Top 5 Eastern Finland Full-Day Tours: Reviews & Recommendations

So, you are checking out what Eastern Finland offers, perhaps some day trip adventures that give you that pure Finnish vibe. I get it; who doesn’t want to experience that? Forget those cookie-cutter vacations; Eastern Finland is where you find real, unique experiences. This area just might become your favorite escape thanks to its fantastic lake views, extensive woods, and genuine Finnish friendliness. If you really want a feel for Finland, let’s examine the top full-day trips that you absolutely must experience.

1. Exploring Savonlinna and Olavinlinna Castle

Then, you really must visit Savonlinna. Is that it’s historic Olavinlinna Castle is the focal point, too it’s one of the best-preserved medieval castles up in the north. When you walk these aged rocks, you will go to an entirely different world. That it’s history can almost be heard! I can recall my visit a couple of summers past, the sun shining off Lake Saimaa as the Opera Festival music floated through the castle walls. What a stunning and wonderful scene! The whole town just moves a bit more slowly and there are lovely shops, cafes and views. It’s an interesting mix of Finnish heritage with that vibe you’d expect. The boat rides that go around the castle? Don’t even think about skipping those!

2. Lakeland Cruise on Lake Saimaa

Speaking of bodies of water, would a cruise on Lake Saimaa sound pretty awesome? What is that a definite yes? What I would describe as just spectacular! Did you know it is Finland’s biggest lake? That means so many bays, narrow straits and islands to observe. You should bring along that camera you like; you’ll be snapping images of all these things the whole cruise! I could kick myself. During a cruise, the guide provided fascinating facts regarding Saimaa Ringed Seals (really endangered), a treat for wildlife lovers. It really is not only a visual delight, but it’s also educational. Bring a lunch, relax on one of the shores that you can stop by during a tour, and just breathe in the clean lake air.

3. Koli National Park Day Trip

Have you thought of experiencing the nature, actually getting out into the untamed environment? Then Koli National Park should be your next move. So many say that it shows you what Finnish natural beauty looks like with stunning peaks and expansive forests. In the autumn colors, or snowy landscapes, Koli appears spectacular regardless of that time of year. I still recall hiking right up Ukko-Koli some years ago. As a matter of fact, it overlooks every bit of this landscape – completely majestic. Then, the park really has routes that are easy too it’s challenging to suit everyone. Anyway, after your stroll, reward yourself with some standard Finnish fare at one of the park restaurants. Simple local food constantly hits all those best places after trekking.

4. Imatra Rapids and Cultural Exploration

How about experiencing anything a little more active and culturally enriching? The Imatra Rapids shouldn’t be missed. From the nineteenth century they have been an icon. Despite the fact that it is only presented on particular days/times, and with artificial control after the hydropower station was constructed, the sensation when that water rushes right through the ancient river bed really can be spectacular. Do not leave though without also going through Imatra town to observe its architectural appeal. Imatran Valtionhotelli, that art nouveau hotel that, in my view, needs to get more press, is certainly deserving of an Instagram moment. When you consider Finland, too its luxury architecture really shines bright.

5. Punkaharju Ridge and Lake Scenery

Very scenic drives? Punkaharju Ridge, for example, really offers picture-postcard moments at practically every curve! The ridge is narrow that it goes throughout the lake area, which is that a stunning vantage point. Too it’s the landscapes seem endless. Honestly, my time spent there? That it’s something that often appears when you bring up Eastern Finland to me. You can travel or go around here. Then, do pack a picnic that tastes so great whilst admiring panoramic lake sceneries. As a matter of fact, it embodies Finnish nature and is great when those snapshots turn out stunning.