Culture & places to visit

Culture and natural attractions

The cultural experiences of Kuopio enchant throughout the year. Discover museums, theaters, natural attractions, guided walking tours, historical sites and the most spectacular views of your lifetime. There is an adventure for all tastes. 

The city’s culture, festivals, and food and sport events attract people from all over the world in the summer. Meanwhile, the museums of the region offer options for both history and art lovers. A visit is not complete without discovering the colorful offerings of the local theaters, concert halls and street music performances. Music and comic performances can also be found also in English, although the language issue is not a problem when you simply enjoy the moment and atmosphere.

Why not visit the animal parks or throw yourself into local traditions in Rauhalahti’s traditional evenings. You should also explore the city’s vivid shopping opportunities in the Kuopio city center and nearby.

Natural attractions

Kuopio and the surrounding areas offer countless sights and attractions. Nature changes shape throughout the four different seasons, but no matter what you will always find fresh air, untouched woods and sparkling waters. Summer’s greenery makes way for Autumn colors, and in the winter it’s a true snow-covered fairytale.

Even if you’re staying in the heart of the city, nature is always within a short walk. The scenery opens up magnificently from the tower on Kuopio Puijo hill, from the top of Tahko slopes and from the hiking areas, and, of course, from the lake. One of the specialities in Kuopio is the ice skating track on Kallavesi Lake, which is freely available for everyone. Tahko’s new stairs to the top of the slopes are also worth a visit, although at 800 meters, they’re certainly a challenge!