Into the North Road Trip Itinerary
The Into the North Road Trip is an unforgettable experience for those who love to explore and discover! This road trip starts in Helsinki, the capital of Finland, and ends in Utsjoki, the northernmost municipality in the country. The journey spans 1310km and is best completed in 7 days. It is recommended to take the road trip between May and September when the weather is most favorable and the roads are in the best condition.
The route passes through Lahti, Oulu, and Ivalo, each offering unique experiences and attractions. Lahti is a city of culture, hosting the Sibelius Festival every spring and the Lahti Ski Games every winter. Oulu is a lively city, known for its beautiful harbor and the Oulu Market Hall, a great place to sample local delicacies. Ivalo is situated in the heart of the Arctic Circle and is a great place to experience the northern lights.
The Into the North Road Trip is a great way to explore the diverse landscapes of Finland. The route passes through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kvarken Archipelago and the majestic Oulanka National Park. The roads are of good quality and the journey is suitable for any driver. However, it should be noted that this road trip can be managed with a high budget only.
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number of days
1,310 km
route length
high
budget
tourist
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traffic direction
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Finland Road Sign
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START
Helsinki
Distance 1,299 km
Driving time 15.9 h
Pace: fast
389.8 kWh
Airports
HEL
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Helsinki is the perfect starting point for the "Into the North Road Trip". Located on the shores of the Gulf of Finland, this vibrant and charming capital city of Finland offers a great variety of sights and activities. From the harbor, you can take a boat to the nearby island of Suomenlinna and explore the old fortresses and military installations. You can also take a stroll through the Esplanade Park and admire the modern architecture of the city.
You can also visit the Old Market Hall and enjoy some of the local delicacies, or take a tour of the Senate Square and admire the neoclassical architecture. Helsinki Cathedral is also worth a visit, with its impressive dome and Baroque-style facade.
The closest international airport to Helsinki is Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL), which offers a wide range of car rental options. Once you have your rental car, you can easily explore the city and its surroundings. There are plenty of scenic drives and attractions just a few hours' drive away from Helsinki.
So, get ready for the "Into the North Road Trip" and start your journey in Helsinki. With its vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty, Helsinki is a great starting point for a memorable road trip.
1
Helsinki
- Lahti
Distance 104 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: fast
31.1 kWh
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Start your road trip in Helsinki and end it in Lahti! This 104 km journey will take you less than two hours, so you can take your time to enjoy the sights of the Finnish countryside. On your way, you will come across some UNESCO World Heritage sites, so make sure to take a few pictures! You will also pass some stunning natural landscapes, so keep your eyes open for some beautiful views.
Once you arrive in Lahti, you can explore the city's rich history and culture. You can visit the Lahti Historical Museum, the Sibelius Hall, and the Art Museum. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes to explore.
To learn more about the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, make sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip through Finland!
Lahti - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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2
Lahti
- Jyvaskyla
Distance 177 km
Driving time 2.4 h
Pace: fast
53.0 kWh
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Welcome to the Lahti-Jyväskylä road trip! This 177 km journey will take you less than 3 hours to complete, with plenty of scenic roads to enjoy along the way.
Start your trip in Lahti, where you can explore the beautiful Sibelius Hall, the Lahti Art Museum, and the historic Vesijärvi harbor. From there, take a leisurely drive to Jyväskylä, where you can visit the Alvar Aalto Museum and the Jyväskylä City Theater.
Be sure to take in the beautiful Finnish countryside along the way, with its rolling hills and lush forests. And don't forget to keep an eye out for the many lakes and rivers that dot the landscape!
At the end of your journey, you'll arrive in Jyväskylä, where you can take a stroll through the old town or explore the local parks and gardens.
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!
Jyvaskyla - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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3
Jyvaskyla
- Oulu
Distance 342 km
Driving time 4.2 h
Pace: fast
102.7 kWh
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Are you looking for an exciting road trip? Look no further than Jyvaskyla to Oulu! This 342 km drive will take you less than 5 hours and will be a journey to remember. Start your journey in Jyvaskyla, a city known for its beautiful lakes and greenery. Here you can explore the Jyvaskyla University Botanical Gardens, a great spot for nature lovers. As you make your way to Oulu, you will come across some of the most beautiful scenery in Finland. Make sure to stop at the Pyhä-Häkki National Park, an area of untouched nature, and the Pyhä-Luosto National Park, a great spot for outdoor activities. If you’re looking for a more cultural experience, you can visit the Oulu Cathedral, a beautiful example of Finnish neo-Gothic architecture. Finally, don’t miss the Oulu Museum of Art, a must-see for art lovers. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your road trip to Jyvaskyla to Oulu today!
Oulu - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - www.goodfreephotos.com
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4
Oulu
- Rovaniemi
Distance 224 km
Driving time 2.8 h
Pace: fast
67.3 kWh
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip through Finland? Start your journey in Oulu, a city located in the Northern Ostrobothnia region of Finland. From there, make your way to Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland, located just 224 km away. Enjoy the drive, which should take no more than 3 hours, admiring the beautiful views of the Finnish countryside.
On the way, don’t forget to stop in the small towns of Kempele and Ylivieska, where you can explore the local culture and history. If you’re a nature lover, take a break in the city of Oulunsalo, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk in the nearby forests. For a more urban experience, visit the city of Raahe, where you can explore its historical sites and enjoy the local cuisine.
Finally, make your way to Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland. Here, you can visit the world-famous Santa Claus Village, explore the Arktikum Science Centre, and take a tour of the city centre.
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!
Rovaniemi - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
Rovaniemi - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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5
Rovaniemi
- Ivalo
Distance 288 km
Driving time 3.3 h
Pace: fast
86.4 kWh
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Embark on a thrilling journey through the stunning Finnish landscape, beginning in Rovaniemi and ending in Ivalo. On this road trip of about 288 km, you will get to explore some of the most interesting places in Finland. Along the way, you will pass through Sodankyla, where you can visit the famous Arktikum Science Centre and Museum. This is a great place to learn about the history of the region and its culture. Further down the road, you will come across the breathtaking views of the Ounasvaara ski resort and the beautiful landscapes of the Pallas-Yllastunturi National Park. As you drive through the Lapland region, be sure to keep an eye out for the majestic reindeer. The drive should take no longer than four hours, however, some sections of the route may be closed seasonally. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for a road trip of a lifetime!
Ivalo - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
Ivalo - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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6
Ivalo
- Inari
Distance 39 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: fast
11.7 kWh
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Welcome to your road trip from Ivalo to Inari! This scenic 39 km journey will take you less than an hour, and you’ll be sure to enjoy the picturesque landscapes and stunning views along the way.
Be sure to keep an eye out for the Ivalo River and the Ivalo Church, which is the northernmost church in Finland. You’ll also pass by the village of Inari, which is known for its traditional Sami culture and cuisine.
You may also want to take a detour to the Siida Museum, which is located in the middle of the route. Here, you can learn about the history and culture of the Sami people.
Please note that some sections of the route may be closed seasonally, so be sure to check the conditions before you go.
This is just one of the stages of your larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Inari - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - pixabay.com
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7
Inari
- Utsjoki
Distance 125 km
Driving time 1.6 h
Pace: fast
37.6 kWh
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Start your road trip in Inari, Finland and take the scenic drive to Utsjoki, just 125 km away. Along the way, you'll see some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world and have plenty of time to take in the sights. The drive will take less than two hours, and you'll have plenty of time to explore the many attractions in both towns.
In Inari, explore the Sámi culture and history at the Siida museum and enjoy the stunning views from the Inari Church. In Utsjoki, take a stroll through the village and admire the traditional Sámi buildings, or visit the Utsjoki Church. Be aware that some sections of the route may be closed seasonally.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Utsjoki - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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Utsjoki
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Utsjoki is a small and charming town located in the far north of Finland. Situated on the banks of the Teno River, Utsjoki is a great destination for those looking to experience Finland's tranquility and beauty. It's the perfect ending point for the "Into the North Road Trip", a journey that takes you through some of Finland's most spectacular landscapes.
Start your exploration of Utsjoki in the quaint village of Utsjoki, where you can visit the local church and admire the beautiful traditional architecture. From there, take a walk along the banks of the Teno River and admire the stunning views of the surrounding hills. For a taste of the local culture, visit the Sami Cultural Center, where you can learn about the original inhabitants of the region and their traditional way of life.
For nature lovers, Utsjoki is a paradise. The surrounding hills are a great place to hike and explore, while the nearby forests offer plenty of opportunities to observe the local wildlife. Those looking for a more relaxing experience can take a boat trip along the Teno River, where you can admire the stunning scenery and spot some of the area's birds and other wildlife.
If you're traveling by air, the closest international airport to Utsjoki is Rovaniemi Airport (RVN), located about 200 km away. From there, you can either rent a car or take a bus to Utsjoki. However, the best way to experience Utsjoki is by car, as it provides you with the flexibility to explore the region at your own pace.
No matter how you choose to travel to Utsjoki, it's sure to be an unforgettable experience. With its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and beautiful nature, Utsjoki is the perfect ending point for the "Into the North Road Trip".
Into the North Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Helsinki
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End:
Utsjoki
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Distance:
1,310 km
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Stay:
7 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.
Before you set off
Embark on the captivating Into the North Road Trip, a 1310km odyssey stretching from Helsinki to Utsjoki over the course of 7 days. This journey is a treasure trove for those passionate about immersing themselves in richly varied landscapes and deep cultural experiences that Finland has to offer.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Helsinki: The vibrant starting point offers a mix of contemporary and historic attractions, including the iconic Suomenlinna sea fortress and the bustling Market Square.
- Lahti: This city is a hub for music and sports enthusiasts, hosting the esteemed Sibelius Festival dedicated to the famed Finnish composer and the thrilling Lahti Ski Games, a winter sports event.
- Oulu: Celebrated for its beautiful harbor, Oulu is a gateway to the Bothnian Bay and its market hall, where you can indulge in delectable local delicacies.
- Ivalo: Nestled within the Arctic Circle, Ivalo is the prime location for experiencing the ethereal northern lights and exploring the serene wilderness of Lapland.
- Kvarken Archipelago: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a geological wonder, featuring the unique 'De Geer' moraines and a landscape that is rising from the sea due to post-glacial rebound.
- Oulanka National Park: A paradise for nature lovers, this park showcases Finland's stunning natural beauty with its lush forests, roaring rivers, and an array of outdoor activities from hiking to rafting.
Best Time to Go:
The optimal time for this Road Trip is between late spring and early autumn, particularly from May to September, when the weather is mild, nature is in full bloom, and the days are long, providing excellent conditions for travel and exploration.
Potential Risks:
Travelers should budget accordingly for the potentially high costs of this extensive journey and remain vigilant of the unpredictable weather patterns in the northern regions, which can change swiftly and may affect driving conditions.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The Roads in Finland are well-maintained and often surrounded by stunning scenery, including lakes, forests, and wildlife, so keep your camera ready.
- The Midnight Sun phenomenon occurs around the summer solstice in the northern parts of Finland, allowing for nearly 24 hours of daylight and providing a unique backdrop for your Road Trip.
- Saunas are a significant part of Finnish culture, so consider stopping at one of the many public saunas for an authentic and relaxing experience.
A good choice for:
The Into the North Road Trip transcends a mere drive; it is an enriching journey through the heart of Finland. It offers an unrivaled blend of cultural history and natural splendor, making it an unforgettable adventure for any traveler seeking the magic of the far north.
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