Savonlinna is an enchanting city nestled in the heart of Finland’s Saimaa Lakes, the largest lake system in the country. Surrounded by water, this charming destination offers a perfect escape from typical tourist crowds, making it a fantastic place to experience the authentic Finnish lifestyle.
Whether exploring medieval castles, cruising on historical steamboats, or spotting rare wildlife, Savonlinna has much to offer. Here’s a guide to some of the best things to do in Savonlinna:
xplore Olavinlinna Castle
Opening Hours: Daily from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Olavinlinna Castle, dating back to the 15th century, is a must-see attraction. Originally known as St. Olaf’s Castle, it was built by a Danish nobleman, Erik Axelson Tott, and played a significant role in the conflicts between the Swedish and empires. Over the centuries, it changed hands multiple times, with battles fought within its walls. Visitors can now tour this historic fortress, which is one of Finland’s most well-preserved medieval castles.
Enjoy a Steamboat Cruise
Opening Months: June to August
No trip to Savonlinna is complete without a nostalgic ride on a traditional steamboat. Several vintage steamboats cruise the tranquil waters of the Saimaa Lakes. Among the options are the SS Punkaharju, SS Paul Wahl, and SS Savonlinna. These cruises provide stunning views of Olavinlinna Castle, surrounding islands, and the picturesque lakeside landscape. A leisurely 1.5-hour cruise aboard SS Punkaharju offers a unique perspective of this charming region.
Stroll Through Savonlinna’s Old Town
Savonlinna’s Old Town is a delightful blend of colorful wooden buildings and cobblestone streets, reminiscent of other Finnish towns like Raahe and Porvoo. The Linnankatu street, just a short walk from Olavinlinna Castle, is lined with cozy cafes, and local shops. A stroll through this charming area allows visitors to immerse themselves in the peaceful, small-town atmosphere of Finland.
Sample Savonlinna’s Local Delicacy: Lörtsy
Lörtsy is a traditional Finnish dish from Savonlinna. Essentially a deep-fried pastry filled with a meat pie and topped with cucumber salad, it’s an unusual yet delicious treat. The best Lörtsy can be found at the Teboil Kallislahti petrol station, about 17 kilometers west of Savonlinna, or near the harbor where the steamboats dock. Locals often debate which spot serves the best version, so it’s worth trying both to decide for yourself.
Stay in a Lakeside Cabin
To fully embrace the Finnish lifestyle, consider staying in a lakeside cabin. While these cabins are located a bit outside Savonlinna, they offer a serene and authentic experience. Many cabins feature wood-burning fireplaces and saunas, perfect for cozying up during colder months. A popular choice is a cabin near the village of Kerimäki, just 30 minutes from Savonlinna. Wake up to the stunning lakeside view and enjoy a morning swim.
Dine at Hotel Punkaharju Buffet
Opening Hours: 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM
For a true taste of local cuisine, head to Hotel Punkaharju, located about 36 kilometers southeast of Savonlinna. The hotel’s buffet is renowned for its use of locally-sourced ingredients, from fresh herbs to wild mushrooms and fish. It’s a fantastic spot to sample the best of Finnish cuisine, all set against the backdrop of the stunning Punkaharju Ridge.
Discover Kuikonniemen Fortress
Opening Hours: Always Open
Entry: Free
The Kuikonniemen Fortress, built during Finland’s Winter in 1944, offers a glimpse into Finland’s history. The fortress consists of a series of trenches nestled in the forest along the Punkaharju Ridge. Visitors can explore the area, though the trenches are now fenced off, and it’s best to walk around the perimeter to get a feel for this historic site.
Spot the Rare Saimaa Ringed Seal
The Saimaa Ringed Seal, one of the rarest seals in the world, is native to the Saimaa Lake region. With only around 360 individuals remaining, spotting one is a rare treat for nature lovers. These seals have adapted to freshwater life since the last Ice Age, and today they are protected in the Saimaa Lakes region.
Experience the Lusto Forest Museum
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry: €11
For those interested in Finland’s deep connection with its forests, the Lusto Forest Museum offers a fascinating exploration of this relationship. Exhibits cover the history of forestry in Finland, from the early days of floating logs down rivers to modern sustainable practices.
Explore Linnansaari National Park
Linnansaari National Park, located just north of Savonlinna, is the epitome of Finnish Lakeland. With hiking trails ranging from 2 to 7 kilometers, the park offers visitors a chance to connect with nature. You can also kayak or boat through the pristine waters of the park, spotting wildlife along the way.
Relax at Sauna World
If you’re looking for the ultimate Finnish relaxation experience, visit Sauna World at the Jarvisydan Hotel and Spa, located 30 minutes north of Savonlinna. For €30, guests can enjoy a variety of saunas, including traditional smoke saunas and steam rooms, along with spa pools, massage jets, and an outdoor ice pool for a truly Finnish wellness experience.
How to Get to Savonlinna
By Car: A scenic 4-hour drive from Helsinki, passing picturesque lakes and ridges.
By Train: Trains run from Helsinki to Savonlinna, with a transfer at Parikkala. The journey takes about 4 hours.
By Bus: Several bus services run daily, with a travel time of around 5 hours.
Savonlinna offers a unique and authentic Finnish experience, perfect for those seeking tranquility, history, and natural beauty. With its charming old town, picturesque lakes, and rich cultural heritage, Savonlinna is an unmissable destination in Finland.
Savonlinna Finland Travel Guide | Savonlinna Things to do | Savonlinna Castle | Finland Travel
Video by Touroopi
