Relaxed 11-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Lappeenranta to Porvoo and Kotka

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Finland, you’ll explore the area around Lappeenranta, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Lappeenranta will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Finland.

Parikkala is brimming with adventures.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Parikkala, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Lappeenranta to Parikkala may take around 1 hour 3 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Parikkala, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Parikkala Sculpture Park, a frequently visited sculpture garden known 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.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Church Of The Three Crosses. Spend some time admiring the culturally significant features of the church before you continue to your next stop.

Set your GPS to Ruokolahti and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 12 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Ruokolahti beckons with new experiences!

Ruokolahden Freeski Ky is a worthwhile ski resort we recommend visiting today. Discover its stunning features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

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

Savor the flavors at The Kitchen, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Kehruuhuone Oy beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Ravintola Wolkoff. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Lappeenranta tonight.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Lappeenranta.

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

Your relaxed road trip in Finland continues on day 4 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know Finland better by exploring the top attractions of Lappeenranta and beyond. With 1 night left in Lappeenranta, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Canal Museum, Museum Of Saimaa Canal is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This heritage-rich museum is sure to impress.

When you’ve had your share of Lappeenranta, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Luumäki. Your travel time is around 24 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Kotkaniemi, a locally appreciated museum known for its photogenic features.

Luumäki’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lappeenranta behind. This drive usually takes around 24 min. Luumäki welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Taavetti Fortress, an increasingly popular castle in Luumäki. Explore its culturally significant features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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 Lappeenranta.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Scandic Patria, a popular restaurant in Lappeenranta. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Lappeenranta at Ravintola Dharahara, 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 Jussin Tupa. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Lappeenranta tonight.

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.

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

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip in Finland, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Porvoo and visit amazing attractions in Porvoo and Askola, just outside the city. You still have 1 night left in Porvoo, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Experience Runeberg Museum, an often recommended museum in the city. Then, head to August Eklöfin Puisto and soak in the ambiance of this mesmerizing park.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Porvoo, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Askola. This drive usually takes around 26 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Askolan Hiidenkirnut/ The Potholes Of Askola and explore the enchanting features.

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

Exploring the food culture in Porvoo 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 Restaurant Trattoria Il-Duetto, an iconic dining spot in Porvoo. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Nepalilainen Ravintola Pokhara - Porvoo, a popular restaurant in Porvoo. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ravintola SicaPelle, a hidden gem nestled in Porvoo. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Porvoo and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Porvoo as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in Finland!

On day 7 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.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the increasingly popular Porvoon Museo, Holmin Talo and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Porvoo Cathedral, an enchanting church that draws visitors from far and near.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Loviisa. This drive usually takes around 29 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Loviisa Church, an often recommended church in Loviisa. Explore its culturally significant features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

You'll be staying in Kotka on this laid-back road trip through Finland. You'll stay here for 3 nights.

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.

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

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Kotka. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Players Sports Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

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

Day 8 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Kotka, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Finland are extraordinary.

Katariina Seaside Park‎ is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This stunning park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Sapokka, another must-visit landmark and worthwhile botanical garden renowned for its noteworthy features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Kotka by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Maretarium. This instagrammable aquarium is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Kotka experience.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Maritime Centre Vellamo, 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 Ravintola India Palace, 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 Tai Hing, a hidden gem nestled in Kotka. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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

On day 9 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Finland, you’ll go deep into Kotka, where you'll stay for 1 night, 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!

No visit to Kotka is complete without Maritime Centre Vellamo. This locally appreciated maritime museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Maritime Museum Of Finland, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Kotka, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Karhulan Ilmailukerho Aviation Museum. This underrated aviation museum is a traveler-favorite.

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 lovely meal at Erkan Bistro & Restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Wanha Fiskari Oy is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Frans & Rosalie, Kotka. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Kotka tonight.

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.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible, relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Kotka!

Day 10 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Finland offers another chance for an in-depth travel experience. You’ll stay in Lappeenranta for 1 night.

Catch Isopuisto before the crowds roll in. This mesmerizing park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the remarkable features of Sibeliuksenpuisto, a must-visit park in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Kotka, an often recommended church. For a change of scene, check out Haukkavuori Sightseeing Tower, known for its romantic features. We also recommend visiting Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge. This museum is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

In Lappeenranta, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a day on the road. Our top recommendations go perfectly with your laid-back road trip in Finland.

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

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

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