Things to do in Saimaa Lake District
Discover the best attractions and experiences Saimaa Lake District has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore centuries of Lakeland history around Lake Saimaa, from medieval fortresses to historic churches.
Olavinlinna Castle
A 15th-century fortress in Savonlinna set on an island, offering castle tours and summer performances.
Lappeenranta Fortress
A historic 18th-century fortress by Lake Saimaa with museums and scenic lake views.
Kerimäki Church
The world’s largest wooden church, a landmark near Saimaa dating from the 19th century.
Museums
Delve into forest heritage, local history, and regional culture in Lakeland museums.
Lusto - The Finnish Forest Museum
Interactive exhibits about Finnish forests and nature, hosted in Punkaharju.
Savonlinna Provincial Museum
Regional history and archaeology exhibits reflecting Eastern Finland’s life by Saimaa.
Mikkeli Museum
Local history displays from the Mikkeli area and its lakeside heritage.
Religious Monuments
Spiritual landmarks showcasing the region’s religious architecture and heritage.
Kerimäki Church
The world’s largest wooden church, renowned for its size and design.
New Valamo Monastery (Heinävesi)
An active Orthodox monastery with historic buildings and serene grounds.
National & Theme Parks
Hike, boat, and wildlife-watch in Finland’s pristine Lakeland parks.
Linnansaari National Park
A pristine Lakeland park at Saimaa’s island chain with seals watching and boat routes.
Kolovesi National Park
Forested park known for its canoes, birdlife, and lake landscapes.
Repovesi National Park
Forest trails and scenic viewpoints near Lake Saimaa for hiking and wild scenery.
Neighborhoods
Walkable districts and lakeside promenades that define the Lakeland vibe.
Savonlinna Old Town (Olavinlinna area)
Historic riverside area with cobbled streets, shops and views of the fortress.
Lappeenranta City Centre
Lakeside district with markets, cafés and a pleasant harbor walk.
Mikkeli Market Square & Riverside
Center of town life by the river with eateries and events.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the outdoors and free viewpoints across Saimaa.
Punkaharju Ridge walk
Scenic boardwalk and nature trails along the iconic lake ridge.
Saimaa shoreline strolls
Free lakeside walks along marinas and forest trails.
Hiking in Linnansaari & Kolovesi borders
Self-guided hikes with wildlife and lake scenery.
Gastronomy
Taste Lakeland flavors, fish dishes, and hearty Finnish classics.
Salmon soup (lohikeitto)
Creamy salmon soup, a regional staple.
Kalakukko (fish pasty)
Traditional fish-filled pastry from eastern Finland.
Leipäjuusto with cloudberry jam
Squeaky cheese paired with cloudberry jam for a sweet-salty bite.
Nightlife
Relaxed pubs and lakeside spots offer a laid-back evening vibe.
Savonlinna Market Square (Tori)
Evenings with cafés and social spots around the central square.
Lappeenranta Market Square
Lakeside area with bars and live music in warm months.
Mikkeli Market Square
Evenings in the town center with casual venues and ambiance.
Entertainment
Cultural events and performances rooted in the Lakeland season.
Savonlinna Opera Festival
World-class opera performances staged around Olavinlinna in summer.
Mikkeli Theatre & events
Seasonal theatre and cultural performances in town.
Imatra Summer Theatre
Outdoor performances in a lakeside setting during summer.
Sports
Water, forest, and winter sports for all levels.
Kayaking & canoeing on Lake Saimaa
Paddle through calm waters and scenic channels.
Hiking in Linnansaari & Kolovesi parks
Scenic trails with lookout points and wildlife.
Cross-country skiing & snowshoeing
Winter adventures across frozen lakes and forests.
Off the Track
Escape the crowds with hidden spots and local experiences.
Boat trip to smaller Saimaa islands
Calm island hopping and secluded nature.
Saimaa Ringed Seal observation cruises
Guided boat cruises to spot the endemic seal (seasonal).
Forest sauna experiences
Traditional lakeside saunas with lake swims.