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.

Make Esplanadi park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,022 reviews.

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.

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 Löyly Helsinki, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Base Bar is an excellent example of a great bar in Helsinki offering drinks at reasonable prices. You can also hang out at One Pint Pub, another of locals’ go-to bars in Helsinki. But if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in Helsinki, Liberty or Death is for you.

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

Day 2 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 3 nights left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Korkeasaari Zoo. This extraordinary zoo has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 12,452 visitors. Each year, around 498,266 people visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.

Next, make your way to National Museum of Finland. This national museum welcomes around 447,139 visitors yearly and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,147 reviews.

While in Helsinki, we also recommend a visit to Sibelius Park. This park has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 5,509 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Sibelius Monument. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 6,019 travelers, this sculpture is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Helsinki.

For a truly remarkable cheap holiday experience in Helsinki, join budget-friendly activities on this day of your vacation. Tours offer you a chance to take a closer look into Helsinki and the culture of past or present-day Finland.

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.

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

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Helsinki, Kaisla. Alternatively, visit Beaver Bar, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by Praha, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

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! You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Helsinki and conclude your journey with a lovely dinner, enjoying your remaining 2 nights in the area.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Temppeliaukio Church. This cave church is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 11,662 visitors.

Finnish Museum of Natural History is another popular attraction you could visit today. This natural history museum has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,155 visitors.

Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma is also highly recommended by travelers. This museum has a rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 7,063 visitors.

Ateneum is an attraction you won’t want to miss. Around 400,000 people visit this place every year. This art museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,449 reviews.

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.

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 Restaurant Pompier, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Kappeli is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Restaurant Farang, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

The Riff offers various snacks and drinks at affordable prices. When you're in the mood for a classic drink or something more adventurous, Roasberg is the perfect place.

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

Day 4’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 1 night, to stay in Helsinki. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Uspenski Cathedral, a remarkable eastern orthodox cathedral where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,146 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Kauppatori. This market square has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 25,097 travelers.

Senate Square is another must-visit attraction. This renowned sightseeing destination offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 18,455 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Helsinki Cathedral. This well-loved lutheran cathedral boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 10,211 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Kaivopuisto awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a neighbourhood of helsinki, this is a top pick rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,621 previous 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.

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.

Bar Loose 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, Restaurant Merimakasiini offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Restaurant Elite, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

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

On day 5 of your cheap holiday travels in Finland, you’ll tour 1: Kotka. You'll stay in Lappeenranta for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Helsinki, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kotka. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 35 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Kotka, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,703 visitors.

Katariina Seaside Park‎ is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,357 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Sapokka. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,810 reviews.

Maritime Centre Vellamo is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a maritime museum rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,802 reviews.

Lappeenranta 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.

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

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!

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Lamppu, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Pikku Pete Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, GI-Ki Oy also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 6 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Finland, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Parikkala, Savonlinna, and Imatra. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the town of Varkaus, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Parikkala.

Take the opportunity to see Parikkala Sculpture Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,108 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Varkaus, 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 Savonlinna to Varkaus may take around 1 hour 12 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Varkaus, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Journey into the unknown at Olavinlinna Castle, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable stronghold has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,676 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Savonlinna Market Square is a recommended place to visit. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 3,683 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 29 min. Upon your arrival in Imatra, 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 Imatrankoski. This extraordinary rapids has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,034 visitors.

While exploring Finland is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Varkaus has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Varkaus on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay 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 offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Terrace Cafe Torni. Or, try Sai Gon Kitchen, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Ravintola Lännentie 66 Ky after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to O'Harry's Irish Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Next Step also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience 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 1 wonderful destinations — Kuopio. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Jyvaskyla, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Varkaus and set your GPS to Kuopio. 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 58 min. Upon reaching Kuopio, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kick off the day at Hapelähde Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 547 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Valkeisenlammen puisto. Valkeisenlammen puisto is a park with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 784 reviews.

Kuopio Art Museum is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This art museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 408 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Kuopio Market Square. This market square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,021 visitors.

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 any of the following affordable places to stay.

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

Ravintola Teerenpeli 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, Figaro Restaurant offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Restaurant Frans & Sandra, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Matsi Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Poppari for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Harry's is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Day 8 of your road trip across Finland offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Raikku and Mänttä-Vilppula. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Tampere, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Mänttä-Vilppula, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Raikku may take around 1 hour 10 min. Upon your arrival in Raikku, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Vehoniemi automobile museum. This extraordinary automobile museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,012 visitors.

Next, make your way to Vehoniemi observation tower. This top attraction is an observation tower with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 177 visitors.

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.

Kick off the day at Gösta Serlachius Museum, Museum of Art, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,245 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Serlachius Museum - Gustaf. Serlachius Museum - Gustaf is a museum with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 908 reviews.

Tampere 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.

Savor the culinary delights of Tampere, 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 flavor-filled journey at Sailor's Bar & Grill, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Zeytuun offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Ravintola Coussicca is the perfect spot for you!

Cap off your dinner by heading to Thrasherie Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Huurupiilo is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Moro Sky Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Day 9 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Tampere, 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 Tampere, with 1 night to stay in the area.

Journey into the unknown at Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable cafe has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,011 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Museum Centre Vapriikki is a recommended place to visit. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,742 reviews. Based on recent data, the attraction hosts 185,000 visitors per year.

Another must-see attraction in Tampere is Finlayson Factory Area. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,941 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Tampere offers an experience you will remember.

Koskipuisto is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Tampere. This park promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.3 out of 5 stars in 3,750 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Moomin Museum. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,381 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

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.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Tampere, 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.

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

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at Bar K, a must-visit destination for a great night out. Locals also enjoy the cocktails at Kievari Kahdet Kasvot, where you can relax and have some fun in a welcoming environment. Another fantastic option is Save File - Pelaajan Olohuone, known for offering a variety of snacks and drinks at affordable prices.

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

Day 10 of your self-drive vacation in Finland will take you to the city of Turku, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Turku, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Finland, including Tampere.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Turku, 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 Tampere to Turku may take around 1 hour 55 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Turku, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Drop by the renowned Näsi Park. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,304 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Särkänniemi. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,747 visitors, this amusement park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Hatanpää Park Arboretum. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,785 reviews.

While exploring Finland is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Turku has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Turku 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 Turku offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Finland.

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Edison, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Rento offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Turku. Pikku Havanna is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 11 of your cheap holiday travels in Finland, you’ll tour 1: Turku. You'll stay in Helsinki 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, Helsinki. This car ride takes around 1 hour 58 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Turku Cathedral. Previous visitors have rated this lutheran cathedral an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,745 reviews.

Old Great Square is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This square is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 1,995 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Kupittaa. This district is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 4,520 reviews.

Adventure Park Seikkailupuisto is another outstanding experience in Turku. Around 1,819 travelers have rated this point of interest an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Turku Castle is not far away. This castle is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,724 reviews.

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

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

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

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 12 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Helsinki.

Make the most of your final day in Finland by visiting Helsinki’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Finland. Take home a piece of Finland with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Helsinki, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Ravintola Aino, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Restaurant Teatteri features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Olutravintola Pikkulintu Ruttopuisto is a highly recommended spot.

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!