Things To Do
in Savonlinna
Savonlinna is a picturesque town located in the eastern part of Finland, known for its stunning lakeside setting and historic Olavinlinna Castle. The town is a popular destination for visitors seeking outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and fishing in the surrounding natural beauty. Savonlinna is also renowned for its annual opera festival held in the castle, attracting music lovers from around the world.
With its charming waterfront promenades, quaint cafes, and friendly locals, Savonlinna offers a peaceful and relaxing escape in the heart of Finnish Lakeland.
- "Moikka" - Hi
- "Kiitos" - Thank you
- "Ole hyvä" - You're welcome
- "Yhteystiedot" - Contact information
- "Näkemiin" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Olavinlinna Castle, exploring its medieval architecture. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local café nearby.
Stroll along the shores of Lake Saimaa and enjoy the scenic views. Visit the Savonlinna Market Square for local crafts and delicacies.
Dine at a restaurant offering traditional Finnish cuisine. Wrap up your night with a leisurely walk by the lake under the stars.
Visit the Savonlinna Provincial Museum to learn about the region's history. Have brunch at a cozy spot overlooking the lake.
Take a scenic boat cruise around the archipelago. Discover the beautiful nature and islands surrounding Savonlinna.
Attend a performance at the Savonlinna Opera Festival if it coincides with your visit. Otherwise, enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery with lakes and forests for outdoor activities
- Rich cultural heritage, particularly known for the Savonlinna Opera Festival
- Historic sites like Olavinlinna Castle
- Friendly community and a peaceful lifestyle
- Opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking
- Harsh winter weather can be challenging
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors
- Higher cost of living compared to some other regions in Finland
- Transportation can be less accessible due to remote location
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
Best Activities in Savonlinna
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historic Olavinlinna Castle, which is located on a rocky island and hosts various events and concerts during the summer months.
Enjoy a scenic boat cruise on the picturesque Lake Saimaa, the fourth largest lake in Europe, and take in the natural beauty of the region.
Embark on a hiking adventure in Linnansaari National Park, known for its tranquil island scenery, diverse wildlife, and well-maintained trails.
Tours
Uncover the best of Savonlinna with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Savonlinna
Visit one of these nice places.
A medieval castle located on a rocky island with stunning views of Lake Saimaa and the surrounding area, offering great photo opportunities.
A popular hill offering panoramic views of Savonlinna and the surrounding lakes, ideal for photography and enjoying the cityscape.
An island with a picturesque lighthouse offering beautiful views of Lake Saimaa and the historic surroundings.
Food in Savonlinna
Savonlinna Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Finnish fish pasty made with rye crust, filled with fish and pork.
Must-Try!
Fried vendace, a small local fish, often served with new potatoes.
Karelian pasty, a thin rye crust filled with rice or potato.
Blueberry pie made with fresh local berries.
Traditional Finnish rye bread, dark and dense, often served with butter and cheese.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Savonlinna better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The local market square where you can find fresh produce, berries, and local fish. Don't miss the food stalls offering grilled muikku and other local specialties.
During summer, this market offers a variety of local food and drinks, providing an opportunity to taste traditional Finnish treats.
Visitors can enjoy outdoor grilling and camping, with the chance to sample local food traditions.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Savonlinna, it is important to respect personal space and not stand too close to others, especially when engaging in conversation.
When entering someone’s home or certain public indoor spaces in Savonlinna, it is customary to remove your shoes as a sign of respect for cleanliness.
Using proper greetings and titles, such as 'Hei' for hello and 'Herra' for Mr., is considered respectful in Savonlinna.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Savonlinna with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Savonlinna
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Savonlinna, Finland. It is customary to round up the bill or leave a small tip as a token of appreciation for good service, typically around 5-10% of the total bill.
In Savonlinna, Finland, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payments. Contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular, and most establishments, including restaurants and shops, accept major international credit cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Savonlinna.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Savonlinna is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is mild and the days are long. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as boating, kayaking, and hiking. The famous Savonlinna Opera Festival also takes place during this time.
Winter in Savonlinna is a magical time, especially for those who enjoy winter sports such as cross-country skiing and ice fishing. The city is also known for its beautiful Christmas markets and festive atmosphere.
During spring and fall, Savonlinna experiences milder weather and fewer tourists, making it a peaceful time to explore the surrounding nature and historical attractions such as Olavinlinna Castle.
Savonlinna at Night
Hiking in Savonlinna
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning area featuring scenic lakes and lush forests, perfect for hiking and observing diverse wildlife.
A picturesque trail that offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes and includes varied terrain.
This trail runs along the shores of Puruvesi and provides hikers with breathtaking views, especially during sunset.
An accessible trail located near Riihisaari with interpretive signs about local flora and fauna.
A bit further from Savonlinna, this park offers beautiful routes through ancient forests and lakes with well-marked paths.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Savonlinna through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Savonlinna by plane.
The main international airport in Finland, located about 300 kilometers from Savonlinna. It serves as a hub for numerous international flights.
An international airport situated approximately 250 kilometers from Savonlinna, offering both domestic and some international flights.
Located around 400 kilometers from Savonlinna, it is one of the largest airports in northern Finland, serving various international routes.
About 500 kilometers from Savonlinna, this airport serves as a gateway to Lapland and offers several international flights, particularly in winter.
Located approximately 150 kilometers from Savonlinna, it provides domestic flights and limited international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Savonlinna, primarily consisting of native Finnish speakers.
A smaller population group in the region, often related to historical ties and bilingualism.
An emerging demographic group, especially among recent immigrants and expatriates.
Presence of Estonian speakers due to proximity and migration within the Baltic region.
Includes a diverse population of immigrants from various countries, contributing to the multicultural fabric of the city.
The Soul of Savonlinna
Discover the essence of Savonlinna through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is one of the most popular sports in Savonlinna, with local teams competing in various leagues.
Football enjoys significant popularity in Savonlinna, with multiple clubs and youth programs engaging the community.
Basketball is also well-liked, with several local teams and tournaments drawing considerable interest.
Due to its numerous lakes, rowing is a favored sport, and Savonlinna hosts various rowing events.
In the winter, cross-country skiing is popular among residents, with numerous trails available for skiing.
The region also embraces traditional Finnish sports like pesäpallo (Finnish baseball) and various folk games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Savonlinna.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants and cafes in Savonlinna offer vegetarian and vegan options, with an increasing awareness of these dietary preferences.
Many places cater to gluten-free diets, and it's becoming easier to find gluten-free dishes in Savonlinna's eateries.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Savonlinna with these cultural adventures.
