Helsinki-Mikkeli-Savonlinna-Jyväskylä-Tampere-Helsinki (approximate length of the route 1,300 km)

This tour is meant for all those interested in local people, life styles, culture and history, along with cultural
events and sights. If you value high-quality, authenticity, uniqueness, beautiful landscapes, local food as well
as specialities and good service, this trip is a perfect fit for you!

On this route, we have compiled recommendations on locations to choose from and stay for the desired time.
Our recommendation tour follows the route Helsinki–Kouvola–Mikkeli–Jyväskylä–Tampere–Helsinki. The route
brings together some of the best Finland has to offer – the gems that may sometimes be hard to find for
travellers. We have also added recommendations for beautiful scenic routes in the Finnish Lakeland,
whenever the route allows it. We believe that our suggestions can help you to plan and enjoy a fascinating and
memorable holiday. The best way to follow the route is by car – your own or a rental – but cycling, for example,
is also an option. The selected locations can also be visited by means of public transportation. You may have
already heard about the Finnish speciality that has spread throughout the country – namely Restaurant Day.
On that day, anyone can set up a pop-up restaurant and serve food for a small charge. More on the dates and
pop-up restaurants is available at www.restaurantday.org/en/.

We hope you have a holiday to remember in Helsinki and Finnish Lakeland

Helsinki for Culture Lovers
Culture is all about creative madness, fun, the joy of doing and experiencing, surprising audiences and
creating memories. Culture is always a worthy pursuit, and in Helsinki it is easy to find. From one day and
weekend to the next the city’s cultural venues host performances by breathtaking sopranos, charming
accordion players, magical conductors, fascinating video artists, hard rocking bands and passionate folk
musicians.

Soup in a shoe shop, cupcakes and bagels in the park, or Finnish local food in the courtyard of an apartment
building? Restaurant Day is a new kind of urban event in which locals are invited to set up their own pop-up
restaurant. The concept has been a huge success among residents and tourists, who get to sample everything
from children’s juice bars to multicourse gourmet meals. Restaurant Day is a fine example of Helsinki’s active
food culture, which has taken off in recent years.

The streets of Helsinki’s Design District are lined with intriguing boutiques, each offering something different to
impress you: antiques and art, interiors and design, clothing and jewellery, and so much more. Arabianranta, a
district where design and architecture can be admired everywhere you look. Pieces of Moomin mugs can be
seen adorning the wall of an apartment building. A mother pushes a stroller while wearing stylish turquoise Hai
boots, and children play tag on a giant oriental carpet made of ceramic tiles. The unmistakable patterns of
Marimekko curtains can be seen in the windows.

Text: Heidi Kalmari / Matkailulehti Mondo – Mondo Helsinki Travel Guide

Accommodation Options in Helsinki:

Klaus K Hotel - Klaus K understands that design reaches everywhere, including service and encounters.
Come and see how the hotel takes the hotel out of the hotel!

Sokos Hotel Torni - One of the most important landmarks in Helsinki, a classic in the heart of
the city. Torni’s interior reflects the era when the hotel was built, featuring functionalist, Jugend and art deco
design.

GLO Hotel Art - A unique combination of a 1903-built Art Nouveau castle and a new modern hotel located in
the heart of the lively Helsinki Design District.

Hotel Anna - Located in the Design District, so there are a lot of Design and Art boutiques as well as trendy
pubs and cosy restaurants in the area around the hotel.

Hotels in Helsinki

We warmly recommend for you in Helsinki:

Suomenlinna (Viapori/Sveaborg) fortress is one of the biggest sea fortresses in the world as well as a
residential area. It was included in Unesco’s World Heritage List in 1991 as a unique monument to European
military history on islands off the coast of Helsinki. Suomenlinna is one of the most popular attractions in
Finnish architecture.

Kiasma - Museum of Contemporary Art presents Finnish and international contemporary art,
collection displays, performances at the Kiasma theatre, workshops, seminars and lectures.
The Music Centre gives Helsinki an acoustically first-class concert hall as well as other facilities
providing a wide range of musical experiences for people of all ages.

Design District Helsinki is both a neighbourhood and a state of mind. Located in the centre of Helsinki, the
area is full of design and antique shops, fashion stores, museums, art galleries, restaurants and showrooms.

Arabia - Today the ”Old Town” area is a modern centre for sciences and the arts, as well as a waterfront
residential district that can be easily reached by trams 6 or 8. The area is home to the 130-year-old Arabia
porcelain factory, museum and gallery, as well as factory outlets.

Helsinki Card

Restaurants and Cafes:

Helsinki’s markets are popular with everybody! Coffee with a cinnamon bun, doughnut or meat pie in the
Market Square or Hakaniemi Market Square is a great way of slowing down and enjoying the city with all your
senses.

The Abattoir - The historic redbrick buildings that once served as the city abattoir form a pleasingly authentic
courtyard surrounded by boutiques, restaurants and event venues. At the heart of the Abattoir is the Kellohalli
restaurant and event venue, where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Sea Horse - A classic Finnish "artist haunt" restaurant serving traditional Finnish home cooking. The
restaurant dates back to 1934.

Restaurant Lasipalatsi - A true Finnish restaurant: the kitchen combines the cherished traditional Finnish
culinary culture with international influences.

Savoy - Restaurant Savoy has been at the very top of Helsinki's restaurant scene since the 1930s.

Culture Festivals and Events:

Helsinki Day 12th of June & Helsinki Week - Helsinki celebrates its anniversary every year with special
events all over the city and opens the summer season.

Jazz Espa (July) - Esplanade bandstand Jazz concerts Mon–Fri 4 pm

Helsinki Festival (August – September) - The extensive programme features music, theatre, dance, art, film
and many visiting stars from Finland and abroad.

Helsinki Design Week (September)

See all Events in Helsinki

General Information:

Planning your stay in Helsinki:

www.visithelsinki.fi/en
www.facebook.com/visithelsinki
www.youtube.com/Visithelsinki
https://twitter.com/HelsinkiTourism
Traveller Discussions
Helsinki Mobile Apps

Helsinki City Tourist Information

Unioninkatu 28, Helsinki
Tel: +358-9-310 13300
Email: tourist.info@hel.fi

Other Tourist Information Centres in Helsinki:

Helsinki Region Tourist Information - Helsinki-Vantaa airport (Terminal 2 – Arrival Hall 2A)
Tourist Information - Central Railway Station

Public Transport
Taxis, car rental and parking
Experience Wireless Helsinki

Travelling in Finland by train or aeroplane

Travel Advice:
Drive from Helsinki to Kouvola on Route 7 (about 140 km).
If your timetable allows, a recommended stopping place along the way is Porvoo, whose charming old town is
really worth seeing.

Kouvola for Culture Lovers (Kouvola-Elimäki-Iitti)

In Kouvola, the city and countryside live side-by-side. The Kymijoki river, which meanders through the region
serves some of the world’s largest forest industry companies, gives the local population employment and puts
its own stamp on the landscape.

Another equally strong transport-related element is the railway. Kouvola is the western terminal of the Trans-
Siberian railway that goes from Europe to Asia, and is Finland’s most important junction station. The first stop
for the Allegro train coming from St Petersburg is Kouvola. In terms of road traffic connections, the area is
situated by Routes 6 and 15. The journey from Kouvola to the capital region takes a little over an hour by train.
In Kouvola, nature offers Southern Finland’s best trekking country and holiday cottages for recreational use.
The region is home to, for example, Repovesi National Park, Arboretum Mustila, Tykkimäki Amusement Park
and Verla Mill Village, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Cultural Trail of Western Kymi takes travellers through the old border region from the Kymijoki river in
Ahvenkoski and the Strömfors Iron Mill back to the manor houses of Elimäki. Along the old highway linking
Elimäki in Kouvola to Ruotsinpyhtää in Loviisa, you will find cultural-historical sights and gardens, art
exhibitions, music festivals, summer theatres, handicraft workshops and shops.

Accommodation choices in the Kouvola region:

Voikkaan Klubi – A small hotel-restaurant built in the early 1900s and decorated in the Jugend style in the old
factory setting of Voikkaa. Voikkaantie 37, 45910 Kouvola. Reservations and enquiries tel. +358 (0)50 433
9327
Verla Cottages Close to the Verla Mill Museum are old mill workers’ cottage and holiday cottages belonging
to UPM-Kymmene, which can be rented out for holiday use.
Linkkumylly - From Valkeala, continue on Route 368 towards Mäntyharju.

Cottage rental

From June to August, a book café operates at Linkkumylly, which sells fresh, home-made bakery products and
a large number of high-quality books. It also sells handicraft items and fishing lures and flies.
You will find more accommodation alternatives here.

We warmly recommend the following destinations:

From Route 7 turn left onto Route 1792 (Elimäentie) and then right onto Route 3531 to Koskisto. Continue on
Elimäentie to Elimäki Church Village, which is home to a church and Moisio Manor. From the Church Village,
continue for a few kilometres on Route 6, along which you will find Arboretum Mustila and Mustila Wine.

Elimäen puukirkko in 1638, it was expanded into a cruciform church in the 1670s and is Finland’s oldest still
operational cruciform church.

Elimäki Local Museum and the Piika ja Renki Art Café are along Route 6.

Moision Taide-ja pitokartano - The manor house was designed by C.L. Engel in 1818. He designed a low
ground floor for the manor for everyday use. Upstairs the ceilings were built high and ornate. The ground floor
serves as a restaurant and café and the upstairs is dedicated to art. The manor houses a year-round art
exhibition. Its outhouse can provide accommodation for about 20 people.

The journey continues along Route 6 towards Kouvola, then turns left onto Route 359 (Lahdentie). Turn left
onto Route 12 to Lahti and then right onto Iitintie.
Iitin kirkonkylä was once awarded the mantle of Finland’s most beautiful village. In the village hall of the
Church Village, you can visit changing art exhibitions and handicraft shops. The cruciform church built in 1693
is architecturally precious and one of Finland’s 15 wooden churches preserved from the 17th century. A little
further in from the Church Village is an 18-hole golf course Golfkeskus Iitti Golf. A traditional village idyll can
also be found at Vuolenkosken kylästä. Lively village life, a guest boat harbour and tourist services all
feature in this village.

Hiidenvuori is situated at Hiidensaari in Iiti. The hill’s highest point rises 60 metres above the Kymijoki river.
Hiidenvuori is the site of summer musical performances at midnight during Iiti’s music festival. A well-
maintained path with steps leads up the hill. Hiidensaari also has a good beach for swimming.

From Iitti Church Village back in a southerly direction on Route 362, a gentle left turn onto Urajärventie (Route
3621), left onto Kymentie (Route 12), right onto Route 359, and left onto Route 6, where you will find Kymen
Paviljonki. From here it is about 10 km to the centre of Kouvola or to Jaala and Verla along Kuusantie. Turn
left onto Heinolatie (Route 46) and right onto Selänpääntie (Route 369). To the left is Verlantie.

Kymen Paviljonki is a pleasant and different sort of place for a break on the banks of the Kymijoki river along
Route 6. The premises also host Pentikin tehtaanmyymälä and Pentik Galleria.

Kouvola Museum Quarter. At the Kouvola Museum Quarter, you can see what life was like in Kouvola
Station Village in the early decades of the 20th century. The area’s houses contain numerous handicraft
workshops, a café, a restoration workshop, a nature shop and a tube radio museum.
In the same area, there is also POIKILO the Kouvola Art Museum. The museum displays the City of Kouvola’s
own art collection as well as changing exhibitions.

UNESCO World Heritage Site Verla. An old board mill setting on the banks of the rapids is situated about 30
km from the centre of Kouvola. Verla, which has served as a mill museum since 1972, was included on the
UNESCO World Heritage List in 1996. The atmosphere of the old woodpulp mill and board mill feel so
authentic that you can almost hear the voices of the workers there. Visitors will also undoubtedly be fascinated
by the area’s prehistoric rock paintings, the museum shop in an attractive park setting and ruukkikylän
puodit. The Mill Village is also home to the Viiniverla winery shop.

Restaurants and cafés:

Piika ja Renki Cafeteria and art delights in a charming setting.

Onnenkukko. A gift shop for some nice things and a café in the Kouvola Museum Quarter.

Events for all tastes:

· Iitti Music Festival, 11-14 June, a high-quality chamber music event
· Kouvo La Arctopolis, 2-3 August, a medieval event at Kasarminmäki in Kouvola
· MILjazz – a jazz festival for military bands, 22 August At Kasarminmäki in Kouvola
· Local Food Fair, 13-14 September at Mustila in Elimäki
Check out more events: http://www.visitkouvola.fi/en
Further information:
Are you planning a trip to the Kouvola region? Find out more at our website: www.visitkouvola.fi

Kouvola tourist information:

· Kauppalankatu 5, Kouvola
· Tel: +358 (0)20 61 55 295
· E-mail: tourism@kinno.fi

Mikkeli – St. Michel for Culture Lovers (Mikkeli Region)

The Mikkeli area was once home to the first inhabitants of the Savo region. The entire province was named
after the Savilahti parish in Mikkeli, while the town itself got its name from Archangel Michael. The Savilahti
Church, which was established in the 14th century, was devoted to Archangel Michael. The name of the parish
was first listed as St. Michel in 1604.
On 7 March 1838, Nicholas I of Russia issued a declaration that a town called Mikkeli be established in the
Mikkeli parish.

The history of the Mikkeli region is tightly bound to its location between East and West. The eventful border
history and proximity to St. Petersburg have influenced the development of the area for centuries. The
changes of the nearby eastern border ever since the Treaty of Nöteborg in 1323, have instilled in the cultural
heritage of the region a truly unique flavour. The manors, barrack buildings and the Mikkeli's history as a
military headquarters are the most significant reminders of the past wars and military presence. Many of the
manors are now tourist attractions that are absolutely worth a visit. The historical sights and services in Mikkeli
and Savonlinna, with their own unique stories to tell, have been compiled together to form the Charms of
Saimaa network. Read more about these one-of-a-kind hotels, restaurants, locations and sights at Charms of
Saimaa.

Also enjoy the small town feeling, countryside attractions and lakeside scenery!

Accommodation Options in the Mikkeli Region:

Manor Hotel Kyyhkylä. The tranquil and intimate atmosphere of the manor hotel invites visitors to extend
their stay. The setting is peaceful and beautiful, although the centre of Mikkeli is only 7 km away.

B&B Huoneistohotelli Marja, “A little home” for your stay in Mikkeli at the charming site of the old barracks in
the heart of Mikkeli. A private apartment hotel opened in June 2012.

Tertti Manor. Tertti Manor is a still-operational farm, a heaven for gastronomes and a cosy manor hotel
located by Route 5. The Manor Shop and the Dairy Café are open every day and the main building's
restaurant and charming guest rooms are available all year round on request.

Anttolanhovi. You can choose to stay in luxurious Art&Design Villas with Finnish design and art or in a
comfortable room in Lakeside Hotel. Local cuisine restaurant with its own bakery. Nature activities and
beautiful surroundings are also there for you to enjoy.

More accommodation options: www.visitmikkeli/en/stay

We warmly recommend for you in the Mikkeli region:

Feel the atmosphere of local life style. Visit Mikkeli Market Place which has been the heart of the city since
1838. Have a coffee or local speciality called “muikku” (fried vendace)
and enjoy! There is an underground car park under the market place, the entrance to which is in front of the
railway station in Mannerheimintie.

The Astuvansalmi rock paintings are a set of prehistoric rock paintings located on the shore of
Yövesi/Saimaa in Ristiina. The paintings are some of the largest in Finland and Fennoscandia. The rock
where the paintings are located resembles a human head when seen from a certain direction on the lake.
There are 65 images painted on the rock, of which 18-20 represent elk. The Astuvansalmi rock paintings date
back to 4,000-2,200 BC. The underwater excavations conducted in front of the paintings at the turn of the
1980s and 1990s unearthed three amber pendants with a human face, along with an eyelet pendant that has
been interpreted as depicting a bear. The rock paintings reflect the hunter-gatherer spirit and culture of the
Stone Age.

Amatsoni-cruise to Astuvansalmi. On Tuesdays on the Amatsoni-cruise to the Astuvansalmi rock paintings,

you´ll meet Tekla the priestess, Asor the prophet and Innis the mother amazon of the Astuvansalmi amazon
clan. They will tell you their stories, poetry and play music at the rock paintings.

Headquarters Museum in the city centre with Marshal Mannerheim's office and the headquarters of the
Finnish Armed Forces during the Second World War. The main exhibition presents the operations of the
headquarters during the war years.

Kenkävero is a magnificent tourist attraction and prides itself on having the biggest and most beautiful
vicarage in all Finland, in an impressive environment. It has something to interest everyone at all times of the
year: carefully restored buildings, exciting exhibitions and events, exquisite handicrafts as gifts, souvenirs or
simply to enjoy. In summer it is further enhanced by a garden and handicraft workshops, and delicious fare is
served in the restaurant daily all year around.

Tertti Manor. The Manor Shop and the Dairy Café are open every day and the main building's restaurant and
charming guest rooms are available all year round.

The charming gardens in the Mikkeli region are definitely worth a visit. The gardens are all unique locations
with their own specialities. Why not stop by and enjoy all eight of them.

Wine Farms. There are several wine farms in Mikkeli region worth visiting. Enjoy!

Trips to Finnish Nature, Take a trip to Finnish nature! On this trip you will get a short introduction to Finnish
nature, forests and the lakeland area of Saimaa. You will learn about common trees, shrubs and flowers. In
addition, you will learn about the traditional Finnish everyman’s rights, wild herbs, berries and mushrooms.
The excursion to Finnish nature can be organised near your destination.

m/s Jaarli. Sightseeing Cruises from Mikkeli Harbour, (2 hours), m/s Kuutti. Sightseeing Cruises from
Kenkävero by fast boat, (1,5 hours).

Mikkeli Centre of Photography is a contemporary and diverse Finnish art centre. Founded in 1989, it is one
of the oldest regional centres of photography in Finland. The Centre promotes photography and visual arts on
a regional, national and international level.

Restaurants and Cafés

Bistro Vilee, Mikkeli. Enjoy lunch with local specialities like freshwater fish.

Restaurant Holvi, Mikkeli. Enjoy lunch or dinner in the beautiful locale.

Restaurant Kissakoski, Hirvensalmi. Pleasant restaurant and café in historic factory surroundings. (Open in
summertime.)
Restaurant Niinipuu, Puumala. Built in a stone cowshed in the Okkola courtyard, Restaurant Niinipuu serves
local food. Depending on the season and the catch, the menu may include delicacies like vendace caught in
Lake Saimaa the previous night using a dragnet or chanterelles picked by the host himself. (Open in
summertime.)
TeaHouse of Wehmais, Juva. Enjoy a relaxing cup of tea in the tearoom furnished in the old stable of
Wehmaa Manor in the peaceful countryside.

Vanha Kilkkilä, is an old farmhouse and lovely café in the countryside between Mikkeli and Juva, only 2 km
from Route 5.

Café Miekankoski, Mäntyharju. The renovated log-floating museum, café and souvenir shop and the
blacksmith's workshop. Café Miekankoski rents one quality cottage in Mäntyharju

Culture Festivals and Events in the Mikkeli Region:

Gergiev Festival (July), World-famous Valery Gergiev and the Mariinsky Theatre visit Mikkeli every July, and
summer 2013 will be the 21st festival in Mikkeli.

Art Centre Salmela (June-August) in Mäntyharju is one of the biggest and most famous art centres in Finland.
Its multicultural programme includes art exhibitions, concerts and lectures. The beautiful location is also truly
worth seeing.ost famous art really worth seeing

General Information:

Planning your stay in the Mikkeli region: www.visitmikkeli.fi/en

Tourist Information in Mikkeli:

Savilahdenkatu 8, 50100 Mikkeli, Finland (Stella)
Tel: +358- 44 794 5669
Email: matkailu@mikkeli.fi

Travel Advice:
Then continue on to the town of Savonlinna. We recommend that you choose Route 62 via
Puumala. It's one of the most beautiful roads in Finland and perhaps the entire world. On the way, it's well
worth stopping in Puumala and then driving on to visit the Puumala archipelago (www.veskansankylat.fi).
From Puumala, you can take the road through Sulkava to Savonlinna. (Mikkeli-Puumala about 70 km,
Puumala-Savonlinna about 77 km)

Savonlinna for Culture Lovers (Savonlinna-Punkaharju-Kerimäki-Rantasalmi)

Built on a group of islands, the town of Savonlinna was a popular spa and tourist location as early as the
nineteenth century. Today, Savonlinna is known for its Opera Festival, cruises on spectacular steam ships,
market place and the tasty snack “lörtsy”. The most popular sight in Savonlinna is the medieval Olavinlinna
Castle, but things you should definitely do in town also include walking along Linnankatu in the Old Town and
seeing the old boutiques and art exhibitions, visiting the Savonlinna Provincial Museum on Riihisaari Island or
stopping for a pint at the Brewery Restaurant Huvila. Among the many the architecturally significant
locations in town is Savonlinnasali, which was completed in 2002 as the first concert hall in Finland
constructed entirely using wood building methods.

Accommodation Options in Savonlinna Region:

Lomamokkila Experience an authentic countryside environment with a variety of domestic animals, and enjoy
the warm hospitality of the host family. Accommodation in outbuildings, the main building and lakeside cabins.
Home-cooked meals and plenty of activities. Located a 15-minute drive from the centre of Savonlinna.

Villa Aria is a first-rate summer hotel located by the lake in the central area of Savonlinna. Villa Aria was
completed in 1896 to serve as the general hospital for Savonlinna. The old building got a new lease of life at
the turn of the millennium when it underwent overhaul and restoration. Since 1998, Villa Aria has operated as
a 20-room hotel.

Art Nouveau Villa Urhola provides accommodation for 23 people in a romantic locale in the heart of the hilly
national landscapes of Punkaharju a 30-minute drive from Savonlinna. The neighbourhood is also home to the
traditional Finnish dance pavilion of Kruunuareena.

Holiday Resort Järvisydän and the Heiskanen family have hosted travellers and guests amidst the
breathtaking rocky landscapes of Poronsalmi since 1658. The current offering includes high-quality villa
accommodation, local food, possibly the largest wine cellar in the Savo region and plenty of activities in the
Linnasaari National Park. Located a 40-minute drive from Savonlinna. Traditional dance evenings are also
held in the summer.

More information on the accommodation locations can be found here.

We warmly recommend for you in the Savonlinna region:

The Olavinlinna Castle was established in 1475 to bolster the eastern border defences. The castle has been
used for tourist purposes since the 1850s, and the first Opera Festival was held in 1912. Guided tours are
organised on a daily basis.

The Savonlinna Provincial Museum on Riihisaari provides information on the cultural history and nature of
the Saimaa region – the Saimaa ringed seal, for example. In the summer, the museum steam ships on the
Riihisaari pier are also open.

During the summer, you should definitely take a cruise on a nostalgic steam ship to the Savonlinna
archipelago or to Punkaharju, for example. Longer cruises on motor ships to Oravi, Kuopio, Lappeenranta and
Helsinki are also available. www.savonlinna.travel

The Savonlinna Market Place is a meeting place for locals, where you can enjoy the local delicacies “muikku”
(fried vendace) and “lörtsy” (a type of folded meat pie).

Akselinpoika, a delicatessen right by the market place, is known for its first-rate meat counter as well as its
selection of cheeses and fish.

The Finnish Forest Museum Lusto provides a wealth of information on the forest culture of Finland in the
beautiful hilly landscapes of Punkaharju.

The largest wooden church in the world is located in Kerimäki a 20-minute drive from Savonlinna. The
church boasts over 3,000 seats but, including standing room, the building can hold over 5,000 people. The
church was completed in 1847.

Restaurants and Cafes

Brewery Restaurant Huvila, Savonlinna. Taste beer brewed on the premises and delicious local food.

Restaurant Linnakrouvi, Savonlinna. Located in historical surroundings, next to Olavinlinna Castle.

Roof terrace of Sokos Hotel Seurahuone, Savonlinna. Try the local speciality “muikku”, fried vendace.

Punkaharju State Hotel, Punkaharju. Finnish food in the oldest tourism hotel in Finland and in the landscape
of the Punkaharju ridge area.

Tynkkylän Lomaniemi, Punkaharju. Delicious home-cooked buffet every Sunday during the summer season
Holiday Centre Järvisydän, Rantasalmi. Medieval-style restaurant and the biggest wine cellar in the Saimaa
region.

Café Alegria, Savonlinna. Ecological café, located in a historic wooden house, in the centre of Savonlinna.

Culture festivals and events in the Savonlinna region:

Savonlinna Opera Festival (July)

Savonlinna Music Academy's summer concerts

Sulkava Rowing Race (July)

St. Olof's Day, (July)

More events: www.savonlinnanyt.fi

General Information:

Planning your stay in the Savonlinna region: www.savonlinna.travel

Tourist Information in Savonlinna

Puistokatu 1, 57100 Savonlinna, Finland
Tel: +358 600 30007 (€0.76/min.)
Email: info@savonlinnatravel.com

Travel Advice:
From Savonlinna, it's a good idea to continue via Rantasalmi (Route 14 and 464) to Varkaus (Route 5) and
Jyväskylä (Route 23 and 9). When in Varkaus, remember to visit the Mechanical Music Museum, which is
the biggest of its kind in the Nordic countries. If you have a bit more time on your hands, the Valamo
Monastery is located some 50 km from Varkaus towards Joensuu (Route 71).

Jyväskylä Region for Culture Lovers (Jyväskylä – Petäjävesi – Keuruu – Jämsä)

Jyväskylä (pop. 133,687) is a city in Central Finland province in the western part of the Finnish Lakeland.
Jyväskylä was founded on 1837 by Tzar Nicholas I of Russia. Nowadays, Jyväskylä is a city of modern
architecture. The city has more buildings designed by one of the best known international functionalist
architects, Alvar Aalto, than any other city in the world. Jyväskylä is also a very popular university city in
Finland. The University of Jyväskylä is the only university in Northern Europe with a Faculty of Sports. The
faculty has been a key player in developing a strong sports culture in the city.

Finland is famous for its world-class rally drivers, and one of the best world championship rallies, Neste Rally
Finland, will take place in Jyväskylä Region at the beginning of August.

Accommodation Optionsin Jyväskylä region:

Boutique Hotel Yöpuu, Jyväskylä. Every room is furnished and decorated in an individual style. An excellent
restaurant.
Manor Hotel Taulun Kartano,Toivakka. Tastefully decorated first-rate rooms and a cosy restaurant. Smoke
sauna on request. Advance booking only.

Spa Hotel Peurunka in Laukaa is located on the lakeside surrounded by beautiful nature. A golf course in the
vicinity.

Varjola Farm, Laukaa, Varjola Farm offering activities, B&B, a restaurant and a cosy café

Himos Holiday Centre, Jämsä. A holiday resort with a wealth of activities throughout the year, including golf
in the summer and skiing in the winter. High-quality holiday homes and a hotel.

More accommodation options can be found here.

We warmly recommend for you in the Jyväskylä region:

Naissaari Coffee and Design Shop

Experience a beautiful wooden district on an island surrounded by rapids. The area is home to the Keteile-
Päijänne Canal Gate and summer art exhibitions. The design shop features a vast variety of Finnish crafts
products.www.naissaarenkahvihuone.fi

Lake Päijänne -The second largest lake in Finland. Jyväskylä Harbour is the departure point for cruises on
inland waterways. Cruises on the great Lake Päijänne from Jyväskylä and on the Keitele-Päijänne Canal.
Päijänne-Risteilyt Hildén www.paijanne-risteilythilden.fi, www.matkarhea.fi

The Jyväskylä region is home to many buildings designed by the legendary architect Alvar Aalto, from his
earliest works through to achievements in the latter stages of his career.
Alvar Aalto Museum in Jyväskylä houses a specialist museum of architecture and design, which is a national
and international centre for information on Aalto.

The Craft Museum of Finland, Jyväskylä. The museum is specialised in handicraft from all over Finland.

Toivola Old Courtyard (Toivolan Vanha Piha), an old courtyard area for artisans from the late 19th century in
the centre of Jyväskylä. Café and crafts shops, Cygnaeuksenkatu 2, 40100 Jyväskylä.

Petäjävesi Old Church was honoured as a UNESCO world heritage landmark in 1994 as an excellent
example of a Lutheran countryside church built of logs. To the west from Petäjävesi, you’ll find the Keuruu and
Pihlajavesi old wooden churches from the same period.

The Old Keuruu area: Restaurant Old Rectory (Pappilan pidot), museum, art exhibition, souvenir shop. You
can also include a cruise on Lake Keurusselkä aboard the paddle wheeler Elias Lönnrot in your visit to the Old
Rectory.

Gallery Emalipuu (Enamel-Wood) is located by Lake Päijänne in Korpilahti Harbour. The company was born
from the alliance of two artisans and two materials. A harbour restaurant is located next to the gallery.

Lahtinen Felt Shop, Jämsä. Original felt products: footwear, hats, waistcoats and tapestries. Unique in
Finland! The "Aki Choklat for Lahtiset" collection represents the ultimate design.

Ateljé Veli Ähtävä, Jämsä. Magnificent paintings on birch wood.

Restaurants and Cafés

Restaurant Pöllöwaari, Jyväskylä. Friends of good food and drink in Jyväskylä gather at Restaurant
Pöllöwaari.

Restaurant Vesilinna, Jyväskylä, a restaurant located on the fringes of the Harju ridge offers not only delicious
food, but a spectacular view over the city. Address: Ihantolantie 5

Restaurant Moose Manor, Jämsä. A restaurant with excellent Finnish country cuisine: game, fresh fish, wild
berries and mushrooms. An elk farm with real elks. Have you ever kissed an elk?
Restaurant Bistro Gallén Suolahti. The restaurant operates in an old railway station and serves a Finnish-
French menu with a local twist.

Culture Festivals and Events in the Jyväskylä region:

Jyväskylä Festival (July), an urban festival that features a diverse variety of arts: contemporary circus,
comedians, mimes and international stars of physical theatre, concerts

Skiffle Music Festival - Kihveli Soikoon, (July), Hankasalmi.

Athenis Finlandiae (September), Jyväskylä

Keitele Jazz (July) in Äänekoski

Time of Music (July) in Viitasaari is an annual event for modern music in Finland.

Music Festivals in Himos, Jämsä

General information

Planning your stay in Jyväskylä Region: www.jyvaskylaregion.fi/travel, www.centralfinland.net

Tourist Information in Jyväskylä

Asemakatu 6, 40100 Jyväskylä, Finland
Tel: +358 14 266 0113
Email: matkailu@jkl.fi

Tourist Information in Jämsä www.jamsek.fi

Travel Advice:
If you would like to visit all our recommended locations, continue south from Jyväskylä on Route 9. You can
visit Säynätsalo to admire the Town Hall designed by Alvar Aalto, and continue on Route 9 to Korpilahti and
Jämsä, and onwards to Petäjävesi on Route 604. From Petäjävesi, we recommend you take Route 23 to
Keuruu and then Route 58 to Tampere, by way of Mänttä-Vilppula.

Tampere for Culture Lovers (Tampere and Pirkanmaa)

With over 200,000 inhabitants, Tampere is the most populous inland city in the Nordic countries. The city,
which was established on the banks of the Tammerkoski rapids in 1779, developed into Finland's most
important industrial hub in the 19th century. Tampere is still known as city of industry, but the prominent fields
have changed over the years. In addition, the old factory buildings in the central area have entered a new age.
Weaving mills, dye works and turbine halls have been converted into restaurants, cinemas, museums and
galleries. The factories are brimming with life once more.

When arriving from Keuruu to Tampere, you should drive through Mänttä-Vilppula on Route 58. The Mänttä-
Vilppula art town features the Serlachius museums Gösta and Gustaf. In Gösta, you can enjoy an art
collection that is extremely significant in the Nordic region, whereas Gustaf presents the life of old Mänttä
residents by the paper mill. The factory provided workers and managers alike with everything for day-to-day
living and special occasions.
Mänttä-Vilppula organises an annual festival for visual arts and music, which offers visitors memorable
experiences in this charming rural town bathing in the beauty of summer. Mänttä also has a strong focus on
well-being. You can borrow Nordic walking poles and go and enjoy the nature and exquisite lakeside vistas.

From Mänttä to Tampere, you should take the enchanting route through Ruovesi (Route 334) and Teisko
(Route 338). In Teisko, it's a good idea to stop for some shopping at the Teiskon Viini wine kiosk. There you
can find delicious wines and liqueurs made from Finnish berries. The company has also managed to grow
grapes for making wine.

Accommodation Options in the Tampere Region:

Mäntän Klubi and Art Hotel Honkahovi in Mänttä: 30 unique rooms with a story. A range of options is
available from basic accommodation to luxury.

Vaihmalan Hovi is located a mere 20 kilometres from the centre of Tampere in a wonderful rural environment
by Lake Vanajavesi. The main building of the manor, built in the early 19th century, has been restored to its
original glory and offers impeccable accommodation in wonderfully relaxing surroundings.

Dream Hostel Tampere is a true gem that has been ranked among the top ten hostels in the world. Dream
Hostel provides affordable accommodation, excellent service and tips on the best places to party.

More information on the accommodation locations can be found here.

We warmly recommend for you in the Tampere region:

Museum Centre Vapriikki is a true treasure trove located in an old Tampella factory building by the
Tammerkoski rapids. Vapriikki holds a wealth of things to explore for
the whole family. The interesting permanent exhibitions provide information on the local shoe factories and
innovations, for example. At the Natural History Museum, you can dive into the Tammerkoski rapids or learn
about the unique traits of nature in Pirkanmaa. Over the years, the changing exhibitions have presented
national and international highlights from mummies to the Terracotta Army.

The Spy Museum, the world's first museum focusing on espionage, presents clandestine art as a worldwide
phenomenon. Espionage is said to have affected world politics more than official governments and their
actions. The museum features all manner of things related to espionage.

Lenin Museum's fascinating collection delves into Lenin's personal history and his role in the process of
Finland gaining its independence. The museum is the first of its kind in the western countries and one of few in
the world. The museum shop stocks a variety of intriguing souvenirs.

The Market Hall, Tammela Market Place and Laukontori Market Place provide an excellent chance to see
life in the city of Tampere at its most authentic. In the Market Hall (Kauppahalli), you can treat yourself to a
delightful local meal or have a cup of coffee with a freshly-baked bun. At the market places, you can enjoy the
relaxing atmosphere as well as a variety of local delicacies. When in Tampere, you must absolutely taste the
“Mustamakkara” sausage in the traditional way with lingonberry jam and cold milk. It tastes best when
enjoyed at the market places!

Suomen Hopealinja's inland cruises. Enjoy the Finnish summer in a wonderful lake environment. Take a
lunch cruise or select a longer route – whatever fits your schedule. The selection has an option for all needs.

In the Laitikkala village, you will find Rönnvik's Vineyard with its award-winning wines, the Suttinen berry
and vegetable farm and the mouthwatering meat products of the Kesänmaku shop. The best food you will
have all summer!

The oldest active public sauna in Finland is located in Tampere. Rajaportti Sauna is unique in terms of the
bathing experience as well as its social atmosphere – refresh your body and soul.

Tampere Region offers a perfect opportunity to get familiar with locally produced, high-quality Finnish food.
Find more about the regional delicacies!
Restaurants and Cafés

Restaurant C was selected as the Finnish restaurant of the year in 2011. The restaurant offers exquisite food
made from the best seasonal ingredients. C respects the traditions of Finnish chefs and the clean raw
materials provided by small producers.

At Restaurant Näsinneula you can literally rise above your everyday worries. In addition to excellent food,
the revolving restaurant in the observation tower offers you the chance to enjoy amazing vistas.

Pyynikki Observation Tower Café serves up the best doughnuts in town – you can ask pretty much any local
resident. What a wonderful place to take a break and relax!

Vohvelikahvila (Waffle Café) on Ojakatu is a meeting place for happy people. Mouthwatering sweet and
savoury waffles to suit every taste.

More cafés and restaurants you’ll find here!

Culture Festivals and Events in the Tampere region:

Theatre, music, dance!

Dozens of art events and internationally famous festivals are held each year in Tampere. In the summer, the
region is bursting with events – enough for anyone to find something to like. Music, dance, theatre, literary,
cinema...

Mänttä Art Festival

Sastamala Gregoriana - Early Music Festival

Tampereen Flamencoviikko - the biggest flamenco festival in the Nordic countries is held in Tampere every
summer

Tampere Theatre Festival presents the most interesting productions from Finland and celebrated guest
performances from abroad

The dates and other information on festivals in the Pirkanmaa region can be found here!

General Information:
Planning your stay in the Tampere region: Visit Tampere – travel portal.

Tourism Information in Tampere

Rautatienkatu 25 A, 33100 Tampere
Tel: +358 3 5656 6800
Email: visittampere@visittampere.fi

www.facebook.com/Tampere tourist information

www.twitter.com/visittampere
www.tampereallbright.fi

Travel Advice:
For those heading from Tampere to Helsinki, we recommend taking the old Route 3, now Route 130. The
former main artery now meanders through enchanting rural and lake vistas in a leisurely fashion. Along the
way, it's a good idea to stop by at Emil Vikström's art studio Visavuori or visit the Iittala Glass Centre to
purchase authentic Finnish glass design for a souvenir. (Tampere–Helsinki about 184 km)

Thank you for your visit! We hope you enjoyed your time with us, and found surprising and memorable
locations and sights along the way. We also hope you will return to see us in Helsinki and Finnish Lakeland.
We are happy to receive feedback and ideas for improvement at matkailu@mikkeli.fi.

Tourist service providers of Helsinki and Finnish Lakeland

More information on travel services in Finland: www.visitfinland.com