Savonlinna is located in the region of South Savo. The medieval Olavinlinna Castle hosts the famous Opera Festival annually. The first Opera Festival took place in 1912. Over the years, the event has grown into a month-long and international affair, attracting around 70,000 visitors each year. Savonlinna's delightful local delicacies include fresh vendace and lörtsy pastries, which are worth trying at the market square. Vendace can be enjoyed fried in butter or smoked, while lörtsy pastries come in various fillings, offering both savory and sweet options. In the old town, you can visit Riihisaari, chosen as the museum of the year in May 2023. Riihisaari provides insights into the cultural history of the Savonlinna region. An exhilarating winter activity is seal floating in a warm suit amidst the ice. The Saimaa ringed seal is unique in that it can only be found in Saimaa, nowhere else in the world.
