11-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Lappeenranta traveling north to Imatra, Joensuu, and Savonlinna

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Lappeenranta, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Immerse yourself in Lappeenranta’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Lappeenranta Fortress. This stunning historical landmark is sure to ignite your curiosity.

After soaking in Lappeenranta’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Parikkala. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 3 min. When you arrive in Parikkala, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Parikkala Sculpture Park. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the sculpture garden before you continue to your next stop.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Imatra and set your GPS to Ruokolahti. 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 12 min. Upon reaching Ruokolahti, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your journey at Ruokolahden Freeski Ky and explore the mesmerizing features.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Lappeenranta.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Lappeenranta's best restaurants.

Don’t miss out on dining at Meeza Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Lappeenranta. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ravintola Nautilus, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at CARLOS. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lappeenranta this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Gi-ki Oy after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Finland.

On day 3 of your road trip in Finland, you’ll start and end your day in Lappeenranta, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Lappeenranta for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Lappeenranta and Luumäki to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Start your adventure at Canal Museum, Museum Of Saimaa Canal. This curiosity-inducing museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Luumäki, 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 Lappeenranta to Luumäki may take around 24 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Luumäki, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your self-guided tour starts at Kotkaniemi, an often recommended museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

After soaking in Lappeenranta’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Luumäki. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 24 min. When you arrive in Luumäki, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take your self-guided tour to Taavetti Fortress, an up-and-coming castle that everyone visiting Luumäki should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Lappeenranta and your accommodation.

As you explore more of Lappeenranta, 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.

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

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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 Ylämylly and Joensuu. In the evening, you’ll end up in Joensuu, where you will stay for 3 nights.

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

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Car Museum Myllyn Vanhat Autot. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

Set your GPS to Joensuu and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Joensuu beckons with new experiences!

Head to Joensuu Bunker Museum, a curiosity-inducing military museum in Joensuu. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Joensuun Fever Oy, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Ravintola Aittaranta offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Kerubi is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Joensuu.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Summer Restaurant Tuulaaki, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to 60's Palaver. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Jet Set Bar Oy, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Joensuu, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Outokumpu, Juurikka, Varistaipale, and Palokki. You still have 2 nights left in Joensuu.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Joensuu, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Outokumpu. This drive usually takes around 38 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Outokumpu Old Mine And Mining Museum, an up-and-coming museum that draws visitors from near and far.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Outokumpu, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Juurikka may take around 40 min. Upon your arrival in Juurikka, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering New Valamo, an intriguing monastery known for its picture-perfect features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Juurikka, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Varistaipale. This drive usually takes around 12 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your self-guided tour starts at Varistaipale Canal, a locally appreciated historical landmark that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Joensuu.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Joensuu. 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 delicious meal at Original Sokos Hotel Kimmel, a highly-rated dining destination in Joensuu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Pizza Express & Cafe, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ravintola Wanha Aitta. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Joensuu this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Play Joensuu, known for its inviting atmosphere. Ravintola Mikko is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!

Greet day 7 of your road trip in Finland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Joensuu for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Salonkylä and Ylä-Koli.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Joensuu, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Salonkylä may take around 1 hour 6 min. Upon your arrival in Salonkylä, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your self-guided tour starts at Elämyspiha Pikkukili, an often recommended petting zoo that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Ylä-Koli. This car ride takes around 1 hour 4 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Koli. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the national park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Koli National Park. This curiosity-inducing national park is a traveler-favorite in the village. Not far away, you’ll also find Koli Nature Center Ukko. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the visitor center.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Joensuu and your accommodation.

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

Dine in style at Mrs. Asia, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Vesikioski boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Deli China. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Joensuu.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Joensuu. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Savonlinna, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Joensuu today. One of the most frequently visited attractions included on the itinerary is Joensuu Art Museum.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the often recommended North Karelian Museum Hilma.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Savonlinna. Savonlinna offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you explore more of Savonlinna, 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Kalastajan Koju, a top-rated dining spot in Savonlinna. If you're in the mood for something new, try Konewerstas Cafe & Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Opetusravintola Paviljonki. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Savonlinna.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Savonlinna. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lappeenranta, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with an awe-inspiring, an instagrammable, and a historic. Start at the worthwhile Savonlinna Market Square, a stunning public square in Savonlinna. Next, go to Riihisaari – Savonlinnan Museo, Savonlinna Museum.

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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Lappeenranta's best restaurants.

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

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Finland.