Finnish Coastal Discovery & Lapland By World Journeys
a self-drive journey
10 Days/ 9 Nights from $5,130 Price Per Person
Sales from 01 January 2025 to 31 December 2026
**Day 1 : Helsinki**
Upon arrival, you will be met and privately transferred to your centrally located hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure. Enjoy your first impressions of Helsinki, a charming Nordic capital known for its beautiful architecture, lively waterfront and relaxed atmosphere.
**Day 2 : Helsinki**
After picking up your rental car, enjoy a private walking tour with a local guide. Helsinki is where modern design blends seamlessly with rich history and stunning natural beauty. From iconic landmarks like the Helsinki Cathedral to the lively Market Square by the sea, every corner of the city tells a story. Whether you’re exploring unique architecture, savouring local delicacies, or simply enjoying the energetic atmosphere, Helsinki offers something for everyone. The afternoon is at leisure to explore at your own pace.
**Day 3 : Helsinki > Turku**
This morning enjoy a pleasant drive through picturesque countryside to Turku, the country’s oldest city and former capital. Explore its fascinating medieval heritage, including the impressive Turku Castle and historic Cathedral, before discovering the lively riverside promenade lined with restaurants, cafés and beautifully restored buildings. The charming atmosphere of the Aura River and the nearby Archipelago Sea makes Turku a delightful destination for an afternoon of sightseeing and relaxation.
**Day 4: Turku > Vaasa**
Today’s journey takes you north along Finland’s beautiful western region, where peaceful countryside, traditional villages and vast forests create a wonderfully relaxing landscape. Along the way, enjoy views of rolling farmland, characteristic red wooden farmhouses and charming small towns, with opportunities to stop for a coffee or explore the local surroundings. Arrive in Vaasa, an attractive coastal city on the Gulf of Bothnia, known for its Swedish-Finnish heritage, maritime atmosphere and proximity to the UNESCO-listed Kvarken Archipelago.
**Day 5: Vaasa > Oulu**
Continue your journey north along Finland’s western coastline, passing peaceful villages, green landscapes and small towns that offer a glimpse into everyday Finnish life. Upon arrival in Oulu, one of northern Finland’s most important and lively cities, meet your local guide for a private introduction to its history, maritime traditions and distinctive northern character. Discover the charming city centre and waterfront, including a visit to the picturesque Grandma’s Place cottage, before enjoying some free time to explore Oulu at your own pace.
**Day 6: Oulu > Kuusamo**
Travel inland towards Kuusamo, where the landscapes gradually become wilder and more dramatic as you approach Finland’s beautiful northeastern wilderness. Endless forests, crystal-clear lakes and gently rising hills create the perfect introduction to this peaceful region, renowned for its national parks, outdoor activities and unspoilt nature. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel for a two-night stay and enjoy a relaxing evening surrounded by the tranquility of the Finnish Lakeland and forest scenery.
**Day 7: Kuusamo**
Enjoy an active yet relaxing day discovering the pristine wilderness of the Kuusamo region, one of Finland’s most beautiful outdoor destinations. Join a guided fatbike adventure along peaceful forest trails, surrounded by towering pine trees, fresh northern air and the soothing sounds of nature, with a break for a traditional snack at a cosy Finnish kota hut. The afternoon is free to relax or explore more of the area’s spectacular scenery, perhaps with an optional hike in Oulanka National Park, famous for its forest trails, rushing rivers and impressive natural landscapes.
**Day 8: Kuusamo > Rovaniemi**
Continue your journey north into the heart of Finnish Lapland, travelling through vast forests, tranquil lakes and small communities where nature remains an essential part of everyday life. As you approach Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland and the official hometown of Santa Claus, you will cross the Arctic Circle and enter a region famous for its fascinating traditions and extraordinary natural beauty. With the magical midnight sun illuminating the landscape around the clock, the evening offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the unique atmosphere of the Arctic summer.
**Day 9: Rovaniemi**
Today offers a wonderful opportunity to discover one of Lapland’s most beloved traditions during a visit to a family-run reindeer farm. Meet these gentle Arctic animals, learn about their importance to local culture and the traditional livelihood of reindeer herding, and enjoy the memorable experience of feeding them while listening to stories about life in the far north. The afternoon is free to explore Rovaniemi, perhaps visiting Santa Claus Village at the Arctic Circle, discovering the fascinating Arktikum Museum or simply enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of Lapland’s capital.
**Day 10: Rovaniemi**
After breakfast, enjoy your final moments in Finnish Lapland before travelling to Rovaniemi Airport to return your rental car. Arrangements end here.
Type of Journey: Tailor-made self-drive journey: This itinerary can be tailor-made, with the number of days, places visited, and activities varied to suit you.
Inclusions
- 9-nights accommodation
- 9 breakfasts
- 9-day Toyota Yaris or similar rental with unlimited kilometres (based on 24-hour periods)
- Collison damage waiver and one-way drop fee
- English-speaking local guides
- Private sightseeing in Helsinki and Oulu
- Shared activities as per the itinerary
- Entrance fees as per the itinerary
