Relaxed 10-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Lappeenranta to Kotka and Porvoo

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip in Finland, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Lappeenranta and visit amazing attractions in Parikkala, Imatra, and Ruokolahti, just outside the city. You still have 1 night left in Lappeenranta, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Parikkala. This car ride takes around 1 hour 3 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Parikkala is Parikkala Sculpture Park, a beloved sculpture garden that draws attention for its picture-perfect features.

After soaking in Parikkala’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Imatra. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 36 min. When you arrive in Imatra, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Church Of The Three Crosses, an intriguing church in Imatra. Explore its history-steeped features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Ruokolahti. This car ride takes around 12 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Ruokolahti is Ruokolahden Freeski Ky, an often recommended ski resort that draws attention for its visually striking features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Lappeenranta and your accommodation.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Finland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Lappeenranta, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Kitchen, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kehruuhuone Oy offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Ravintola Wolkoff. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lappeenranta.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Lappeenranta and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Finland!

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip in Finland will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Finland, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Make time for Canal Museum, Museum Of Saimaa Canal, an often recommended museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lappeenranta and set your GPS to Luumäki. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 24 min. Upon reaching Luumäki, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kotkaniemi is a beloved museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its photogenic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Luumäki may take around 24 min. Upon your arrival in Luumäki, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Taavetti Fortress and explore the historic features.

You'll be staying in Kotka on this laid-back road trip through Finland. You'll stay here for 4 nights.

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 Vausti, a highly-rated dining destination in Kotka. If you're eager to try something different, consider Canttiini, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Keisarinsatama. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Kotka this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Kotka.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Players Sports Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Lappeenranta can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Finland!

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Finland, you’ll go deep into Kotka, where you'll stay for 3 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 Kotka, and meet locals along the way!

Kotka is brimming with adventures.

To truly experience Kotka, make sure to drop by Katariina Seaside Park‎. This frequently visited park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Sapokka, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Maretarium, one of the most often recommended places to see in Kotka. This aquarium is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Finland. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Finland and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Kotka has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

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.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Finland.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Finland!

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Finland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Kotka. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Kotka. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Kotka!

Maritime Centre Vellamo makes a great addition to your morning plans. This increasingly popular maritime museum is an eye-catching place to see in Kotka. Continue your discovery at Maritime Museum Of Finland, a heritage-rich maritime museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Kotka, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Karhulan Ilmailukerho Aviation Museum. This often recommended aviation museum offers a visually striking encounter with Kotka. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Kotka.

Finland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Finland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

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 Kotka.

Dine in style at Erkan Bistro & Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Wanha Fiskari Oy boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Frans & Rosalie, Kotka. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Kotka.

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.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Finland!

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Kotka, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Finland are extraordinary.

Whether you decide to explore Kotka on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Enjoy all that Isopuisto has to offer. This is a worthwhile park you should not miss. Another must-see is Sibeliuksenpuisto, a worthwhile park in Kotka.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Kotka. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Haukkavuori Sightseeing Tower, another of the city’s frequently visited attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge, a historic place of interest in the city.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Finland more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Kotka offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring the food culture in Kotka offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Make sure to reserve a table at Pub Albert & Pub Eduard, 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 Tao Yuan, 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 Sino's, a hidden gem nestled in Kotka. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Kotka’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Finland.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Finland. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Finland tomorrow with new energy.

On day 9 of your laid-back road trip adventure in Finland, you can visit several remarkable places. With the freedom and flexibility of a self-drive tour, you decide how much time to spend in each, making the most of these memorable destinations.

Make a stop at Porvoo Cathedral. This underrated church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Runeberg Museum located in Porvoo for another exciting encounter.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Askola. This car ride takes around 26 min.

Savor the day by heading to Askolan Hiidenkirnut/ The Potholes Of Askola, an underrated rock formation that draws visitors from near and far.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Finland as you make your way to Lappeenranta. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Lappeenranta, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Scandic Patria, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Ravintola Dharahara offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Jussin Tupa is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Lappeenranta.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Lappeenranta. The bars in Lappeenranta make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Finland!