Savonlinna - Discovering Finland

Travelling to Savonlinna

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Savonlinna, a pretty good destination in Finland (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Savonlinna and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Savonlinna, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Finland, here's everything to know about Savonlinna for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Savonlinna

Savonlinna is a small city located in southeastern Finland. It is situated on a peninsula surrounded by the lake Saimaa, which is the largest lake in Finland. The city is known for the Olavinlinna Castle, which was built in the 15th century and now serves as a museum and venue for the annual Savonlinna Opera Festival. In addition to the castle, there are several other historical landmarks and museums in the city, as well as opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing. The local cuisine is influenced by the surrounding lakes and forests, and includes dishes such as smoked fish and game meat. The city is easily accessible by car, bus, and train from Helsinki and other major cities in Finland.

What to visit in Savonlinna

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Savonlinna, Finland: 1. Olavinlinna Castle: This Medieval castle is the most famous landmark of Savonlinna. It is situated on an island and offers guided tours and live performances during the Savonlinna Opera Festival. The castle dates back to the 15th century and is considered one of the most well-preserved castles in Northern Europe.
2. Kerimäki Church: This is the largest wooden church in the world. It is located in Kerimäki, a small town outside of Savonlinna. The church was built in the mid-19th century and can seat up to 3,000 people. It is an impressive feat of architecture and engineering.
3. Lusto - The Finnish Forest Museum: This museum is located in Punkaharju, about a 30-minute drive from Savonlinna. It showcases the history and cultural significance of Finland's forests. Visitors can learn about Finnish forestry practices, see traditional forest cabins, and even try some forest-themed food in the museum's café.
4. Savonlinna Market Square: This is a great place to experience Finnish culture and cuisine. The market square features a variety of outdoor vendors selling fresh produce, local handicrafts, and traditional Finnish foods like smoked fish, meat pies, and Karelian pastries.
5. Savonlinna Provincial Museum: This museum gives visitors a comprehensive look at the history of Savonlinna and the surrounding region. Exhibits cover everything from the area's natural history to its industrial past.
6. Retretti Art Centre: This modern art museum is located in Punkaharju, close to Lusto. The Retretti Art Centre features contemporary Finnish art as well as rotating international exhibitions. The museum is situated in a beautiful natural setting, with walking trails and scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
7. Kesämaa Water Park: This is a great option for families with children. Kesämaa is a water park with a variety of indoor and outdoor pools, water slides, and other water attractions. There are also options for mini-golf, go-karting, and other activities.
Overall, Savonlinna is a great destination for anyone interested in Finnish history, culture, and nature. Whether you're visiting for the Opera Festival or just looking to explore the region, there is plenty to see and do.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Finland, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Savonlinna.

When to go on holiday to Savonlinna

The best time to visit Savonlinna is during the summer months, from June to August. During this time, the weather is mild with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, and the days are long with up to 20 hours of daylight. Additionally, this is the time when the famous Savonlinna Opera Festival takes place, which attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. However, it's important to note that due to its location in the Northern Hemisphere, winters in Savonlinna can be quite cold and dark with limited daylight hours.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Savonlinna

There are several ways to get to Savonlinna, Finland depending on your starting point. Here are some options: 1. By Plane: The nearest airport is Savonlinna Airport, which is served by Finnair. You can also fly to Helsinki-Vantaa Airport, and then take a connecting flight or bus to Savonlinna.
2. By Train: You can take a train to Savonlinna from Helsinki or Kouvola. The train journey takes approximately 4 to 5 hours.
3. By Bus: There are several daily bus routes from Helsinki, Tampere, and Kuopio to Savonlinna. The journey time varies depending on the starting location, but it typically takes between 4 and 5 hours.
4. By Car: You can drive to Savonlinna from Helsinki via Route E75. The journey takes approximately 4 hours.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Savonlinna!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Savonlinna, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Savonlinna

Savonlinna, a city in eastern Finland, has a unique cuisine that reflects the local culture and environment. Here are some typical foods of Savonlinna with a short description: 1. Kalakukko - Kalakukko is a traditional Finnish dish that consists of fish (usually vendace or Baltic herring) and pork fat, wrapped in rye bread dough and baked in an oven. It is a popular snack or lunch food in Savonlinna.
2. Lörtsy - Lörtsy is a savory pastry that originated in Savonlinna. It is made of a thin dough stuffed with meat, potatoes, or cheese, and then fried or baked. It can be served as a snack or a meal.
3. Ruisleipä - Ruisleipä or Finnish rye bread is a staple food in Savonlinna. It is made of sourdough and whole-grain rye flour and has a dense texture and a slightly sour taste. It is often served as a breakfast or lunch food with butter and cheese.
4. Mustikkapiirakka - Mustikkapiirakka or blueberry pie is a traditional Finnish dessert that is popular in Savonlinna. It is made of a sweet buttery pastry filled with fresh or frozen blueberries and sometimes served with whipped cream or vanilla custard.
5. Poronkäristys - Poronkäristys or reindeer stew is a hearty traditional Finnish dish that is popular in Savonlinna. It is made of diced reindeer meat cooked in butter with onion, cream, and seasoned with local spices. It is often served with mashed potatoes or lingonberry sauce.
6. Karjalanpaisti - Karjalanpaisti is a traditional Finnish meat stew that is popular in Savonlinna. It is made of beef or pork, potatoes, carrots, and onion cooked in a cast-iron pot with water and spices until tender. It is often served with lingonberry sauce and rye bread.
You can find general info about typical foods in Finland here.

Is Savonlinna an expensive destination for tourists?

Savonlinna is generally not considered an expensive destination for tourists compared to other popular destinations in Europe, but prices can still vary depending on the season and your personal preferences. Accommodation, food, and transportation costs are typically reasonable in Savonlinna, especially if you compare them to major cities in other countries like Paris, London, or New York. However, it's always a good idea to plan your budget in advance and research average costs for things like tours and activities, local transportation, food, and drinks. This will help you determine how much you can expect to spend during your trip and avoid overspending.

Where to find accomodation in Savonlinna

There are several areas in Savonlinna where you can find suitable accommodations for your visit: 1. Riihisaari: This area is located in a picturesque setting near the Savonlinna Opera Festival, and you can find many hotels and guesthouses offering comfortable stay options.
2. Kerimaki: This area is located north of Savonlinna and is perfect for nature lovers who want to explore the nearby forests and lakes.
3. Olavinlinna: This area is located in the heart of Savonlinna and is great for those who want to stay close to the city’s main attractions, such as the castle and market square.
4. Haapavesi: This area is located in the east of Savonlinna and is perfect for those looking for peace and serenity away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
5. Oravi: This area is located to the southeast of Savonlinna and is perfect for those who want to explore the surrounding lakes and waterways.
Ultimately, the best area to stay in will depend on your travel needs and preferences.
You can check hotel prices at Savonlinna here:
Booking.com

Is Savonlinna a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Savonlinna is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Finland is known for being a very safe country overall, with low crime rates and a strong respect for the rule of law. In addition, Savonlinna is a small city with a friendly and welcoming community, making it a great place to visit for travelers of all ages and backgrounds. However, as with any destination, it's always a good idea to exercise basic precautions such as staying aware of your surroundings and keeping your valuables secure.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Finland here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Savonlinna.

What type of travelers will enjoy Savonlinna the most?

Savonlinna, Finland is a great destination for all types of travelers. Here are some suggestions: 1. Couples: If you are a couple looking for a romantic getaway, Savonlinna is the perfect place for you. The town has plenty of beautiful scenery, including the Olavinlinna Castle and Lake Saimaa. There are also many restaurants with a romantic atmosphere and menus featuring local cuisine.
2. Young people looking for fun: If you are a young person looking for fun, Savonlinna has plenty of activities for you. You can go hiking, cycling, kayaking, or swimming in the summer. In the winter, you can go skiing, snowshoeing, or ice skating. There are also many bars and clubs in town where you can enjoy the nightlife.
3. Families: If you are traveling with your family, Savonlinna is a great place to visit. The town has many family-friendly activities, such as the Lusto Forest Museum, the Retretti Art Centre, and the Savonlinna Provincial Museum. There are also plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and swimming.

How to get around Savonlinna

In Savonlinna, you can move around by bus, taxi, bike, or on foot. The city is quite small and easily walkable, so many visitors prefer to explore by foot. There are also bike rentals available if you prefer to ride around the city. Public buses are a good option if you need to travel further distances or prefer not to walk, and taxis are available for those who want a more convenient and private mode of transportation.

What to see around Savonlinna

Sure, here are some nice places you could visit in a day trip from Savonlinna: 1. Linnansaari National Park - This beautiful national park is located on an island and offers stunning natural landscapes, hiking trails, and even a chance to see endangered Saimaa ringed seals.
2. Kerimäki Church - This is the largest wooden church in the world and is definitely worth a visit. The church was built in the 18th century and can hold up to 5,000 people.
3. Olavinlinna Castle - This is a must-visit attraction in Savonlinna itself, but it's definitely worth mentioning again. Olavinlinna is a medieval castle that dates back to the 15th century and offers guided tours and fascinating history.
4. Punkaharju Ridge - This stunning natural area consists of a forested ridge that runs alongside a beautiful lake. There are hiking trails, picnic areas, and even a chance to go canoeing.
5. Savonlinna Market Square - If you're looking for a more laid-back activity, the market square in Savonlinna is a great place to browse local handicrafts, souvenirs, and food. I hope this helps!
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