When it comes to exploring Helsinki and its stunning surroundings, nothing beats the freedom of having your own car. By renting a vehicle from Avis Finland, you’re unlocking the chance to discover coastal towns, lush forests, and hidden gems – all without being tied to timetables or routes. Whether you’re spending a weekend in the capital or planning day trips to national parks and seaside escapes, Avis Finland makes it easy to experience the Helsinki region on your own terms, with reliable, high-quality vehicles and trusted service.
Avis Finland offers a wide selection of passenger cars, vans, and full-electric vehicles – perfect for those looking to travel more sustainably. Their promise is simple: with a rental car, you’re free to go wherever the road takes you – no fixed schedules, no crowded buses.
From Helsinki, the possibilities for road trips are nearly endless. The Helsinki region offers an incredible variety of day trips and short getaways that are easy to reach by car – and difficult to experience without one. Here are some inspiring routes to get you started.
Top Day Trips from Helsinki – All Within a Short Drive
One of the most rewarding ways to spend a summer day in Helsinki is to head out on a road trip to one of the many fascinating spots just a short drive away. You can explore the charming Old Town of Porvoo with its colorful wooden houses and riverside cafés, step into medieval history in Hämeenlinna and visit its impressive castle, or take in breathtaking lake views at Pulkkilanharju in Päijänne National Park. For something unique, descend underground into the Tytyri Mine Museum in Lohja, or head west to the artisan villages of Fiskars and Billnäs, where history meets Finnish design. Each of these destinations offers something different, and they’re all easy to reach by car.
A Nature Lover’s Road Trip Through Southeastern Finland
For those with a bit more time, a road trip from Helsinki to Southeastern Finland offers a deeper dive into the country’s natural beauty and cultural charm. This route takes you through peaceful forests, historic towns, and stunning coastal views – all within easy reach by car. You can start in Porvoo, where green nature trails begin right in the old town and lead all the way to the nearby archipelago. From there, it’s an easy drive to Kotka, known as Finland’s park capital, where award-winning green spaces like Sapokka Water Garden and Katariina Seaside Park meet maritime history and riverside cafés. Continue inland to explore the towering cliffs and forested trails of Repovesi National Park, or paddle across its still waters on the iconic Ketunlossi raft ferry. On your way, stop at Mustila Arboretum, Finland’s largest and oldest, where summer rhododendrons bloom in vibrant color. The region also includes the rich forest landscapes of Sipoonkorpi National Park just outside Helsinki, and the wild, rocky coastline that inspired Moomin creator Tove Jansson. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or simply soaking in the view, this southeastern route captures the very best of Finland’s forest civilization and leaves you feeling fully recharged by nature.
A Tasty Road Trip East of Helsinki – For Food Lovers
If your idea of the perfect road trip includes fresh flavors, sweet treats, and countryside charm, head east from Helsinki on a food-themed drive that’s all about local tastes and hidden gems. This delicious day route takes you from the legendary Fazer chocolate visitor centre to a small honey farm in Sipoo, a traditional grain mill in Yli-Vekkoski, and a smokery famous for its handmade sausages. In Porvoo, you can stock up at the iconic Brunberg chocolate factory before continuing to Bosgård Organic Farm for a meal surrounded by rolling fields. On the way back to Helsinki, detour to local favorites like Gumbostrand’s art café and brewery shop, or pick up fresh herbs and baked goods from a nearby family-run garden and bakery. It’s a feast for all the senses – and easily done in one day.
Looking for more inspiration? The Avis Finland blog offers plenty of ideas for exploring Finland by car – from short road trips to longer journeys across different regions of the country. Visit their blog to discover travel tips, destination highlights, and seasonal articles to help you plan your perfect route.
Drive Electric with Avis Finland – A Greener Way to Explore
If sustainable travel is on your mind, Avis Finland makes it easy to go green. With a growing selection of full-electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids available across Finland, you can reduce your carbon footprint without compromising comfort or convenience. Look for vehicles marked with Avis Go Green when booking – these are part of a fleet designed to help you travel with lower emissions. Whether you’re heading to the archipelago, exploring forest trails, or simply cruising between city stops, an electric car offers a quiet, efficient, and eco-conscious way to experience the road.
To make things even easier, Avis Finland provides helpful online ABC guides for driving and charging electric cars – ideal if it’s your first time behind the wheel of an EV. You’ll also find road trip suggestions tailored especially for electric vehicles, complete with mapped charging stations along the way. Just head to Avis Finland’s blog and filter by “E-Car Adventures” to discover routes designed for smooth and sustainable exploration.
Avis Finland – Easy Pick-Up Locations Across Helsinki
Wherever your Helsinki journey begins, Avis Finland has a convenient rental point nearby. In the heart of the city, the Kamppi office is located just behind the metro station – and during the summer months, it’s also open on Saturdays from June through August. For travelers arriving by air, you can pick up your car directly at Helsinki Airport’s arrivals hall.
Another smart option is the Herttoniemi office, easily accessible by metro and perfectly placed for those heading east – allowing you to skip city center traffic and hit the road faster. There are also two locations in Espoo, west of the capital, plus dozens more offices around Finland. Find your nearest location ➤
With nearly 100 offices in over 30 locations across Finland and 5,500 branches in 170 countries worldwide, Avis Finland combines global reliability with local expertise. Booking is flexible with generous cancellation policies, and members of the free Avis Preferred loyalty program enjoy exclusive benefits and discounts. Pick up the keys and enjoy the freedom to travel – on your terms, at your pace.
