Olavinlinna is at the heart of Savonlinna National City Park. The park stretches from the island-filled city centre to extensive shoreline forests, the archipelago and the waterways. In Savonlinna, the castle and city history meet landscapes and water-related culture, offering different themes to consider when planning your trip.
Island City and National City Park
The National City Park covers more than the city centre: it stretches from the islands in the heart of the city to shoreline forests and the archipelago. The protected area includes valuable natural areas and habitats of the Saimaa ringed seal. Nature lovers will find a different perspective on Savonlinna here than on a visit to the castle or historic streets.
The waterways are also part of the city park area. This gives the theme of water in Savonlinna several facets: it is part of both the landscape and the region’s culture. Riihisaari, the Savonlinna Museum, presents the history and nature of South Savo and also focuses on Saimaa water transport and the culture of the islanders.
Castle, City History and Museum
Explore Olavinlinna on guided tours and through the stories of the castle. At the foot of the castle lies Wanha Savonlinna, with its wooden houses and park avenues. Linnankatu, meanwhile, is a popular place for visitors to experience Savonlinna’s history. Together, these places offer different ways to explore the city’s history, without providing the same visitor experience.
At Riihisaari, you can also choose how to visit: explore the museum on your own or with a guide. Its themes range from the history and nature of South Savo to Saimaa shipping and the culture of the islanders. The difference is useful when planning: at Riihisaari, you can visit independently as well as with a guide; Olavinlinna offers guided tours that focus on its stories.
Panoramic Cruises Through the Island Archipelago
Panoramic cruises depart from Savonlinna’s passenger harbour, next to the market square. Their routes take you either through the intricate island archipelago or around Savonlinna, which is built on islands. This lets you choose between a cruise through the archipelago and a trip around the island city. Cruises are offered on motorboats or nostalgic steamships.
Ship availability varies by season. If a cruise is part of your plans, check the timetable and which cruise is offered for your travel dates.
Sulosaari and the Accessible Walking Trail
Sulosaari has an accessible walking trail suitable for everyone. The route leads via Casino Island, past a car park and over a wooden bridge. This makes a walking trail another option to consider alongside the castle, museum and cruise.
If you would like to include nature and culture in your trip, the options mainly differ in format: guided tours at Olavinlinna, a self-guided or guided visit to Riihisaari, a seasonal panoramic cruise, or the walking trail on Sulosaari. When looking for hotels in Savonlinna, it helps to first decide which of these experiences you would like to shape your trip. Then compare accommodation based on your personal requirements.
Discover more destinations: Sulkava, Punkaharju, Kerimäki, Enonkoski, Kallislahti, Savonranta, Hiukkajoki, Putikko, Lötjölä, Oravi, Kumpuranta, Ihamaniemi, Vuoriniemi, Piojärvi
For the regional travel overview: South Savo.
