11-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Tampere traveling south to Turku, Helsinki, Kotka, and Lahti

Day 2 of your road trip across Finland promises a magnificent time exploring Tampere. You have 1 night left in Tampere. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Tampere is home to plenty of attractions that offer a charming, a majestic, a mesmerizing, a visually striking, and a detailed! Start at Hatanpää Park Arboretum, an often recommended botanical garden that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower, enchanting visitors with its enchanting appeal. Continue your exploration at Särkänniemi. This amusement park is one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots.

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 Tampere. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Shanghai Chinese Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ravintola Coussicca offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Koskikeskus. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Tampere.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar K offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Kievari Kahdet Kasvot is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Save File - Pelaajan Olohuone is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Finland!

On day 3 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 Tampere, Pori, and Rauma. In the evening, you’ll end up in Turku, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with a visually striking and a standout in the charming city of Tampere. Your adventure starts at Finlayson Area, an up-and-coming local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Museum Centre Vapriikki. This intriguing museum is known for its eye-catching appeal.

Set your GPS to Pori and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 27 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Pori beckons with new experiences!

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Pelle Hermanni Playground, an often recommended playground that draws visitors from near and far.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Rauma, 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 Pori to Rauma may take around 45 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Rauma, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Head to Old Rauma, a curiosity-inducing historical landmark in Rauma. Explore its UNESCO world heritage-listed 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 Turku. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Turku by reserving a table at Kaskis. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ravintola Masala, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

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

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Finland!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Turku and Jänessaari. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Helsinki, where you’ll be staying for 4 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Turku covers several incredible sights, including a church, a public square, a park, a castle and much more! Start your adventure at Turku Cathedral. This intriguing church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the respected wonders of Old Great Square, a must-see public square in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Kupittaa. This beloved park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Turku Castle, where you can take in its historic features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Jänessaari. This drive usually takes around 8 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your self-guided tour starts at Botanic Garden Of University Of Turku, an underrated botanical garden that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Palace, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Finnjävel Salonki, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Helsinki is Olo, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious modern menu.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Base Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, One Pint Pub offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Liberty Or Death provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Say good night to Helsinki and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Finland!

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Helsinki has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in Helsinki by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several an enchanting, an eye-catching, a respected, a monumental, a majestic, and a charming. Whether you decide to explore Helsinki on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Uspenski Cathedral is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect church before continuing your journey. Skywheel Helsinki is your next stop. This intriguing observation deck is one of the best-rated sights in Helsinki.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Kauppatori. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Senate Square and Helsinki Cathedral.

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.

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

Dine in style at Lappi Ravintola, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Vltava boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ravintola Karl-Johan Oy. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Helsinki.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Kaisla, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Beaver Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Praha likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Finland.

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Helsinki. You’ll stay in Helsinki for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Helsinki, featuring a stunning, a visually striking, a romantic, and a picturesque. Start at Korkeasaari Zoo, a locally renowned zoo in the city. Then, head to Sea Life Helsinki and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect aquarium.

There are many interesting places to see in Helsinki and when you are ready for more, go to Kaisaniemi Park. This is one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots. After exploring the park, visit the increasingly popular Kaivopuisto.

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 explore more of Helsinki, 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 delightful dinner at Löyly Helsinki, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Ravintola Nokka? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Hotel Kämp as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Helsinki.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Riff is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Roasberg, offering a different kind of charm.

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

Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Helsinki for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Set out on a day brimming with a breathtaking, an instagrammable, and a profound. Start at the well-known Temppeliaukio Church, a breathtaking church in Helsinki. Next, go to Finnish Museum Of Natural History.

After visiting Temppeliaukio Church and Finnish Museum Of Natural History, take time to explore Helsinki's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Amos Rex. This picture-perfect art gallery offers a unique experience. Museum Of Contemporary Art Kiasma is another noteworthy stop.

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.

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

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Helsinki. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kotka, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Helsinki includes a park, a museum, and a monument. Esplanadi Park is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Ateneum, a worthwhile museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to National Museum Of Finland, an instagrammable museum, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Helsinki. If you’re looking for more, Sibelius Park is also an underrated attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Sibelius Monument, an increasingly popular gem to see in the city.

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 Kotka. Kotka 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Kotka. 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.

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

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Players Sports Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

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.

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Kotka, 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 Lahti. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

A blend of a mesmerizing, a visually striking, a standout, a romantic, a majestic, a noteworthy, and an idyllic await you in Kotka on today’s itinerary. First up is the beloved maritime museum, Maritime Centre Vellamo. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Sibeliuksenpuisto. A visit to this park is an enriching experience for all.

As you explore Kotka’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Sapokka. This worthwhile botanical garden is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Katariina Seaside Park‎, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Lastly, visit Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge and learn why this museum is renowned as one of the city's most increasingly popular attractions.

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

As you explore more of Lahti, 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 Pancho Villa Lahti, a top-rated dining spot in Lahti. If you're in the mood for something new, try Asemapäällikkö konditoria, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Coppa Eatery. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lahti.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar & Bistro Lahti, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Tirra, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Wanha Mestari provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Vantaa and Raikku. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Tampere. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’ve had your share of Lahti, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Vantaa. Your travel time is around 1 hour 5 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Sipoonkorpi National Park, an underrated national park known for its peaceful features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Heureka, an up-and-coming science center that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Vantaa, 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 43 min. Upon your arrival in Raikku, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Vehoniemi Automobile Museum is a curiosity-inducing museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour to Vehoniemi Observation Tower, an instagrammable observation deck that’s well-regarded in the area.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Tampere, 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 Tampere. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Alanya Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Majava Baari Tampere is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Pub Simon also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Finland.