Savonlinna Unveiled: From Forest Finns to Fortress Tales
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About the Tour
About the Tour
Savonlinna is an enchanting town on the shores of Lake Saimaa.
On this walking tour you’ll explore the picturesque destination, from its strategic fortress to its deep-rooted connections to Nordic history. You’ll hear the tales that make this lakeside town unique, and walk down charming streets and waterside paths where medieval meets modern.
You’ll begin at Kauppatori, the bustling market square that’s served as Savonlinna’s beating heart for over a century. From there, you’ll cross scenic pedestrian bridges over shimmering waters and stroll through tranquil streets lined with historic wooden buildings. Along the way, you’ll learn about the Forest Finns who emigrated from this region to Norway and Sweden, discover the city’s spa culture, and hear stories of Finland’s wartime resilience.
You’ll continue to peaceful Riihisaari, see the Savonlinna Theatre, and discover the city’s deep connection to Saint Olaf of Norway. The tour ends at the magnificent Olavinlinna Castle, the northernmost medieval stone fortress still standing, which now hosts one of the world’s most unique opera festivals.
During this 60-minute tour, you’ll:
- Learn about the endangered Saimaa ringed seal, a rare freshwater seal found only in Lake Saimaa
- Explore the eastern Finnish tradition of smoke houses and other cultural practices brought by settlers to Norway and Sweden
- Discover the story behind Villa Suruton (“Villa Without Sorrow”) and its Art Nouveau charm
- Visit Aleksin Aukio, a lively urban square named after the popular Russian Tsar Alexander II
- Experience the peaceful island of Vääräsaari, once a fashionable spa retreat for visitors from Finland and Russia
- Hear the curious legend of the sacrificial ram buried in Olavinlinna Castle’s walls
- View historic ships that once carried timber, mail, and passengers across Lake Saimaa in Savonlinna Museum
This tour offers an intimate glimpse into a city where water, history, and culture intertwine to create a uniquely Finnish experience.
Tour Producer
Tour Producer
Stormposten Lars Engerengen
In the northern reaches of Europe, amidst the crisp air and breathtaking landscapes, resides an Arctic storyteller whose words weave magic into the frozen silence. Meet Lars Engerengen, a passionate narrator of the Arctic wilderness, a voice that carries the echoes of history and the whispers of untamed nature.
Living beneath the shimmering Northern Lights and the endless glow of the Midnight Sun, Lars discovered his fascination for the Arctic’s lore in childhood. Nights spent listening to age-old tales by the fireside sparked a curiosity that would shape his life’s journey. That spark grew into a flame as he ventured across icy tundras, sailed through fjords, and trekked along snow-laden paths, collecting stories etched into the land and its people.
His storytelling is more than words—it is an immersive experience. With a voice that soothes and inspires, Lars transports listeners to remote landscapes where ancient myths meet modern realities. Through his narratives, one feels the biting wind, hears the crunch of snow underfoot, and senses the resilience of those who carved out life in this harsh yet beautiful region.
Lars doesn't tell you everything, but he tells you enough to pique your curiosity. Enough to make you want to learn more. Enough to make you want to stay a while longer.
Join Lars on a journey beyond the ordinary—a voyage into the soul of the Arctic. Each tale is an invitation to explore a world where nature reigns supreme, and history lingers in every frozen breath. Step into the story, and let the Arctic speak through him.
Preview Location
Preview Location
Location 18
History of Savonlinna
While we walk, let's take a moment to talk about Savonlinna itself. You're walking through one of Finland's most picturesque towns—built on islands, surrounded by shimmering la... Read More
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Major Landmarks
Major Landmarks
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Kauppatori
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Savonlinna Cathedral
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Savonlinna Theater
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Villa Suruton
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Riihisaari
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Riihisaari – Savonlinnan museo, Savonlinna Museum
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Olavinlinna
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Vaarasaari
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Spahotel Casino
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Tallisaari
Getting There
Getting There
Route Overview
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Start locationKauppatori, 57130 Savonlinna, Finland
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Total distance4km
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Final location57130 Savonlinna, Finland
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Distance back to start location778.97m
Directions to Starting Point
In the middle of the city is Kauppatori - market square, so you maneuver your way there. You can see Savonlinna Cathedral from all over the city, and just south of it you will find the market square.
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Tips
Tips
Places to stop along the way
We will be walking through the city on quiet paths, so there will be park benches and cafes along the way where you can relax and reflect on what you are seeing.
Best time of day
All day - all year round, but most beautiful is the city at sunset
Precautions
This tour goes on streets, sidewalks and paths throughout the city, and can also be walked by people with poor mobility. As for wheelchairs, it is possible, but preferably on good summer days. When the snow comes it can be difficult.
Also be aware that you are in a city with many tourists, so take care of your valuables, so no pickpockets get access.
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