10-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Helsinki to Kotka, Lahti, and Turku and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Helsinki has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Helsinki by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at the captivating Helsinki Cathedral, an inviting church in Helsinki. Next, go to Senate Square.

Skywheel Helsinki is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Uspenski Cathedral, one of the most historic places to visit in Helsinki.

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Helsinki by booking a table at Palace, a 2-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Finnjävel Salonki, renowned for its delectable contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Olo, a local gem known for its delightful modern cuisine in Helsinki. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Kaisla after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Beaver Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Praha also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Helsinki for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Start your adventure at Temppeliaukio Church. This well-known church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the instagrammable wonders of Finnish Museum Of Natural History, a must-see museum 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 National Museum Of Finland. This locally appreciated museum offers an enriching experience. These sights offer 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.

Bring home unique finds from Helsinki's bustling shopping hub, Stockmann Department Store. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique high-end stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Stockmann Department Store offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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.

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Riff, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Roasberg, a bar that offers unique local touches.

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

Start by visiting Ateneum, a prime spot to begin your journey. This photogenic museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Sibelius Park, another must-visit landmark and up-and-coming park renowned for its romantic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Helsinki by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Sibelius Monument. This picture-perfect monument is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Helsinki experience. We also recommend visiting Korkeasaari Zoo, a locally renowned zoo.

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

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

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Players Sports Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Kotka. You’ll stay in Kotka for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Kotka. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most curiosity-inducing places to visit in Kotka. Next, head to Maritime Museum Of Finland, an underrated maritime museum, known for its photogenic 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 Maritime Centre Vellamo. This picture-perfect maritime museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Katariina Seaside Park‎. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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 Kotka, 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.

Savor the flavors at Maritime Centre Vellamo, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Ravintola India Palace beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Tai Hing. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Kotka tonight.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Kotka and Kouvola, 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 2 nights.

Today’s agenda in Kotka includes a park, a botanical garden, and an amusement park. Sibeliuksenpuisto is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Sapokka, a curiosity-inducing botanical garden, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Tykkimäen Huvipuisto, a picture-perfect amusement park, 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 Lahti. Lahti offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lahti. 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 Pancho Villa Lahti, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Asemapäällikkö konditoria offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Coppa Eatery. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lahti.

Continue your lively evening at Bar & Bistro Lahti, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Tirra is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Wanha Mestari ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Lahti, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Lappeenranta. You still have 1 night left in Lahti.

Immerse yourself in Lahti’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Sandcastle Lappeenranta. Next, dive into the culturally significant features of Lappeenranta Fortress, a must-visit historical landmark in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Lappeenranta Museum Of Art, an underrated art gallery. For a change of scene, check out Old Park, "kissing Park", known for its serene features.

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

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.

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

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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 - Tampere. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Turku. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. The first attraction of today is Museum Centre Vapriikki. This curiosity-inducing museum is a standout place to see in Lahti. Continue your discovery at Finlayson Area, a visually striking historical landmark with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Lahti, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower. This worthwhile observation deck offers a romantic encounter with Lahti. Next, make your way to Hatanpää Park Arboretum to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Lahti.

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.

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

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Edison, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Rento offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Turku. Pikku Havanna is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Jänessaari and Turku. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Helsinki, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Turku is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a botanical garden, a castle, a church, a public square, a park and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the beloved Botanic Garden Of University Of Turku and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Turku Castle, a breathtaking castle that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Turku Cathedral, one of the village’s most intriguing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the beloved Old Great Square. When you're finished at the public square, Kupittaa awaits your visit. This park is an enchanting highlight on today's itinerary.

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.

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.

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

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.