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Two Countries Adventure: Exploring Finland & France on a Shoestring Budget

Viewed by 87 travelers

Day 1: Arrive in Helsinki

Helsinki, Finland

10:00AM

Visit the Helsinki Cathedral

Start your adventure by exploring the iconic Helsinki Cathedral, a neoclassical masterpiece located at Senate Square.
Take tram number 3 from the airport to the city center.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Market Square

Grab an affordable lunch at the Market Square, sampling local delicacies like salmon soup or reindeer meat at a food stall.
Walk 15 minutes from the Cathedral.
CURRENCY10, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Suomenlinna Island

Take a short ferry ride to Suomenlinna, a historic fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site perfect for wandering.
Ferry is accessible from the Market Square.
CURRENCY3, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Sandro

Enjoy a budget-friendly Moroccan-inspired dinner at Sandro, known for its generous portions.
Return by ferry and walk to the restaurant.
CURRENCY15, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Helsinki Explorations

Helsinki, Finland

9:00AM

Breakfast at Café Ekberg

Start your day with a traditional Finnish breakfast at Café Ekberg, one of the oldest cafés in Helsinki.
Walk 10 minutes from your accommodation.
CURRENCY12, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Design District

Wander around the Design District, showcasing the best of Finnish design and a hub for local artisans.
Take tram number 10 to the district.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Via Tribunali

Indulge in an affordable yet delicious lunch at this pizzeria known for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizza.
Walk 15 minutes from the Design District.
CURRENCY12, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Kumpula Botanic Garden

Relax at the Kumpula Botanic Garden, home to beautiful greenhouse collections and peaceful gardens.
Take bus number 68 from downtown.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Muru

Savor a quaint dinner at Muru, featuring a daily changing menu at reasonable prices over the evening.
Take tram number 4 from the Garden back to the city.
CURRENCY25, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Train to Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi, Finland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy a simple breakfast at your hotel before checking out for your train ride.
N/A
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Rovaniemi

Take an early morning train to Rovaniemi, often regarded as the gateway to Lapland.
From Helsinki Central Station.
CURRENCY40, 9 hours

6:30PM

Check-In at Hostel

Settle into your budget hostel in Rovaniemi, providing you with cozy lodging options.
N/A
CURRENCY30, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Restaurant Nili

Enjoy authentic Lapland cuisine at Restaurant Nili, known for its cozy atmosphere and local dishes.
Walk from your hostel.
CURRENCY20, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Arctic Adventure

Rovaniemi, Finland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hostel

Start the day with a filling breakfast at your hostel before heading out to explore.
N/A
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Santa Claus Village

Visit the magical Santa Claus Village, where you can meet Santa himself and walk across the Arctic Circle.
Take bus number 8 from Rovaniemi.
CURRENCY0, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kahvila Santa's Garden

Have lunch at this cheerful café and enjoy local pastries amidst holiday decorations year-round.
Walk within the Village.
CURRENCY15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Arktikum Museum

Learn about the Arctic region's nature and history at the Arktikum Museum, situated along the river.
Take bus back to the city center.
CURRENCY12, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Roka Street Bistro

Indulge in a meal at Roka, known for its street food flair and welcoming atmosphere.
Walking distance from the Museum.
CURRENCY18, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Rovaniemi to Oulu

Oulu, Finland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hostel

Nourish yourself with a quick breakfast at your hostel before departure.
N/A
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Bus to Oulu

Travel seamlessly to Oulu by bus, a picturesque trip showcasing Finland's stunning landscapes.
Bus station in Rovaniemi.
CURRENCY30, 3 hours

1:00PM

Check-In at Youth Hostel

Arrive and check into your youth hostel in Oulu, known for its affordability and friendly atmosphere.
Walking distance from the bus station.
CURRENCY25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Lunch at Toripolliisi

Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch filled with delicious local options at this popular eatery.
Walk around the central market.
CURRENCY10, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Oulu City Park

Spend time in Oulu’s City Park, taking in the lush greenery and public art installations.
Walking distance from lunch spot.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Buffalo

Indulge in a casual dinner at Buffalo, known for its burgers and laid-back atmosphere.
5-minute walk from City Park.
CURRENCY15, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Explore Oulu

Oulu, Finland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hostal

Kick off the day with breakfast at your hostel, primed for a day of exploration.
N/A
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Oulu Museum of Art

Discover Finnish contemporary art at the Oulu Museum of Art, located by a beautiful lakeside.
Board the local bus number 15.
CURRENCY8, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Café & Bakery Terveellinen

Savor healthy and affordable lunch options offered at this lovely café.
Walk to nearby area.
CURRENCY10, 1 hour

1:30PM

Walk along Hupisaaret Park

Take the afternoon to stroll through Hupisaaret Park, known for its peaceful ambiance and green trails.
Short walk from the café.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Oulu Castle

Explore the historic charm of Oulu Castle that offers insight into the region's history.
Bus ride back towards downtown.
CURRENCY5, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Ristorante Italiana

For a budget-friendly yet delicious Italian dinner, head to Ristorante Italiana, popular for its pasta dishes.
Walking distance from the castle.
CURRENCY20, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Travel to Paris

Paris, France

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hostel

Fill up on a hearty breakfast at your hostel as you prepare for a travel day.
N/A
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

8:30AM

Fly to Paris

Catch your early morning flight to Paris, France, and get ready to immerse in culture.
Helsinki–Vantaa Airport.
CURRENCY80, 3 hours (including check-in and boarding)

12:00PM

Check-In at Budget Hotel

Settle into a budget hotel in the heart of Paris, strategically placed for easy access to attractions.
N/A
CURRENCY50, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Bouillon Pigalle

Head to Bouillon Pigalle for an affordable traditional French meal in a vibrant setting.
Take metro line 2 to Pigalle.
CURRENCY15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Sacré-Cœur

Explore the breathtaking Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur on Montmartre, enjoying city views.
Walk from Bouillon Pigalle.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Le Relais de l'Entrecôte

Experience the famous steak-frites at Le Relais de l'Entrecôte, a Parisian classic.
Take metro line 2 back towards the hotel.
CURRENCY25, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: The Heart of Paris

Paris, France

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Parisienne

Start with croissants and coffee at La Parisienne, an authentic Parisian bakery.
Walk to the bakery from your hotel.
CURRENCY8, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Louvre Museum

Marvel at the world's art treasures at the Louvre, home to the Mona Lisa among countless others.
Take metro line 1 to Palais Royal - Musée du Louvre.
CURRENCY17, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Café de la Paix

Enjoy lunch at Café de la Paix with spectacular views of the Opéra Garnier.
Walk from the museum.
CURRENCY30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Stroll through Jardin des Tuileries

Wander the beautiful paths of the Tuileries Garden, in the heart of Paris, soaking in the atmosphere.
Exit Café and walk to the gardens.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit the Musée d'Orsay

Explore the exquisite collections of Impressionist masterpieces at the Musée d'Orsay.
Walk from Tuileries to the musuem.
CURRENCY15, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Chez Janou

End your day with a delightful dinner at Chez Janou, known for its bouillabaisse.
Walk back towards the hotel.
CURRENCY20, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Day Trip to Versailles

Versailles, France

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast at the hotel before heading to Versailles.
N/A
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Versailles

Catch an RER train to Versailles to explore the stunning Palace and Gardens.
From Gare Saint-Lazare.
CURRENCY6, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit the Palace of Versailles

Dive into history at the grand Palace of Versailles, showcasing opulent architecture and art.
Walk to the palace entrance.
CURRENCY20, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at La Petite Venise

Enjoy a quaint lunch at La Petite Venise, nestled within the gardens.
Located inside the gardens.
CURRENCY15, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore the Gardens of Versailles

Take an afternoon stroll through the beautiful gardens, dotted with statues and fountains.
Walk easily from the lunch spot.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

5:30PM

Head back to Paris

Take the train back to Paris after a day of historical exploration.
RER train from Versailles.
CURRENCY6, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Le Petit Cler

Wind down with a lovely dinner at Le Petit Cler, known for its café-style ambiance.
Walking distance from your hotel.
CURRENCY25, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Travel to Lyon

Lyon, France

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast at your Paris hotel before heading to Lyon.
N/A
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Lyon

Catch a train to Lyon, famous for its gastronomy and historical architecture.
From Gare de Lyon Part-Dieu.
CURRENCY30, 2 hours

11:30AM

Check-In at Budget Hotel

Settle in at a budget hotel that puts you right in the heart of Lyon.
N/A
CURRENCY50, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Lugdunum

Indulge in local Lyonnais cuisine at Lugdunum, a budget-friendly bistro loaded with character.
15-minute walk from hotel.
CURRENCY15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Vieux Lyon

Spend the afternoon wandering the charming streets of Vieux Lyon, rich in Renaissance history.
N/A
CURRENCY0, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Le Café des Fédérations

Savor your dinner at Le Café des Fédérations, renowned for traditional Lyonnais dishes.
Walk from Vieux Lyon.
CURRENCY25, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Discover Lyon

Lyon, France

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel to recharge for the adventures ahead.
N/A
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

Explore the stunning basilica and enjoy panoramic views over the city from Fourvière Hill.
Take tram number Funiculaire to the basilica.
CURRENCY2, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Bouchon Les Lyonnais

Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch of traditional Lyonnais dishes at a charming local bouchon.
Walk from the basilica.
CURRENCY15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Parc de la Tête d'Or

Spend the afternoon in the beautiful Parc de la Tête d'Or, with its rose garden and lake.
Take metro line A to Masséna.
CURRENCY0, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Brasserie Georges

Conclude the day with a meal at Brasserie Georges, known for its stunning Art Deco setting.
Walk from the park.
CURRENCY25, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Travel to Marseille

Marseille, France

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Begin with a fulfilling breakfast at your Lyon hotel before departing.
N/A
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Marseille

Board a train to vibrant Marseille, with its unique coastal culture.
From Lyon Part-Dieu train station.
CURRENCY30, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Check-In at Budget Hotel

Check into a budget-friendly hotel located close to the bustling Old Port.
N/A
CURRENCY50, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Chez Etienne

Dig into fresh seafood and local dishes at Chez Etienne, popular among locals.
Short walk from the hotel.
CURRENCY20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Old Port

Wander through the Old Port, visit the local fish market, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Walking distance from lunch spot.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde

Climb up to Notre-Dame de la Garde for panoramic views of the city and coastline.
Take bus number 60 from the Old Port.
CURRENCY5, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at O'Malo

Indulge in local Mediterranean dishes at O'Malo, facing the waterfront.
Return by bus to the Old Port.
CURRENCY20, 1.5 hours
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Day 13: Discover Marseille

Marseille, France

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel-up with a hearty breakfast at your hotel, prepping for a day of exploration.
N/A
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Calanques National Park

Explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Calanques National Park, known for its stunning fjord-like inlets.
Take a ferry from the Old Port.
CURRENCY20, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Le Cafe des Epices

Enjoy a budget meal at Le Cafe des Epices, featuring Mediterranean inspired dishes.
Back to Old Port by ferry.
CURRENCY15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Château d'If

Discover the fascinating history of Château d'If while enjoying a boat ride.
Board a ferry from the Old Port.
CURRENCY12, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Boqueria

Savor a clam and chorizo dish at La Boqueria, a local hotspot near the waterfront.
Return by ferry to the Old Port.
CURRENCY25, 1.5 hours
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Day 14: Final Day in Nice

Nice, France

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your Marseille hotel prior to travel to Nice.
N/A
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

8:30AM

Train to Nice

Take a morning train to the stunning coastal city of Nice.
From Marseille Saint-Charles train station.
CURRENCY30, 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Check-In at Budget Hotel

Arrive in Nice and check into a budget-friendly hotel located near the Promenade des Anglais.
Walking distance from the train station.
CURRENCY50, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Le Tilleul

Dine at Le Tilleul, known for its fresh salads and local culinary delights.
Walk along the coast.
CURRENCY15, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Relax at Promenade des Anglais

Take in the sun while relaxing around the Promenade des Anglais, watching the azure waves.
N/A
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit the Castle Hill

Conclude your trip with gorgeous panoramic views of Nice from Castle Hill.
Walk up from the Promenade.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Final Dinner at La Merenda

Enjoy a delicious farewell dinner at La Merenda, celebrated for its homemade, authentic Niçoise cuisine.
Close proximity; walk there from Castle Hill.
CURRENCY25, 1.5 hours
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