7-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Lappeenranta to Kotka, Helsinki, Varkaus, and Joensuu and surrounding area

On day 2 of your road trip in Finland, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Imatra, Parikkala, and Luumäki are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kotka, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lappeenranta and set your GPS to Imatra. 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 30 min. Upon reaching Imatra, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Kruununpuisto, a locally appreciated park in Imatra. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Imatrankoski. This curiosity-inducing waterfall is a top recommendation in the area.

Set your GPS to Parikkala and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 38 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Parikkala beckons with new experiences!

Parikkala Sculpture Park is a worthwhile sculpture garden we recommend visiting today. Discover its stunning features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Parikkala 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 1 hour 10 min. Upon reaching Luumäki, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Kotkaniemi, a beloved museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Kotka. Kotka 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 Kotka. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Players Sports Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Finland.

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Kotka. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Helsinki, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the locally appreciated Maritime Centre Vellamo and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Sibeliuksenpuisto, a remarkable park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Sapokka, one of the city’s most intriguing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the increasingly popular Katariina Seaside Park‎. When you're finished at the park, Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge awaits your visit. This museum is a picture-perfect highlight on today's itinerary.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Helsinki. Check in and relax before you head out to tour 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 Helsinki, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Palace, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Finnjävel Salonki, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Helsinki is Olo, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern menu.

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.

Head back to your accommodation in Helsinki and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Finland.

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Finland includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Helsinki. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Varkaus, where you'll spend 1 night.

Visiting Senate Square is always a good idea. This interesting public square is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the enchanting wonders of Helsinki Cathedral, a must-see church in the city.

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 Esplanadi Park. This interesting park offers an enriching experience.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Varkaus, 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 Varkaus. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Container Restaurant Morton Varkaus, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Terrace Cafe Torni? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Sai Gon Kitchen as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Varkaus.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Ravintola Lännentie 66 Ky, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to O'harry's Irish Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Next Step, another top-rated place in the area.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Finland.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Juurikka and Ylä-Koli. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Joensuu, where will spend 1 night.

Juurikka’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Varkaus behind. This drive usually takes around 53 min. Juurikka welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to New Valamo, an often recommended monastery that draws visitors from near and far.

After soaking in Juurikka’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Ylä-Koli. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 35 min. When you arrive in Ylä-Koli, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Koli National Park, a beloved national park known for its mesmerizing features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Koli Nature Center Ukko, an increasingly popular visitor center.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Koli and uncover the details of this romantic national park.

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

Joensuu is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Joensuu.

Savor the flavors at Joensuun Fever Oy, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Ravintola Aittaranta beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Kerubi. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Joensuu tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Summer Restaurant Tuulaaki, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, 60's Palaver offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Jet Set Bar Oy. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!