12 days in Savonlinna, Imatra & Helsinki Itinerary

The picturesque town of Savonlinna sits on two islands surrounded by shimmering lakes and lush greenery.

Start off your visit on the 14th (Sun): don't miss a visit to Pikkukirkko, explore the historical opulence of Olavinlinna Castle, then see the interesting displays at Savonlinna Provincial Museum, then step aboard S/S Salama, and finally explore the historical opulence of Savonlinna Cathedral.

To find more things to do, photos, reviews, and tourist information, refer to the Savonlinna trip itinerary builder site.

Copenhagen, Denmark to Savonlinna is an approximately 12.5-hour flight. You can also drive. The time zone changes from Central European Standard Time (CET) to Eastern European Standard Time (EET), which is usually a 1 hour difference. In July, daytime highs in Savonlinna are 24°C, while nighttime lows are 13°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 14th (Sun) to allow time to drive to Imatra.

Although predominately an industrial town, Imatra boasts a long and impressive history of tourism, largely owing to its fierce rapids, considered to have been Finland's first ever tourist attraction.

Escape the urban bustle at Imatra Waterfall and Hevoshaan Arboretum. Eschew the tourist crowds and head to Lappeenranta Fortress and Saimaa Canal. Get out of town with these interesting Imatra side-trips: Lappeenranta (Sandcastle Lappeenranta & Lappeenrannan kirkko) and Kouvola (Repovesi National Park & Niivermaki Nature Conservation Area). There's still lots to do: contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Imatrankoski Church, step off the mainland to explore Lammassaari Island, and get outside with Atreenalin Seikkailupuistot.

To see ratings, maps, and tourist information, you can read our Imatra trip itinerary site.

Traveling by car from Savonlinna to Imatra takes 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or take a bus. In July, plan for daily highs up to 24°C, and evening lows to 14°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 18th (Thu) to allow time to drive to Helsinki.

Finland's largest and most populated metropolis, the maritime town of Helsinki boasts varied architecture, a lively cafe culture, and plethora of picturesque natural delights.

Step out of the city life by going to Teijo National Park and Nature & Wildlife Tours. You'll explore the less-touristy side of things at Seurasaari Island and Open-Air Museum and The National Museum of Finland. You'll find plenty of places to visit near Helsinki: Arboretum Mustila (in Elimaki) and Porvoo (Cathedral of Porvoo, Porvoo Old Town, &more). And it doesn't end there: admire the masterpieces at Kansallisgalleria, identify plant and animal life at Laajalahti Nature Reserve, take in the local highlights with Walking tours, and make a trip to Hakaniemi Market.

To find other places to visit, reviews, ratings, and tourist information, read our Helsinki vacation planner.

Traveling by car from Imatra to Helsinki takes 3.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or take a bus. In July, plan for daily highs up to 25°C, and evening lows to 15°C. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 24th (Wed) so you can travel back home.