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

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

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Helsinki, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Helsinki Cathedral, a well-known church in the city. Then, head to Senate Square and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect public square.

After exploring the market square, visit the intriguing Skywheel Helsinki. Not far away, you'll also find Uspenski Cathedral. This church is a stunning highlight 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.

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.

Start your culinary exploration in Helsinki by securing a reservation at Palace. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Finnjävel Salonki, celebrated for its delectable contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Olo, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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

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

On day 3 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.

Start your day with a visit to Temppeliaukio Church. This captivating church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Finnish Museum Of Natural History, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Helsinki 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 National Museum Of Finland, a locally appreciated museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Museum Of Contemporary Art Kiasma.

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, Helsinki Central Market. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Helsinki Central Market offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Löyly Helsinki, a highly-rated dining destination in Helsinki. If you're eager to try something different, consider Ravintola Nokka, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hotel Kämp. 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 The Riff after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Roasberg for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

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

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.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Helsinki today. One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is Ateneum. This photogenic museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Sibelius Park and learn what makes this romantic park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally appreciated Sibelius Monument. After exploring the monument, head to Korkeasaari Zoo. This notable zoo is a highlight in Helsinki.

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.

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.

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.

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

Day 5 of your road trip across Finland promises a magnificent time exploring Kotka. You have 1 night left in Kotka. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Kotka, including a museum, a maritime museum, and a park. Start your day at Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge. This instagrammable museum is a worthwhile place to see in Kotka. Then, wander over to Maritime Museum Of Finland. If historic sites excite you, this maritime museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Maritime Centre Vellamo. This gorgeous maritime museum is a favorite among visitors.

Kotka offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Katariina Seaside Park‎ is a locally appreciated spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Maritime Centre Vellamo, a top-rated dining destination in Kotka. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ravintola India Palace, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Tai Hing. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Kotka this evening.

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

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 Kotka and Kouvola. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lahti, where you will stay for 2 nights.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Kotka on today’s itinerary. First up is the beloved park, Sibeliuksenpuisto. Afterward, continue to Sapokka, a botanical garden every traveler should visit.

As you explore Kotka’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Tykkimäen Huvipuisto. This beloved amusement park is an essential stop.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pancho Villa Lahti, a top-rated dining destination in Lahti. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Asemapäällikkö konditoria, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Coppa Eatery. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lahti this evening.

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

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.

Greet day 7 of your road trip in Finland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Lahti for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Lappeenranta.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Lahti allows for both. Start by heading to Sandcastle Lappeenranta. This increasingly popular sightseeing destination provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Lappeenranta Fortress, a historic historical landmark, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Lappeenranta Museum Of Art, a frequently visited art gallery. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the underrated Old Park, "kissing Park".

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Lahti.

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.

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

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Ravintola Hiidenkivi Ky, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Tripla Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

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

Dive into day 8 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.

Lahti is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites! Start at Museum Centre Vapriikki, an often recommended museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Finlayson Area, enchanting visitors with its history-steeped appeal. Continue your exploration at Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower. This observation deck is one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots.

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

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Turku. Turku 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 Turku. 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Turku by reserving a table at Kaskis. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. Looking for something different? Ravintola Masala offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Turku.

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

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

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.

Start by visiting Botanic Garden Of University Of Turku, a prime spot to begin your journey. This romantic botanical garden is sure to impress. Next on your list is Turku Castle, another must-visit landmark and up-and-coming castle renowned for its historic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Turku by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Turku Cathedral. This monumental church is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Turku experience. We also recommend visiting Old Great Square, an often recommended public square. Nearby, you'll also find Kupittaa, ready to add charm to your journey.

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.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!