Siilinjärvi Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide for Siilinjärvi, Finland, including a list of places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Siilinjärvi

Siilinjärvi is a small town located in North Savonia, in Finnish Lakeland, in Finland. Surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, this charming town is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful escape from city life.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take a closer look at the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Siilinjärvi.

List of Places to Visit in Siilinjärvi

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Siilinjärvi boasts a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can explore the town’s history and traditions at various museums and historical sites.

Siilinjärvi Heritage Museum

The Siilinjärvi Heritage Museum showcases the town’s rich cultural heritage, with exhibitions featuring traditional local crafts, agriculture, and everyday life. The museum’s permanent collection includes traditional costumes, photographs, and artifacts from the town’s past.

Järvisydän Arts & Crafts Centre

Located in Rantasalmi, just a short drive from Siilinjärvi, the Järvisydän Arts & Crafts Centre is a must-visit for art lovers. Visitors can admire local handicrafts, such as hand-carved wooden sculptures, pottery, and jewelry. The centre also hosts regular art exhibitions and workshops.

Natural Attractions of Siilinjärvi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Siilinjärvi is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes, including national parks, lakes, and forests. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to canoeing and fishing.

Siilinjärvi Lake

Siilinjärvi Lake is the town’s main attraction, offering visitors stunning views and endless water-based activities. The lake contains several islands and is a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and boating.

Hiking and Biking in Siilinjärvi

Siilinjärvi is home to several hiking and biking trails that offer visitors a chance to explore the town’s stunning natural beauty. Some of the most popular trails include the Siilinjärvi Wilderness Trail and the Vuorela Trail.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Siilinjärvi

Vuorela Trail

The Vuorela Trail is a beautiful hiking trail that winds through lush forests and offers stunning views of Siilinjärvi Lake. The trail is about 8 km long and is suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.

Siilinjärvi Wilderness Trail

The Siilinjärvi Wilderness Trail is a challenging 20 km hiking trail that takes visitors through rugged terrain and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Siilinjärvi: Activities and Tours

Siilinjärvi offers visitors a range of fun activities and tours to choose from. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply relaxing and soaking up the local atmosphere, there’s something for everyone in this charming town.

Siilinjärvi Canoeing Tour

One of the best ways to experience Siilinjärvi’s natural beauty is to take a canoeing tour. Visitors can rent canoes and explore the lake’s many islands at their own pace. Guided tours are also available for those who want to learn more about the area’s history and culture.

Siilinjärvi Craft Workshop

Visitors interested in traditional crafts can take part in a workshop at the Siilinjärvi Heritage Museum. Participants can learn how to make traditional Finnish crafts, such as weaving, pottery, and woodcarving.

Week-Long Itinerary for Siilinjärvi

Day 1: Visit the Siilinjärvi Heritage Museum and explore the town’s historic center.

Day 2: Hike the Vuorela Trail and enjoy breathtaking views of Siilinjärvi Lake.

Day 3: Go on a canoeing tour of Siilinjärvi Lake and explore the many islands.

Day 4: Visit the Järvisydän Arts & Crafts Centre and admire the beautiful local handicrafts.

Day 5: Explore the nearby town of Kuopio, known for its beautiful architecture and cultural attractions.

Day 6: Visit the Siilinjärvi Craft Workshop and learn how to make traditional Finnish crafts.

Day 7: Relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Siilinjärvi Lake.

Food and Drink Scene of Siilinjärvi

Must-Try Dishes

Siilinjärvi is known for its delicious local cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include:

Kalakukko

Kalakukko is a traditional Finnish dish made from fish and rye dough. The dish is baked in an oven and is often served with butter.

Karjalanpaisti

Karjalanpaisti is a hearty meat and vegetable stew that is slow-cooked in a pot.

Local Beverages

Visitors to Siilinjärvi can enjoy a range of local beverages, including:

Laitila

Hartwall’s

Laitila beer is a popular local brew that is made using traditional Finnish brewing methods.

Koskenkorva

Koskenkorva is a popular Finnish vodka that is made from pure barley and natural spring water.

Where to Stay in Siilinjärvi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Siilinjärvi offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels and cozy guesthouses. Some of the best places to stay in Siilinjärvi include:

Spahotel Casino

Located on the shores of Siilinjärvi Lake, Spahotel Casino is a luxurious hotel that offers stunning views and a range of spa treatments.

Hostel Hermanni

Hostel Hermanni is a budget-friendly hostel that offers comfortable accommodation and a friendly atmosphere.

Siilinpesä Guesthouse

Siilinpesä Guesthouse is a cozy guesthouse that offers comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast buffet.

What to Buy in Siilinjärvi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Siilinjärvi can bring home a range of unique souvenirs and local products, including:

Handicrafts

The town is known for its beautiful handicrafts, including hand-carved wooden sculptures, pottery, and jewelry.

Local Foods

Visitors can also bring home local treats, such as Finnish chocolate, smoked fish, and reindeer meat.

Local Culture and Customs of Siilinjärvi

Siilinjärvi has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors to the town can learn about local customs and traditions through events and festivals such as:

Siilinjärvi Fair

The Siilinjärvi Fair is held every June and features traditional local crafts, music, and food.

Finnish Independence Day

Finnish Independence Day is celebrated on December 6th and is a national holiday. Visitors can enjoy a range of events and celebrations throughout the town.

Best Time to Visit Siilinjärvi

The best time to visit Siilijärvi is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are at their best.

During winter, from December to February, visitors can enjoy winter sports such as cross-country skiing on the frozen lake.

Do’s and Don’ts of Siilinjärvi

Do:

  • Be respectful of local traditions and customs
  • Explore the town’s beautiful natural landscapes
  • Try local Finnish cuisine and beverages

Don’t:

  • litter
  • disturb the local wildlife
  • ignore the local dress code (particularly in religious places)

Safety and Health

Safety in Siilinjärvi

Siilinjärvi is a safe town, with low crime rates and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

Health in Siilijärvi

Visitors should ensure they have health insurance to cover any medical emergencies. It is recommended to get travel vaccinations before visiting and to take necessary precautions in the outdoors to avoid tick bites.

Getting to Siilinjärvi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Siilinjärvi

The nearest airport to Siilinjärvi is Kuopio Airport, located about 20 km away. International visitors can also fly to Helsinki Airport and then take a domestic flight to Kuopio Airport.

Bus Stations Near Siilinjärvi

There are regular bus services to Siilinjärvi from larger towns and cities in the region.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car to explore Siilinjärvi and the surrounding areas at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Siilinjärvi

Public transport is available for those without a car. Siilinjärvi also has bike rentals available for visitors.

Where to Go Next from Siilinjärvi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors to Siilinjärvi can also explore the surrounding areas, including:

Kuopio

Kuopio is a nearby university town known for its beautiful architecture and cultural attractions, such as the Kuopio Museum and the Puijo Tower.

Koli National Park

Koli National Park is a stunning natural area located about 100 km from Siilinjärvi. Visitors can hike in the park, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Conclusion

Siilinjärvi is a charming town in Finnish Lakeland that offers visitors a unique mix of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re interested in exploring the town’s museums and historical sites, hiking through stunning forests, or simply relaxing by the lake, Siilinjärvi has something for everyone.

The town center of Siilinjärvi The town center of Siilinjärvi Church of the Great Martyr Georgios Victorious in Siilinjärvi Church of the Great Martyr Georgios Victorious in Siilinjärvi Siilinjoki River Siilinjoki River