7-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Lappeenranta to Kotka, Helsinki, Varkaus, and Joensuu and surrounding area

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Imatra, Parikkala, and Luumäki. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Kotka, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Lappeenranta, including a park, a waterfall, a sculpture garden, a museum and much more! Start your day at Kruununpuisto. This standout park is a worthwhile place to see in Lappeenranta. Then, wander over to Imatrankoski. If mesmerizing sites excite you, this waterfall will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Parikkala Sculpture Park. This gorgeous sculpture garden is a favorite among visitors.

Lappeenranta offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Kotkaniemi is a curiosity-inducing spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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.

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Players Sports Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

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

Dive into day 3 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 Helsinki. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Kotka today. One of the most frequently visited attractions included on the itinerary is Maritime Centre Vellamo. This picture-perfect maritime museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Sibeliuksenpuisto and learn what makes this visually striking park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the increasingly popular Sapokka. After exploring the botanical garden, head to Katariina Seaside Park‎. This increasingly popular park is a highlight in Kotka. As your day continues, stop by Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge, known for its picture-perfect features.

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.

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. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Finnjävel Salonki, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Helsinki is Olo, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern menu.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Base Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. One Pint Pub is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Liberty Or Death offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 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 Varkaus. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Senate Square is must-visit public square and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Helsinki Cathedral, a well-known church, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Esplanadi Park, an instagrammable 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 Varkaus. Varkaus offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Savor the flavors at Container Restaurant Morton Varkaus, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Terrace Cafe Torni beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Sai Gon Kitchen. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Varkaus tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Ravintola Lännentie 66 Ky, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, O'harry's Irish Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Next Step offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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 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 Juurikka and Ylä-Koli. In the evening, you’ll end up in Joensuu, where you will stay for 1 night.

Varkaus is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots! Start at New Valamo, a locally appreciated monastery that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Koli National Park, enchanting visitors with its serene appeal. Continue your exploration at Koli Nature Center Ukko. This visitor center is one of the village’s most intriguing spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Varkaus at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Koli.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Joensuu, 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 Joensuu. 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 delightful dinner at Joensuun Fever Oy, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Ravintola Aittaranta? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Kerubi as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Joensuu.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Summer Restaurant Tuulaaki is an excellent place to start. You could also check out 60's Palaver, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Jet Set Bar Oy. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Joensuu and Hasanniemi. 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.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Joensuu allows for both. Start by heading to Joensuu Art Museum. This curiosity-inducing museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Joensuu Church, a culturally significant church, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to The Courting Wolf, a locally appreciated sightseeing destination. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the increasingly popular Mustavaara.

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

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.

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

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