While Finland can be cold, snowy and driving can sometimes be a hazard due to ice-covered roadways, in summer the country’s Lakeland region bursts onto the scene with jaw-dropping lush landscapes, crystal clear lakes and endless opportunities for summer adventure.

Laura Vanzo & Visit Tampere

As you make your summer travel plans, consider doing a once-in-a-lifetime road trip to Finnish Lakeland. While Finland can be cold and snowy and driving can sometimes be a hazard due to ice-covered roadways, in summer the country’s Lakeland region bursts onto the scene with jaw-dropping lush landscapes, crystal clear lakes and endless opportunities for summer adventure.

There’s no shortage of sun come summer in Finnish Lakeland because it’s the land of the midnight sun where you’ll be spoiled with long summer days and short nights where the sun still shines well into the wee hours — especially the farther you go north. The region is Europe’s largest lake district and lays claim to an unbelievable 188,000+ lakes. This abundance of waterways means not only that the area boasts incredible beauty but it also has a plethora of water-based activities that you can enjoy for hours on end. Make the most of the sunny season in Finnish Lakeland with this fun-filled four-day itinerary that promises an unforgettable road trip.

There’s plenty of opportunity for outdoor adventure in Finland’s Lakeland region.

Laura Vanzo &Visit Tampere

Day 1

Kick off the ideal summer road trip through the Lakeland region in lovely Lappeenranta. This scenic city by the lake in South Karelia is just a short three-hour drive from Helsinki. Famed for its historic fortress and the stunning shores of Lake Saimaa, Finland’s largest lake, Lappeenranta has an excellent blend of charm and opportunities for non-stop adventure. Go on a leisurely promenade along the waterfront, treat yourself to a coffee at a nearby quaint café and keep an eye out for the seasonal sand sculpture before hitting the road on a trip filled with discovery and eye-popping natural beauty.

A short 30-minute drive northeast along the lake, you’ll come upon Imatra. The country’s oldest nature reserve, Kruununpuisto Park hugs the banks of the legendary Imatrankoski rapids, the most popular attraction in the area. Nature lovers will not want to miss the chance to explore the Geopark Visitor Center that offers captivating insights into the geology of the area, as well as on the history of the Saimaa region.

Day 2

Drive approximately 90-minutes north to Savonlinna. This South Savo town is home to renowned Olavinlinna Castle, the northernmost medieval castle on the planet. Located on an island, this 15th-century fortress hosts the acclaimed Savonlinna Opera Festival and provides a lovely backdrop for performances.

Day 3

It may surprise you to learn that Lake Saimaa is home to the endangered Saimaa Ringed Seal. An hour north of Savonlinna at the heart of Finnish Lakeland is Linnansaaru National Park. This park boasts a marvelous maze of verdant islands and dramatic rocky islets — and this is where you may well spot the rare seal, as well as numerous bird species like ospreys and more. It’s a prime location for canoeing and kayaking adventures and also makes a great place to camp and enjoy the serenity of pristine nature.

Day 4

Continue your journey two hours north to get to North Savo where you can admire eye-catching views of Kuopio and be enchanted in Tahko. In Kuopio, your first stop should be to Pujio Peak where you can ascend the 246-foot-tall Puijo Tower. At the peak, feast on delectable cuisine and unparalleled vistas of the Lakeland region. Next, meander through Kuopio’s bustling market square and then head to Tahko, a resort area that is a treasure trove of outdoor adventure like hiking and mountain biking. For a quintessential Finnish experience, see if you can make it to the top of the Tahko Stairs. Stretching over half a mile and with 1054 steps, it’s Finland’s longest outdoor staircase. You’ll get a wonderful workout and be rewarded with panoramic views of Tahko Hill.