Things To Do
in Kitee
Kitee is a small town located in eastern Finland, known for its beautiful natural surroundings and tranquil atmosphere. The town is surrounded by numerous lakes, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. Kitee is also home to the popular Kitee Zoo, which houses a variety of animal species from around the world.
With its friendly community and picturesque landscapes, Kitee is a charming destination for those seeking a peaceful getaway in the Finnish countryside.
- "Moikka" - Hi
- "Kiitos" - Thank you
- "Ole hyvä" - You're welcome
- "Yhteystiedot" - Contact information
- "Näkemiin" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by hiking in the beautiful Kitee National Park. Explore the lush landscapes and enjoy the fresh air.
Have a picnic by the serene shores of Lake Kitee. Take time to relax and soak in the stunning views.
Return to town for dinner at a local restaurant. Savor Finnish cuisine and reflect on your day's adventures.
Visit the Kitee Museum to learn about the region's history and traditions. Engaging exhibits will deepen your understanding of local culture.
Explore the charming Old Kitee village. Stroll through the quaint streets and admire traditional wooden houses.
Attend a local music event or performance. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and possibly discover new local talents.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural surroundings with lakes and forests.
- Strong sense of community and friendly locals.
- Access to various outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and fishing.
- Rich cultural history and local traditions.
- Quiet and relaxed lifestyle away from busy city life.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities.
- Harsh winters with very cold temperatures.
- Limited access to services and amenities.
- Isolation due to small population size.
- Fewer entertainment and dining options compared to urban areas.
Best Activities in Kitee
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails of Kitee Nature Reserve, offering beautiful landscapes and a variety of flora and fauna.
Enjoy a day of fishing in the pristine waters of Lake Kitee, known for its rich fish population including perch and pike.
Cycle through the picturesque countryside of Kitee, with various biking trails suited for all skill levels.
Relax and swim at Kitee Beach, a popular spot during summer months offering sandy shores and swimming facilities.
Visit Kitee Bird Sanctuary for a chance to observe a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
Take to the waters of Lake Kitee or its surrounding rivers for an enjoyable canoeing or kayaking experience.
Set up camp in designated areas near forests or lakes, providing a perfect getaway to connect with nature.
Engage in the local tradition of mushroom and berry picking, exploring the rich forests around Kitee.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kitee with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kitee
Visit one of these nice places.
This beautiful lake offers stunning views, especially at sunrise and sunset. The surrounding nature is perfect for picturesque photographs.
The historic Kitee Church is an architectural gem and provides a lovely backdrop for photos, particularly when surrounded by the seasonal changes of nature.
A serene park with well-maintained paths, flowers, and trees, great for family photos and nature shots.
A scenic spot to capture photos of the bridge and surrounding landscapes, particularly during autumn when the foliage changes.
This scenic peninsula extends into Lake Kiteenjärvi, offering panoramic views and excellent opportunities for nature photography.
A protected area with nature trails, wildlife, and beautiful vistas perfect for outdoor photography enthusiasts.
Food in Kitee
Kitee Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Finnish fish pie made with fish, pork, and bacon, encased in a rye crust and baked to perfection. It's a hearty and flavorful local specialty.
Must-Try!
Also known as Karelian pasty, it is a savory pie consisting of a thin rye crust with a filling of rice, mashed potatoes, or carrots. It's often served with egg butter.
A traditional Finnish Easter dessert made from water, rye flour, and powdered malted rye, usually served with cream and sugar. It has a sweet, malted flavor and a unique texture.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kitee better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Kiteen Tori is a vibrant local market where visitors can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisanal crafts. It's a great place to sample traditional Finnish street food like grilled sausages, vendace (small fish) fritters, and crepes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kitee, as in much of Finland, people value their personal space. It is important to maintain a comfortable distance during conversations and avoid standing too close to others unless invited.
Silence is often appreciated in Finnish culture. It’s common for people to enjoy quiet moments without feeling the need to fill the space with conversation. Being comfortable with silence is seen as respectful.
Time is taken seriously in Kitee. It is expected that you arrive on time for meetings, social gatherings, and events. Being late can be considered disrespectful, so plan accordingly to honor others' time.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kitee with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kitee
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kitee, Finland, tipping is not a common practice. Service charges are usually included in the bill, particularly in restaurants and cafes. If a customer wishes to show appreciation for exceptional service, they may leave a small tip, but this is not expected.
Payment methods in Kitee are diverse, with cash and bank cards being widely accepted. Contactless payments are also popular, and many establishments support mobile payment options. The use of digital payment applications is becoming increasingly common among residents.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kitee.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Kitee usually spans from April to June. You can expect mild weather with temperatures averaging between 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). Nature begins to bloom, creating picturesque landscapes. It's a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and bird-watching, as migratory birds return.
Summer lasts from June to August and offers the warmest weather, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This is the peak tourist season, perfect for enjoying lakes, fishing, swimming, and various outdoor events. The long daylight hours provide ample time for exploration.
Autumn occurs from September to November. The temperatures begin to drop to around 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). The foliage transforms into brilliant shades of red and gold, making it an excellent time for photography and hiking. This season is less crowded, offering a serene visit.
Winter spans from December to March. Expect cold weather with temperatures ranging from -20°C to 0°C (-4°F to 32°F). The area becomes a winter wonderland, ideal for skiing, snowshoeing, and experiencing the Northern Lights. Festivals and winter sports events are popular during this time.
Kitee at Night
Hiking in Kitee
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area surrounding Kiteenjärvi Lake, offering trails with beautiful views and opportunities for bird watching.
Famous for its unique ridge formations and diverse flora and fauna, this area offers several hiking paths and panoramic views.
A well-marked trail that guides hikers through the forests and alongside lakes, providing a peaceful hiking experience.
Features a range of hiking paths with varying difficulty levels, perfect for both experienced hikers and families.
Located a short drive from Kitee, this area offers extensive scenic trails through forests and around lakes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kitee through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kitee by plane.
Located approximately 30 kilometers from Kitee, Joensuu Airport is the nearest international airport offering regular flights primarily to Helsinki.
About 60 kilometers from Kitee, Savonlinna Airport serves domestic flights and seasonal international flights, especially during the summer months.
Approximately 100 kilometers from Kitee, Kajaani Airport provides both domestic and limited international services.
Located about 120 kilometers from Kitee, Kuopio Airport has domestic flights and connects to Helsinki and other key Finnish cities.
Though further away at approximately 450 kilometers from Kitee, Helsinki-Vantaa Airport is Finland's largest international airport and serves as the main hub for international travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Kitee, comprising the local population.
A small indigenous group historically residing in northern parts of Finland, including some areas of Kitee.
A minority group, primarily descendants of those who migrated during historical periods of Russian influence.
A small population of Swedish-speaking Finns, particularly near the border regions.
Includes various other minority groups and immigrants from different backgrounds.
The Soul of Kitee
Discover the essence of Kitee through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is one of the most popular sports in Kitee, with a strong youth program and local clubs fostering talent.
Given the region's snowy winters, cross-country skiing is a favored activity, with numerous trails and competitions.
Football is widely played and supported in Kitee, with local teams participating in various leagues.
Volleyball is also popular in Kitee, with community clubs and recreational leagues drawing many enthusiasts.
Track and field events are popular among schools and local sports clubs, encouraging participation in athletics.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kitee.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Kitee offer vegetarian and vegan menu options, including plant-based versions of traditional Finnish dishes. It's advisable to inquire with the staff about specific dietary preferences.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free dishes in some restaurants and cafes, and many places are accommodating to dietary needs. It's recommended to communicate dietary restrictions in advance for a seamless dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kitee with these cultural adventures.
