7-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Lappeenranta to Kotka, Helsinki, Varkaus, and Joensuu and surrounding area

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Imatra, Parikkala, and Luumäki. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Kotka. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Lappeenranta, including a park, a waterfall, a sculpture garden, a museum and much more! Start your adventure at Kruununpuisto. This underrated park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Imatrankoski located in Lappeenranta for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Parikkala Sculpture Park. Its awe-inspiring features will captivate you. After the sculpture garden, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Kotkaniemi. This museum has a heritage-rich appeal.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Kotka. Kotka offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

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

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Players Sports Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Kotka. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Helsinki, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Kotka. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a maritime museum, a park, a botanical garden, a museum and much more! Begin your adventure at Maritime Centre Vellamo. This is a frequently visited maritime museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Sibeliuksenpuisto, a worthwhile park in Kotka.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Sapokka. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Katariina Seaside Park‎, another of the city’s curiosity-inducing attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge, a historic place of interest in the city.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Helsinki, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Helsinki. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Base Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, One Pint Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Liberty Or Death also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!

Dive into day 4 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 Varkaus. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Start your day with a visit to Senate Square. This notable public square is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Helsinki Cathedral, which may be one of the most enchanting places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Helsinki on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Esplanadi Park, an interesting park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Kauppatori.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Varkaus. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

As you explore more of Varkaus, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Container Restaurant Morton Varkaus, a top-rated dining destination in Varkaus. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Terrace Cafe Torni, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sai Gon Kitchen. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Varkaus this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Ravintola Lännentie 66 Ky. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to O'harry's Irish Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Next Step provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Head back to your accommodation in Varkaus and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Finland!

On day 5 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 Juurikka and Ylä-Koli. In the evening, you’ll end up in Joensuu, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at the intriguing New Valamo, a historic monastery in Varkaus. Next, go to Koli National Park.

After visiting New Valamo and Koli National Park, take time to explore Varkaus's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Koli Nature Center Ukko. This picturesque visitor center offers a unique experience. Koli is another noteworthy stop.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Joensuu. Joensuu offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Dine in style at Joensuun Fever Oy, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Ravintola Aittaranta boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Kerubi. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Joensuu.

Keep the evening going at Summer Restaurant Tuulaaki, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to 60's Palaver, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Jet Set Bar Oy, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Finland!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Joensuu and Hasanniemi. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lappeenranta, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures in Joensuu. Begin your sightseeing with Joensuu Art Museum. This underrated museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Joensuu Church, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Joensuu, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to The Courting Wolf. This beloved point of interest is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Mustavaara, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lappeenranta, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lappeenranta. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!