Lappeenranta is a set on the banks of one of the largest lakes in Finland. Known as the Cavalry City, it boasts one of the oldest and most impressive fortresses in the Nordic countries. Relax on the sandy beach, enjoy a scenic cruise along a historic canal and work your way through a constellation of museums and art galleries.
Things to do in Lappeenranta
Lappeenranta enjoys a picturesque setting on the shores of Lake Saimaa. The lake is dotted with sandy beaches, including family-friendly Myllysaari. Cool off in the lake, sunbathe on the grassy foreshore and challenge your friends to a game of beach volleyball court. The Saimaa Canal stretches for 43 kilometres and connects the lake with the Gulf of Finland. Boat tours are a fun way to experience the canal and pass through the locks.
Linnoitus Fortress towers over the harbour and has been reimagined as a cultural complex. Within the centuries-old stronghold you’ll find several museums, galleries and craft workshops. Learn about the history and heritage of the town at the South Karelian Museum and admire contemporary works at the Lappeenranta Art Museum.
Beautiful Lappee Church dates back to the late 1700s and features a charming wooden façade and unique “double cruciform” layout. In the graveyard is a pensive war memorial honouring the soldiers who lost their lives during the Soviet-Finnish Wars.
The Karelia Aviation Museum occupies a series of hangars filled with fighter jets, helicopters and aviation memorabilia. Marvel at a lightning-fast supersonic MiG-21 interceptor and get up close with a vintage Nieuport 17 biplane used to train WWI pilots.
Getting around Lappeenranta
Lappeenranta is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. Taxis are a fast and affordable way to get around the town or you can use local buses. Helsinki is a 2.5-hour drive away or two hours by train.