10-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rovaniemi to Kemi, Oulu, Kajaani, and Ruka
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 10-day road trip through Finland. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Finland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 4 nights in Rovaniemi, 1 night in Kemi, 2 nights in Oulu, 1 night in Kajaani, and 1 night in Ruka. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Finland. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Rovaniemi, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Finland on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Finland. Santa Claus Village and Santa Claus Office are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Oulu Market Square, learn more about the unique Tietomaa Science Centre, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Santapark - The Home Cavern Of Santa Claus.
As you hit the open road and drive through Rovaniemi, Saarenkylä, Kemi, Oulu, Kiiminki, Kajaani, Suomussalmi, and Ruka, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Finland. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Finland.
Throughout your road trip in Finland, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Finland.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Finland fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Finland today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Rovaniemi - Arrival day
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- Angry Birds Playground
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Say hello to Rovaniemi! Your exciting road trip through Finland is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Rovaniemi for 3 nights before you continue your adventure!
Rovaniemi is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Angry Birds Playground, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Rovaniemi. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Finland. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Rovaniemi, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Ravintola Roka Street Bistro, a top-rated dining destination in Rovaniemi. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bull Bar and Grill, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gustav Kitchen & Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Rovaniemi this evening.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Pub Pisto, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Oliver's Corner Irish Pub, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Paha Kurki Rockhouse likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in Finland!
Day 2
- Rovaniemi
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Drive 19 km, 26 min
- Santa Claus Office
- Santa Claus Village
- Santa's Post Office
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Rovaniemi has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Rovaniemi by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Start by visiting Santa Claus Office, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking visitor center is sure to impress. Next on your list is Santa Claus Village, another must-visit landmark and notable visitor center renowned for its gorgeous features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Rovaniemi by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Santa's Post Office. This visually striking visitor center is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Rovaniemi experience.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Finland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Rovaniemi. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Scandic Rovaniemi City, a top-rated dining destination in Rovaniemi. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider RAVINTOLA MEMOS, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Rock Ravintola & Café Grande. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Rovaniemi this evening.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at People's Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Finland.
Day 3
- Rovaniemi
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Drive 176 km, 2 hours 19 min
- Lapland Husky Safaris
- SantaPark - the Home Cavern of Santa Claus
- Auttiköngäs
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On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Rovaniemi. You’ll stay in Rovaniemi for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Today’s agenda in Rovaniemi includes a safari park, an amusement park, and a waterfall. Lapland Husky Safaris is must-visit safari park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Santapark - The Home Cavern Of Santa Claus, an up-and-coming amusement park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Auttiköngäs, an idyllic waterfall, also available for your discovery today.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Finland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Rovaniemi. 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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Rovaniemen Asemaravintola, a popular restaurant in Rovaniemi. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Rovaniemi at Kauppayhtiö, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Yuca. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Rovaniemi tonight.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Finland!
Day 4
- Rovaniemi
- Kemi
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Drive 161 km, 2 hours 37 min
- Culture House Korundi
- Arktikum Science Museum
- Arktikum Arboretum
- Huskypoint Käpälämäki
- Ounasvaara Ski Oy
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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 2 vibrant destinations - Rovaniemi and Saarenkylä. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Kemi. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Rovaniemi, featuring fun adventures, picturesque spots, and breathtaking views. Start at Culture House Korundi, an up-and-coming cultural center in the city. Then, head to Arktikum and soak in the ambiance of this historic museum.
There are many interesting places to see in Rovaniemi, and when you are ready for more, go to Arktikum Arboretum. This is one of the city’s most often recommended mesmerizing spots of interest. After exploring the botanical garden, visit the up-and-coming Huskypoint Käpälämäki. Not far away, you'll also find Ounasvaara Ski Oy. This ski resort is a stunning highlight in Rovaniemi.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Kemi. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Kemi. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Lounaskahvila Kemin Paussi, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Pizzeria Di Mare beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Kalle's Burger / Scanburger. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Kemi tonight.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Olutravintola Kukko is an excellent place to start.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Finland!
Day 5
- Kemi
- Oulu
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Drive 107 km, 1 hour 47 min
- Oulu market square
- Oulu Market Hall
- Hollihaka Park
- Mannerheim park
- Rotuaarin pallo
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Oulu. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Oulu, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Start by visiting Oulu Market Square, a prime spot to begin your journey. This picture-perfect public square is sure to impress. Next on your list is Oulu Market Hall, another must-visit landmark and up-and-coming market renowned for its heritage-rich features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Kemi by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Hollihaka Park Oulu Outdoor Gym. This enchanting park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Kemi experience. We also recommend visiting Mannerheim Park, a curiosity-inducing park. Nearby, you'll also find Rotuaarin Pallo, ready to add charm to your journey.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Oulu. Oulu 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 Oulu's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Frans & Camille Bistro, a top-rated dining destination in Oulu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Koivurannan kahvila, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sauraha. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Oulu this evening.
Continue your lively evening at Pub Graali, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Leskinen is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, 1bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!
Day 6
- Oulu
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Drive 136 km, 2 hours 21 min
- Kierikki Stone Age Centre
- Koitelinkoski
- University of Oulu Botanical Gardens
- Nallikari beach
- Nallikari Lighthouse
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On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Oulu, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Kierikki Stone Age Centre. This curiosity-inducing archeological site is a history-steeped place to see in Oulu. Continue your discovery at Koitelinkoski, a romantic waterfall with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Oulu, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to University Of Oulu Botanical Gardens. This increasingly popular botanical garden offers an eye-catching encounter with Oulu. Next, make your way to Nallikari Beach to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Nallikari Lighthouse, an often recommended lighthouse that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Oulu.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Oulu and your accommodation.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Oulu. 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.
Savor the flavors at Crecian, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Beijing Oy beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Pizzeria Finlandia. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Oulu tonight.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!
Day 7
- Oulu
- Kajaani
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Drive 192 km, 2 hours 51 min
- The Oulu Museum Of Art
- Tietomaa Science Centre
- Oulu Automobile Museum
- Turkansaari Open Air Museum
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Oulu. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kajaani, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Oulu today. One of the most curiosity-inducing attractions included on the itinerary is Oulu Art Museum. This picture-perfect art gallery will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Tietomaa Science Centre and learn what makes this visually striking science center unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the curiosity-inducing Oulu Automobile Museum. After exploring the museum, head to Turkansaari Open Air Museum. This locally appreciated museum is a highlight in Oulu.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Kajaani, 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 Kajaani. 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Taukopaikka Nuottijärvi, an iconic dining spot in Kajaani. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Pancho Villa, a popular restaurant in Kajaani. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Peevee Bar Oy, a hidden gem nestled in Kajaani. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar Jussila (t:mi Juha J. Immonen) stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Restaurant Saint Kukko offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Finland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 8
- Kajaani
- Ruka
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Drive 271 km, 3 hours 25 min
- Kainuu Museum
- Kajaani Castle Ruins
- The Quiet People - The Silent People
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Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Kajaani and Suomussalmi, 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 Ruka. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
A blend of fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites await you in Kajaani on today’s itinerary. First up is the worthwhile museum, Kainuu Museum. Afterward, continue to Kajaani Castle Ruins, a castle every traveler should visit.
As you explore Kajaani’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Hiljaisen Kansan Tilataideteos (the Silent People). This up-and-coming art installation is an essential stop.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Ruka. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the village.
As you explore more of Ruka, 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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Ski Booster - Bar - Cafe - Grill, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hanki Baari is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at RUOK. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Ruka tonight.
Head back to your accommodation in Ruka and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Finland!
Day 9
- Ruka
- Rovaniemi
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Drive 263 km, 3 hours 34 min
- Jyrävä Rapids
- Pieni Karhunkierros Circle Trail
- Ruka Pedestrian Village
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On day 9 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 Ruka and Juuma. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rovaniemi, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s agenda in Ruka includes a waterfall, a hiking area, and a ski resort. Jyrävä Rapids is must-visit waterfall and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Pieni Karhunkierros Circle Trail, a frequently visited hiking area, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Ruka Pedestrian Village, an eye-catching ski resort, also available for your discovery today.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Rovaniemi. Rovaniemi 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 Rovaniemi. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Hanki, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Saigon Noodle Bar offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Lapland Restaurant Kotahovi. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Rovaniemi.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Finland!
Day 10
- Rovaniemi - Departure day
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- Lordi's Square
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Day 10 of your road trip in Finland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Rovaniemi before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Lordi's Square, a visually striking public square before you head out.
Maximize your last day in Finland and go on a shopping spree in Rovaniemi’s shopping center, the lively Revontuli Shopping Centre. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Finland.
Before you conclude your road trip in Finland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Rovaniemi.
You’ll then say farewell to Rovaniemi. 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!
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