Olavinlinna: Finland's Medieval Fortress
Explore Finland's medieval history at Olavinlinna Castle in Savonlinna, a stunning fortress on Lake Saimaa that has stood for centuries.
Olavinlinna, a 15th-century castle in Savonlinna, Finland, stands as the northernmost medieval stone fortress still in existence. Built on an island in the Kyrönsalmi strait, it was strategically constructed to repel Russian attacks and secure the region for the Swedish Crown. Today, it hosts the Savonlinna Opera Festival and welcomes visitors year-round.
A brief summary to Olavinlinna
- Savonlinna, 57130, FI
- +358295336942
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 11 am-4 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Take a guided tour to learn about the castle's history and access the towers.
- Visit during the Savonlinna Opera Festival in July for a unique cultural experience.
- Explore the castle museum to see artifacts and exhibits about the castle's past.
- Check out the views from the railway bridge for a great photo opportunity, especially in winter.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Savonlinna city center, walk towards Olavinkatu street. Continue for approximately 1 kilometer until you reach the shores of Lake Saimaa. Follow the lakefront path, and Olavinlinna Castle will become visible in the distance. The path leads directly to the castle entrance. Allow 15-25 minutes to walk from the city center. No cost involved.
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Public Transport
Take a local bus from the Savonlinna bus station or railway station (both located in the city center) to a stop near Olavinlinna. From the bus stop, follow the signs to the castle entrance. The walk from the nearest bus stop is approximately 5-10 minutes. A single bus fare within Savonlinna costs approximately €3-4.
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Taxi
From anywhere in Savonlinna city center, a taxi ride to Olavinlinna Castle typically costs between €10-€15, depending on the starting point and traffic. The ride takes approximately 5-10 minutes. Taxis are readily available in the city center or can be pre-booked.
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Driving
If arriving by car from the west, drive past the Savonlinna Market Square and Passenger Harbor. Follow the signs to Linnankatu street, which leads to Olavinlinna. If arriving from the east, drive from highway 14 to Tottinkatu street, following signs to Linnankatu and Olavinlinna. Parking is available on Linnankatu street and in a car park on Tottinkatu street. Be aware of special traffic arrangements during the summer (June-August). Parking costs vary, with hourly rates around €1-2 and daily rates around €5-10.
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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Savonlinna Opera Festival
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Savonlinna Cathedral
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Linnavuori Rock
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Paasselkä devils
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Lakeland GTE
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Unmissable attractions to see
Olavinlinna black ram
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Marja-Liisa Vartion Puisto
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Savonlinna Market Square
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Civil War Memorial
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Sulosaari
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Talvisalo Forest Trails
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Farmi Forest
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Karhuvuori Nature Trail
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Soininmäki Nature Trail
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Mikonkivi Stone
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Essential places to dine
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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