We recommend starting your Eastern Finland road trip in Savonlinna, a charming lakeside town located in the heart of the Lake Saimaa region. The town is famous for the annual Savonlinna Opera Festival, held inside the impressive medieval Olavinlinna Castle.
From Savonlinna, drive to nearby Punkaharju, one of Finland’s most famous natural landscapes. The narrow ridge road runs between crystal-clear lakes and was shaped thousands of years ago by retreating glaciers.
Highlights today:
Olavinlinna Castle
Punkaharju Ridge Scenic Drive
Finnish Forest Museum Lusto
Driving distance: approx. 30 km
Accommodation Included
spahotel Casino
Continue your journey south along Highway 6 towards the border town of Imatra. On the way, stop at the extraordinary Parikkala Sculpture Park, an unusual open-air art park filled with hundreds of surreal sculptures created by Finnish artist Veijo Rönkkönen.
Arriving in Imatra, visit the spectacular Imatrankoski Rapids, one of Europe’s most powerful natural rapids. You can also enjoy a relaxing cruise on Lake Saimaa, the largest lake in Finland.
Highlights today:
Parikkala Sculpture Park
Imatrankoski Rapids
Lake Saimaa cruise
Driving distance: approx. 120 km
Accommodation Included
Imatran Valtionhotelli
Today’s short drive takes you to the historic lakeside city of Lappeenranta, located on the shores of Lake Saimaa.
Explore the impressive Lappeenranta Fortress, which has been influenced by Finnish, Swedish, and Russian history over the centuries. Within the fortress grounds you will also find Finland’s oldest Orthodox church.
While in Karelia, make sure to try the famous Karelian pies (Karjalanpiirakka) – a local delicacy filled with rice and butter.
Highlights today:
Lappeenranta Fortress
Orthodox Church
Saimaa waterfront
Driving distance: approx. 40 km
Accommodation Included
Scandic Patria Hotel
oday the route continues into the Southern Savo region.
Before leaving Karelia, stop at the Salpa Line Museum in Miehikkälä, where you can see preserved bunkers and defence lines built during World War II.
Continue to Mikkeli, a historic town that served as the headquarters of the Finnish Army during World War II. Visit the Headquarters Museum and discover the region’s beautiful manor houses.
Today’s journey follows one of the most scenic drives in Finland – Route 62, running along the shores of Lake Saimaa.
This breathtaking road has been named one of the five most beautiful driving routes in the Nordic countries. Expect stunning lake views, forests, and charming villages.
In Puumala, relax by the lake and enjoy the peaceful Lakeland atmosphere.
Suggested accommodation:
Sahanlahti Resort
Okkola Holiday Cottages
Driving distance: approx. 60 km
Accommodation Included
Kuoreksenniemi Villas & Lakehouse
Continue north toward Rantasalmi, home to the unique Järvisydän Lake Spa and the luxurious Kuru Resort.
Nearby lies Linnansaari National Park, famous for its pristine lake landscapes and the rare Saimaa Ringed Seal, one of the most endangered seals in the world.
Optional activities:
Guided lake safari
Kayaking in the national park
Nature trails
Driving distance: approx. 90 km
Accommodation Included
Mansikkaniemen Lomakeskus
Your final destination is Kuopio, one of Eastern Finland’s most vibrant cities.
Climb the famous Puijo Tower for panoramic views over the lakes and forests. Visit the Kuopio Museum to learn about regional culture and history, or enjoy a cruise on Lake Kallavesi.
If you visit during summer, you may experience:
Kuopio Wine Festival
Kuopio Dance Festival
Driving distance: approx. 80 km
Accommodation Included
Original Sokos Hotel Puijonsarvi
Transfer Helsinki Airport Hotel Transfer Hotel Helsinki Airport flight Helsinki- Savonlinna
1 week Rental Car from day 3 to 10 inclusive insurance and CDW.
Hotel accommodation per person / double occupancy
international flights
personal expenses
fuel and fines
visa and visa fees if applicable