12-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rovaniemi to Ruka, Kajaani, Jyvaskyla, Tampere, Kokkola, and Oulu

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Rovaniemi. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ruka, 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 Rovaniemi allows for both. Start by heading to Santa Claus Village. This popular visitor center provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Santa Claus Office, a photogenic visitor center, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Santa's Post Office, a worthwhile visitor center.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Ski Booster - Bar - Cafe - Grill, a popular restaurant in Ruka. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Ruka at Hanki Baari, 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 RUOK. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Ruka tonight.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Suomussalmi and Kajaani, 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 Kajaani. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Ruka is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Hiljaisen Kansan Tilataideteos (the Silent People), an increasingly popular art installation that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Raate Gate, enchanting visitors with its picture-perfect appeal. Continue your exploration at Musical Forest. This art installation is one of the city’s most frequently visited spots.

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

At the end of the day, you will drive to Kajaani, 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 Kajaani. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Taukopaikka Nuottijärvi, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Pancho Villa beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Peevee Bar Oy. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Kajaani tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar Jussila (t:mi Juha J. Immonen), a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Restaurant Saint Kukko offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

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

On day 4 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 Siilinjärvi and Kuopio. In the evening, you’ll end up in Jyvaskyla, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots in the charming town of Kajaani. Your adventure starts at Kasurila, an underrated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Hapelähde Park. This beloved park is known for its picture-perfect appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Kajaani's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Kuopio Market Square. This picture-perfect market offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Valkeisenlammen Puisto is also worth visiting.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Jyvaskyla. Jyvaskyla offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Jyvaskyla's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ravintola Teerenpeli, a top-rated dining destination in Jyvaskyla. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Boutique Hotel Yöpuu, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kuokkala manor. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Jyvaskyla this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Matsi Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Poppari is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Harry's is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Kangasala, Raikku, and Lempäälä. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Tampere, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Jyvaskyla covers several incredible sights, including a museum, an observation deck, and a church. Start your adventure at Mobilia. This intriguing museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the gorgeous wonders of Vehoniemi Automobile Museum, a must-see museum in the town.

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 Vehoniemi Observation Tower. This increasingly popular observation deck offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Saint Birgit Church, where you can take in eye-catching features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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.

Dine in style at Vaakon Nakki, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Sailor's Bar & Grill boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Zeytuun. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Tampere.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Thrasherie Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Huurupiilo, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Moro Sky Bar. 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.

Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Tampere for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Tampere today. One of the most up-and-coming attractions included on the itinerary is Hatanpää Park Arboretum. This masterful botanical garden will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Moomin Museum and learn what makes this visually striking museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the up-and-coming Koskipuisto. After exploring the park, head to Museum Centre Vapriikki. This locally appreciated museum is a highlight in Tampere. As your day continues, stop by Finlayson Area, known for its heritage-rich features.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Tampere. 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.

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar K, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Kievari Kahdet Kasvot, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Save File - Pelaajan Olohuone provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Tampere has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Tampere by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Tampere on today’s itinerary. First up is the increasingly popular observation deck, Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower. Afterward, continue to Särkänniemi, an amusement park every traveler should visit.

As you explore Tampere’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Näsi Park. This curiosity-inducing park is an essential stop.

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 Tampere. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Bar Inez, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Museokeskus Vapriikki beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Café Pispala. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Tampere tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Alanya Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Majava Baari Tampere provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Pub Simon offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in Finland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Oulu. 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 2 nights.

Start by visiting Oulu Automobile Museum, a prime spot to begin your journey. This respected museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Tietomaa Science Centre, another must-visit landmark and curiosity-inducing science center renowned for its visually striking features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Kokkola by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Oulu Art Museum. This photogenic art gallery is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Kokkola experience. We also recommend visiting Rotuaarin Pallo, a locally appreciated art installation.

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

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Pub Graali offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Leskinen is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. 1bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Wake up to day 10 of your extraordinary road trip in Finland. With 1 night left in Oulu, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the up-and-coming Kierikki Stone Age Centre, an instagrammable archeological site in Oulu. Next, go to Koitelinkoski.

After visiting Kierikki Stone Age Centre and Koitelinkoski, have a stroll along Oulu's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Oulu Market Square. This photogenic public square offers a unique experience. Oulu Market Hall is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Turkansaari Open Air Museum, one of the most eye-catching places to visit in Oulu.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Oulu's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Crecian, a popular restaurant in Oulu. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Oulu at Beijing Oy, 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 Pizzeria Finlandia. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Oulu tonight.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you will explore Oulu, 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 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Oulu, including a park, a lighthouse, a beach, a botanical garden and much more! Start your day at Mannerheim Park. This eye-catching park is an increasingly popular place to see in Oulu. Then, wander over to Hollihaka Park Oulu Outdoor Gym. If enchanting sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Nallikari Lighthouse. This visually striking lighthouse is a favorite among visitors.

Oulu offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Nallikari Beach is a beloved spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the beach, don’t forget to check out the romantic University Of Oulu Botanical Gardens. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this intriguing botanical garden.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Scandic Rovaniemi City, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, RAVINTOLA MEMOS is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Rock Ravintola & Café Grande. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Rovaniemi tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at People's Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!