Kuopio travel guide

Photo of Aerial View of Kuopio in Finland by Kallerna
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Introduction to Kuopio

Kuopio, Finland - When thinking about this city in the region of Northern Savonia in Finland, images of the spectacular Kuopio Market, Hapelähde Park, and Korkeakoski instantly come to mind. As you explore beyond these attractions and read through this Kuopio travel guide, you'll find that this city in Finland is more than what we see in books and social media. Kuopio, and its community of more than 121.6 thousand people, is a culturally-rich and diverse travel destination offering plenty of unforgettable experiences.

Easily accessible from Kuopio airport, Kuopio is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Finland any time of the year.

You'll learn more fascinating facts about Kuopio as you explore this spectacular city.

Traveling to Kuopio is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the city of Kuopio below!

History of Kuopio

Kuopio, located in the heart of Eastern Finland, boasts a rich history that dates back to its establishment in 1653. Nestled on the shores of Lake Kallavesi, its strategic location made it an important center for commerce and trade.

Originally, the city was a vibrant hub for tar production, which significantly contributed to its economic growth. In the 19th century, the opening of the Saimaa Canal gave Kuopio a direct water route to Saint Petersburg, resulting in a significant boost in the city's prominence and prosperity.

Kuopio has faced numerous adversities over the centuries, including a devastating fire in 1775 that destroyed much of the city. Despite these challenges, the city has persevered and transformed itself into a thriving urban center.

Today, Kuopio is best known for its unique blend of modernity and tradition. Its rich history is mirrored in the city's architecture, traditions, and culture, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and tourists alike.

Local culture and customs in Kuopio

Kuopio, a city in eastern Finland, is known for its unique culture and customs that reflect the Finnish way of life. The locals are known for their hospitality and love for nature. They often spend their free time fishing, picking berries, or simply enjoying the scenic beauty of the surrounding lakes and forests. In winter, cross-country skiing and ice fishing are popular activities.

One notable custom is the 'Kuopio Market,' a traditional market held in the city center where you can taste local delicacies like kalakukko (a kind of fish pie) and vendace. Don't forget to try the traditional Finnish sauna, which is a significant part of Finnish culture. Respect for personal space is highly valued in Finland, so remember to keep a comfortable distance when communicating with locals. Also, punctuality is highly appreciated in all social and business meetings.

Finland is one of the rare countries where everyman's rights, or 'jokamiehenoikeus,' allow you to roam freely in nature, pick berries and mushrooms, and even camp out overnight. However, it's important to respect the environment and leave no trace.

Currency information for travelers in Kuopio

The official currency in Kuopio, Finland is the Euro (€). It is advisable to have some cash on hand for small purchases, although credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most places, including hotels, restaurants, and stores. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted, but American Express is less commonly accepted. ATMs, known as 'Otto.', are widespread and offer a convenient way to withdraw cash.

Please be aware that Finland is one of the more expensive European countries, and Kuopio is no exception. Therefore, adjust your budget accordingly. Tipping is not customary in Finland, as service charges are included in the bill. However, if you feel the service was exceptional, it's not uncommon to leave a small tip. Always check your bank's foreign transaction fees before your trip to avoid any unexpected charges.

Language tips for travelers in Kuopio

Finnish is the official language in Kuopio, but many locals also speak English, especially those in the service industry. However, learning a few basic Finnish phrases can help you connect with locals and enrich your travel experience. For instance, 'Hei' means 'Hello', 'Kiitos' means 'Thank you', and 'Hyvää päivää' is 'Good day'. It is also useful to remember 'En puhu suomea' which means 'I don't speak Finnish'.

Finnish has a reputation for being a difficult language to learn, but don't let this discourage you. Finns appreciate any attempt to speak their language and are usually patient and willing to help. Plus, signs and menus are typically in both Finnish and English. So, while knowing some Finnish is beneficial, it is not essential for a successful trip to Kuopio.

Best time to visit Kuopio

The best time to explore Kuopio, Finland, largely depends on what you want to experience. For those who enjoy outdoor activities and vibrant city life, the summer months from June to August offer the most favorable conditions. During this period, the weather is warm, typically ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius, and the city comes alive with various events such as the Kuopio Dance Festival and the Kuopio Wine Festival. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

If you're an enthusiast of winter sports like skiing or ice fishing, the snowy months from November to March would be the ideal time. The Kuopio region is renowned for its excellent ski resorts and the iconic Finland Ice Marathon that takes place on the frozen Lake Kallavesi. During this time, the city is less crowded, giving you a more tranquil experience. Regardless of when you decide to visit, Kuopio provides a unique and captivating Finnish experience throughout the year.

Weather in Kuopio

Kuopio, located in Finland's Northern Savonia region, experiences a subarctic climate. The city is known for its long, cold winters and short, mild summers. Winter temperatures often fall below freezing, averaging -10°C (14°F), and snow is common from November to April. The city is blanketed in snow for almost half the year, offering a stunning winter landscape.

Summers, on the other hand, are relatively mild with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). While rainfall is spread throughout the year, July tends to be the wettest month. Despite its northern location, the city enjoys relatively long daylight hours in summer, thanks to the phenomenon of the midnight sun. However, during the winter solstice, daylight hours can be as short as five hours.

Given the extreme cold in winter, travelers should pack appropriate clothing to stay warm. Conversely, in the summer, light clothing is usually sufficient, but it's advisable to bring rain gear. Despite the chilly temperatures, the clear skies and snowy landscapes offer a uniquely beautiful experience.

Local tip for visiting Kuopio

One insider tip that locals recommend when visiting Kuopio, Finland, is to sample the local delicacy known as 'Kalakukko,' a traditional Finnish dish from the region. This savory pie is filled with fish and pork, and baked in a rye crust for several hours. You can find the best Kalakukko at the vibrant Kuopio Market Hall, a hub of local flavor and culture. Be sure to ask the locals for their favorite stall - they will be more than happy to share their insider tip. Moreover, if you're visiting in summer, try to experience a Finnish sauna at Rauhalahti Smoke Sauna, the world's largest smoke sauna, located just outside the city center. It’s a unique experience where you can truly immerse yourself in the Finnish culture. Remember, enjoying Kuopio like a local requires more than just sightseeing; it's about experiencing the unique traditions, tastes, and lifestyle of this charming Finnish city.

Top services in Kuopio

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Kuopio, Finland. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 310 airlines that fly to Finland. Compare the rates and services of the 5 types of places to stay in Kuopio and the 5 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Kuopio.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Kuopio, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Kuopio on your vacation in Finland.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Kuopio from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Kuopio!

Learn more about Finland

There are many reasons to visit the city of Kuopio, but a trip to Finland needs no explanation.

Exploring Finland, which spans 338,424 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. Finland offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Kuopio Market, Hapelähde Park, and the Korkeakoski, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in Finland.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about Finland.

What to see in Kuopio

Kuopio has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the city.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the city of Kuopio.

Top attractions in Kuopio

Home to plenty of top attractions, Kuopio is more than just a wonderful city in Finland. Kuopio is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of Finland.

One fascinating sight in Kuopio is the unforgettable Kuopio Market. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Kuopio.

Kuopio Market is open for visitors at any time of the day and is located at Kauppakatu 45, 70110 Kuopio, Finland.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Finland, check out our list of top attractions in Kuopio below. Discover the best places to visit in Kuopio, including the fascinating Kuopio Market, Hapelähde Park, Korkeakoski, Old Kuopio Museum, and Kuopio Art Museum.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Kuopio.

Things to do in Kuopio

Enrich your travel experience in Kuopio by joining tours and activities. Kuopio offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the city.

Discover the most popular experiences in Kuopio below.

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Discover the best things to do in Kuopio.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Kuopio. Click the green button to view your options.

Best shopping in Kuopio

Shopping in Kuopio is a delightful experience reflecting the city's unique blend of modern fashion and traditional Finnish craftsmanship. The city center, home to the bustling Kuopio Market City known as 'Kauppahalli', is the best place to go shopping in Kuopio. Here, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant local atmosphere, browsing through stalls selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, and iconic Finnish design items. Don't miss out on purchasing a traditional Finnish 'Puukko' knife, a perfect souvenir encapsulating Finland's rich heritage.

For a more contemporary shopping experience, head to Matkus Shopping Center, one of the largest shopping malls in Finland. It houses a wide range of international and local brands, alongside a variety of dining options. To extend your retail therapy, visit the pedestrian street, Haapaniemenkatu, known for its boutiques offering exquisite Finnish fashion and jewelry.

Remember, most stores in Kuopio are open from 10 am to 8 pm on weekdays and shorter hours on weekends. Some smaller boutiques may close earlier, so plan your shopping accordingly. Enjoy the charm of shopping in Kuopio, where the old and the new seamlessly blend together.

Best free things to do in Kuopio

Discover the heart of Finnish Lakeland without breaking the bank. One of the best free things to do in Kuopio is strolling around the charming, cobblestone Kuopio market place, a bustling hub of local activity and culture. Here you can soak up the Finnish spirit, savor the sight of traditional wooden houses, and engage with friendly locals. Another must-visit is the Kuopio Cathedral. This majestic Lutheran cathedral, built in the 19th century, is an architectural gem that tells a tale of Kuopio's rich history. For nature lovers, a leisurely walk around the tranquil Kallavesi Lake is a must. With its stunning, serene landscape, it's a perfect spot for picnics or simply to relax. Lastly, the Puijo tower, Kuopio's iconic landmark, offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and its surrounding forest and lake - a sight that's free and truly priceless.

Vacation packages in Kuopio

The best and easiest way to visit Kuopio is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in Finland.

Booking a vacation package to Kuopio means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Kuopio to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Kuopio is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find unique vacation packages to Kuopio, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the city of Kuopio.

Find vacation packages in Kuopio

Discover and compare vacation packages that take you to the wonderful city of Kuopio.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Kuopio get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in Finland. Your customized holiday package to Kuopio is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Kuopio

To get to the city of Kuopio the fastest way possible, travelers from outside Finland can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Kuopio by booking flights with any of the 1 airline that offer direct flights to Kuopio airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Kuopio airport are United Airlines, Ryanair, Delta Air Lines, Air China, and LATAM Airlines. Go to this page to compare all flights to Kuopio.

To reach the city of Kuopio, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Kuopio airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Kuopio, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Kuopio airport and Kuopio below.

Find cheap flights to Kuopio

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Kuopio, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in Finland. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Kuopio, Finland, in May.

The cheapest one-way flight to Kuopio costs around 88 EUR and is offered by the airline Finnair.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Kuopio cost approximately 53 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on May 30 and the return flight is scheduled on May 14. The flight time is around 1 hour per way.

The return flight is operated by Helsinki.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to Finland and the city of Kuopio from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Kuopio

Travelers visiting Kuopio in Finland can fly to Kuopio airport directly from 1399 destinations worldwide.

The three most popular routes to Kuopio airport and the city of Kuopio in Finland depart from Kuopio airport in Kuopio, Finland, Cochin International airport in Kochi, India, and Sydney airport in Sydney, Australia.

Travelers can fly to Finland by choosing from from 1 weekly flight(s) from Kuopio; from 1 weekly flight(s) from Kochi; and from 4 weekly flight(s) from Sydney.

The airline that operates most flights to Finland is Cambodia Airways. Cambodia Airways offers 9 scheduled flight routes to Finland.

Discover the most popular flights to Kuopio below. Click to view flights to Kuopio, Finland from destinations all across the globe.

Where to stay in Kuopio

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Kuopio is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Kuopio usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Kuopio offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Kuopio and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Kuopio planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Kuopio, you'll find 5 different types of places to stay catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Finland can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Kuopio. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Kuopio.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Kuopio in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Kuopio

A trip to the fascinating Kuopio, Finland, means opportunities to relax at any of the 5 different types of places to stay in the city. Overall, travelers can choose from the following: 57 cottages, 54 vacation rental apartments, 41 hotels, 1 guesthouse and 1 hostel. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Kuopio provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Among all these choices available in the city, Lapland Hotels Kuopio is one of the top picks of travelers in Kuopio.

The hotel is located at Puijonkatu 32 and boasts many great utilities, including Air conditioning, Restaurant, and Free Wi-Fi.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Kuopio. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

In Kuopio, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose Retkeilymaja Virkkula. For approximately 31 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Unknown at this popular hostel.

Below is a list of all 5 different types of places to stay in Kuopio. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Kuopio

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Kuopio for the unique experience they provide. So if you're the kind of traveler who prefers staying at hotels, you'll be glad to know that the city is home to around 154 hotels.

Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Kuopio provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Kuopio are created equal, finding the best in the city often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Kuopio.

Vietti Apartments offers the most luxurious rooms and is perfect for travelers looking for the ultimate 5-star hotel experience in Kuopio. If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out Lapland Hotels Kuopio, the top 4-star hotel in the city. When all you need is a pleasant place to rest and sleep in between your activities in Kuopio, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, Best Western Hotel Savonia, Kuopio, is for you.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Kuopio. Travelers are encouraged to book early as these hotels quickly reach capacity.

Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.

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Search for accommodation in Kuopio

Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the city of Kuopio on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the city of Kuopio that match the information provided.

Transportation in Kuopio

Kuopio, a bustling city in Finland, boasts a comprehensive transportation network that seamlessly connects different parts of the city.

The city’s public transportation system, primarily comprising of buses, is efficient and punctual. The Kuopio City Traffic operates frequent services throughout the day, making it convenient for both locals and tourists.

For those who prefer a more private mode of transportation, taxis and rental cars are readily available. Numerous taxi stands are scattered throughout the city, and several companies offer car rental services. The roads are well-maintained and signposted, making it easy for visitors to navigate.

Finally, for a unique local experience, consider exploring Kuopio by bicycle. The city is known for its extensive cycling routes, and bikes can be rented from various outlets. In the summer, the water bus offers a unique way to travel, taking passengers across the beautiful Kallavesi lake. This scenic journey is a highlight for many visitors to Kuopio.

Car rental in Kuopio

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Kuopio. Kuopio has 5 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Kuopio start from 44.81 EUR per day or 313.65 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Volkswagen Golf.

If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Kuopio, starting from 40.07 EUR per day or 280.5 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Skoda Fabia.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Kuopio, Finland, below.

Popular types of car rental in Kuopio

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the city of Kuopio to find the best car for your travel plans. Travelers in Kuopio can choose from small cars, medium cars, large cars, estate cars, mini vans, SUVs, convertibles, premium cars, camper vans, mini campers, vans, cars. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore Finland at their own pace. The most popular type of car rental among small groups of travelers in Kuopio is a TopLevel.

Another very popular type of car to rent in Kuopio is a TopLevel. This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the city of Kuopio.

Check out all options available in Kuopio and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in Finland below.

Search for car rental in Kuopio

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Kuopio. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Kuopio, Finland, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Popular destinations to visit after Kuopio

The city of Kuopio is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Finland. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Finland has it all.

Finland is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Finland that are as magical as the city of Kuopio. The most popular travel destinations in Finland are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Finland

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Finland. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Kuopio

A taste of Finland through a visit to Kuopio can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Kuopio to another remarkable destination in Finland.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the city of Kuopio to other spectacular locations in Finland, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Popular domestic flights from Kuopio

Travelers in Finland can catch flights to domestic airports in Ivalo, Helsinki, Vaasa, Turku, and Tampere. Domestic flights in Finland are operated by 1 airline: Finnair. There are around 11 scheduled flight routes operating to Kuopio on a weekly basis.

From Kuopio, travelers can book scheduled flights to 11 domestic destinations.

Search domestic flights from Kuopio

Traveling to another city or region in Finland? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Kuopio to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Finland on the selected dates.

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