Savonlinna travel guide

The official currency in Savonlinna, as in the rest of Finland, is the Euro (€). It is advisable to have some cash on hand for small expenses, but credit and debit cards are widely accepted, even for small amounts, in most places including hotels, restaurants, and shops. Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly accepted, with American Express being less common. ATMs, known as 'Otto', are readily available throughout the city for cash withdrawals. Prices in Savonlinna are relatively high compared to other European cities, so budget accordingly. Tipping is not customary in Finland as service charges are included in the bill, but it's appreciated for exceptional service.

Travelers in Savonlinna, Finland should note that the official languages are Finnish and Swedish, with Finnish being more commonly spoken. However, English is widely understood, especially by younger generations and those working in hospitality or tourism. While not essential, learning a few Finnish phrases can enrich your travel experience. 'Kiitos' (Thank you), 'Hei' or 'Moi' (Hello), and 'Anteeksi' (Excuse me) can be quite useful. Remember, Finnish is pronounced as it is written, so don’t be afraid to try. If you struggle with Finnish, don’t worry, Finns are known for their patience and helpfulness towards visitors.

Although Swedish is also an official language, it is less commonly spoken in Savonlinna. However, being familiar with some basic Swedish phrases could prove useful in certain situations. In general, communication should not be a barrier to a fulfilling travel experience in Savonlinna.

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

One fascinating sight in Savonlinna is the unforgettable Olavinlinna. 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 Savonlinna.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Finland, check out our list of top attractions in Savonlinna below. Discover the best places to visit in Savonlinna, including the fascinating Olavinlinna, Lusto - The Finnish Forest Museum, Kerimäki church, and The Johanna Oras Art Manor.

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

Discover the best things to do in Savonlinna.

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

Savonlinna, a city nestled in the heart of Finland's lake district, offers an array of gastronomic delights. The city is celebrated for its traditional fare, with muikku (small fish from local lakes) and karjalanpiirakka (rice-filled pastries) being iconic dishes you must try. One of the best places to eat in Savonlinna is at the Market Square, where you can savour local street food, including freshly smoked muikku. For a high-end dining experience, visit Wanha Kasino, a renowned restaurant offering a fusion of contemporary and traditional Finnish cuisine. Savonlinna also hosts the annual Opera Festival, where you can relish a gourmet picnic hamper filled with local specialties. Another must-visit area is Punkaharju Ridge, known for its restaurants serving locally sourced dishes. To enhance your dining experience, try pairing your meal with Finnish beer or locally produced cider. Remember, the joy of Savonlinna's cuisine lies not just in the dining but also in the journey of discovering the unique flavours of Finland.

The nightlife in Savonlinna, Finland offers a unique blend of Finnish culture and vibrant entertainment. The city centre is the best area for bars in Savonlinna, featuring a range of establishments from cozy pubs to lively nightclubs. Must-visit venues include Bar Krouvi, known for its local beers and live music, and Ravintola Majakka, a popular nightclub with a diverse music scene.

Savonlinna's night scene shines during the summer with the world-renowned Savonlinna Opera Festival. During this period, the city is abuzz with late-night concerts, pop-up bars, and street performances. It's an experience not to be missed.

Despite the city's northern location, Savonlinna's nightlife is warm and welcoming. The Finnish tradition of 'sauna' extends to some bars, providing a unique experience of relaxation and socializing. Most establishments remain open until 2-4 am, offering plenty of time to soak in the city's night culture. When planning a night out in Savonlinna, remember to dress warmly in the colder months, and always respect the local custom of 'kalsarikännit', or staying in to enjoy drinks in a cozy setting.

If you're looking for the best place to go shopping in Savonlinna, head to the vibrant Olavinkatu street. Here, you'll find a myriad of shops, from high-end boutiques to quaint local stores, all showcasing the city's distinct fashion and local craftsmanship.

Savonlinna's Market Square is another must-visit. It's the beating heart of the city, teeming with stalls selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Don't leave without purchasing some traditional Finnish souvenirs, like Saimaa ringed seal plush toys or locally produced honey.

For those who prefer indoor shopping, Pikkukirkko Shopping Centre houses a variety of shops, including clothing, homeware, and specialty stores. It's also a great place to rest and refuel, with a selection of cafes offering Finnish pastries and coffee.

Remember, the city operates on Euro and most places accept credit cards. Shops typically open around 10 am and close at 6 pm, but hours may vary so it's wise to check ahead. With its blend of traditional and modern retail, Savonlinna offers an unforgettable shopping experience.

Experience the charm of Savonlinna, a Finnish city steeped in history and natural beauty, without breaking the bank. Start your visit with a leisurely stroll around the Market Square, the city's pulsating heart, where you can soak in the local vibes and admire the charming architecture. Unravel the city's history at the Savonlinna Provincial Museum, which offers free admission and displays artifacts from the region's past. Don't miss the chance to explore the Olavinlinna Castle grounds. Although the castle itself has an admission fee, wandering around the fortress's exterior and the picturesque surroundings is absolutely free. Here, you'll be treated to breath-taking views of the lake and the cityscape. For nature enthusiasts, the Linnansaari National Park offers an unforgettable experience. Explore the park's diverse wildlife and the stunning Lake Saimaa, all without spending a dime. Lastly, in the summer, enjoy the city's vibrant street performances and public concerts, making your trip to Savonlinna an enriching experience. With so many best free things to do in Savonlinna, travelers can engage with the local culture and history without splurging.

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

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

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

The cheapest one-way flight to Savonlinna costs around 121 EUR and is offered by the airline Wizz Air.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Savonlinna cost approximately 697 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on December 5 and the return flight is scheduled on December 14. The flight time is around 26 hours 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 Savonlinna from your city of departure.

Travelers visiting Savonlinna in Finland can fly to Savonlinna airport directly from 181 destinations worldwide.

The airline that operates most flights to Finland is Ryanair. Ryanair offers 15 scheduled flight routes to Finland.

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

A trip to the fascinating Savonlinna, Finland, means opportunities to relax at any of the 7 different types of places to stay in the city. Overall, travelers can choose from the following: 69 hotels, 64 cottages, 23 vacation rental apartments, 2 resorts, 1 bed & breakfast, 1 hostel and 1 guesthouse. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Savonlinna provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Among all these choices available in the city, Spahotel Casino is one of the top picks of travelers in Savonlinna.

The hotel is located at Kylpylaitoksentie 7 and boasts many great utilities, including Air conditioning, Airport shuttle, and Bar.

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

In Savonlinna, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose Kerihovi. For approximately 47 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Unknown at this popular hotel.

Below is a list of all 7 different types of places to stay in Savonlinna. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Savonlinna 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 161 hotels.

Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Savonlinna provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Savonlinna 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 Savonlinna.

Lomalehto Cottages offers the most luxurious rooms and is perfect for travelers looking for the ultimate 5-star hotel experience in Savonlinna. If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out Lomamokkila, 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 Savonlinna, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, Spahotel Casino, is for you.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Savonlinna. 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.

Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the city of Savonlinna 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 Savonlinna that match the information provided.

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the city of Savonlinna to find the best car for your travel plans. Travelers in Savonlinna 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 Savonlinna is a TopLevel.

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

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

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Savonlinna. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Savonlinna, 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.

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.

Travelers in Finland can catch flights to domestic airports in Helsinki. Domestic flights in Finland are operated by 1 airline: Transaviabaltika. There are around 1 scheduled flight routes operating to Savonlinna on a weekly basis.

From Savonlinna, travelers can book scheduled flights to 1 domestic destinations.

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 Savonlinna 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.