9-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Lappeenranta to Kotka, Hämeenlinna, Turku, and Helsinki

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Imatra and Luumäki, 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 Kotka. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Start your day with a visit to Lappeenranta Fortress. This beloved historical landmark is a must-visit in the town.

Imatra’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lappeenranta behind. This drive usually takes around 30 min. Imatra welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your journey at Kruununpuisto and explore the serene features. Next, make your way to Imatrankoski, another highlight in the town.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Luumäki. This drive usually takes around 40 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Head to Kotkaniemi, a frequently visited museum in Luumäki. Explore its heritage-rich features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Imatra, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Luumäki. This drive usually takes around 40 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Head to Taavetti Fortress, a locally appreciated castle in Luumäki. Explore its breathtaking 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 Kotka. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to Players Sports Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Kotka. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Hämeenlinna, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Kotka is home to plenty of attractions that offer a romantic, a stunning, a visually striking, a symbolic, a masterful, a historic, and a beautiful! Start at Sibeliuksenpuisto, a beloved park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Maritime Museum Of Finland, enchanting visitors with its respected appeal. Continue your exploration at Maritime Centre Vellamo. This maritime museum is one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Kotka at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Sapokka. After exploring the botanical garden, head to the increasingly popular Katariina Seaside Park‎. This park will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Hämeenlinna, 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 Hämeenlinna. 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 delicious dinner at Himalaya Kitchen Ravintola, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Popino offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Miller's BBQ. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Hämeenlinna.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Olutravintola Birger after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Juliuksen Olohuone for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Voudin Kellari is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Tampere. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Turku, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Hämeenlinna, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Tampere may take around 53 min. Upon your arrival in Tampere, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Head to Museum Centre Vapriikki, an up-and-coming museum in Tampere. Explore its historic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Finlayson Area. This worthwhile historical landmark is a top recommendation in the area. When you’re ready to explore more, Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most romantic observation deck in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the up-and-coming Hatanpää Park Arboretum and discover what makes this botanical garden unique.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Turku by booking a table at Kaskis, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Ravintola Masala, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Edison, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Rento offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Pikku Havanna provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Turku 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 Turku and Jänessaari. In the evening, you’ll end up in Helsinki, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Turku, including a church, a public square, a castle, a park and much more! Start your day at Turku Cathedral. This breathtaking church is a locally appreciated place to see in Turku. Then, wander over to Old Great Square. If history-steeped sites excite you, this public square will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Turku Castle. This picture-perfect castle is a favorite among visitors.

Turku offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Kupittaa is an intriguing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

Jänessaari welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Botanic Garden Of University Of Turku, a locally appreciated botanical garden that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Helsinki. 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 Helsinki. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Palace, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Finnjävel Salonki is one of the best restaurants for contemporary cuisine in Helsinki. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Olo. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Base Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, One Pint Pub offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Liberty Or Death. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Finland!

Day 6 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 your adventure at Kaivopuisto. This underrated park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the grand wonders of Uspenski Cathedral, a must-see church 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 Kauppatori. This popular market square offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Senate Square, where you can take in its breathtaking features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Helsinki Cathedral. This history-steeped church offers a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Lappi Ravintola, a highly-rated dining destination in Helsinki. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Vltava, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ravintola Karl-Johan Oy. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Helsinki this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Kaisla after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Beaver Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Praha is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Helsinki has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Helsinki by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Today’s agenda in Helsinki includes an amusement park, a monument, and a park. Linnanmäki is must-visit amusement park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Sibelius Monument, a curiosity-inducing monument, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Sibelius Park, a picture-perfect park, 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 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 delicious dinner at Löyly Helsinki, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ravintola Nokka offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hotel Kämp. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Helsinki.

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

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Finland!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Helsinki. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lappeenranta. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

A blend of a romantic, an awe-inspiring, a photogenic, a history-steeped, and a stunning await you in Helsinki on today’s itinerary. First up is the well-known park, Esplanadi Park. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Ateneum. A visit to this museum is an enriching experience for all.

As you explore Helsinki’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Finnish Museum Of Natural History. This frequently visited museum is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Temppeliaukio Church, another must-visit site that will enhance your 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.

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.

Dine in style at Meeza Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Ravintola Nautilus boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out CARLOS. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Lappeenranta.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Finland!