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Savonlinna Airport (SVL) – Your Gateway to the Heart of Lake Saimaa
Overview of Savonlinna and its Airport
Savonlinna is a picturesque city located in the southeastern part of Finland. It is set amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Lake Saimaa, the largest lake in Finland and the fourth largest in Europe. Known for its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and historical significance, Savonlinna is a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventure in the heart of Finland's lake district. The Savonlinna Airport (SVL) serves as the primary entry point to this serene region, making it easier for tourists to explore the best that Savonlinna has to offer.
Savonlinna Airport is located approximately 13 kilometers (8 miles) from the city center, making it very accessible for travelers. The airport has both domestic and international connections, with seasonal flights catering to the tourism industry during peak travel periods.
Whether you are here for the famous Savonlinna Opera Festival, to explore the picturesque medieval Olavinlinna Castle, or to enjoy activities on the pristine lakes, Savonlinna Airport is the perfect starting point for your journey.
The best time to visit Savonlinna depends on the type of experience you are seeking. Each season offers a unique charm, making it a year-round destination.
Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak season in Savonlinna, attracting visitors from around the world. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The days are long, with the famous midnight sun phenomenon, where the sun sets late and rises early. This is the best time for outdoor activities like boat cruises on Lake Saimaa, hiking, and exploring the surrounding nature. The Savonlinna Opera Festival, held every July, is one of the city’s major attractions and draws thousands of visitors to experience world-class opera performances in the historic Olavinlinna Castle.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn in Savonlinna brings cooler temperatures and vibrant fall colors. This is a quieter time to visit, perfect for those who want to enjoy nature without the crowds. Hiking trails around the lake offer stunning views of the changing foliage, and you can also take part in activities like berry picking and fishing. This season also marks the beginning of the Northern Lights season, which can be seen in the late evenings from late September onward.
Winter (December to February): Winter transforms Savonlinna into a winter wonderland, with snow-covered landscapes and opportunities for winter sports. The temperatures can drop as low as -20°C (-4°F), so make sure to dress warmly. This season offers opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing on Lake Saimaa. Winter visitors can also experience the Sauna culture in its purest form, with traditional Finnish saunas dotting the landscape. The cold weather also provides a great opportunity to view the Northern Lights, a magical experience for those who venture to Savonlinna during the long, dark nights.
Spring (March to May): Spring in Savonlinna is a transition period when the ice on Lake Saimaa begins to melt, and nature awakens after the long winter. The temperatures rise, but it can still be chilly, so pack accordingly. Spring is an excellent time for visitors who prefer fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience. As the days get longer, you can enjoy leisurely walks around the lake and begin to experience the beautiful landscapes as they bloom into full color during late May.
Savonlinna is famous for its stunning location on Lake Saimaa, surrounded by forests and islands. The city is known for its beautiful medieval Olavinlinna Castle, which dates back to the 15th century. The castle sits on an island in the lake, providing a dramatic and picturesque backdrop for any visitor. Savonlinna is also a cultural hub, with a variety of museums, art galleries, and festivals that celebrate the region’s history and heritage.
Some of the key attractions in and around Savonlinna include:
Olavinlinna Castle – One of the most iconic landmarks in Savonlinna, Olavinlinna Castle is a must-see for history enthusiasts. The castle has a long and fascinating history dating back to the 15th century and is now home to the Savonlinna Provincial Museum. It also hosts the famous Savonlinna Opera Festival in the summer. Visitors can explore the castle's medieval architecture, learn about its history, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding lake.
Savonlinna Opera Festival – Held annually in July, this world-renowned event draws opera lovers from all over the globe. It is held in the Olavinlinna Castle, providing a truly unique and atmospheric experience. Visitors can enjoy a variety of opera performances set in one of the most beautiful and historical locations in Finland.
Lake Saimaa – The largest lake in Finland, Lake Saimaa is one of the top natural attractions in the area. It is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy water-based activities such as boating, kayaking, and fishing. The lake is dotted with thousands of islands, making it a fantastic destination for those who enjoy exploring nature.
Savonlinna Market Square – The city center is home to the charming Savonlinna Market Square, where visitors can find local food, handicrafts, and souvenirs. The square is lively in the summer and is a great place to experience the local culture and mingle with residents.
Punkaharju Ridge – Located just outside Savonlinna, Punkaharju Ridge is one of Finland’s most stunning natural landscapes. The area is famous for its narrow ridge that stretches for kilometers through forests, providing spectacular views of the surrounding lakes. It is a popular destination for hiking, cycling, and nature walks.
Lutheran Church of Savonlinna – This beautiful wooden church, located near the city center, is a fine example of Finnish wooden church architecture. It’s a peaceful place to visit for those interested in history and architecture.
Savonlinna Provincial Museum – For those who want to dive deeper into the history of the region, the Savonlinna Provincial Museum is an excellent place to visit. The museum showcases the history, art, and culture of Savonlinna and the surrounding region.
Kerimäki Church – About 30 kilometers (18 miles) from Savonlinna, the Kerimäki Church is known for being the largest wooden church in the world. It’s a beautiful and historic building, and it’s worth the short trip outside the city to see it.
Savonlinna is located relatively far from major cities in Finland, but it is well-connected by road and air. Here are the distances from major nearby cities:
Savonlinna to Helsinki (330 km / 205 miles) – It takes about 4 to 5 hours by car from Helsinki to Savonlinna. Alternatively, you can take a train, which offers a scenic route through Finnish countryside.
Savonlinna to Joensuu (130 km / 81 miles) – This is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Savonlinna. Joensuu is a larger city and is an important regional hub.
Savonlinna to Lappeenranta (170 km / 106 miles) – Located about 2 to 2.5 hours by car, Lappeenranta is another significant city in southeastern Finland, known for its lakeside views and fortress.
Savonlinna to Imatra (180 km / 112 miles) – This drive takes about 2.5 hours. Imatra is known for the Imatrankoski Rapids and is another popular destination for nature lovers.
Savonlinna Airport (SVL) offers domestic flights primarily connecting to Helsinki, making it easy to access from the capital. However, the airport is quite small, and most international flights typically require a transfer through Helsinki or other larger airports in Finland.
In addition to flights, Savonlinna is connected to other cities via bus and train services. The train and bus stations in the city are well-served, with connections to Helsinki, Joensuu, and other nearby cities.
Food Options:
Savonlinna offers a range of dining options, from local Finnish delicacies to international cuisine. Finnish restaurants serve traditional dishes such as salmon, reindeer, and berry desserts. Many eateries also offer local delicacies like karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pasty) and leipäjuusto (Finnish squeaky cheese).
Public Transport:
While Savonlinna itself is small, making it easy to navigate on foot or by bike, there are local buses available for getting around the city and to nearby attractions. Taxis are also readily available, and many visitors opt to rent a car to explore the surrounding countryside.
