Finland's West Coast Road Trip Itinerary
Finland's West Coast Road Trip is an adventure that will take you through some of the most beautiful scenery that Finland has to offer. Starting in Helsinki and ending in Tornio, this 1150 km route takes you through the towns of Turku, Rauma, Kristinestad, Vaasa and Kokkola, offering plenty of attractions to explore along the way. The best time of the year to drive this route is during the summer months, when the days are long and the scenery is at its best.
The journey will take you past some of Finland's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Old Rauma and the Kvarken Archipelago, as well as some of the country's most stunning natural landscapes. The roads are in excellent condition, making the trip suitable for all drivers, although it should be noted that this road trip can be managed with high budget only.
If you are looking for an unforgettable journey through Finland's west coast, then Finland's West Coast Road Trip is the perfect choice for you. With five days being the recommended time to complete the journey, you will have plenty of time to explore the attractions along the way.
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number of days
1,150 km
route length
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Finland Road Sign
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START
Helsinki
Distance 1,143 km
Driving time 17.2 h
Pace: fast
342.9 kWh
Airports
HEL
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Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is the perfect starting point for your Finland's West Coast Road Trip. Surrounded by the Baltic Sea, this vibrant city offers a great mix of cultural and historical attractions, as well as plenty of outdoor activities.
Visit the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore the many attractions within. Take a stroll through the Esplanadi, a park filled with sculptures, statues, and fountains. Visit the Senate Square, the heart of Helsinki, and the nearby Helsinki Cathedral. Admire the unique architecture of the Temppeliaukio Church. To experience Helsinki’s vibrant night life, head to the Kallio district.
The closest international airport is Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) and there are several car rental companies at the airport, such as Avis, Hertz, and Europcar. From there, you can start your West Coast Road Trip and explore the many interesting sights along the way. Head to the port town of Hanko, the beautiful archipelago of Turku, and the picturesque seaside town of Rauma. Don’t forget to make a stop at the medieval city of Porvoo, a popular tourist destination.
No matter what your travel style is, Helsinki is the perfect starting point for your Finland's West Coast Road Trip. So don’t wait any longer and start planning your adventure today!
1
Helsinki
- Turku
Distance 216 km
Driving time 2.6 h
Pace: fast
64.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Helsinki to Turku! This 216 km journey will take you less than 3 hours to drive, so you won't have to worry about spending too much time in the car. On your way, you can explore some of Finland's most famous UNESCO Heritage sites, like the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, the Old Rauma, and the Verla Groundwood and Board Mill. Along the way, you can also take in the breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea and the Finnish Archipelago. Make sure to take some time to explore the historical sites and museums in both Helsinki and Turku. For more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the 'Itinerary' section of this stage.
Turku - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
Turku - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
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2
Turku
- Naantali
- Rauma
Distance 131 km
Driving time 2.4 h
Pace: modest
34.0 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the road trip stage that starts in Turku, Finland and follows the 131 km route to Rauma! This journey will take you less than 3 hours to complete, and you will be delighted by the amazing attractions along the way.
Your first stop is Naantali, a beautiful town that is home to some of Finland's most iconic historical sites, including the Moomin World theme park and Naantali Church. Be sure to take a stroll along the Old Town's cobblestone streets and admire the picturesque wooden houses.
As you continue your journey, you will pass by some of Finland's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Rauma Old Town and the Kvarken Archipelago. The Rauma Old Town is a charming place with a unique maritime atmosphere, while the Kvarken Archipelago is an amazing nature reserve with stunning landscapes and plenty of wildlife.
Finally, you will reach Rauma, the end of this stage of your road trip. Here you can explore the Old Town, visit the Rauma Maritime Museum, or take a boat tour of the archipelago. 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 journey!
Rauma - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
Rauma - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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3
Rauma
- Pori
- Kristinestad
Distance 199 km
Driving time 3.7 h
Pace: modest
51.7 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning Finnish countryside, beginning in Rauma and ending in Kristinestad. This 199 km road trip along the coast of the Gulf of Bothnia is a must-do for any road-tripper, taking no more than four hours.
As you make your way through the picturesque landscape, make sure to take the time to appreciate the beauty of the rolling hills and the scenic roads. Along the way, you'll pass through Pori, a city known for its beautiful riverside parks and its rich cultural heritage. Take the time to explore the cobblestone streets and the historical buildings of the old town, and don't miss the renowned Yyteri beach.
Finally, you'll reach Kristinestad, a small town with a rich history. Take a stroll through the cobbled streets and admire the colorful wooden houses, and don't miss the local museum and the old fort.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage of the road trip. Enjoy your journey!
Kristinestad - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
Kristinestad - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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4
Kristinestad
- Vaasa
Distance 124 km
Driving time 1.8 h
Pace: fast
37.1 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for a fantastic road trip adventure? Start in Kristinestad, Finland and enjoy the journey to Vaasa, a distance of only 124 km and a driving time of less than two hours. You'll be enchanted by the breathtaking scenery along the way, so make sure to take lots of pictures!
In Kristinestad, don’t miss the chance to visit the beautiful old town, with its old wooden houses, the harbor, and the old church. You can also visit the Kristinestad Art Museum, the local market, and the surrounding forests.
In Vaasa, you can explore the old town, the harbor, and the beautiful old buildings. You can also visit the Vaasa Zoo, the Vaasa Museum, and the Kvarken Archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This is just one of the stages of the road trip, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable road trip!
Vaasa - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
Vaasa - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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5
Vaasa
- Jakobstad
- Kokkola
Distance 137 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: fast
41.2 kWh
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Embark on a 137 km road trip from Vaasa, Finland, to Kokkola, and make sure to stop at the interesting places along the way. Start your journey in Vaasa and head to Jakobstad, a vibrant coastal town with a picturesque harbor. Take a stroll along the harbor and admire the colorful boats. Then, drive to Kokkola, a town with a rich cultural heritage. Visit the old fort and the castle, and explore the cobblestone streets of the old town. You can also visit the nearby nature reserve and enjoy the lush greenery. The entire journey will take less than three hours, so make sure to take your time and enjoy the scenic views along the way.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy the ride!
Kokkola - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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6
Kokkola
- Kalajoki
- Raahe
- Oulu
Distance 202 km
Driving time 2.6 h
Pace: fast
60.5 kWh
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Start your road trip in Kokkola, Finland, and explore the beauty of the northern part of the country. This 202 km journey will take you less than 3 hours to complete, and you will pass through the towns of Kalajoki and Raahe before reaching your destination, Oulu. On your way, you will be able to admire the historical sites, stunning landscapes, and the beautiful coastal roads.
In Kalajoki, you can take a stroll on the beach, take a boat ride, or even try your luck at the local casino. In Raahe, you can explore the old town, visit the old churches, and admire the beauty of the old buildings.
Once you reach Oulu, you will be able to explore the vibrant city and its many attractions. You can visit the Oulu Cathedral, the Oulu Castle, and the Kastelli Shopping Centre. Make sure to take a walk on the riverside and enjoy the stunning views of the city.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, you can check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and start your journey!
Oulu - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - www.goodfreephotos.com
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7
Oulu
- Kemi
- Tornio
Distance 134 km
Driving time 2.0 h
Pace: fast
40.3 kWh
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip starting in Oulu, Finland? Then you are in the right place! This journey will take you through the towns of Kemi and Tornio, located 134 km away from each other. The drive will take you less than 2 hours, so you can take your time and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.
In Kemi, you can visit the SnowCastle, a unique winter attraction made of snow and ice. You can also take a boat tour to the nearby island of Kallio-Kuninkala, where you can explore the beautiful nature and admire the panoramic views.
In Tornio, a must-see attraction is the Tornio Church, a beautiful wooden church built in the 17th century. You can also take a stroll along the banks of the Tornio River and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Remember to pay attention to the scenic road while driving and don't miss out on the amazing views. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, restaurants and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Get ready for the journey of a lifetime!
Tornio - Finland - Europe - Road Trip - www.pxfuel.com
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Tornio
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Tornio, the northernmost municipality in Finland, is the perfect ending point for your road trip along the gorgeous West Coast of Finland. Located close to the Swedish border, the area is steeped in history and culture.
If you’re looking for a relaxing way to spend your time in Tornio, you can’t go wrong with the Tornio River Park. This scenic park is a great place to take a peaceful stroll and experience the beauty of the surrounding nature. Here you will find many walking trails, a beach, and a playground for the kids.
The city also offers some great historical sites. The Church of St. Mary and St. Lawrence, built in the 16th century, is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture. The city also houses the famous Goroden Castle, built in the mid-1600s. It is the oldest surviving building in the city and is a great place to explore and learn about the history of the area.
For those who prefer to explore the area by car, the E8 highway runs right through the city. From here, you can easily continue your road trip along the coast of Finland.
The closest international airport to Tornio is Kemi-Tornio Airport (KEM). It is located just outside the city and offers direct flights to Helsinki and other major cities in Finland.
End your road trip in Tornio and explore the area’s natural beauty and rich culture. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the Tornio River Park, learn about the area’s history at Goroden Castle, and take the E8 highway for the rest of your journey. Tornio is the perfect place to complete your Finland’s West Coast Road Trip.
Finland's West Coast Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Helsinki
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End:
Tornio
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Distance:
1,150 km
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Stay:
5 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 a breathtaking 1150 km journey along Finland's West Coast Road Trip, stretching from the vibrant capital, Helsinki, to the serene border town of Tornio. This expedition not only offers a view into Finland's stunning landscapes but also allows you to delve into its profound cultural heritage. This route introduces travelers to historic towns, pristine natural environments, and iconic Finnish architecture, making it a captivating adventure any time of the year, although summer provides the most temperate climate and lush scenery.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Helsinki: Begin this epic Road Trip in Finland's capital city, which is a treasure trove of attractions, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site Suomenlinna Fortress, an 18th-century maritime fortification spread across several islands.
- Turku: As Finland's oldest city, founded in the late 13th century, Turku beckons with historical landmarks like the imposing Turku Castle, dating back to the 1280s, and the Turku Cathedral, established around the same period.
- Rauma: Step back in time at Old Rauma, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is one of the best examples of a Nordic wooden town, with its origins in the 15th century, featuring over 600 charming wooden buildings.
- Kristinestad: Experience the allure of this small coastal town, which is part of the `Seven Brothers` cultural landscape and known for its well-preserved wooden houses from the 18th and 19th centuries.
- Vaasa: Explore the nearby Kvarken Archipelago, a unique UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site, renowned for its rapidly rising landforms due to post-glacial rebound and distinctive moraine formations.
- Kokkola: Discover Kokkola's rich maritime heritage and explore its old town, Neristan, which boasts a captivating collection of wooden houses dating back to the 18th century.
- Tornio: The journey concludes in Tornio, a town with a unique cultural blend due to its location on the border with Sweden, offering a mix of Finnish and Swedish influences and a shared history visible in the architecture and local customs.
Best Time to Go:
The ideal time for this Scandinavian sojourn is the summer, from June to August, when Finland's landscapes are at their most vibrant, the weather is mild, and you can experience the Midnight Sun, with daylight extending into the night.
Potential Risks:
While Finland is known for its excellent Road conditions and safety, drivers should budget accordingly for the Trip, as Finland can be expensive for tourists. Additionally, be alert for wildlife on the Roads, and prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions, especially outside of summer.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- In Finland, the sun doesn't set for several weeks in the summer, especially in the north, providing almost 24 hours of daylight known as the Midnight Sun, which allows for extended sightseeing opportunities.
- Finland is one of the best places in the world to witness the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis, which are visible on clear nights in the northern part of the country, particularly from September to March.
- The Finnish concept of `Everyman's Right` (jokamiehenoikeudet) allows public access to forests, lakes, and rivers for recreational activities like hiking, picking berries, and fishing, which means Roadtrippers can freely explore much of the natural landscape.
- Finnish cuisine is a highlight of the journey, with regional specialties including fresh seafood from the Baltic Sea, reindeer dishes in the north, and mustikkapiirakka (blueberry pie), a local favorite.
A good choice for:
The Finland's West Coast Road Trip is more than just a Road journey; it's a voyage into the heart of Finnish natural splendor and an exploration of the country's storied past and vibrant present. With comprehensive preparation, particularly concerning your travel budget, you can embark on a fulfilling and unforgettable Nordic adventure along the serene and captivating west coast of Finland.
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