Olavinlinna Castle
A 15th-century island fortress built by the Swedes on a rocky islet between two lakes, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in the Nordics. Modest admission, and the lakeside setting makes even the exterior walk worthwhile.
City in Finland
Savonlinna
3 things to see
Savonlinna is a lakeland town built around Olavinlinna, a medieval island castle, with peaceful scenery and lakeside swimming spots that are free to enjoy. Walking the shoreline, the harbour, and the approach to the castle costs nothing, and the surrounding lakes invite free wild swimming in summer. The town is busiest during its summer opera festival, so visiting just before or after means lower prices and a quieter lakeland. The capital, Helsinki, connects by direct train.
What to see
Things to do in Savonlinna
What each one costs, where the cost is known.
Savonlinna Cathedral
A modest red brick Lutheran cathedral from 1878 set on a hilltop overlooking the lakes. Free to enter and a quiet spot with views over the water and the surrounding Saimaa lake landscape.
Savonlinna Market Square
A waterfront market square at the heart of town where locals sell fresh lake fish, berries, and Karelian pies in summer. Free to browse and the best place to sample budget-friendly Finnish lake region food.
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