9-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Helsinki traveling east to Mikkeli, Joensuu, Imatra, and Lahti

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Helsinki. You’ll stay in Helsinki for 2 nights.

Visiting Uspenski Cathedral is always a good idea. This beloved church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

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 Senate Square. This locally renowned public square offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Helsinki Cathedral, where you can take in history-steeped features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Kaivopuisto These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Finland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Helsinki. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Start your culinary exploration in Helsinki by securing a reservation at Palace. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Finnjävel Salonki, celebrated for its delectable contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Olo, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Continue your lively evening at Kaisla, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Beaver Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Praha ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 4 of your road trip in Finland, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Helsinki are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Mikkeli, where you will stay for 1 night.

Whatever your travel style is, Ateneum is an essential stop in Helsinki. This increasingly popular museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Finnish Museum Of Natural History, a picture-perfect museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Temppeliaukio Church, an interesting church.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Mikkeli. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Ravintola Vino, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Dragon Sheng beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Angela Kebab-Pizzeria. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Mikkeli tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Jälkipeli Pub, Karaoke, Sports Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Patteri Baari is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Mikkelin Keskusbaari Oy is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Finland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Savonlinna and Kerimäki. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Joensuu, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Savonlinna, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Mikkeli to Savonlinna may take around 1 hour 17 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Savonlinna, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Savonlinna Market Square, an increasingly popular public square known for its gorgeous features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Olavinlinna Castle, a beloved castle.

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

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Kerimäki Church. Spend some time admiring the breathtaking features of the church before you continue to your next stop.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Joensuu, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Joensuu's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Dine in style at Joensuun Fever Oy, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Ravintola Aittaranta boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Kerubi. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Joensuu.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Summer Restaurant Tuulaaki, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to 60's Palaver. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Jet Set Bar Oy, 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.

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Joensuu. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Imatra, where you'll spend 1 night.

Next, go to Joensuu Art Museum.

After visiting The Courting Wolf and Joensuu Art Museum, have a stroll along Joensuu's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Joensuu Bunker Museum. This photogenic military museum offers a unique experience.

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

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 Imatra, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant Buttenhoff and Café Julia, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Ravintola Havanna Kebab Pizzeria? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Kent - Pizza & Steak House as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Imatra.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Osmo's Cosmos Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Kuohu Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Pub Vahti likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Imatra, Lappeenranta, and Kouvola. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lahti, where will spend 1 night.

To truly experience Imatra, make sure to drop by Imatrankoski. This worthwhile waterfall is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Kouvola, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Lappeenranta to Kouvola may take around 1 hour 2 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Kouvola, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Tykkimäen Huvipuisto, a beloved amusement park that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar & Bistro Lahti, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Tirra is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Wanha Mestari also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Finland!

Your itinerary for day 8 of your road trip in Finland includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Kotka. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Helsinki, where you'll spend 1 night.

Set your GPS to Kotka and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 26 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kotka beckons with new experiences!

Savor the day by heading to Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge, a locally appreciated museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Katariina Seaside Park‎, where you can soak in the romantic surroundings.

Next, explore Sapokka, yet another often recommended place to see in the area. After the botanical garden, make time to go to Maritime Centre Vellamo. This breathtaking maritime museum is well worth the visit.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Helsinki, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

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

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Finland!