13-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Turku traveling east to Helsinki, Lappeenranta, Varkaus, Jyvaskyla, and Tampere

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Turku, 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 Helsinki. You’ll stay here for 5 nights.

Set out on a day brimming with a gorgeous, a picture-perfect, a heritage-rich, a sacred, a majestic, a charming, and a beautiful. Start at the often recommended Turku Cathedral, a historic church in Turku. Next, go to Old Great Square.

After visiting Turku Cathedral and Old Great Square, take time to explore Turku's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Kupittaa. This eye-catching park offers a unique experience. Adventure Park Seikkailupuisto is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Turku Castle, one of the most stunning places to visit in Turku.

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 Helsinki. Helsinki 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.

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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Palace in Helsinki by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 2-star Michelin status, Palace offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Finnjävel Salonki, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing contemporary cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Olo, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Base Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. One Pint Pub is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Liberty Or Death 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 3 of your road trip in Finland, you’ll start and end your day in Helsinki, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Helsinki for 4 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Vantaa and Helsinki to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Helsinki, featuring a visually striking, a charming, a majestic, and a stunning. Start at Linnanmäki, a captivating amusement park in the city. Then, head to Kaivopuisto and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching park.

There are many interesting places to see in Helsinki and when you are ready for more, go to Kauppatori. This is one of the city’s most well-known spots.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Helsinki, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Vantaa. This drive usually takes around 39 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Head to Sipoonkorpi National Park, an often recommended national park in Vantaa. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Lappi Ravintola, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Vltava? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Ravintola Karl-Johan Oy as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Helsinki.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!

Day 4 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 a romantic, an awe-inspiring, a picture-perfect, a standout, a sacred, and a culturally significant. 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. Helsinki Cathedral is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic church before continuing your journey. Senate Square is your next stop. This interesting public square 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 Esplanadi Park. This enchanting park is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Uspenski 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.

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

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Riff, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Roasberg is another popular option for a drink or two.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Helsinki for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Start by visiting Haaga Rhododendron Park, a prime spot to begin your journey. This eye-catching botanical garden is sure to impress. Next on your list is Finnish Museum Of Natural History, another must-visit landmark and beloved museum renowned for its eye-catching features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Helsinki by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Temppeliaukio Church. This breathtaking church is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Sibelius Park also adds charm to your journey, and Sibelius Monument wraps up your day with its historic appeal.

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 Helsinki. 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 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.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Finland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Helsinki. You’ll stay in Helsinki for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Begin your adventure at Museum Of Contemporary Art Kiasma. This is a worthwhile museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Ateneum, an increasingly popular museum in Helsinki.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Kaisaniemi Park. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Korkeasaari Zoo, another of the city’s popular attractions.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Rioni, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Kappeli is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant Farang. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Helsinki tonight.

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

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 Kotka. 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.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Kotka today.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Kotka, 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 Helsinki to Kotka may take around 1 hour 40 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Kotka, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Katariina Seaside Park‎, a beloved park known for its mesmerizing features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Sapokka, an up-and-coming botanical garden that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Maritime Centre Vellamo and uncover the details of this picture-perfect maritime museum. Make sure to also explore Maritime Museum Of Finland, a locally appreciated maritime museum that offers a unique experience.

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 book a table at Angus Steak & Wine, a popular restaurant in Lappeenranta. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Lappeenranta at My Bakery Cafe Oy, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Ravintola Iskender. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Lappeenranta tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Lamppu, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Pikku Pete Pub, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Gi-ki Oy 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 8 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 Imatra, Parikkala, and Savonlinna. In the evening, you’ll end up in Varkaus, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lappeenranta, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Imatra. This drive usually takes around 29 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take your self-guided tour to Imatrankoski, a locally appreciated waterfall that everyone visiting Imatra should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Parikkala. This drive usually takes around 38 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your self-guided tour starts at Parikkala Sculpture Park, a beloved sculpture garden 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, Savonlinna. This car ride takes around 31 min.

Lusto – The Finnish Forest Museum is an intriguing museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its photogenic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Container Restaurant Morton Varkaus, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Terrace Cafe Torni offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Sai Gon Kitchen. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Varkaus.

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.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Kuopio and Jyvaskyla. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Jyvaskyla. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Immerse yourself in Kuopio’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Varkaus, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Kuopio may take around 57 min. Upon your arrival in Kuopio, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Valkeisenlammen Puisto. Spend some time admiring the majestic features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Kuopio Market Square. This locally appreciated market is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Museum Of Kuopio. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the museum.

Set your GPS to Jyvaskyla and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 53 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Jyvaskyla beckons with new experiences!

Take your self-guided tour to Mäki-matti Family Park, a worthwhile park that everyone visiting Jyvaskyla should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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 Jyvaskyla. Jyvaskyla 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 Jyvaskyla. 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 Ravintola Teerenpeli, a highly-rated dining destination in Jyvaskyla. If you're eager to try something different, consider Boutique Hotel Yöpuu, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kuokkala manor. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Jyvaskyla this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Matsi Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Poppari provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Harry's offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Mänttä-Vilppula and Raikku. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Tampere, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Jyvaskyla and set your GPS to Mänttä-Vilppula. 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 1 hour 11 min. Upon reaching Mänttä-Vilppula, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Head to Gösta Serlachius Museum, Museum Of Art, a beloved museum in Mänttä-Vilppula. This locally appreciated museum is a top recommendation in the area.

After soaking in Mänttä-Vilppula’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Raikku. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 12 min. When you arrive in Raikku, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Vehoniemi Observation Tower. Spend some time admiring the gorgeous features of the observation deck before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Vehoniemi Automobile Museum. This increasingly popular museum is a traveler-favorite in the town.

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.

As you explore more of Tampere, 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 Vaakon Nakki, 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 Sailor's Bar & Grill, 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 Zeytuun, a hidden gem nestled in Tampere. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Thrasherie Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Huurupiilo, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Moro Sky Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Finland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 11 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.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Tampere. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Moomin Museum is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most increasingly popular places to visit in Tampere. Next, head to Koskipuisto, a beloved park, known for its eye-catching features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Finlayson Area. This photogenic historical landmark offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Museum Centre Vapriikki adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Hatanpää Park Arboretum, a romantic botanical garden in Tampere.

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 Tampere's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Shanghai Chinese Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Tampere. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ravintola Coussicca, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Koskikeskus. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Tampere this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar K, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Kievari Kahdet Kasvot is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Save File - Pelaajan Olohuone is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Dive into day 12 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Tampere, 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 Turku. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with a charming, a peaceful, a gorgeous, and a photogenic in Tampere. Begin your sightseeing with Näsi Park. This locally appreciated park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Särkänniemi, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

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.

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

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 Delhi Darbar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar4, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Uusi Apteekki Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Walo Rooftop Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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