Road Trips in Finland

When planning your trip around Finland, you can't really miss the capital - Helsinki. You'll find there plenty of highlights in the form of churches, palaces, theatres, and museums. Motorists may be initially discouraged by the large number of trams and cyclists, but don't worry - cyclists always follow the traffic regulations, and tram drivers eagerly give way to other traffic participants. 

Probably not many people know that Helsinki wasn't the first capital of Finland. Until 1812, this honourable title was held by Turku situated in the south-western part of the country. It is here where you can find the oldest Finnish castle dating back to the second half of the 13th century. Approximately 100 km further, you'll find the equally interesting Rauma enchanting visitors with its perfectly preserved historic wooden housing. 

And where can you find Santa's home? Of course, in Laponia, namely in Rovaniemi, which is part of the province. Each year, thousands of letters written by children living all over the world are sent to the local post office. A few kilometres away from the town, you'll find Santa's village, one of the most popular attractions in the country. 

One of the most eagerly visited Finnish towns is also Lappeenranta, famous for numerous museums, a 19th-century health resort, and the remnants of a bastion from the second half of the 18th century. While sightseeing around the southern part of Finland, it's worth visiting Porvoo, which can boast an excellent Old Town with wooden housing. 

Savonlinnais, in turn, is considered one of the most scenic Finnish towns - and all of that is thanks to a picturesque location among lakes. It owes its popularity to Olavinlinna Stronghold considered one of the most spectacular objects of this type in Scandinavia. A number of equally imposing buildings can be also found in Oulu, situated in the eastern part of the country. 

Typical tourist towns include Kuusamo, which is the main winter resort, and Kuopio, also referred to as the Blue Pearl of the Finnish Lakeland. If you still feel the hunger for the exploration of beautiful Finnish recesses, you should definitely visit such places as Kajaani, Vaasa, Nurmes, and Pori, which also have a lot in store for the tourists. 

Suggested Road Trips in Finland

• The Archipelago Trail: This scenic route is one of the most popular road trips in Finland and takes you through the stunning archipelago of the Finnish Gulf. It is a 300 km long journey from Turku to Helsinki and passes through many charming coastal towns and villages. You will drive along the rugged coastline and enjoy panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding islands.

• Lapland: If you are looking for a truly unique and unforgettable road trip, head to Lapland, the northernmost region of Finland. The landscape here is a mixture of forests, lakes, and hills, and the route takes you through some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in the country. You will also have the opportunity to see the famous Northern Lights and enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and skiing.

• The Lakeland: This route takes you through the heart of Finland and is a perfect blend of rural landscapes and small towns. You will drive along the shores of many picturesque lakes and stop in charming towns and villages that offer a glimpse into traditional Finnish life. The Lakeland road trip is a great way to experience the beauty of Finnish nature and get to know the country's rich cultural heritage.

Overall, Finland is an excellent destination for taking a road trip and these three routes are just a few of the many amazing options available to travelers.

Before hitting the road, it's worth familiarising yourself with the most important traffic regulations, especially that some traffic offences may results in high penalty payments (even up to a few thousand Euros!). High fines, and even incarceration, should be expected in case of drinking and driving. The permissible blood alcohol level is 0.05%. Finnish police is extremely sensitive when it comes to such offences so don't be surprised with the frequent road controls. 

Passengers who are shorter than 135 cm should travel only in child seats or special booster seats. Talking on the phone while driving is forbidden; however, you can easily use a hands-free set. It's also worth taking into consideration that dipped beam should be turned on around the clock and in all seasons. 

Each motorist must possess the following documents: an ID or a passport, registration document, vehicle technical inspection certificate, driver's licence, and liability insurance. 

The obligatory car equipment includes a warning triangle and reflective vests for all passengers. It's also worth carrying a first aid kit and a fire extinguisher - despite the fact that you won't get a fine if these elements aren't in your vehicle. 

The first important issue to consider is the fact that speed limits in Finland depend on the season. Even though there is the same speed limit to observe in built-up areas (50 km/h), rural areas and motorways are governed by changing speed limits. In the winter season, we need to reduce our speed from 100 to 80 km/h in rural areas and from 120 to 100 km/h on motorways.

Penalty payments should be expected not only when you drink and drive, but also for other offences, such as speeding, parking in unauthorised places, or travelling without fastened seatbelts - both in case of drivers and passengers. Remember that in Finland pedestrians and cyclists have absolute priority. Failing to follow this rule will result in a high fine.

Note! Finnish police isn't authorised to accept fine payments. All payments have to be paid in banks within 2 weeks from the committed traffic offence. 

The state of Finnish roads is impeccable and the traffic volume rather scarce. Thus, your driving experience will be definitely pleasant. Remember to be extra cautious when passing forests - mostly due to animals that can become a danger on the road. When planning a longer trip, it's worth taking some spare cash with you - even though there are plenty of petrol stations in Finland, some of them accept only Finnish credit cards. Motorways, bridges, and tunnels are toll free. In the event of a collision, you should call roadside assistance by dialling +35 896 182 80. 

In Helsinki, you'll come across three paid parking zones: 1, 2, and 3. Parking on the pavement is forbidden, but in a situation where there aren't enough parking places, you can leave your vehicle on the right side of the road (this rule doesn't apply on one-lane roads). Of course, there are plenty of free car parks, but parking is time limited there. In such case, the motorists must purchase the so-called parking disc that is available in kiosks or at petrol stations. You should strictly follow the time indicated on the road signs - they display the allowed parking time on weekdays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. 

• Road conditions: Finland's roads can be challenging during winter, with snow and ice making driving difficult. It's important to be prepared and equipped with winter tires, chains, and other necessary equipment.

• Distance: Finland is a large country, with long distances between cities and remote areas. Plan ahead and make sure to take enough breaks to prevent fatigue.

• Gas stations: Gas stations may be few and far between in rural areas, so make sure to fill up when you have the opportunity.

• Speed limits: Finland has strict speed limits and fines for speeding can be steep. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the local speed limits and follow them.

• Wildlife: Wildlife, such as elk, reindeer, and hares, may wander onto the roads. Be prepared for sudden stops and drive with caution, especially at dawn and dusk.

• Tolls: Some roads and bridges in Finland require payment of tolls. Be sure to carry enough cash or have a valid payment method.

• Weather: Finland's weather can change quickly and unexpectedly. Make sure to check the weather forecast before starting your journey and be prepared for sudden changes.

• Road signs: Finland's road signs may be different from what you're used to. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the local road signs before starting your journey.

The best time for a road trip in Finland depends on personal preference and the type of trip you're planning.

• Summer (June to August): During the summer months, the weather is warm and there is plenty of daylight, making it the ideal time for scenic drives and outdoor activities.

• Winter (December to February): Winter can be an exciting time for a road trip in Finland, especially if you're interested in winter sports such as skiing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing. However, it's important to be prepared for harsh weather conditions, including snow, ice, and sub-zero temperatures.

• Autumn (September to November): Autumn is a beautiful time to visit Finland, with the trees turning colors and the landscape taking on a golden hue. The weather is mild and road conditions are generally good.

Ultimately, the best time for a road trip in Finland will depend on your interests and the type of trip you're planning. Be sure to check the weather and road conditions before you set out, and be prepared for sudden changes in the weather.

The cost of a road trip in Finland can vary depending on your travel style, preferences, and budget. However, generally speaking, Finland can be an expensive destination, particularly when it comes to accommodation, dining, and transportation.

For a budget traveler, the average cost per day could be around 50-70 EUR per person, assuming you stay in hostels or camping sites, cook your own meals, and limit your activities to free or low-cost options.

For mid-range travelers, you can expect to spend around 100-150 EUR per day per person. This would include staying in guesthouses or hotels, dining out in local restaurants, and participating in some paid activities like guided tours or excursions.

If you are looking for luxury travel, the cost can easily exceed 200 EUR per day per person, including staying in high-end hotels or private villas, dining at fine restaurants, and indulging in exclusive experiences.

When it comes to renting a car in Finland, it's important to note that it can also be quite expensive. The cost of renting a car can range from around 40-100 EUR per day depending on the type of car and the time of year. You'll also need to factor in the cost of fuel, which can be expensive in Finland.

Overall, while Finland may be an expensive destination, the natural beauty and unique culture make it a worthwhile trip for those who are willing to spend a little extra. It's also possible to save money by traveling during the shoulder season (late spring or early autumn) and by taking advantage of budget-friendly options like camping or cooking your own meals.

Here are some guidebooks and road maps that I recommend for a road trip in Finland:

• Lonely Planet Finland: This guidebook covers all aspects of traveling to Finland, including culture, history, and practical travel information. It includes detailed maps and suggested itineraries for exploring the country.

• Finland Road Map by Reise Know-How: This is a detailed road map of Finland that includes all of the country's major roads and topography, as well as information on ferries and other modes of transportation.

• The Rough Guide to Finland: This guidebook provides comprehensive coverage of Finland's attractions, activities, and culture, as well as practical travel advice. It includes maps and suggested itineraries.

• Michelin Finland Map: This is a detailed map of Finland that includes information on roads, cities, and topography, as well as suggested driving routes and points of interest.

• Visit Finland Tourist Map: This is a free map that can be downloaded from the Visit Finland website. It includes information on attractions, accommodation, dining, and transportation, as well as suggested itineraries for different types of travelers.

These guidebooks and road maps should provide you with all the information you need to plan and execute a successful road trip in Finland.