Plan Kuopio: the world's largest smoke sauna seats 60, the Puijo Tower over Lake Kallavesi, kalakukko in the market hall and Tahko's 24 slopes 1 hour away.
Home to the world's largest smoke sauna and the Puijo tower over Lake Kallavesi.
Eastern Finland's lakeland capital, surrounded by thousands of lakes and forested hills. Kuopio is the scenic alternative route north, through Finland's famous Lake District instead of the western highway. Famous for kalakukko (fish pastry), the Puijo Tower, and a sauna culture that rivals Tampere.
June–August for lakes and midnight sun. Winter for skiing at Puijo & Tahko. Year-round.
Fly to Kuopio Airport from Helsinki (1h). Train from Helsinki (4h). Drive from Helsinki (390 km, 4.5h).
75-metre observation tower on Puijo hill. 360° panoramic views over the lake district, on a clear day, you can see 60 km. Revolving restaurant at the top.
One of the finest market halls in Finland. The place to try kalakukko, fish baked inside a rye bread crust. A Kuopio institution since 1902.
Kuopio's lake, a vast body of water dotted with islands. Cruise boats in summer, ice fishing and skiing in winter. The lake defines the city's character.
The world's largest smoke sauna, seats 60 people. Traditional smoke sauna experience followed by a plunge in Lake Kallavesi. At Rauhalahti Spa.
24 slopes and 200+ km of cross-country trails, 1 hour from Kuopio. Eastern Finland's largest ski resort, a popular weekend destination for locals.
Kuopio Wine Festival in June, Finland's largest wine event. Tastings, food stalls, and live music in the city centre. 60,000 visitors annually.