Olavinlinna Castle
A medieval island castle rising straight from the water of Lake Saimaa - the northernmost stone fortress in the world and the stage of the Savonlinna opera.
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Illustrative image - a scene in the spirit of the place, not a photograph of it. Real photos are below.
Olavinlinna rises on its rocky islet straight out of the water of Lake Saimaa, a three-towered medieval castle begun in 1475 to hold the eastern border, and the northernmost medieval stone fortress still standing. Each July its courtyard becomes the stage of the internationally famous Savonlinna Opera Festival.
What you actually see
- The island castle - the round-towered fortress rising from the lake on its rock.
- The courtyards and towers - the medieval halls, chambers and battlements within.
- The opera festival - the world-renowned summer opera staged in the courtyard.
- The lake setting - the water all around and the town of Savonlinna beyond.
When to go
Summer for the full castle and the lake; July for the opera festival, when the town is packed and rooms scarce. Guided tours run through the day in the warm months.
Honest expectations
During the opera festival the castle is given over to performances and the town is at its busiest and dearest, so time your visit for the experience you want. Interiors are seen mostly by guided tour. The setting on the water is as much the draw as the rooms.
Nearby
Savonlinna town and Lake Saimaa surround it; Punkaharju ridge and the Kerimaki wooden church are close.
What to pack for Olavinlinna Castle
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
