Southern Finland Road Trip Itinerary
The Southern Finland Road Trip is a great way to explore the beauty of Finland. Starting in the capital city of Helsinki and ending there, this 1067km journey takes you through four towns: Porvoo, Lahti, Tampere and Turku. You can expect excellent road conditions, making this a great choice for any driver. The best time of the year to take this trip is during the warmer months, when you can take in the UNESCO Heritage Monuments on the route. With a journey of 7 days, you can expect to make some amazing memories and experience the best that Southern Finland has to offer. Although this road trip can be managed with a high budget, it is well worth it for the level of experience and memories you can take away.
7
number of days
1,067 km
route length
high
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
Finland Road Sign
❯
❮
START
Helsinki
Distance 1,047 km
Driving time 15.4 h
Pace: fast
314.2 kWh
Airports
HEL
[detailsContainer]
Helsinki, the vibrant capital of Finland, is the perfect starting point for the Southern Finland Road Trip. Known for its unique architecture, its outdoor activities, and its many museums, Helsinki has something to offer for everyone.
Begin your journey in the heart of Helsinki at the Senate Square, surrounded by the historical buildings of the Helsinki Cathedral, the Government Palace, and the University of Helsinki. From there, explore the city's many parks, including the beautiful Esplanadi and the lush Kaivopuisto. Or take a stroll along the harbor to check out the lively Market Square and the nearby Uspenski Cathedral.
For art lovers, don't miss the Ateneum, Finland's National Gallery, and the Design Museum. Afterwards, take a ferry out to the fortress island of Suomenlinna, one of Finland's most important historical sites.
For those traveling by air, Helsinki-Vantaa International Airport (HEL) offers car rentals for the start of your road trip. Plus, it's only a 20-minute drive from the airport to the heart of Helsinki. So you can hit the ground running and start your Southern Finland Road Trip right away.
1
Helsinki
- Porvoo
Distance 48 km
Driving time 0.6 h
Pace: fast
14.3 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an exciting road trip from Helsinki to Porvoo! This 48 km journey takes less than an hour to complete and takes you to some of the most interesting places in Finland. Start your journey in Helsinki, the vibrant capital of Finland. Here, you can explore the city's many historical sites such as the Helsinki Cathedral and the Senate Square, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. As you drive towards Porvoo, you will pass through an enchanting landscape of forests and lakes. Once you arrive in Porvoo, you can explore its charming old town, which is one of the oldest in Finland. Here, you can find cobblestone streets, traditional wooden houses, and the Old Town Hall, which dates back to the 14th century. There are also many cafes and restaurants here where you can sample the local cuisine. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage.
Porvoo - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - www.pxfuel.com
Porvoo - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
2
Porvoo
- Lappeenranta
Distance 181 km
Driving time 2.2 h
Pace: fast
54.4 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip from Porvoo to Lappeenranta? This 181 km journey will take you less than 3 hours to complete, giving you plenty of time to explore the most interesting places along the way.
Start your journey in Porvoo, a beautiful small town with a rich history, where you can visit the Porvoo Cathedral and the Old Town Hall. Then, continue to the city of Kouvola, where you can explore the Repovesi National Park and the Kymi River.
Next, you can visit the small town of Miehikkälä, where you can admire the picturesque landscapes and the Miehikkälä Church. Then, continue to the city of Imatra, where you can explore the Imatrankoski rapids and the nearby Vuoksi River.
Finally, you will reach your destination, Lappeenranta, where you can explore the Lappeenranta Fortress and the Linnoitus Church.
Along the way, you will have the opportunity to admire the stunning Finnish countryside and take in the breathtaking scenery. Be sure to keep an eye out for the picturesque landscapes and take plenty of photos!
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check 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
❯
❮
3
Lappeenranta
- Lahti
Distance 146 km
Driving time 1.8 h
Pace: fast
43.9 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on a road trip from Lappeenranta, Finland to Lahti and explore the beauty of the Finnish countryside! This 146 km journey will take you less than two hours, and you can look forward to a variety of attractions along the way.
Start in Lappeenranta and take a stroll in the harbour area, where you can admire the old wooden buildings, and then visit the Lappeenranta Fortress, which dates back to the 18th century. Don't forget to take a photo of the iconic Saimaa Canal, which is the longest canal in Finland.
On the way to Lahti, make sure to stop at the beautiful town of Kouvola, where you can find the Repovesi National Park and the Linnansaari National Park. Here you can enjoy the lush forests and many outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and canoeing.
Finally, arrive in Lahti and visit the ski museum and the Sibelius Hall, which is a concert hall and a popular tourist attraction. You can also check out the Lahti Art Museum, which features a variety of Finnish and international art.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Lahti - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
4
Lahti
- Hameenlinna
Distance 79 km
Driving time 1.2 h
Pace: fast
23.6 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome road-trippers! Get ready for the most exciting stage of your journey, starting in Lahti, Finland and ending in Hameenlinna, only 79 km away. This short drive will take you less than 2 hours, but you'll be able to discover some of the most interesting places in the area.
In Lahti, make sure to visit the beautiful Sibelius Hall and the picturesque Lahti Harbor. From there, you'll be able to admire the view of the lake Vesijärvi. Then, drive to Hollola, where you'll find the historical Hollola Church and the Hollola Manor.
On your way to Hameenlinna, you'll pass by the Valkeala Church and the Valkeala Manor. Once you arrive in Hameenlinna, you can explore the Hame Castle, the Hameenlinna Church, and the Aulanko Nature Reserve.
As you drive along this route, don't forget to admire the stunning landscapes and the many historical sites. More information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy the ride!
Hameenlinna - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
Hameenlinna - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
5
Hameenlinna
- Tampere
Distance 78 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: fast
23.5 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Hämeenlinna to Tampere? This 78 km drive will take you less than an hour and the journey will be full of interesting sights and experiences.
You can start your journey by visiting the Häme Castle, a 13th century fortress located in the heart of the town. Afterwards, you can drive to the picturesque town of Valkeakoski and admire its beautiful canals and parks.
Continue your journey and you will arrive in Akaa, where you can explore the historical sites of the town and take a walk in the nearby forests. Don't forget to take a break in the local cafés and restaurants.
The last stop of your journey is Tampere, the largest inland city in the Nordic countries. Here, you can explore the beautiful lakeside parks, visit the Tampere Cathedral and the Tampere Hall.
On your way, don't forget to admire the stunning landscapes and take some pictures. You can also find more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable road trip experience!
Tampere - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - en.wikipedia.org
Tampere - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - lt.wikipedia.org
❯
❮
6
Tampere
- Rauma
Distance 142 km
Driving time 1.9 h
Pace: fast
42.7 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome to the Tampere-Rauma Road Trip! This 142 km journey will take you less than two hours to complete, and along the way you will get to experience some of the most interesting historical sites in Finland. Start your journey in Tampere, the third-largest city in Finland, and explore the old wooden houses of the city centre, the old stone church, and the Tampere Cathedral. As you drive through the countryside, take time to admire the lush forests and the beautiful lakes. You will also pass through some UNESCO World Heritage Sites, so be sure to take a few pictures! When you reach Rauma, you can explore the old wooden houses of the city centre, the Rauma Maritime Museum, and the Rauma Church. Don't forget to try the local delicacies while you're there! To make the most of your trip, make sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!
Rauma - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
Rauma - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
7
Rauma
- Turku
Distance 142 km
Driving time 2.8 h
Pace: modest
36.8 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome to the Rauma-Turku road trip! This 142 km journey will take you less than three hours of driving, so you can enjoy the beautiful views of the Finnish countryside.
Start your trip in the historical city of Rauma, where you can visit the Old Rauma area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you can admire the unique architecture of the 18th and 19th century wooden houses, as well as the Rauma Maritime Museum, the Rauma Art Museum and the Rauma Town Hall.
Continue your journey to Turku, the oldest city in Finland, where you can explore the Turku Castle, the Turku Cathedral and the Turku Art Museum. You can also take a boat trip to the nearby archipelago and enjoy the beautiful nature of the islands.
Along the way, make sure to take a break and admire the historical sites and monuments, as well as the breathtaking views of the countryside.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Turku - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
Turku - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
❯
❮
8
Turku
- Helsinki
Distance 231 km
Driving time 4.0 h
Pace: modest
60.1 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Take a road trip from Turku to Helsinki and explore the historical sites of Finland! This 231 km journey will take you about 4 hours and you will be able to see some of the UNESCO Heritage sites along the way. Start your journey in Turku, the oldest city in Finland, and explore its historical churches, museums, and the Turku Castle. Then, make a stop in Rauma, a city known for its traditional wooden houses and cobblestone streets. Don’t forget to visit the Old Town of Porvoo, with its picturesque red warehouses, and the historic town of Loviisa. As you approach Helsinki, take a break in Espoo, the second largest city in Finland, and explore its green parks and beautiful beaches. Once you reach the capital, you can explore the many attractions of Helsinki, such as the Senate Square, the Sibelius Monument, and the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress. 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!
Helsinki - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - pxhere.com
❯
❮
Helsinki
[detailsContainer]
Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is the perfect end to a Southern Finland Road Trip. With its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and countless attractions, Helsinki offers something for everyone.
Start your exploration of the city by visiting some of its most renowned attractions. The Senate Square, with the beautiful Helsinki Cathedral at its center, is a sight to behold. The Temppeliaukio Church, carved from solid rock, is a remarkable feat of architecture. The Seurasaari Open-Air Museum gives visitors a glimpse into traditional Finnish life.
Helsinki is also home to numerous museums, theaters, and galleries. Make sure to visit the Ateneum Art Museum, the National Museum of Finland, and the Natural History Museum for a comprehensive look at Finnish culture and history.
If you're looking for a more active experience, Helsinki has plenty to offer. Take a walk around the harbor, visit the nearby islands, or take a boat tour of the city. You can also explore the city's many parks, such as the Central Park of Finland, the Kaivopuisto Park, and the Sibelius Park.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Helsinki Airport (HEL). After a wonderful Southern Finland Road Trip, you'll be sure to leave Helsinki with amazing memories.
Southern Finland Road Trip at a glance
-
Start:
Helsinki
-
End:
Helsinki
-
Distance:
1,067 km
-
Stay:
7 days
-
Getting there:
Helsinki Vantaa Airport (HEL)
-
When to drive:
June, July, August, September
-
More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on a captivating Southern Finland Road Trip to explore the mesmerizing landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Finland. This journey begins and ends in the dynamic capital city of Helsinki and spans approximately 1067km, weaving through picturesque towns and cities, including Porvoo, Lahti, Tampere, and Turku. Each location offers its own unique set of experiences, blending historical charm with the natural beauty of the Finnish countryside.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Helsinki: This bustling metropolis is not only the capital but also the cultural heart of Finland. Key attractions include the UNESCO World Heritage Site Suomenlinna Fortress, an 18th-century sea fortress spread across six islands, and the lively Design District, which is packed with boutiques, galleries, and cafes showcasing Finnish innovation and style.
- Porvoo: Step back in time in Porvoo, Finland's second oldest town, with its idyllic Old Town that’s famous for its colorful wooden houses and narrow, cobblestone streets. The historic Old Porvoo is a treasure trove for photographers and history buffs alike.
- Lahti: Known as the winter sports capital of Finland, Lahti is celebrated for its large ski jump hills and the Sibelius Hall, a waterfront concert hall named after the famed Finnish composer Jean Sibelius.
- Tampere: Boasting a rich industrial heritage, Tampere is home to the Vapriikki Museum complex, which hosts several museums under one roof, and the Nasinneula Tower, offering panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and landscapes.
- Turku: As Finland's oldest city, Turku is steeped in history. The impressive Turku Castle dates back to the 13th century and the Turku Cathedral, which stands as an important religious and historical landmark in Finland.
Best Time to Go:
The optimal time to enjoy this Road Trip is from late spring to early autumn (May to September), when the weather is mild and conducive to exploring the diverse outdoor attractions and UNESCO-listed sites.
Potential Risks:
Finland boasts well-maintained Roads, but travelers should be mindful of weather-related challenges outside the summer months, such as icy Roads and limited daylight hours, which can impact driving conditions and sightseeing plans.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Duration: To fully immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Southern Finland, a 7-day itinerary is recommended.
- Budget: While the Trip might require a substantial budget, the rich experiences and unforgettable memories offer great value.
- Navigation: Utilizing GPS and detailed maps is advisable to navigate the scenic routes and uncover hidden gems along the way.
- Accommodation: Diverse lodging options are available, from luxury urban hotels in the cities to cozy cottages and guesthouses in the countryside.
A good choice for:
Combining urban exploration with the tranquility of nature, the Southern Finland Road Trip is an enchanting adventure that promises a deep dive into both the cosmopolitan and pastoral elements of Finnish life. This route is tailored for those who appreciate cultural depth as well as picturesque landscapes, making it an essential journey for any Road Tripper visiting Finland.
-
