Kuopio Travel Guide – 8 Best Things to Do in Kuopio in Winter

Kuopio is a city in North Savo in Finland’s Lakeland region. It’s surrounded by stunning lakes and forests and is known for its outdoor activities and local cuisine. In this guide we’ll cover the best things to do in Kuopio in winter, where to stay, where to eat and more!

Kuopio

Whether you enjoy winter sports, scenic views, or traditional Finnish experiences, Kuopio has a lot to offer

Things to Do in Kuopio in Winter

1. See the Views from Puijo Tower

Puijo Tower at Puijo Peak offers a breathtaking panoramic of Kuopio and the surrounding Lake Kallavesi. The Puijo Tower stands 75 meters tall, and the top provides a stunning view of the region.

You can also have food and drinks at the revolving restaurant inside the tower, which serves local Finnish cuisine with an ever-changing view.

2. Snow Tubing

If you’re after some adrenaline, head to Puijo’s winter park for their Snow tubing activity. The specially designed tracks allow you to slide down on inflatable tubes at high speeds.

Snow tubing here is suitable for all ages and is a fun way to experience the Finnish winter.

3. Virtual Ski Jumping

If you have ever wanted to try ski jumping but don’t fancy hurtling through the air, then virtual ski jumping in Kuopio is a great option. The simulator allows you to experience the thrill of ski jumping without actually leaving the ground.

Puijo is also home to The Puijo Ski Jumping Centre, renowned for hosting international competitions, including World Cup events. The first World Cup competition at Puijo was held in 1995.

The center provides year-round opportunities to watch ski jumping events and training sessions. It’s close to the Puijo observation tower and also offers panoramic views of the jumps and the surrounding landscape.

4. Sauna Experience

A traditional Finnish sauna experience is a must when visiting Kuopio. A popular choice is Kuopion Saana, which offers a lakeside sauna experience complete with ice swimming.

After relaxing in the heat, you can take a refreshing dip in the icy lake for a truly authentic Finnish wellness ritual. There are also outdoor pools, jacuzzis, and a smoke sauna.

5. Ice-Skating on the Frozen Lake

During winter, Lake Kallavesi transforms into a massive ice-skating rink. The Finland Ice Marathon track, stretching up to 12.5 kilometers, allows you to skate across the frozen lake while surrounded by stunning winter landscapes.

The track is completely free to use and a great way to get a workout in the crisp Finnish air. The ice-skating trail is usually ready by the middle of January, but unfortunately, we were there too early in the year.

If ice skating isn’t your thing, you can also try kick-sledding. You can rent equipment from Kuopion Roll Risteilyt. After ice skating or kick-sledding, warm up in the restaurant on the M/S Queen R ship with a hot drink or soup.

6. Puijo Peak Nature Walk

You can take a stroll through Puijo Peak’s themed nature walk, where the theme changes with the seasons.

We visited during the Christmas edition and it was absolutely beautiful. It’s worth going in the daytime and again in the nighttime to see the light installations lit up.

7. Cross-Country Skiing

Kuopio has an extensive network of cross-country skiing trails, perfect for both beginners and experienced skiers.

The Puijo area provides well-maintained tracks that wind through forests and hills. You can rent equipment from local shops and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the Finnish winter.

8. Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is a great way to explore Kuopio’s snowy landscapes. You can walk through deep snow with ease, discovering quiet trails and enjoying the untouched beauty of Finnish nature.

You can take guided tours to learn more about the local environment.

Where to Stay in Kuopio

There are plenty of accommodation options in Kuopio, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly stays.

Luxury: Bella Lake Resort – A luxurious lakeside retreat on the edge of Lake Kallavesi. Each suite features a private dock, allowing you to step directly from your accommodation to the lake.

For those seeking a unique Finnish experience, some suites come equipped with private saunas and direct access to an ice hole.

Mid-Range: Lapland Hotels Kuopio – A modern hotel which blends the magic of Lapland with the welcoming charm of the Savo region. The hotel is conveniently located just 100 meters from the Kuopio railway station, making it easily accessible for travelers. The beds here are incredibly comfy, the perfect place to sink into after a long day of activities. If you want to recreate that same cosy sleep at home, it’s worth checking out Simba mattresses.

You shouldn’t miss breakfast in the morning. There’s a wide variety to choose from, including plenty of vegan options, our favorite was the freshly made vegan omelette.

Budget-Friendly: Hostel Hermanni – A cozy and affordable option for travelers looking for a budget-friendly stay.

How to Get to Kuopio

Kuopio is well-connected by air, train, and bus.

By Air: Kuopio Airport has flights connecting to Helsinki and other major Finnish cities.

By Train: Regular train services operate between Kuopio and Helsinki, with a travel time of around four hours.

By Bus: Long-distance buses provide a budget-friendly option for reaching Kuopio from various locations around Finland.

Getting Around Kuopio

Kuopio’s public transport system is efficient, with regular bus services covering the city and nearby areas.

Walking is also a convenient way to explore the city center. If you prefer more flexibility, renting a bicycle or car is a good option.

How Long to Stay in Kuopio

A stay of three to four days is ideal for experiencing Kuopio’s attractions and outdoor activities. This timeframe allows you to explore the main sights, try winter sports, and enjoy local cuisine without feeling rushed. If you have extra time, you can add a trip to Koli National Park to your itinerary, which is just a 2 hours drive away.

Kuopio FAQs

Is Kuopio Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Kuopio offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure. Whether you enjoy outdoor activities or relaxing in a lakeside sauna, there is something for everyone.

Is Kuopio Expensive?

Kuopio is moderately priced compared to other Finnish cities. Accommodation and dining options range from budget-friendly to luxury, making it suitable for different budgets.

What is Kuopio Famous for?

Kuopio is famous for its stunning lake scenery, Puijo Tower, winter sports, and traditional Finnish sauna culture. It is also known for hosting the Kuopio Dance Festival.

What region is Kuopio in?

Kuopio is in the Northern Savonia (Pohjois-Savo) region. It’s one of the largest cities in Eastern Finland.

Kuopio Travel Guide – 8 Best Things to Do in Kuopio in Winter

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