Finland Road Trip Itinerary
The Finland Road Trip is a great way to explore the beautiful country of Finland. Starting in the capital city of Helsinki, the route takes you through the towns of Kaarina, Rauma, Oulu, Rovaniemi, Kuusamo, Savonlinna, Lappeenranta, and Porvoo, covering a distance of approximately 2707km. This road trip can be completed in 14 days, with the best time to drive being during the warmer months of the year. The road trip takes you through some of Finland's most stunning scenery, with excellent road conditions throughout. You will pass by some of Finland's most iconic UNESCO Heritage Monuments, such as the Rauma Old Town and the Petäjävesi Old Church. This road trip is suitable for all drivers, though it does come with a high budget. However, the memories and experiences you will gain from this journey are worth every penny. So, get your car ready and embark on the Finland Road Trip for an unforgettable experience!
14
number of days
2,687 km
route length
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budget
family
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Finland Road Sign
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START
Helsinki
Distance 2,687 km
Driving time 40.2 h
Pace: fast
806.2 kWh
Airports
HEL
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Welcome to Helsinki, the starting point of your amazing Finland Road Trip! This beautiful city is the capital of Finland and is known for its stunning architecture, attractions, and culture. It is also the gateway to the rest of the country, making it the perfect place to start your journey. Helsinki is the home to many incredible sights, including the famous Senate Square, the Helsinki Cathedral, and the National Museum of Finland. The city also boasts a plethora of art galleries, museums, and parks, so you'll never run out of things to explore. When it comes to shopping and dining, Helsinki has something for everyone. From traditional Finnish delicacies to international cuisine, you'll find plenty of options for a delicious meal. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL), conveniently located just a short drive away from the city center. Once you arrive, you can easily rent a car to explore the rest of Finland. There are plenty of car rental companies located at the airport, so you can select the one that best suits your needs.
So start your Finland Road Trip off right – explore the wonderful city of Helsinki and all it has to offer. And don't forget to document your journey with plenty of photos and stories to share with your friends back home!
1
Helsinki
- Kaarina
Distance 212 km
Driving time 2.5 h
Pace: fast
63.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the Helsinki - Kaarina road trip! This stage of your journey takes you from the beautiful Finnish capital to the city of Kaarina, a mere 212 km away. You can reach your destination in less than 3 hours, so make sure to enjoy the ride and soak in the breathtaking sceneries along the way.
Start your journey in Helsinki and explore the city's attractions such as the Senate Square, the National Museum and the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to visit the Temppeliaukio Church, a unique rock church built inside a boulder, and the Sibelius Monument, a tribute to the famous Finnish composer.
Continue your journey to Kaarina and pay a visit to the Turku Castle, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This medieval castle is one of the largest in Finland and offers a fascinating glimpse into the country's past. Don't forget to explore the nearby Turku Cathedral, the oldest church in Finland.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Kaarina - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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2
Kaarina
- Turku
Distance 165 km
Driving time 4.6 h
Pace: slow
38.0 kWh
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Are you ready to explore the beautiful sights of the South Coast of Finland? Start your journey in Kaarina and get ready to experience the best of this stunning region! Your first stop is Storlandet, a small village with a rich history and stunning views. Here you can explore the ruins of the old church, take a walk in the forest and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. From Storlandet, you will drive to Kyrklandet, a small island with a picturesque landscape. Take a stroll along the shore and admire the views of the Baltic Sea. After a short drive, you will arrive in Turku, the oldest city of Finland. Here you can explore the old city centre and visit the iconic Turku Castle. The total distance of this road trip is 165 km and it will take you less than 5 hours. Along the way, don't forget to admire the beautiful scenery and interesting historical sites. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Have a great trip!
Turku - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
Turku - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
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3
Turku
- Rauma
Distance 166 km
Driving time 3.2 h
Pace: modest
43.1 kWh
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Welcome to the road trip stage from Turku to Rauma! This 166 km journey will take you less than 4 hours to complete. Along the way, you'll find many interesting sites to explore, including a few UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Get ready to take in the sights and sounds of Finland's countryside!
Start your journey in Turku, Finland's oldest city. Visit the Turku Castle, a 13th century castle that has been standing for over 700 years, or the Turku Cathedral, an iconic landmark that is one of the most important historical sites in Finland.
Continue your journey to Rauma, a charming seaside town that is known for its old wooden buildings. Make sure to visit the Old Rauma, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and take a stroll through the cobblestone streets. Don't forget to visit the Rauma Maritime Museum, where you can learn about the town's long history of fishing and boatbuilding.
This is just one stage of your road trip, so make sure to explore all the sights and sounds along the way. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the itinerary for this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Rauma - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
Rauma - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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4
Rauma
- Vaasa
Distance 242 km
Driving time 2.9 h
Pace: fast
72.5 kWh
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Embark on an exciting 242km road trip from Rauma to Vaasa! With a driving time of fewer than 3 hours, you'll have plenty of time to explore the most interesting places this route has to offer. Make sure to check out the Old Rauma UNESCO World Heritage Site, the old wooden church in Köyliö, and the beautiful scenery along the way.
This route is part of a larger tour, so you'll have plenty of time to explore the area. Be sure to visit the Kvarken Archipelago UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Kvarken Nature Trail, and the Kvarken Lighthouse. You'll also have the chance to take in the stunning views of the Vähäkyrö rapids.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. Get ready to enjoy an unforgettable road trip from Rauma to Vaasa!
Vaasa - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
Vaasa - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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5
Vaasa
- Oulu
Distance 325 km
Driving time 4.1 h
Pace: fast
97.6 kWh
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Embark on a road trip from Vaasa, Finland to Oulu and explore the best of both cities! The journey is only 325 km and takes about 5 hours, so you can easily travel back and forth in a day.
Start off your trip in Vaasa, a city on the west coast of Finland. Take a stroll around the harbor and visit the Vaasa Market Square, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Then, check out the Vaasa Cathedral, a beautiful old church with a stunning interior. Don't forget to take a picture of the Kvarken Archipelago, an UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning views of the sea.
Continue your journey to Oulu, a city known for its unique culture and vibrant nightlife. Take a walk around the city and explore the Old Town, a charming area with cobblestone streets and old wooden houses. Don't miss the Oulu Cathedral, an impressive building with a stunning interior. Afterwards, head to the Oulu Market Hall, a lively market with plenty of local products and delicious food.
This is just one of the many stages of your road trip, and there are plenty of other attractions and activities to explore along the way. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a safe and enjoyable journey!
Oulu - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - www.goodfreephotos.com
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6
Oulu
- Rovaniemi
Distance 228 km
Driving time 2.9 h
Pace: fast
68.3 kWh
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Start your road trip in Oulu, Finland and make your way to the beautiful city of Kemi! Along the way, you can enjoy the stunning views of the Finnish landscape, with its lakes, forests, and rolling hills. Stop by the old castle of Oulu and learn about its history. As you make your way to Kemi, you can admire the scenery and take a break in the small towns along the way. In Kemi, take the time to explore the unique and fascinating Snow Castle, built entirely of snow and ice. The Snow Castle is a must-see and a great way to experience the beauty of the Finnish winter.
Continue your journey to Rovaniemi and make sure to enjoy the 228 km drive, which should take you less than 3 hours. On the way, you can discover the historical sites and scenic roads that make this part of Finland so unique. When you arrive in Rovaniemi, make sure to visit the Arktikum Museum and the Santa Claus Village. Both of these attractions will give you a great insight into the culture and history of the area. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Rovaniemi - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
Rovaniemi - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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7
Rovaniemi
- Kuusamo
Distance 232 km
Driving time 3.3 h
Pace: fast
69.5 kWh
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Rovaniemi to Kuusamo? The 232km of scenic roads will take you less than 4 hours, so you can take your time to explore all the interesting places along the way!
Start your journey in Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland and home to Santa Claus Village. Here you can visit the Arktikum Science Centre and take a walk in the Ounasvaara hills.
On the way to Kuusamo, you can stop at Ranua Wildlife Park to see the polar bears, reindeer and other Arctic animals. The beautiful surroundings of the park will definitely make your trip memorable!
Finally, you will reach Kuusamo, the adventure capital of Finland. Here you can explore the breathtaking views of the Oulanka National Park, take a stroll in the Ruka ski resort and visit the Kuusamo Nature Centre.
Don't forget to take some time to enjoy the beautiful landscape of the region, with its rolling hills and crystal clear lakes.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Have a safe and enjoyable journey!
Kuusamo - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
Kuusamo - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - pxhere.com
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8
Kuusamo
- Kajaani
Distance 245 km
Driving time 2.8 h
Pace: fast
73.6 kWh
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Welcome to the road trip stage between Kuusamo and Kajaani in Finland! This scenic route is only 245 km long and should take you less than three hours to complete.
Start your journey in Kuusamo, where you can explore the natural beauty of the Ruka Ski Resort, take a boat ride on the Oulanka National Park, or take a hike to the stunning Oulanka Waterfall.
When you reach Kajaani, you can take a stroll through the town's historical center, visit the Kajaani Castle, or explore the Kajaani Art Museum.
As you make your way along the route, keep an eye out for the stunning natural scenery, including the Oulanka River and the lush forests of the Oulanka National Park.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.
We hope you enjoy your journey between Kuusamo and Kajaani!
Kajaani - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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9
Kajaani
- Kuopio
Distance 171 km
Driving time 2.2 h
Pace: fast
51.2 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Kajaani to Kuopio! This 171 km journey will take you less than three hours and you will have plenty of time to explore the best of what these two cities have to offer.
Start your journey in Kajaani, the capital of the Kainuu region. Here you can explore the Kajaani Castle and its Museum, take a stroll in the beautiful Kajaani city park, and admire the Kajaani Church.
Continue your journey to Kuopio, the largest city in Eastern Finland. Here you can visit the Kuopio Market Square and the Kuopio Cathedral, explore the Kuopio Museum, and take in the views from the Kuopio Harbor.
Make sure to keep an eye out for historical sites along the way. There are plenty of opportunities to make stops and soak in the stunning Finnish countryside.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, you can find more details in the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road trip from Kajaani to Kuopio!
Kuopio - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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10
Kuopio
- Savonlinna
Distance 301 km
Driving time 6.2 h
Pace: modest
78.2 kWh
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip starting in Kuopio and ending in Savonlinna? This trip will take you on a journey of 301 km through the stunning Finnish countryside, taking you less than 7 hours to complete.
The first stop on your journey should be the Kuopio Market Square, a vibrant market square with a wide variety of stalls and shops. After exploring the market, you can take a break at the nearby beach, where you can relax and take in the fresh air.
As you continue your journey, you will pass through the picturesque countryside of Central Finland, with beautiful views of lakes, forests, and rolling hills. Make sure to keep an eye out for historical sites along the way, such as the ancient churches of Pielavesi and Rautalampi.
Your final destination is the charming city of Savonlinna, where you can explore the old town and its many attractions. Take a boat tour to the Olavinlinna Castle, or visit the Savonlinna Opera Festival to experience some of the best music and theater in Finland.
Along the way, you can find plenty of accommodation options, restaurants, and campsites. For more information about attractions, accommodations, restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Start your journey and experience the best of Finland!
Savonlinna - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - www.needpix.com
Savonlinna - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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11
Savonlinna
- Lappeenranta
Distance 168 km
Driving time 2.6 h
Pace: fast
50.4 kWh
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Start your road trip in Savonlinna, Finland, and drive to Lappeenranta, a distance of 168 km and a drive time of fewer than 3 hours. You’ll be treated to some of the most beautiful landscapes in Finland, with plenty of historical sites to explore along the way. Make sure to take a break in Punkaharju, a picturesque area full of lakes and forests, or explore the Olavinlinna Castle in Savonlinna. As you make your way to Lappeenranta, you’ll be able to explore the sandstone fortress and the harbor in the city center. Make sure to explore the nearby Imatra rapids and the nearby nature reserves. Along your journey, you’ll be treated to some of the most beautiful views in Finland, so make sure to take lots of pictures! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Lappeenranta - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
Lappeenranta - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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12
Lappeenranta
- Porvoo
Distance 187 km
Driving time 2.4 h
Pace: fast
56.2 kWh
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Are you looking for an exciting road trip? Look no further! Lappeenranta to Porvoo is a 187 km journey that will take you fewer than 3 hours to complete. Along the way, you will be able to admire the stunning landscapes and the historical sites of both cities.
In Lappeenranta, you can visit the Fortress of Lappeenranta, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also take a stroll in the harbor or relax in the city's sandy beaches.
As you drive through the countryside, you will be able to admire the picturesque landscapes and scenic roads.
When you arrive in Porvoo, you can explore the Old Town, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also visit the Cathedral of Porvoo and the Porvoo Museum.
Take your time to explore these two beautiful cities and all the attractions they have to offer. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Porvoo - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - www.pxfuel.com
Porvoo - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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13
Porvoo
- Helsinki
Distance 46 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: fast
13.9 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Porvoo to Helsinki, only 46 km away, and enjoy the stunning views of the Finnish countryside. Driving time is less than an hour, so you can take your time and visit the most interesting places along the way. Start your journey in Porvoo, a charming small town, where you can admire the old wooden houses and the beautiful river. Then, drive to the historical city of Loviisa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the way, you can also visit the impressive ruins of the Svartholm Fortress. As you approach Helsinki, you will be able to enjoy the scenic views of the Gulf of Finland. When you arrive in Helsinki, you can explore the city's many attractions, such as the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, the Market Square, and the Ateneum Art Museum. All in all, this road trip is a great way to explore the best of Finland. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Helsinki - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - pxhere.com
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Helsinki
[detailsContainer]
The end point of your "Finland Road Trip" is Helsinki, the capital of Finland. A vibrant city full of culture, with plenty to see and do.
Start off by exploring the Senate Square, where the city's oldest and most important buildings are located. Visit the Helsinki Cathedral, the University of Helsinki, and the Government Palace, all of which are excellent examples of neoclassical architecture.
For a more modern experience, take a stroll through the Design District, where trendy bars, restaurants, and boutiques line the streets. Make sure to check out the Design Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma to get a sense of the city's creative culture.
If you're looking to get out of the city, take a ferry to Suomenlinna, an 18th century fortress built on a series of islands. Here you can explore the picturesque forts, enjoy the stunning views of the city, and take a dip in the Baltic Sea.
For those looking to fly into Helsinki, the closest international airport is Helsinki Vantaa Airport (HEL). From there, you can take a bus, train, or taxi into the city.
At the end of your "Finland Road Trip", Helsinki is the perfect place to explore and relax. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful surroundings, it's sure to leave a lasting impression.
Finland Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Helsinki
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End:
Helsinki
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Distance:
2,687 km
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Stay:
14 days
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Getting there:
Helsinki Vantaa Airport (HEL)
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When to drive:
June, July, August, September
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Finland’s Grand Tour offers an immersive journey through the tranquil beauty of Nordic landscapes, from the lively capital of Helsinki to the serene wilderness of Lapland. Starting in Helsinki, travelers are greeted by a vibrant mix of modern art, historic architecture, and lively markets, with landmarks like the Suomenlinna fortress and the bustling Senate Square capturing the city’s cultural richness. Moving inland, the route brings roadtrippers to the Lake Saimaa region, a stunning area dotted with thousands of lakes, where boating, fishing, and swimming are perfect summer pastimes.
Further north, the journey takes you to Rovaniemi, known as the “official” hometown of Santa Claus and the gateway to Lapland. Here, you can dive into the culture of Finland’s indigenous Sami people, explore scenic trails, or witness the magical Northern Lights in winter. The drive also passes through Oulu, a coastal city with a vibrant cultural scene, perfect for those looking to experience Finland’s dynamic arts and festival culture. Heading west, the medieval city of Turku, Finland’s oldest city, offers charming riverside cafés, a historic castle, and a beautiful archipelago just waiting to be explored.
The best time for a Finnish road trip is in the summer months of June through August, when long daylight hours and warm temperatures make driving conditions ideal. For those drawn to winter’s charm, December to February is perfect for snowy landscapes, skiing, and other winter sports in Lapland, though winter driving experience is essential for navigating icy roads. Finland’s rural roads are well-maintained, but it’s wise to plan fuel stops carefully, as services may be limited in remote areas. Finnish culture values privacy and respect for nature, so the country’s “Right to Roam” allows responsible camping on private land, making this road trip accessible for those seeking budget-friendly adventure.
From Helsinki’s lively streets to Lapland’s tranquil wilderness, Finland’s Grand Tour brings roadtrippers face-to-face with the country’s natural beauty, warm culture, and a sense of peaceful solitude unique to the North.