Culture
History and future entertainment.
We listed 11 great reasons to head to Southeast Finland
We compiled a diverse set of experiences just for you: a dash of vibrant urban culture, a handful of historic attractions and a scoop of sweet culinary experiences. Mix these ingredients for a perfect visit and enjoy!
Paradise atmosphere - Arboretum Mustila
Southeast Finland is home to the oldest and largest arboretum in Northern Europe, which is famous for its exotic conifers and the countless rhododendrons and azaleas that bloom here in June. Stroll through the primeval forest-like nature and rhododendron bushes. Enjoy a coffee in the old granary or a tea in the charming shop.
Old Porvoo
Walking in Old Porvoo is like traveling through the pages of an old storybook. The colorful wooden houses lining the cobbled streets, the church at the top of the hill and the small, charming museums provide the perfect setting for an unforgettable travel experience.
Porvoo for foodies
Porvoo is the meeting point for modern Finnish cuisine. The variety and quality of restaurants is phenomenal for a small city. Thanks to increasing demand, the chefs’ menu is becoming increasingly exquisite. Seasonal products from local waters, fields and forests ensure an exceptional taste experience in the idyllic atmosphere of Porvoo.
Käyrälampi-area – fun for all ages
Kouvola is home to a new resort area on the shores of Lake Käyrälampi. It is something completely new in Finland! The resort area consists of villas, high-quality cottages, an amusement park and a water park.
The public sauna, Tykkimäen Sauna, is open all year round and is a great place to socialise with locals. A sauna ferry is also available! In Kouvola, a new outdoor route is planned around Lake Käyrälampi, which you can explore on foot or by bike.
Verla UNESCO World Heritage Site
The unique Verla wood-grinding and cardboard factory, with its factory buildings and functioning machines preserved in their original state, was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. The factory has been the centrepiece of the small village of Verla since the 1870s and has been a museum since 1972. Visitors are given an insight into the history of Finnish forestry and daily life in the small factory village. Guided tours in German are available. Holidaymakers can also spend the night in the renovated former homes of the factory workers from the 1890s.
Historical Hamina
There is a lot to discover within walking distance in the old town of Hamina. Along the fortress trail, people can visit the ruins of the early 19th century fortress wall, which was built to protect the town. Around Hamina Town Hall and the bastion, there are picturesque residential blocks with charming wooden houses, churches and administrative buildings.
The wooden houses of the small maritime town of Loviisa
Loviisa is an absolute must for lovers of old wooden houses and picturesque villages. From the small alleys, you can admire the cozy courtyards and gardens of the local houses and discover the true heart of this charming town.
Finland's park capital Kotka
Fall in love with Kotka’s parks. The five-kilometer long trail is located on Kotkansaari, the city’s main island. You can either visit only the parks you like, or you can cover the entire route on foot or by bike. The tour includes Sapokka Water Garden, Katariina Seaside Park, Sculpture Promenade, Haukkavuori Observation Tower, Palotorninvuori Park, Mansikkalahti Bay, Sibelius Park and Herb Garden Redutti.
Visit Strömfors Ironworks
Strömfors Ironworks dates back to 1695, making it one of the oldest and best preserved ironworks in Finland. The charming village with its red-colored buildings and open-air museum has remained almost unchanged to this day. The picturesque surroundings in which it is located are characterized by traditional craftsmanship. There is also an art gallery and numerous restaurants and craft stores in the immediate vicinity. Strömfors also offers diverse activities for outdoor enthusiasts and the opportunity to hire bikes, boats, canoes, SUP boards and kayaks in the village.
Maritime Centre Vellamo offers unforgettable experiences
The Maritime Museum of Finland, local Kymenlaakso museum and the Ruuma event hall offer thought-provoking exhibitions about life at the sea and local stories that capture the imagination of visitors of all ages. Vellamo offers historical information and fun activities which can be experienced by hearing, seeing, smelling, feeling and playing.
Fascinating history and beautiful maritime nature: Svartholm Sea Fortress
The Svartholm sea fortress was built in the 1750s, but it was severely damaged during the Crimean War. In the 1960s, the Finnish Heritage Agency began restoring the fortress, which is commonly referred to as the little sister of the Suomenlinna sea fortress in Helsinki. Svartholm can be reached from Loviisa Laivasilta, city center by water bus regularly during summer time.
