Best of Savonlinna

Savonlinna Essentials

Savonlinna serves as the cultural hub of the Finnish Lakeland, defined by its deep connection to Lake Saimaa. This selection features the world’s largest wooden church in Kerimäki and the historic Riihisaari museum, which houses a unique fleet of heritage steamships. The list extends to the Punkaharju ridge, home to one of Finland's oldest hotels and a vast research arboretum. Visitors can explore underground art galleries at Retretti, sample traditional lörtsy pastries at the lakeside market, or navigate the labyrinthine channels of Kolovesi National Park.

Savonlinna Essentials — Map

Alessandro Di Matteo / CC-BY-SA

A

Savonlinna Cathedral

Savonlinna Cathedral is located in Savonlinna, Finland. It was built between 1874 and 1878 and designed by architect Axel Hampus Dalström in…

MKFI / Public domain

B

Kerimäen kirkko

Completed in 1847, this is the world's largest wooden church. The Neoclassical structure features a central dome and can accommodate up to 5,000 people. It is primarily used for services and concerts during the summer months.

Veljekset Karhumäki / Public domain

C

Savonlinnan kauppatori

Lakeside market square known for local specialties like lörtsy pastries and fried vendace. It serves as a central hub for regional boat traffic and local commerce, especially during the summer opera season.

D

Savonlinna Provincial Museum

Housed in a 19th-century granary on Riihisaari island, this museum details the history of Lake Saimaa’s sailing, fishing, and timber industries. It also hosts the Saimaa Nature Centre's exhibitions on the endangered Saimaa ringed seal.

E

Savonlinnan Provincial Museum - historic steamboats

A collection of heritage vessels moored at Riihisaari, including the 19th-century steam schooner Salama and the tugboat Ahkera. These restored ships represent the golden age of steam-powered transport on the Saimaa waterways.

Paul Lenz / CC BY-SA 2.5

F

Kolovesi National Park

Kolovesi National Park is a national park in the Etelä-Savo region of Finland. It was established in 1990 and covers 23 km2.

Eljas Waltari / CC BY 3.0

G

Hotelli Punkaharju

Originally built in 1845 as a forester's lodge, this is Finland's oldest hotel. It is situated on the narrow Punkaharju esker and features historic wooden architecture surrounded by protected pine forests.

H

Saimaan taideluola Retretti

An art center famous for its extensive exhibition spaces excavated into the bedrock. The complex includes man-made caves, an underground concert hall, and unique acoustics used for contemporary art displays.

Eljas Waltari / CC BY 3.0

I

Puulajipuisto

This arboretum in Punkaharju contains over 50 different tree species planted for research and conservation. The park features some of Finland’s tallest trees and diverse walking trails through various coniferous and deciduous stands.

J

Summer Theatre

An open-air performance venue hosting seasonal Finnish plays and musical productions. Located near the waterfront, it offers a traditional setting for local summer theater culture.

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Savonlinna Region Highlights Secluded Nature & Wilderness Huts Lakeside Retreats Historic Churches