Season
May - Aug
Vehicle
Walking route
Duration
2,5 hours
Length
9 km
A charming route from the harbour to the Islands of Happiness
This scenic walking route offers a varied introduction to Savonlinna, a city built on islands and surrounded by the waters of Lake Saimaa. Starting from the Market Square, the route follows the lively harbour and waterfront towards the historic heart of the city.
The walk continues through the old town, where wooden buildings, Linnankatu and views towards Olavinlinna reflect the city’s long history. Along the waterfront, Riihisaari adds another perspective on the region, with its museum and maritime heritage. From here, the route leads towards Olavinlinna, Savonlinna’s iconic medieval castle and one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks.
From the castle area, the route continues across Savonlinna’s bridges and towards the Kasino Islands, where historic spa traditions meet peaceful lake scenery. The charming surroundings of Sulosaari offer a pleasant contrast to the urban centre before the route turns towards Talvisalo.
The final part of the walk passes through quieter residential areas and along the shoreline, offering changing views of the city, islands and waterways. Bridges, parks and lakeside paths are a recurring feature throughout the route, bringing the walk naturally back to the Market Square.
The route is approximately 9 km long and takes around 2.5 hours to complete.
Useful info
If you prefer to experience Savonlinna from the water, join a sightseeing cruise from the Passenger Harbour.
Traditional steamships and modern motorboats offer a relaxing way to see the city, islands and Lake Saimaa from a different perspective.
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Route description
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1Day 1 :
City of Bridges Walking Tour
Navigating Each Day
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Day 1
Attractions of the route
Savonlinna Market Square – A lively meeting place by the harbour, known for local produce, summer flavours and the arrival and departure of historic steamships.Old Town & Linnankatu – Discover Savonlinna’s oldest street, lined with charming wooden buildings, art galleries, shops and summer restaurants. Nearby Pikku Kakkonen Park and the swimming beach add to the relaxed atmosphere.
Riihisaari Museum – Explore Savonlinna’s history and the cultural heritage of the Saimaa region, with exhibitions ranging from local life to the area’s rich maritime traditions.
Olavinlinna Castle – Savonlinna’s iconic medieval landmark, built in the 15th century and now famous as the main stage of the Savonlinna Opera Festival.
The Black Ram at Tallisaari – A curious landmark on the way to Olavinlinna. According to local legend, the ram once helped save the castle from enemy forces.
Kasino Islands – Islands of Happiness – A historic spa setting surrounded by lake scenery. The area features the elegant Wanha Kasino and charming wooden villas, including Kalliolinna, now a popular summer café on Sulosaari.
Waterfront & Bridges – Follow the scenic waterfront and enjoy views across the city, islands and waterways while crossing Savonlinna’s many distinctive bridges.
