12-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Tampere to Vaasa, Turku, and Helsinki and surrounding area
Description
Included
Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 12-day road trip through Finland. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Finland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Tampere, 2 nights in Vaasa, 2 nights in Turku, and 4 nights in Helsinki. 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 Tampere, 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. Kauppatori and Senate Square are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Temppeliaukio Church, learn more about the unique Esplanadi Park, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Korkeasaari Zoo.
As you hit the open road and drive through Tampere, Kurikka, Lapua, Ylistaro, Vaasa, Korsholm, Solf, Sundom, Pori, Turku, Helsinki, Raisio, Naantali, and Vantaa, 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!
Travel details
Set your travel details to find the best price
Flights
Compare and choose from the best flights to Tampere
Car
Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Tampere - Arrival day
- More
- Koskipuisto
- More
Welcome to Tampere, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Finland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Tampere's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Tampere 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 Koskipuisto, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Tampere. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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 Tampere, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Vaakon Nakki, a top-rated dining destination in Tampere. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sailor's Bar & Grill, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Zeytuun. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Tampere this evening.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Thrasherie Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Huurupiilo offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Moro Sky Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in Finland!
Day 2
- Tampere
- More
Drive 9 km, 36 min
- Hatanpää Park Arboretum
- Moomin Museum
- Tampere Cathedral
- Museum Centre Vapriikki
- More
Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Tampere for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Tampere is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a botanical garden, a museum, and a church. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the curiosity-inducing Hatanpää Park Arboretum and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Moomin Museum, a picture-perfect museum that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Tampere Cathedral, one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the curiosity-inducing Museum Centre Vapriikki.
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 Tampere. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Shanghai Chinese Restaurant, a top-rated dining spot in Tampere. If you're in the mood for something new, try Ravintola Coussicca, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Koskikeskus. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Tampere.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar K after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Kievari Kahdet Kasvot for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Save File - Pelaajan Olohuone is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Finland.
Day 3
- Tampere
- Vaasa
- More
Drive 306 km, 4 hours 4 min
- Luova Observation Tower
- Vanha Paukku Cultural Center
- Wanha Markki
- Ylistaro Church
- More
On day 3 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 Kurikka, Lapua, and Ylistaro. In the evening, you’ll end up in Vaasa, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Tampere on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Luova Observation Tower is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking observation deck before continuing your journey. Vanha Paukku Cultural Center is your next stop. This often recommended cultural center is one of the best-rated sights in Tampere.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Wanha Markki. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Ylistaro Church.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Vaasa, 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 Vaasa. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Faros Restaurant Ship, a highly-rated dining destination in Vaasa. If you're eager to try something different, consider Vasklot Matservering, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ravintola Juku Vaasa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Vaasa this evening.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Littlepub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!
Day 4
- Vaasa
- More
Drive 119 km, 2 hours 16 min
- Lookout Tower Saltkaret
- Replot Bridge
- Vaasa Automobile and Motor Museum
- Stundars Agricultural Handicraft Museum
- Meteoria Söderfjärden - a visitor centre
- More
Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in Finland. With 1 night left in Vaasa, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Vaasa. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Bodvattnet Runt Circular Trail is the perfect place to start. This hiking area is one of the most often recommended places to visit in Vaasa.
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 Vaasa Automobile And Motor Museum. This heritage-rich museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Stundars Agricultural Handicraft Museum and Meteoria Söderfjärden Visitor Centre. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Vaasa.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Vaasa's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Ravintola Gustav Wasa, a highly-rated dining destination in Vaasa. If you're eager to try something different, consider Vaasan Thai House Ky, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Stefan’s Steakhouse Vaasa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Vaasa this evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!
Day 5
- Vaasa
- Turku
- More
Drive 335 km, 4 hours 22 min
- Central Pori Church
- Nature Center Ark
- Pelle Hermanni playground
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Pori. 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 2 nights.
Vaasa is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites! Start at Central Pori Church, an often recommended church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Nature Center Ark, enchanting visitors with its enchanting appeal. Continue your exploration at Pelle Hermanni Playground. This playground is one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing spots.
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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Turku. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Turku by booking a table at Kaskis. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ravintola Masala, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Edison, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Rento is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Pikku Havanna is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Finland!
Day 6
- Turku
- More
Drive 8 km, 28 min
- The Suomen Joutsen full-rigger
- Forum Marinum
- Turku Castle
- Luostarinmäki
- More
On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Turku. You’ll stay in Turku for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Turku. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Suomen Joutsen is the perfect place to start. This historic ship is one of the most increasingly popular places to visit in Turku. Next, head to Forum Marinum, an often recommended maritime museum, known for its historic 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 Turku Castle. This picture-perfect castle is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Luostarinmäki. 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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Turku's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Panimoravintola Koulu, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Delhi Darbar offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Viking Restaurant Harald is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Turku.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar4. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Uusi Apteekki Pub, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Walo Rooftop Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!
Day 7
- Turku
- Helsinki
- More
Drive 170 km, 2 hours 8 min
- old Great Square
- Turku Cathedral
- Aboa Vetus Ars Nova
- Adventure Park Seikkailupuisto
- Kupittaa Park
- More
On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Turku. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Helsinki, where you’ll be staying for 4 nights.
Today's adventure in Turku promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Old Great Square. This history-steeped public square is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Turku Cathedral, another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Aboa Vetus Ars Nova, one of the city’s most beloved attractions, known for its instagrammable features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Adventure Park Seikkailupuisto. This gorgeous adventure park is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Kupittaa, an often recommended park, and take a stroll around the area.
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 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.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Helsinki by securing a table at Palace. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Finnjävel Salonki, famous for its scrumptious contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Olo, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Helsinki. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Base Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of One Pint Pub, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Liberty Or Death likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Finland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 8
- Helsinki
- More
Drive 371 km, 4 hours 26 min
- Rhododendron Park
- Ukko-Pekan silta, Naantali
- Kultaranta
- More
At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Helsinki, where you'll stay for 3 nights more.
Start your adventure at Rhododendron Park. This up-and-coming botanical garden is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Ukko-pekan Silta, Naantali located in Helsinki for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Kultaranta. Its respected features will captivate you.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Helsinki and your accommodation.
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 lovely dining experience at Lappi Ravintola, a popular restaurant in Helsinki. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Helsinki at Restaurant Vltava, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Ravintola Karl-Johan Oy. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Helsinki tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Kaisla. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Beaver Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Praha provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Finland!
Day 9
- Helsinki
- More
Drive 17 km, 51 min
- Vanhankaupunginkoski
- Helsinki Cathedral
- Helsinki Market Square
- SkyWheel Helsinki
- Uspenski Cathedral
- More
Day 9 of your road trip across Finland promises a magnificent time exploring Helsinki. You have 2 nights left in Helsinki. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Vanhankaupunginkoski. This intriguing waterfall is a respected place to see in Helsinki. Continue your discovery at Helsinki Cathedral, an inviting church with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Helsinki, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Kauppatori. Next, make your way to Skywheel Helsinki to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Uspenski Cathedral, an intriguing church that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day 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.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Löyly Helsinki, an iconic dining spot in Helsinki. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Ravintola Nokka, a popular restaurant in Helsinki. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Hotel Kämp, a hidden gem nestled in Helsinki. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Keep the evening going at The Riff, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Roasberg, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Finland.
Day 10
- Helsinki
- More
Drive 11 km, 44 min
- Kaivopuisto
- Esplanadi park
- Finnish Museum of Natural History
- Temppeliaukio Church
- Sibelius Monument
- More
Day 10 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 well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Helsinki on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Kaivopuisto is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this serene park before continuing your journey. Esplanadi Park is your next stop. This locally renowned park is one of the best-rated sights in Helsinki.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Finnish Museum Of Natural History. This eye-catching museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Temppeliaukio Church and Sibelius Monument.
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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Helsinki's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant Olo, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Ravintola Teerenpeli? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurant Pompier as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Helsinki.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Finland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 11
- Helsinki
- Tampere
- More
Drive 202 km, 2 hours 43 min
- Senate Square
- Art Museum Ateneum
- Korkeasaari Zoo
- Heureka
- More
Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Helsinki and Vantaa, 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 Tampere. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Helsinki, including a public square, a museum, a zoo, a science center and much more! Start your day with a visit to Senate Square. This locally renowned public square is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Ateneum, which may be one of the most instagrammable 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 Korkeasaari Zoo, a notable zoo in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Heureka.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Tampere, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Tampere's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Bar Inez, a top-rated dining destination in Tampere. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Museokeskus Vapriikki, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café Pispala. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Tampere this evening.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Alanya Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Majava Baari Tampere, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Pub Simon provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Say good night to Tampere and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Finland!
Day 12
- Tampere - Departure day
- More
- Southern Park
- More
Day 12 of your road trip in Finland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Tampere 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, begin at Southern Park, Tampere. This curiosity-inducing park is a popular place to see in the city.
On your last day in Finland, take time to indulge in shopping at Tampere’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Before you conclude your road trip in Finland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Tampere.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Scandic Tampere City, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Tampere. 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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Finland
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.