9-Day Finland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ruka to Rovaniemi, Kemi, Oulu, and Kajaani

Day 3 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Ruka. You’ll stay in Rovaniemi for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

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

Visiting Santa Claus Office is always a good idea. This intriguing visitor center is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the mesmerizing wonders of Santa Claus Village, a must-see visitor center 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 Santa's Post Office. This locally appreciated visitor center offers an enriching experience.

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 Rovaniemi. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Scandic Rovaniemi City, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? RAVINTOLA MEMOS offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Rock Ravintola & Café Grande. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Rovaniemi.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like People's Pub, known for its lively atmosphere.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Finland.

On day 4 of your road trip in Finland, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Rovaniemi and Saarenkylä are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kemi, where you will stay for 1 night.

Culture House Korundi is must-visit cultural center and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Arktikum, a beloved museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Lordi's Square, an eye-catching public square, also available for your discovery today.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Saarenkylä may take around 7 min. Upon your arrival in Saarenkylä, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Ounasvaara Ski Oy. Spend some time admiring the awe-inspiring features of the ski resort before you continue to your next stop.

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

Kemi 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 Kemi.

Dine in style at Lounaskahvila Kemin Paussi, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Pizzeria Di Mare boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Kalle's Burger / Scanburger. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Kemi.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Olutravintola Kukko, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Finland. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Oulu. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Oulu, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Oulu.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Oulu. This car ride takes around 1 hour 15 min.

Savor the day by heading to University Of Oulu Botanical Gardens, an underrated botanical garden that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Nallikari Beach, where you can soak in the serene surroundings.

Next, explore Nallikari Lighthouse, yet another intriguing place to see in the area. After the lighthouse, make time to go to Oulu Automobile Museum. This visually striking museum is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to Mannerheim Park, a worthwhile park you won’t want to miss.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Oulu. Oulu 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 Oulu. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Frans & Camille Bistro, a highly-rated dining destination in Oulu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Koivurannan kahvila, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sauraha. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Oulu this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Pub Graali, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Leskinen offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Oulu. 1bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Greet day 6 of your road trip in Finland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Oulu, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Oulu and Kiiminki.

Oulu is brimming with adventures.

Oulu Market Square is an ideal stop early in the day. This beloved public square is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Oulu Market Hall, which may be one of the most respected places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Oulu on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Hollihaka Park Oulu Outdoor Gym, a beloved park in the city.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kiiminki. This car ride takes around 34 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Koitelinkoski, a beloved waterfall in Kiiminki. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Crecian, a popular restaurant in Oulu. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Oulu at Beijing Oy, 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 Pizzeria Finlandia. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Oulu tonight.

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

Your itinerary for day 7 of your road trip in Finland includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Oulu. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kajaani, where you'll spend 1 night.

Rotuaarin Pallo is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This eye-catching art installation is sure to impress. Next on your list is Oulu Art Museum, another must-visit landmark and underrated art gallery renowned for its photogenic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Oulu by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Tietomaa Science Centre. This eye-catching science center is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Oulu experience. We also recommend visiting Turkansaari Open Air Museum, an often recommended museum.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Kajaani. 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 Kajaani. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Don’t miss out on dining at Taukopaikka Nuottijärvi, a top-rated dining destination in Kajaani. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pancho Villa, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Peevee Bar Oy. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Kajaani this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar Jussila (t:mi Juha J. Immonen), which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Restaurant Saint Kukko is another popular option for a drink or two.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Finland!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Finland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Kajaani and Suomussalmi. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ruka, where will spend 1 night.

Start your day at Kainuu Museum. This photogenic museum is an up-and-coming place to see in Kajaani. Then, wander over to Kajaani Castle Ruins. If breathtaking sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Kajaani and set your GPS to Suomussalmi. 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 35 min. Upon reaching Suomussalmi, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Hiljaisen Kansan Tilataideteos (the Silent People), an intriguing art installation known for its stunning features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Ruka, 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 Ruka's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a delicious meal at RUOK, a top-rated dining destination in Ruka. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Villiruokaravintola Rukan Kuksa, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Finland.