North Karelia’s regional capital sits in eastern Finland, where the Pielisjoki River meets Lake Pyhäselkä.
Landmark4.9/5
Punkaharju Ridge Area
Savonlinna’s Punkaharju Ridge runs as a narrow strip of land between Lake Saimaa’s waters, with wooded patches breaking up the open views. Roadside pullouts lead to the shore, where trenches sit near the beach parking.
Culture4.3/5
Museum Eliel – North Karelian Museum
This modern museum explores North Karelian culture, nature and Finnish history through interactive exhibits. A generative-AI installation lets visitors remix three artists’ styles.
Culture4.5/5
Joensuu Church
In the heart of Joensuu, the stunning Joensuu Church captivates visitors with its striking neo-Gothic architecture and serene atmosphere, making it a must-see landmark for both history enthusiasts and spiritual seekers.
Culture4.2/5
Joensuu Art Museum
This three-story art museum spans Chinese art to contemporary European borders. One room holds icons telling Valamo monastery’s story.
Landmark3.8/5
Carelicum
Nestled in Joensuu, Carelicum offers a captivating blend of cultural exhibitions and local heritage, showcasing the beauty of Finnish Karelia and making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Culture4.3/5
Joensuu Bunker Museum
Landmark4.2/5
Market Square Joensuu
Open market square with a fountain and small cafes. The fountain provides drinking water.
Landmark4.4/5
Movie Theatre Tapio
Transport4.1/5
Joensuu
Landmark4.6/5
Pielisjoki
Shop4/5
Sokos Joensuu
Eat$$$$$4.7/5
Ravintola Marani Joensuu
Eat$$$4.7/5
Ravintola Aiho
Eat$$$$4.9/5
Soossi Cocktails & Pizza
Eat$$$$4.5/5
Ravintola Karhunmäki
Eat$$$$4.4/5
VENN Joensuu
Eat$$$4.7/5
Kotileipurin Herkkupaja
Cafe$$4.2/5
Robert's Coffee
Stay$$$$4.45/5
Original Sokos Hotel Kimmel
This hotel is right by the River Pielisjoki and 200 metres from Joensuu Station. It has a restaurant, pub and a nightclub. Free Wi-Fi is included in all rooms at Original Sokos Hotel Kimmel Joensuu. A modern bathroom with shower is standard. Some rooms also have a bath tub. Sirkkala Park is next to Original Sokos Kimmel. North Karelia Museum is within 10 minutes' walk.
Stay$$$$4.35/5
Original Sokos Hotel Vaakuna, Joensuu
This hotel is by Joensuu’s main square and 700 metres from Joensuu Central Station and 250 metres from the Pielisjoki River. It has 3 restaurants, a bar, a coffeehouse and a night club. Free sauna and WiFi access are included. Original Sokos Hotel Vaakuna Joensuu’s rooms have cable TV, a work desk, tea/coffee maker and a private bathroom with shower. Sokos Hotel Vaakuna’s family restaurant, Rosso, focuses on Italian cuisine. Restaurant Amarillo serves spicy Tex-Mex dishes, while Torero Restaurant offers authentic Spanish food. Other facilities include a small fitness room and a covered terrace.
Stay4.15/5
Break Sokos Hotel Bomba
This hotel is located by Lake Pielinen, 2.5 km from central Nurmes. Break Sokos Hotel Bomba offers free WiFi in all rooms and private parking. Guests can relax in the on-site Spa Bomba. Many guest rooms overlook the lake. There are three restaurants at Bomba. Bomba Restaurant offers an à la carte menu with Karelian specialities. Buolu is a café, artisan pizzeria and classic pasta restaurant. Frans & Emma restaurant serves delicious food and tasty drinks. Guests can choose among a variety of activities each summer.
Stay$$$$4.1/5
Scandic Joensuu
This hotel is 10 minutes’ walk from Joensuu Train Station and offers a sauna. Its air-conditioned rooms feature satellite TV and free 1 GB WiFi connection. Scandic Joensuu’s modern rooms have a minibar and a desk. For extra comfort, some include bathrobes and tea/coffee facilities. Beverages and snacks are available in the lobby bar. In addition to the daily breakfast buffet, guests can request a takeaway breakfast bag from the reception at any time. Private parking is also available. Joensuu Art Museum is just 150 metres away from Scandic Joensuu.
Stay3.9/5
Greenstar Hotels Oy
Joensuu hotel with spacious rooms and complimentary tea and coffee around the clock. A self-check-in kiosk handles arrivals.
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