One-Week Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Helsinki traveling east to Mikkeli, Joensuu, Imatra, and Kotka

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Savonlinna and Kerimäki. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Joensuu, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Mikkeli, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Savonlinna. Your travel time is around 1 hour 17 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Savonlinna Market Square, a beloved public square that everyone visiting Savonlinna should see. Next, head to Olavinlinna Castle. This history-steeped castle is one of the most increasingly popular attractions in the region.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kerimäki. This car ride takes around 24 min.

Savor the day by heading to Kerimäki Church, a frequently visited church that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Joensuu. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Joensuu. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Summer Restaurant Tuulaaki, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, 60's Palaver is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Jet Set Bar Oy also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Finland includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Joensuu. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Imatra, where you'll spend 1 night.

Make time for Joensuu Art Museum, a locally appreciated museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Continue your exploration at North Karelian Museum Hilma. This museum is one of the city’s most often recommended spots.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Imatra. Imatra 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 Imatra's best restaurants.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant Buttenhoff and Café Julia, a top-rated dining destination in Imatra. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ravintola Havanna Kebab Pizzeria, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kent - Pizza & Steak House. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Imatra this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Osmo's Cosmos Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Kuohu Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Pub Vahti offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Finland!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Parikkala, Imatra, and Lappeenranta. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Kotka, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Visiting Imatrankoski is always a good idea. This increasingly popular waterfall is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

Our first attraction recommendation in Parikkala is Parikkala Sculpture Park, a locally appreciated sculpture garden that draws attention for its breathtaking features.

After soaking in Imatra’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Lappeenranta. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 32 min. When you arrive in Lappeenranta, it's time to take a break from the road.

Next, make your way to Lappeenranta Fortress, another highlight in Lappeenranta. When you’re done exploring the historical landmark, continue to Old Park, "kissing Park", a serene park.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Vausti, 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 Canttiini, 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 Keisarinsatama, a hidden gem nestled in Kotka. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Players Sports Bar, a top-rated bar in the area.

Say good night to Kotka and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Finland!

On day 7 of your road trip in Finland, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Kotka are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Helsinki, where you will stay for 1 night.

To truly experience Kotka, make sure to drop by Maritime Centre Vellamo. This curiosity-inducing maritime museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Sibeliuksenpuisto, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Sapokka, one of the most up-and-coming places to see in Kotka. This botanical garden is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Katariina Seaside Park‎. Wander around and soak in the majestic atmosphere this park offers. Then, head to Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge, a top-rated museum that adds another dimension to your day.

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.

Helsinki 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 Helsinki.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Löyly Helsinki, a top-rated dining spot in Helsinki. If you're in the mood for something new, try Ravintola Nokka, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Hotel Kämp. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Helsinki.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Riff, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Roasberg offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Helsinki.

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