the incredible city of Helsinki, where you'll stay for 4 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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Kaisaniemi Park. This park is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 5,016 reviews.

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.

Discover the heart of Helsinki through its culinary scene, starting with Restaurant Grön. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Restaurant Saaga, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Klaus K Hotel, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Base Bar and try some of its cocktails and snacks. One Pint Pub is another great place to hang out and unwind. If you want to have a drink or two with locals, you'll want to visit Liberty or Death, offering the perfect setting to unwind and savor the evening.

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 3 nights to stay in the area.

When you're ready to see some sights, Uspenski Cathedral is a great place to start. This eastern orthodox cathedral is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,716 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Kauppatori. This market square has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 26,148 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Senate Square. The sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 19,379 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Helsinki Cathedral. This lutheran cathedral is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,060 reviews.

Kaivopuisto is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this neighbourhood of helsinki, rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,806 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

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.

A cheap, budget vacation in Helsinki should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Helsinki, try some of our top recommendations.

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

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Kaisla and try some of its cocktails and snacks. Beaver Bar is another great place to hang out and unwind. If you want to have a drink or two with locals, you'll want to visit Praha, offering the perfect setting to unwind and savor the evening.

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

Day 3’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Helsinki, proving that cheap holidays in Finland can be extraordinary. You have ample time, or 2 nights, to stay in Helsinki. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Kick off the day at Linnanmäki, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 26,571 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Sibelius Monument. Sibelius Monument is a sculpture with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,272 reviews.

Sibelius Park is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,546 visitors.

Take the opportunity to embark on a unique experience in Helsinki. You’ll be excited to learn that there are plenty of easy to challenging tour options you can choose from and add to this cheap vacation package.

Savor the culinary delights of Helsinki, 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.

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!

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at The Riff, a must-visit destination for a great night out. Locals also enjoy the cocktails at Roasberg, where you can relax and have some fun in a welcoming environment.

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

Day 4 means another chance to make the best memories in Helsinki. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Helsinki 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!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Ateneum. This extraordinary art museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,952 visitors. Each year, around 400,000 people visit this site to learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Finnish Museum of Natural History. This top attraction is a natural history museum with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,700 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Temppeliaukio Church. This cave church is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 12,801 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit National Museum of Finland. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,216 travelers. Around 447,139 people come to experience this place of interest every year.

Finland is a wonderful destination with so much to show and so many stories to tell. To have the most extraordinary time on your low-cost holiday in Finland, consider adding tours to your affordable tour package to Finland. Choose from many thrilling to laid back and budget-friendly excursions in Finland that will add color and uniqueness to your adventure.

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, Helsinki 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.

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

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Finland! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Helsinki!

On day 5 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Finland, you’ll experience 1 charming destinations — Kotka. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Lappeenranta, where you'll stay for 1 night.

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 Helsinki to Kotka may take around 1 hour 40 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Kotka, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Katariina Seaside Park‎. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,436 visitors.

Sapokka is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,859 visitors.

Maritime Centre Vellamo is also highly recommended by travelers. This maritime museum has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,890 visitors.

Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,753 reviews.

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 any of the following affordable places 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, Lappeenranta 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.

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

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Lamppu offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Pikku Pete Pub is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. GI-Ki Oy is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Day 6 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 2 wonderful destinations — Lappeenranta, and Imatra. You’ll explore along your route leading to the town of Varkaus, where you'll be spending 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Lappeenranta Museum of Art. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 175 reviews.

Next up is Lappeenranta Fortress. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,819 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Sandcastle Lappeenranta. This point of interest has been rated 4.1 out of 5 stars in 3,094 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Lappeenranta, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Imatra may take around 32 min. Upon your arrival in Imatra, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Imatrankoski. This extraordinary rapids is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,146 visitors.

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.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Varkaus is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Container Restaurant Morton Varkaus, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Terrace Cafe Torni is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Sai Gon Kitchen.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Ravintola Lännentie 66 Ky stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, O'Harry's Irish Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Next Step is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Day 7 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 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Finland, including Kuopio, and Jyvaskyla.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Varkaus, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Kuopio may take around 57 min. Upon your arrival in Kuopio, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Valkeisenlammen puisto. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 800 visitors.

Next, make your way to Kuopio Market Square. This market square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,576 reviews.

While in Kuopio, we also recommend a visit to Museum of Kuopio. This museum has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 677 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Kuopio, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Jyvaskyla. Your travel time is around 1 hour 53 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Mäki-Matti Family Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 999 visitors.

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

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

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Ravintola Teerenpeli, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Figaro Restaurant, 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 Restaurant Frans & Sandra, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Matsi Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Poppari offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Harry's provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 8 of your cheap holiday travels in Finland, you’ll tour 2: Mänttä-Vilppula, and Raikku. You'll stay in Tampere for 2 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

After soaking in Jyvaskyla’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Mänttä-Vilppula. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 11 min. When you arrive in Mänttä-Vilppula, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Gösta Serlachius Museum, Museum of Art. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,285 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Serlachius Museum - Gustaf. This museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 921 reviews.

Raikku’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Mänttä-Vilppula behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 10 min. Raikku welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Vehoniemi automobile museum one of your first sightseeing stops in Raikku. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,148 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Vehoniemi observation tower is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This observation tower is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 189 reviews.

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

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. Tampere has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Discover the heart of Tampere through its culinary scene, starting with Vaakon Nakki. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Sailor's Bar & Grill, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Zeytuun, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

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

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

On day 9 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Finland, you’ll go deep into Tampere and see some of the destination’s most unforgettable attractions. Enjoy a feast at the end of the day, making the most of the time you have in the city of Tampere — 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Hatanpää Park Arboretum. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,864 visitors.

Tampere Cathedral is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This lutheran cathedral has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,575 travelers.

Tampere is also the home of Koskipuisto. Around 3,840 people have rated this park an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Finlayson Area. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from a total of 5,162 reviews, a visit to this sightseeing destination is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Tampere is also your chance to admire Museum Centre Vapriikki. This must-visit museum enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,185 reviews. Approximately 185,000 people travel to Tampere every year to see this attraction with their own eyes.

Cheap, budget vacations are nothing but incredible, especially when you’re in Finland. To have the best affordable travel experience in Finland, make time for some unique, challenging, or inspiring activities. Adding a tour to your travel plan promises a one-of-a kind adventure that will make your cheap vacation in Finland unforgettable. Fortunately, you'll find plenty of budget-friendly tours and cheap holiday deals in Finland.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Tampere, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

Shanghai Chinese Restaurant 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, Ravintola Coussicca offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Koskikeskus, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Visit Bar K, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Kievari Kahdet Kasvot serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Tampere. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is Save File - Pelaajan Olohuone.

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 Tampere, and Rauma. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Turku, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Moomin Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,592 visitors.

Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower is another popular attraction you could visit today. This cafe has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,254 visitors.

Amuri Museum of Workers' Housing is also highly recommended by travelers. This museum has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 883 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Tampere and set your GPS to Rauma. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 56 min. Upon reaching Rauma, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Journey into the unknown at Old Rauma, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable old town has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,791 reviews.

Turku 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.

A cheap, budget vacation in Turku should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Turku, try some of our top recommendations.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Martinsillan Grilli, 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 Ravintola Masala - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Smör promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

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

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

On day 11 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Finland, you’ll experience 1 charming destinations — Turku. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Helsinki, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Make Turku Cathedral one of your first sightseeing stops in Turku. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,025 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Old Great Square is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This square is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,058 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Kupittaa. This district has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,659 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Adventure Park Seikkailupuisto. A trip to this popular sightseeing destination is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.4 out of 5-star rating as given by 1,845 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Turku Castle. This castle enjoys an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,121 local and international travelers.

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

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Helsinki, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

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

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

Your budget road trip vacation in Finland is about to end. Day 12 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 Bar Loose, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Restaurant Merimakasiini is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Restaurant Pastis, 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!