One-Week Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Oulu to Rovaniemi, Saariselkä, Ivalo, and Sirkka
Description
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Description
Explore the best of Finland on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Oulu, Rovaniemi, Saarenkylä, Sodankylä, Saariselkä, Ivalo, Sirkka, Kemi, and Simo. This road trip itinerary in Finland seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Finland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Oulu, 2 nights in Rovaniemi, 1 night in Saariselkä, 1 night in Inari, and 1 night in Sirkka. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Finland. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Oulu, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Finland on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Finland. Santa Claus Village and Santa Claus Office are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Siida, learn more about the unique Oy Levi Ski Resort, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Santapark - The Home Cavern Of Santa Claus.
As you hit the open road and drive through Oulu, Rovaniemi, Saarenkylä, Sodankylä, Saariselkä, Ivalo, Sirkka, Kemi, and Simo, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Finland. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Finland.
Throughout your road trip in Finland, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Finland.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Finland fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Finland today!
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Day 1
- Oulu - Arrival day
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- Hollihaka Park
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Say hello to Oulu! Your exciting road trip through Finland is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Oulu for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
Oulu is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Hollihaka Park Oulu Outdoor Gym, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Oulu. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Finland. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Oulu, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Frans & Camille Bistro, a top-rated dining destination in Oulu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Koivurannan kahvila, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sauraha. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Oulu this evening.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Pub Graali, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Leskinen offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, 1bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Finland!
Day 2
- Oulu
- Rovaniemi
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Drive 228 km, 3 hours 38 min
- Arktikum Arboretum
- Arktikum Science Museum
- Culture House Korundi
- Angry Birds Playground
- Rovaniemi Church
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Rovaniemi, 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 Rovaniemi. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Today’s itinerary in Oulu covers several incredible sights, including a botanical garden, a museum, a cultural center, a playground, a church and much more! Start your adventure at Arktikum Arboretum. This locally appreciated botanical garden is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Arktikum, 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 Culture House Korundi. This beloved cultural center offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Angry Birds Playground, where you can take in eye-catching features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Rovaniemi Church. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Rovaniemi, 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 Rovaniemi. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Ravintola Roka Street Bistro, a top-rated dining spot in Rovaniemi. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bull Bar and Grill, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Gustav Kitchen & Bar. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Rovaniemi.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Pub Pisto. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Oliver's Corner Irish Pub offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Paha Kurki Rockhouse, another top-rated bar in the area.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Finland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- Rovaniemi
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Drive 23 km, 37 min
- Ounasvaara Ski Oy
- Santa Claus Office
- Santa Claus Village
- SantaPark - the Home Cavern of Santa Claus
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Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in Finland. With 1 night left in Rovaniemi, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Today’s agenda in Rovaniemi includes a ski resort, a visitor center, and an amusement park. Ounasvaara Ski Oy is must-visit ski resort and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Santa Claus Office, an up-and-coming visitor center, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Santa Claus Village, a picture-perfect visitor center, also available for your discovery today.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Rovaniemi.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Rovaniemi. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Scandic Rovaniemi City, a top-rated dining destination in Rovaniemi. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider RAVINTOLA MEMOS, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Rock Ravintola & Café Grande. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Rovaniemi this evening.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at People's Pub, 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.
Day 4
- Rovaniemi
- Saariselkä
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Drive 280 km, 3 hours 39 min
- Pyhä-Nattanen
- Aurora Day Hut
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Sodankylä and Saariselkä. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Saariselkä, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Pyhä-nattanen. This worthwhile rock formation is a majestic place to see in Rovaniemi. Continue your discovery at Aurora Day Hut, a majestic hiking area with stories to tell.
Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Rovaniemi.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Saariselkä. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Saariselkä. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Laanilan Kievari, a top-rated dining destination in Saariselkä. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kaunispään Huippu Oy, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ravintola Pub Teerenpesä. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Saariselkä this evening.
Head back to your accommodation in Saariselkä and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Finland!
Day 5
- Saariselkä
- Inari
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Drive 105 km, 1 hour 54 min
- Jäniskoski Rapids
- Pielpajärvi Wilderness Church
- Siida
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Ivalo. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ivalo. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Saariselkä today. One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is Jäniskoski Rapids. This awe-inspiring waterfall will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Pielpajärvi Wilderness Church and learn what makes this stunning church unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the beloved Siida.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Ivalo. Ivalo offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you explore more of Ivalo, 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Aanaar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Finland!
Day 6
- Inari
- Sirkka
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Drive 189 km, 3 hours 57 min
- Santa Clause House
- Oy Levi Ski Resort
- Samiland Exhibition
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On day 6 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 Sirkka. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sirkka, where you will stay for 1 night.
Start your day with a visit to Santa's Cabin. This curiosity-inducing point of interest is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Oy Levi Ski Resort, which may be one of the most enchanting places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Ivalo on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Samiland Exhibition, an intriguing museum in the town.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Sirkka, 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 Sirkka. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Dine in style at Ravintola Ämmilä, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Ravintola Myllynäijä boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Cafe & Bar In Kota, where the evening is just getting started.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Finland!
Day 7
- Sirkka
- Oulu
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Drive 393 km, 4 hours 53 min
- Kemi Historical Museum
- Kotieläinpuisto Arkadia
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Kemi and Simo. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Oulu, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Sirkka, including a museum and a farm. Start your day at Kemi Historical Museum. This history-steeped museum is an up-and-coming place to see in Sirkka. Then, wander over to Farm Animal Park Arkadia. If picturesque sites excite you, this farm will be right up your alley.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Oulu. 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 Oulu's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Crecian, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Beijing Oy offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Pizzeria Finlandia. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Oulu.
Say good night to Oulu and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Finland!
Day 8
- Oulu - Departure day
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- Oulu Cathedral
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Day 8 of your road trip in Finland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Oulu before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Oulu Cathedral, a historic church before you head out.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in Finland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Oulu.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Lapland Hotels Oulu, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Oulu. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Finland!
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