Olavinlinna Castle is one of the most magical landmarks in Finland which is built in 1475 this historic stone fortress rises proudly on a small island surrounded by the calm waters of Lake Saimaa so when you step inside Olavinlinna Castle as it feels like walking straight into the pages of history, where every tower and courtyard whispers stories of knights and kings as the beauty of Olavinlinna Castle lies not just in its walls but also in its peaceful lakeside views and cultural spirit so if you’re planning your trip with Finland tour packages then make sure to include this iconic fortress as it’s one of those rare places where history, nature and beauty come together perfectly.

Why Olavinlinna Castle is Special

• The fortress was founded in 1475 by Swedish nobleman Erik Axelsson Tott.
  
  
• It sits on an island in the strait between lakes Haukivesi and Pihlajavesi (part of the Lake Saimaa system).
  
  
• It is known as the northernmost medieval stone fortress still standing.
  
  
• Over the centuries the castle Olavinlinna changed hands between Sweden and Russia, was used as a fortress, then a garrison, then a prison and now a top tourist attraction.
  
  
• Today it’s more than just old walls: the name “castle Olavinlinna” is tied to culture too especially the summer opera festival held there.
  
  

So when you visit the castle Olavinlinna you’re walking into history + stunning nature + live culture.

What You’ll See Inside Olavinlinna Castle

• Visit the towers and courtyards: you’ll feel the scale of the fortress so according to the official site the towers’ upper parts are accessible only during a guided tour.
  
  
• The permanent exhibition covers the castle’s history, with 3D replicas, models, objects and a short film.
  
  
• Inside you’ll find layers of architecture: Swedish, Russian and Finnish heritage as the varied architecture shows how the castle Olavinlinna evolved.
  
  
• Beautiful views: from the island-setting you get lake views, forest background and island air as the setting is part of the magic of castle Olavinlinna.
  
  

Practical Info About Olavinlinna Castle: Opening Hours, Tickets & Directions

Opening hours (2025 update): According to the official page

• Jan 1–Apr 30 and Sep and Dec: Tue-Fri 10:00-16:00, Sat-Sun 11:00-16:00, closed Monday.
  
  
• Jun: every day 11:00-18:00 (last guided tour at 17:00)
  
  
• Jul 1–Aug 2: every day 10:00-17:00 (last guided tour 16:00)
  
  
• Aug 3–Aug 31: every day 11:00-18:00 (last guided tour 17:00)
  Tickets (2025):
  
  
• Adults: €14
  
  
• Students/seniors/groups: €9
  
  
• Children (7-17 years): €7
  
  
• Under 7 years: free
  How to get there: The castle Olavinlinna is in the town of Savonlinna (57130 Savonlinna, Finland) where from the west drive past Savonlinna Market Square follow signs to Linnankatu street and then to the castle where from the east you can drive via highway 14 to Tottinkatu street.
  Guided tours:
  
  
• Year-round tours available (about 1 hour) covering upper levels and towers only in guided tours.
  
  
• English tours: in June/July/Aug every day hourly; in May on Saturdays only.
  
  

Best Time to Visit Olavinlinna Castle and What to Expect

• Summer (June–August): The castle Olavinlinna is most lively then as opening hours are long and also the town is busy with the Savonlinna Opera Festival held right at the fortress.
  
  
• Shoulder seasons (May, September): Less crowded and still good opening hours.
  
  
• Winter/Off-season: Quieter and may have shorter access and fewer services.
  
  
• Tip: Take a guided tour so you can go up into the towers as you’ll miss the best parts if you skip the tour.
  
  
• Tip: Arrive early in summer to avoid crowds and get good views.
  
  

Hidden Gems & Fun Facts About Olavinlinna Castle

• The castle Olavinlinna celebrates its 550th anniversary in 2025 with special events year-round.
  
  
• The fortress has been inspiration for popular culture: for example as it served as the model for Kropow Castle in the The Adventures of Tintin comic King Ottokar’s Sceptre.
  
  
• The site is extremely strategic: built on an islet so attackers would have a hard time reaching it.
  
  
• Even though it is ancient but accessibility is considered as parts of the permanent exhibition are accessible for wheelchair users.
  
  

Why You Should Visit Olavinlinna Castle

• Because you’ll be walking into living history as you’ll touch walls that defended borders centuries ago.
  
  
• Because the setting is unique as a stone fortress on an island in a lake-rich landscape.
  
  
• Because it’s not just a relic: the castle Olavinlinna hosts events, tours and exhibitions so it has life.
  
  
• Because you’ll walk away with memories of one of Finland’s most iconic places.
  
  

Olavinlinna Castle FAQ

Final Word on Visiting Olavinlinna Castle

Olavinlinna Castle is more than just a fortress as it’s a living piece of Finland’s soul which stands tall for over 500 years Olavinlinna Castle tells stories of battles, kings and timeless beauty surrounded by Lake Saimaa’s calm waters. When you walk through its stone halls, climb its towers and look out over the lake you’ll understand why Olavinlinna Castle is one of Finland’s proudest landmarks as every corner feels like a scene from a storybook so if you plan your journey through Finland tour packages make sure this breathtaking site is on your list as a visit to Olavinlinna Castle will leave you with memories of history, nature and magic that stay with you long after you leave.