Self-Drive Finland

   
 
 

Grand Tour of Western Finland

Self-Drive Tour

8 Days / 7 locations in Finland

Experience a cross-section of Finland's varied landscapes, sights and culture from the capital Helsinki on the southern coast all the way up to Rovaniemi on the Arctic Circle. The route takes you along the coastline of western Finland, a region noted for old seafaring and shipbuilding traditions, spectacular coastal scenery and attractive wood-built small towns. You will pass the plains of Ostrobothnia and come into contact with the coastal culture of Finland's Swedish-speaking population.

We have suggested some points of interest to give you ideas what to see and experience along the journey, but there are many more attractions worth a visit. The choice is yours.

Itinerary

 
Day 1     Helsinki
Accommodation: Scandic Continental

Arrive Helsinki. Finland's capital offers a wide variety of things to experience ranging from an array of architectural gems, art, design and cultural offerings to great shopping facilities. Sightseeing opportunities range from a tour on a pub tram to boat cruises through the islands lying off the city shoreline. Proximity to the sea and forest gives Helsinki its distinctive ambience.

 
Day 2     Helsinki - Turku
Accommodation: Scandic Hotel Plaza
Meals: Breakfast

To get the most out of the rural heritage landscapes in the stretch between the modern metropolis Helsinki and the historic town of Turku, leave the main roads and head for the quiet byways. This is where the King's Road tourist route winds through fascinating small towns, charming villages and scenic countryside. The historic road, which once linked the Kingdom of Sweden with the Russian Empire, offers a wealth of cultural heritage sites worth a visit, including the Mustio Manor, the Fiskars Ironworks Village and the ruins of the Raasepori Castle.

As the oldest city and the former capital of Finland, Turku is home to the most remarkable medieval landmarks of the country, including the Castle and the Cathedral. Aboa Vetus Museum shows the history of Turku and remains of early settlements. The wooden workshop houses of the Luostarinmaki Handicrafts Museum tell tales about the trades and city life of days gone by. Overnight at Scandic Hotel Plaza, an elegant hotel to satisfy the tastes of the most discerning guests.

 
Day 3     Turku - Tampere
Accommodation: Scandic Rosendahl
Meals: Breakfast

Head for Tampere, situated on a narrow isthmus between two large lakes. Enjoy the lake scenery from top of an observation tower or from aboard a sightseeing boat. Tampereâs industrial heritage is reflected in the architecture of the city centre, and the culture of the working class is also displayed in a number of museums. Overnight in Tampere at Scandic Hotel Rosendahl, which has a beautiful lakeside location in the heart of the scenic Pyynikki ridge area, only five minutes from the city centre.

 
Day 4     Tampere - Vaasa
Accommodation: Radisson Sas Royal Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

The road passes vast green plains and small rural towns. For families with children it may be worth making the detour to Ahtari Zoo, home to 65 species of animal, most of which inhabit the coniferous zone. Seinajokii is home to some remarkable buildings designed by Alvar Aalto, considered by many to be one of the most important architects of the 20th century. Vaasa offers many attractions for the whole family, including sightseeing cruises to the fantastic archipelago off the city shoreline. Overnight at Radisson SAS Royal Hotel, located in the heart of the city.

 
Day 5     Vaasa - Kokkola
Accommodation: Sokos Hotel Kaarle
Meals: Breakfast

Running from island to island, the scenic route known as the Seven Bridges Archipelago Road takes in spectacular coastal scenery and attractive small towns. You can get insight into the regionâs tar-making and seafaring traditions and wonder at the skilfully constructed wooden houses. The northernmost point of the route, Kokkola, has one of Finland's most expansive areas of wooden buildings. Overnight at Sokos Hotel Kaarle, located in the heart of Kokkola.

 
Day 6     Kokkola - Oulu
Accommodation: Radisson Sas Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Continuing up north along the coastline, you pass Kalajoki, known for its sandy beaches, and Raahe with a well-preserved wooden town area. Oulu is today recognised for its excellence in state-of-the-art technology. Tietomaa Science Centre is an attraction for the whole family and the many parks offer opportunities for leisurely walks. Cycling is also an excellent way to explore the city.

 
Day 7     Oulu - Rovaniemi
Accommodation: Santa Claus Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Head for Rovaniemi, Finnish Lapland's capital town. On the Arctic Circle you can meet Santa Claus in his Workshop Village every day of the year. The wonderful natural surroundings, fells and rivers, provide opportunities for a variety of activities including river cruises, white-water rafting and visits to reindeer farms. Overnight at Clarion Hotel Santa Claus, offering modern facilities and well-equipped spacious rooms.

 
Day 8     Rovaniemi
Meals: Breakfast

Services ends after breakfast.

 
Price Includes
Hotel Accommodation As in Itinerary With Daily Breakfast
Daily Breakfast
Price Does Not Include
 Rental Car
FTB-VDA-1269
1.28.15.WP26