Cities of the Lake District
Tampere — Sauna Capital of the World
Tampere (240,000 inhabitants) is located between two lakes (Näsijärvi and Pyhäjärvi) and calls itself the "Sauna Capital of the World". With over 50 public saunas — more than any other city — the claim is justified. The best: Rajaportin sauna (Finland's oldest public sauna, since 1906, entrance 8€), Rauhaniemi (beach sauna by the lake), Kuuma (modern design sauna). Tampere is also a former industrial city: The old factory halls now house the Vapriikki Museum Centre, restaurants, and cultural centers. Must try: Mustamakkara (black blood sausage with lingonberries) in the market hall.
Savonlinna — Castle & Opera
Savonlinna (36,000 inhabitants) is located on islands in Lake Saimaa and is famous for Olavinlinna — the northernmost medieval castle in Europe (1475). The mighty castle is situated on a rocky island between two lakes and is the venue for the Savonlinna Opera Festival every July, one of the most prestigious opera festivals in the world. An opera evening in a medieval castle — unforgettable. Tickets: 60–250€, book months in advance. Castle tour: 10€.
Jyväskylä — Alvar Aalto City
Jyväskylä (145,000 inhabitants) is the city with the most Alvar Aalto buildings worldwide — over 30 works by the great architect, including the Alvar Aalto Museum (entrance: 12€), the university, and the Säynätsalo Town Hall complex. The city is located by Lake Päijänne and is a starting point for outdoor adventures in the Lake District.
Kuopio — Kalakukko & Puijo
Kuopio (120,000 inhabitants) by Lake Kallavesi is the culinary capital of the Lake District. Here you must try Kalakukko — the traditional "fish bread": whole fish (whitefish or perch) baked into a loaf of rye bread. Best in the market hall (Kuopion kauppahalli). The Puijo Tower (75 m) offers the most spectacular panoramic view over the Lake District. A restaurant revolves at the top. Entrance: 9€.
