Savo, Finland Travel Guide

Discover the serene beauty of Savo, where Finland's largest lake meets lush forests and charming towns. Perfect for nature lovers and cultural explorers alike.

Welcome to Savo, a region brimming with stunning lakes, lush forests, and charming towns. Located in Eastern Finland, Savo is known for its unparalleled natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Whether you are a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Savo offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Lake Saimaa, the largest lake in Finland, is a highlight of the Savo region. The lake's clear blue waters are ideal for boating, fishing, and swimming during the summer months. In winter, the frozen lake becomes a playground for ice fishing and skating. Don't miss a boat trip to see the endangered Saimaa ringed seal in its natural habitat. Kuopio, the largest city in Savo, offers a delightful mix of modern amenities and traditional Finnish culture. Visit the Puijo Tower for panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and forests, or explore the lively Kuopio Market Hall for local delicacies like kalakukko, a traditional fish pie. The city also hosts the annual Kuopio Dance Festival, attracting performers from around the world. For those interested in history, Savo's numerous old wooden churches and manor houses provide a fascinating glimpse into Finland's past. The Orthodox Church of St. Nicholas in Kuopio and the Kerimäki Church, one of the largest wooden churches in the world, are must-see landmarks. Additionally, the region's many hiking trails offer opportunities to explore the pristine wilderness, with routes suitable for both casual walkers and seasoned hikers.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Savo.

Visit during summer for the best boating and fishing experiences on Lake Saimaa.
Winter visitors should try ice fishing or skating on the frozen lake.
Don't miss the Kuopio Dance Festival if you're visiting in June.
Sample local delicacies like kalakukko at the Kuopio Market Hall.
Take a boat trip to see the endangered Saimaa ringed seal.
Explore the hiking trails for a closer look at Savo's natural beauty.

Top City Travel Guides in Savo

The cities of Savo, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Helsinki

Tampere

Turku

Jyväskylä

Porvoo

Destinations in Savo

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Nuuksio National Park

Repovesi National Park

Archipelago National Park

Archipelago Sea

Turku Archipelago

Explore Savo: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Savo

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Santa Claus Village

Experience the magic of Christmas in Santa Claus Village, the enchanting home of Santa Claus, filled with festive activities and Arctic adventures.

4.2

Senate Square

Explore the iconic Senate Square in Helsinki, a stunning architectural masterpiece and cultural hub at the heart of the city, rich in history and charm.

4.5

Olavinlinna

Explore Olavinlinna, a stunning medieval castle in Savonlinna, Finland, blending history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty.

4.5

Kuopio Market

Experience the colorful atmosphere and authentic flavors at Kuopio Market, a must-visit destination for food lovers and cultural enthusiasts in Finland.

4.4

Best landmarks in Savo

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Helsinki Market Square

Experience the vibrant culture of Helsinki at the iconic Market Square, where local flavors and artisan crafts come together by the beautiful waterfront.

4.3

Santa Claus Village

Experience the year-round magic of Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Finland, where festive charm and winter adventures await every traveler.

4.2

Senate Square

Explore Senate Square, Helsinki's architectural gem, surrounded by historic landmarks and vibrant culture, perfect for leisurely strolls and unforgettable experiences.

4.5

Esplanadi

Discover Esplanadi, Helsinki's enchanting park filled with greenery, culture, and vibrant public life, perfect for relaxation and exploration.

4.5

Best restaurants in Savo

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

Nili Restaurant

Experience authentic Finnish flavors at Nili Restaurant in Rovaniemi - where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

4.5

Restaurant Savotta

Experience authentic Finnish flavors at Restaurant Savotta in Helsinki - where tradition meets taste in every dish.

4.4

Restaurant Sea Horse

Discover authentic Finnish cuisine at Restaurant Sea Horse - where fresh seafood meets warm hospitality in Helsinki.

4.3

Muikkuravintola Sampo

Experience authentic Finnish cuisine at Muikkuravintola Sampo in Kuopio, where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

4.5

Best bars in Savo

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Kaisla

Discover Kaisla, a vibrant bar in Helsinki offering a wide selection of craft beers and a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists and locals alike.

4.3

Henry's Pub Helsinki

Discover the lively Henry's Pub in Helsinki, where delicious chicken wings meet an exciting nightlife in the heart of the city.

4.1

The Riff

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Helsinki at The Riff, where eclectic drinks and live music create unforgettable moments.

4.5

Kitty's Public House

Discover the lively charm of Kitty's Public House, where Finnish hospitality meets a vibrant pub atmosphere in the heart of Helsinki.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Savo

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

Apollo Live Club

Discover the heart of Helsinki's nightlife at Apollo Live Club, where live music and comedy create unforgettable experiences in a vibrant setting.

3.9

Scandic Mikkeli

Discover the heart of Mikkeli at Scandic Mikkeli, where modern comfort meets Finnish hospitality for an unforgettable stay.

3.9

El Patron Club & Lounge

Unleash the night at El Patron Club & Lounge, Helsinki's ultimate destination for electrifying nightlife and unforgettable experiences.

3.5

Night Club Marilyn

Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Night Club Marilyn, Turku's premier venue for dancing, themed events, and vibrant entertainment.

3.1

Best shops in Savo

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Savonlinna Market Square

Explore the vibrant Savonlinna Market Square, where local flavors, crafts, and culture come together in a picturesque setting.

4.2

Forum

Explore Forum Shopping Mall in Jyväskylä for a unique shopping and dining experience, featuring local and international brands in a vibrant atmosphere.

3.8

Shopping Centre Stella

Explore Shopping Centre Stella in Mikkeli - your ultimate shopping destination with diverse shops, dining, and entertainment.

4.0

Kämp Galleria

Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Kämp Galleria, Helsinki's luxury shopping mall offering fashion, fine dining, and cultural delights.

4.2

Explore Savo on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Savo, mapped for you.

Savo Essentials

Savo is well-connected by various modes of transportation. The nearest major airport is Kuopio Airport (KUO), which offers both domestic and limited international flights. From Helsinki, you can reach Savo by a comfortable train ride via VR (the Finnish railway service), which takes approximately 4-5 hours. Alternatively, long-distance buses operated by Matkahuolto and Onnibus provide frequent services to various towns within the Savo region. For those driving, the E63 highway is the main route connecting Savo to other parts of Finland.
Once in Savo, getting around is straightforward. Public transportation includes a network of buses that connect towns and cities within the region. Taxis are available but can be relatively expensive. Renting a car is a popular option for tourists who wish to explore at their own pace. Biking is also a great option during the summer months, with many towns offering bike rental services. For short distances within towns, walking is pleasant and often the best way to enjoy the local scenery.
Finland uses the Euro (EUR) as its currency. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, including VISA and MasterCard, in hotels, restaurants, and shops. Mobile payments via apps like MobilePay are also common. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or rural areas where card payment might not be available. ATMs are readily accessible in most towns.
Savo is generally a very safe region with low crime rates. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving valuables unattended and be cautious in crowded areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it’s always good to stay aware of your surroundings. In case of any issues, local police are approachable and helpful.
In case of emergency, dial 112, the general emergency number in Finland, which connects you to police, ambulance, and fire services. Most towns have medical facilities and pharmacies where you can get assistance for minor health issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For non-urgent health concerns, local health centers (terveyskeskus) provide reliable services.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Casual and comfortable clothing is widely acceptable. Religion: Do respect local customs if visiting churches; dress modestly and be quiet. Public Transport: Do be respectful and quiet on public transport. Don't play loud music or talk loudly. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hei' (hello) or 'moi'. A handshake is common for formal introductions. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like kalakukko (fish pie) and muikku (vendace). Don't refuse food or drink offerings as it may be considered impolite.
To experience Savo like a local, spend time at the local markets and try fresh produce. Engage with the locals; they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the region. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the numerous lakes, especially during the summer for activities like boating and fishing. Visiting a traditional Finnish sauna is a must-do experience. For the best views, take a hike in the Koli National Park, which offers breathtaking scenery of the Finnish Lakeland.

When is the best time to visit Savo?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Savo

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Savo. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloMoikka
  [Moy-kah]
- GoodbyeNäkemiin
  [Nah-keh-meen]
- YesKyllä
  [Kew-lah]
- NoEi
  [Ay]
- Please/You're welcomeOle hyvä
  [Oh-leh hoo-vah]
- Thank youKiitos
  [Kee-tos]
- Excuse me/SorryAnteeksi
  [Ahn-teh-ksee]
- How are you?Miten voit?
  [Mee-ten voyt]
- Fine. And you?Hyvin. Entä sinä?
  [Hoo-vin. En-tah see-nah]
- Do you speak English?Puhutko englantia?
  [Poo-hoo-t-koh eng-lan-tee-ah]
- I don't understandEn ymmärrä
  [En um-mah-rah]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseHaluaisin nähdä ruokalistan, kiitos
  [Hah-loo-ais-in nah-dah roo-kah-lees-tan, kee-tos]
- I don't eat meatEn syö lihaa
  [En sy-oh lee-hah]
- Cheers!Kippis!
  [Kip-pis]
- I would like to pay, pleaseHaluaisin maksaa, kiitos
  [Hah-loo-ais-in mak-sah, kee-tos]
- Help!Apu!
  [Ah-poo]
- Go away!Mene pois!
  [Meh-neh po-is]
- Call the Police!Soita poliisi!
  [Soy-tah poh-lee-see]
- Call a doctor!Soita lääkäri!
  [Soy-tah leh-kah-ree]
- I'm lostOlen eksynyt
  [Oh-len ex-y-noot]
- I'm illOlen sairas
  [Oh-len sigh-ras]
- I'd like to buy...Haluaisin ostaa...
  [Hah-loo-ais-in os-tah]
- I'm just lookingKatselen vain
  [Kat-se-len vain]
- How much is it?Paljonko se maksaa?
  [Pal-yon-koh seh mak-sah]
- That's too expensiveSe on liian kallis
  [Se on lee-ahn kal-lis]
- Can you lower the price?Voitko laskea hintaa?
  [Voyt-koh las-keh-ah hin-tah]
- What time is it?Mitä kello on?
  [Mee-tah kel-lo on]
- It's one o'clockKello on yksi
  [Kel-lo on yook-si]
- Half past (10)Puoli yli (10)
  [Poo-li yoo-lee (10)]
- MorningAamu
  [Ah-moo]
- AfternoonIltapäivä
  [Eel-tah-pai-vah]
- EveningIlta
  [Eel-tah]
- YesterdayEilen
  [Ay-len]
- TodayTänään
  [Tah-nan]
- TomorrowHuomenna
  [Hoo-men-nah]
- 1Yksi
  [Yook-si]
- 2Kaksi
  [Kahk-si]
- 3Kolme
  [Kol-meh]
- 4Neljä
  [Nel-yah]
- 5Viisi
  [Vee-si]
- 6Kuusi
  [Koo-si]
- 7Seitsemän
  [Sate-se-man]
- 8Kahdeksan
  [Kah-dek-sahn]
- 9Yhdeksän
  [Yuh-dek-sahn]
- 10Kymmenen
  [Kum-meh-nen]
- Where's a/the...?Missä on...?
  [Mee-sah on]
- What's the address?Mikä on osoite?
  [Mee-kah on oh-soh-teh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Voitko näyttää minulle (kartalla)?
  [Voyt-koh now-tah-eh min-o-leh (kar-tahl-lah)]
- When's the next (bus)?Milloin seuraava (bussi)?
  [Mil-loin say-rah-vah (bus-see)]
- A ticket (to ....)Lippu (....)
  [Lip-poo (....)]

History of Savo

The region of Savo, located in eastern Finland, has a rich history that dates back to the early Iron Age. Archaeological findings suggest that the area was inhabited as early as 500 BCE. The early settlers were likely semi-nomadic hunter-gatherers who gradually transitioned to agriculture and fishing, capitalizing on the region's abundant natural resources.
During the medieval period, Savo emerged as a distinct cultural and administrative region. By the 13th century, the Savonian dialect and culture began to take shape. The establishment of the Olavinlinna Castle in 1475 by Erik Axelsson Tott marked a significant event, providing a strategic defense against Russian invasions and fostering regional stability. The castle remains a prominent historical landmark and a testament to the medieval architectural prowess.
From the 16th century onwards, Savo became increasingly influenced by Swedish rule. The region played a crucial role during the Great Northern War (1700-1721), which saw Sweden and Russia vying for dominance in Northern Europe. The Treaty of Nystad in 1721, which concluded the war, resulted in significant territorial losses for Sweden, but Savo remained under Swedish control until the Finnish War of 1808-1809.
The Finnish War (1808-1809) between Sweden and Russia led to the incorporation of Finland, including Savo, into the Russian Empire as an autonomous Grand Duchy. This period saw significant reforms and modernization efforts, including improvements in infrastructure and education. The construction of the Saimaa Canal in the mid-19th century was a notable development, enhancing trade and transportation in the region.
The 19th century was a period of burgeoning Finnish nationalism, with Savo playing a vital role in the cultural awakening. The publication of the Finnish national epic, the Kalevala, in 1835 by Elias Lönnrot, drew heavily from folklore and oral traditions of the Savonian people. This era also witnessed the rise of influential cultural figures, such as the poet Johan Ludvig Runeberg, who contributed to the Finnish national identity.
The Finnish Civil War in 1918, following Finland's declaration of independence from Russia in 1917, had a profound impact on Savo. The region saw significant battles between the Red and White factions, with towns like Kuopio and Varkaus becoming key strategic points. The victory of the White forces and the subsequent establishment of the Republic of Finland marked the beginning of a new chapter in Savo's history.
In contemporary times, Savo has successfully blended its rich historical heritage with modern advancements. The region is known for its vibrant cultural festivals, such as the Kuopio Dance Festival and the Savonlinna Opera Festival, which attract visitors from around the world. Savo's picturesque landscapes, dotted with lakes and forests, continue to be a source of pride and inspiration for its inhabitants.