One-Week Relaxed Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rovaniemi to Ruka
Description
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Description
Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 8-day road trip in Finland with this laid-back self-drive vacation.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Finland at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Rovaniemi, Saarenkylä, Ruka, and Kuusamo. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Rovaniemi and 3 nights in Ruka. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Finland.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Finland. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Rovaniemi, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 8-day journey across Finland and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Finland with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Finland.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Finland. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Santa Claus Village. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Rukatunturi.
Traveling leisurely through Finland means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Santa Claus Office. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Oulanka National Park. Get close to the spectacular Santapark - The Home Cavern Of Santa Claus and the wonderful Angry Birds Playground. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through Finland's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Finland.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Finland. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Finland's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Finland.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Finland. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 7 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 8 days of your self-drive road trip in Finland. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 8-day vacation in Finland and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Finland today!
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Day 1
- Rovaniemi - Arrival day
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- Angry Birds Playground
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Your relaxed road trip through Finland starts when you reach the incredible city of Rovaniemi, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Rovaniemi and begin your adventure in Finland.
Rovaniemi 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 Angry Birds Playground, 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 Rovaniemi. 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 Rovaniemi, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Ravintola Roka Street Bistro, a highly-rated dining destination in Rovaniemi. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bull Bar and Grill, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gustav Kitchen & Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Rovaniemi this evening.
Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Pub Pisto, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Oliver's Corner Irish Pub. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Paha Kurki Rockhouse, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Finland. Enjoy your first taste of Rovaniemi as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2
- Rovaniemi
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Drive 19 km, 26 min
- Santa Claus Office
- Santa Claus Village
- Santa's Post Office
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On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Finland, you’ll go deep into Rovaniemi, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Rovaniemi, and meet locals along the way!
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Rovaniemi on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Santa Claus Office is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect visitor center before continuing your journey. Santa Claus Village is your next stop. This popular visitor center is one of the best-rated sights in Rovaniemi.
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 Santa's Post Office. This visually striking visitor center is a sight to behold.
Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Finland more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Rovaniemi offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Scandic Rovaniemi City, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, RAVINTOLA MEMOS offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Rock Ravintola & Café Grande is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Rovaniemi.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Rovaniemi’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Finland.
Keep the evening going at People's Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.
Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Finland!
Day 3
- Rovaniemi
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Drive 75 km, 1 hour 25 min
- Bearhill Husky
- Ounasvaara Ski Oy
- SantaPark - the Home Cavern of Santa Claus
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On day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Finland, you’ll explore the area around Rovaniemi, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Rovaniemi will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Finland.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Rovaniemi. Some of the region’s most loved attractions await! Bearhill Husky is the perfect place to start. This safari park is one of the most up-and-coming places to visit in Rovaniemi. Next, head to Ounasvaara Ski Oy, a locally appreciated ski resort, known for its breathtaking 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 Santapark - The Home Cavern Of Santa Claus. This visually striking amusement park is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Rovaniemi and your accommodation.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Finland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Rovaniemi.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Rovaniemen Asemaravintola, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kauppayhtiö offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Yuca. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Rovaniemi.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Rovaniemi and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Finland!
Day 4
- Rovaniemi
- Ruka
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Drive 204 km, 2 hours 55 min
- Culture House Korundi
- Arktikum Science Museum
- Rovaniemi Church
- Auttiköngäs
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Day 4 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Finland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Rovaniemi. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the village of Ruka, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Rovaniemi allows for both. Start by heading to Culture House Korundi. This often recommended cultural center provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Arktikum, a breathtaking museum, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Rovaniemi Church, an increasingly popular church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the curiosity-inducing Auttiköngäs.
In the village of Ruka, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Finland.
When it’s time to eat, the village has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Ruka, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
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.
Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the village.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Finland!
Day 5
- Ruka
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Drive 71 km, 1 hour 22 min
- Rukatunturi
- Kiutaköngäs
- Oulanka National Park
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Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Finland continues on day 5, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Finland and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Ruka and beyond. With 2 nights left in Ruka, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the village.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and breathtaking views in Ruka. Begin your sightseeing with Rukatunturi. This curiosity-inducing ski resort is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Kiutaköngäs, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Ruka, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Oulanka National Park. This curiosity-inducing national park is a traveler-favorite.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Ruka.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Ruka has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the village.
Enjoy a delicious meal at RUOK, a top-rated dining destination in Ruka. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Villiruokaravintola Rukan Kuksa, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the village.
Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Finland.
Day 6
- Ruka
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Drive 205 km, 2 hours 46 min
- Canyon Lake Julma-Ölkky
- The tourist center of Karhuntassu
- Hannu Hautala Nature Photography Center
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Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Finland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Ruka. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Ruka. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the region. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Ruka!
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Ruka, including a canyon, a visitor center, and a museum. Start your day at Canyon Lake Julma-ölkky. This serene canyon is a frequently visited place to see in Ruka. Then, wander over to The Tourist Center Of Karhuntassu. Nearby, you’ll also find Hannu Hautala Nature Photography Center. This picture-perfect museum is a favorite among visitors.
Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Finland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Ruka. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Ruka that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Finland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the region of Ruka to find the best options for you!
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Ruka has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the village.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Ruka and unwind at some of the best bars in the village.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Ruka!
Day 7
- Ruka
- Rovaniemi
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Drive 263 km, 3 hours 34 min
- Jyrävä Rapids
- Pieni Karhunkierros Circle Trail
- Ruka Pedestrian Village
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Day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Finland is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Ruka and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the hamlet of Juuma and the village of Ruka. You’ll stay in Rovaniemi for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Ruka. Begin your sightseeing with Jyrävä Rapids. This intriguing waterfall is one of the top attractions in the region. Proceed to Pieni Karhunkierros Circle Trail, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Ruka, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Ruka Pedestrian Village. This beloved ski resort is a traveler-favorite.
After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Rovaniemi. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Finland by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Hanki, a highly-rated dining destination in Rovaniemi. If you're eager to try something different, consider Saigon Noodle Bar, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Lapland Restaurant Kotahovi. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Rovaniemi this evening.
Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Rovaniemi. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.
Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Finland!
Day 8
- Rovaniemi - Departure day
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- Lordi's Square
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Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in Finland is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Rovaniemi.
Make the most of your final day in Finland by visiting Rovaniemi’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Ounasvaara Shopping Center. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Finland.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Lordi's Square. This locally appreciated public square is a popular place to see in the city.
Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Rovaniemi or just grab something light to keep you going.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ravintola Valdemari, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Rovaniemi and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in Finland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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