15 tips for finding things to do in Heinola
Discover the best attractions and activities in Heinola! Heinola's bird sanctuary, green nature trails and museums offer interesting experiences.
City articles
12.12.2024
Heinola, the green gem of Southern Finland, offers a variety of experiences for locals and tourists alike. The city is known for its beautiful nature, historical sites and varied activities. Heinola's bird sanctuary, the peaceful Rantapuisto park and interesting museums are just a few examples of what the city has to offer.
Nature lovers will find Heinola the perfect environment for relaxation and active pursuits. Hiking trails, canoeing routes and the crystal clear waters of Lake Sweden invite you to explore the beautiful scenery. The city's charming parks and lush green walking trails also offer peace and recreation amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
For those interested in culture, Heinola offers plenty to see and do. The city's museums, historic buildings and lively events calendar ensure that there is something for everyone. Heinola seamlessly combines nature, history and culture, offering experiences that will stay with you for a long time.
Discover with us the best destinations in Heinola!
Heinola's museums offer an interesting insight into the history and culture of the city. The Heinola City Museum presents a wide range of local cultural heritage.
At the museum you can visit the "Made in Heinola" exhibition, which highlights objects made in the town or used by locals. You will see artefacts ranging from the first inhabitants of the area to the Apulanta band.
The City Museum also has temporary exhibitions that highlight different themes. For example, you can learn about the history of tea or admire atmospheric tea table pictures from different eras.
The Heinola Art Museum, on the other hand, offers art experiences. Here you can enjoy both permanent and temporary exhibitions, showcasing a wide variety of works by different artists.
Museums are free of charge for children under 18. Other visitors are charged a fee. The museums are open from Tuesday to Sunday, so you can easily include a visit to a museum in your visit to Heinola.
Heinola has a lively and diverse cultural life. The city hosts events throughout the year, and especially during the summer there are many performances and cultural and artistic events. Summer theatre performances are popular, and the city's cultural operators and events office work together to offer a varied programme.
For more information on events and exhibitions, see the city's events calendar, where you can find information on current events. Heinola's cultural offerings provide experiences and entertainment for a wide range of visitors.
Heinola's main church is an important cultural site in the city centre. The building was completed in the early 19th century and its octagonal floor plan makes it architecturally interesting. During the summer season, the church is often used as a roadside church, which usually allows visitors to visit the interior.
The peaceful atmosphere of the church offers a respite from the rhythm of the city and a chance to discover the local cultural heritage. It is advisable to find out in advance when to visit, as there may be events taking place in the church which will affect your visit.
The Swedish lake provides an excellent setting for canoeing in Heinola. The clear water lake attracts both beginners and more experienced paddlers to enjoy the peace and quiet of nature.
You can rent a canoe or kayak from local rental shops. Many accommodations also offer equipment for use by their guests.
There are several landing places on the lake shores where you can take a break and enjoy a snack. There are different lengths of paddling routes, so you can choose the length of your trip to suit you.
Canoeing is a great way to explore the beautiful nature of Heinola. On the lake you can watch waterfowl and enjoy the scenery. In summer you can also stop for a swim in the refreshing water.
Remember to bring a lifejacket and check the weather forecast before the trip. Respect nature and other people on the water during the trip.
Heinola's nature trails offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature and fresh outdoor air. There are around 130 kilometres of outdoor trails and nature paths in the city, offering a variety of hiking experiences.
One popular destination is the Myllylammi nature trail. On this trail you can explore the diverse forest habitat and enjoy the beautiful lake scenery. The Rautvuori nature trail is another excellent option, offering a more challenging route and rewarding visitors with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
If you're looking for a more varied experience, the Lus Nature Trail offers a number of different trail options of varying lengths. In winter, the illuminated lower part of the trail acts as a ski pass, allowing you to ski safely even in the dark.
Remember to bring suitable footwear and enough water. You can buy outdoor maps from the cultural office, library or swimming pool to help you plan your routes.
Heinola's nature trails offer a chance to relax, enjoy the fresh air and experience the calming effect of nature. They are ideal for beginners and more experienced hikers alike.
Heinola Golf offers you a great opportunity to enjoy golf in a beautiful environment. The course is located just a few kilometres from the centre of Heinola, making it easily accessible.
The 18-hole course offers challenges for beginners and more experienced players alike. Green fairways and well-maintained greens create ideal playing conditions. At Heinola Golf you can improve your skills in the practice area before your round. There is a range, putting green and short game practice area.
At the clubhouse you will find a pro shop where you can buy the equipment you need. You can also hire clubs and golf carts if necessary. After your round, you can relax in the clubhouse restaurant and enjoy refreshments on the terrace. You can also enjoy a tasty meal in the restaurant during or after your game.
Heinola Golf regularly organises competitions and events in which you can participate. This is a great way to meet other golf enthusiasts and improve your skills.
The Vierumäki area offers excellent opportunities for cycling. The area offers a variety of routes for both off-road and gravel cycling, so you can choose the level of challenge that suits you.
The Vierumäki Deer Trail is a popular mountain biking route that passes through beautiful pine forests and offers varied terrain. Along the route, you will see pink-glowing heather in summer. If you're looking for a longer route, the Kalamata loop is a good option. This almost 10-kilometre route takes you through the forest to the Kalaton pond, where you can take a break at a cosy campsite.
There are no marked gravel cycling routes in Vierumäki, but you can plan your own route using the local cycling guide. Recommended destinations are Heinola, Vuolenkoski and Nastola.
While you're cycling, you can take a break at local cafés. During the summer, popular stops include Heinola's Cafe Kailas, Vuolenkoski Rantamesta and Immilä's Myllykahvila. If you don't have your own bike, you can hire one from the Vierumäki Nature Sports Centre, which offers bikes for beginners and more experienced cyclists alike.
Satulinna Park offers a charming destination for a relaxing walk in Heinola. This idyllic park area is located in the heart of the city and is easily accessible.
In the park you can admire the beautiful plantings and manicured lawns. In summer, the floral display is particularly spectacular, and the park's colour scheme changes with the seasons. Satulinna Park is an ideal place for a picnic. Bring a picnic lunch and a blanket and enjoy a peaceful moment in the lap of nature.
Satulinna Park is also a popular photographic location. Bring your camera and capture the most beautiful views and details of the park. The park is open all year round and offers a variety of experiences in every season. In winter, you can admire the snow-covered landscapes, while in autumn the colours of the crimson create their own atmosphere.
Vierumäki Sports Academy is a versatile sports, education and training centre in Heinola. It offers an excellent framework for a wide range of sportsmen and women, and you can choose from a range of services according to your own interests. The location, surrounded by ridges and lakes, offers excellent opportunities for outdoor activities and nature walks.
The Sports Academy offers a wide range of sports facilities, including a swimming pool, ice rink and sports fields. It is also possible to book guided lessons or sports equipment. Wellness services such as massages are also available. Vierumäki is located on a major road, making it easily accessible by various means of transport.
Heinola's waterways are ideal for canoeing. While paddling, you can enjoy the peace of nature and beautiful lake and river scenery. Water routes connect the Päijänne and Kymijoki rivers, offering a wide range of options for route planning.
You can rent a canoe from local rental shops. Before setting off, it is a good idea to make sure you are equipped with safety equipment, such as life jackets. For beginners, we recommend quiet lake routes, while more experienced paddlers can choose more challenging river sections. Respecting nature and the environment will make your canoe trip a pleasant experience.
The Heinola Aviary is a popular tourist attraction, offering a unique opportunity to see wild birds. The aviary attracts up to 120 000 visitors a year, which is a testament to its popularity.
During the visit, you can see different species of birds up close. Injured birds are treated at the sanctuary, some of which are returned to the wild and some of which stay in the sanctuary permanently.
The aviary is a great destination for all ages. It is particularly popular with nursery and school groups, offering children a unique opportunity to explore nature.
While visiting the aviary, you can also explore other attractions in Heinola. There is plenty to do and see for visitors of all ages.
Heinola Beach Park offers a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Here you can enjoy the beauty of nature and relax from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The park's most famous attraction is the legendary Tsar's Poppet. This historic tree has even survived the flood of 1901, which took all the other trees with it.
The beach park is an ideal place for a picnic. You can spread a blanket on the grass and enjoy a picnic in the shade of the trees. The park also has nice walking paths where you can take a relaxing stroll and admire the scenery of the Kymijoki River. There are benches along the way where you can rest and enjoy the surroundings.
For more relaxation, the Kumpeli Spa Hotel is located near the park. There you can pamper yourself with spa treatments at the end of the day.
In the centre of Heinola there are small speciality shops and boutiques where you can buy local handicrafts and unique products. The market is a lively meeting place where you can buy fresh ingredients and local delicacies.
The city also offers basic services for grocery shopping, and the main shopping chains are located just outside the centre. Handicraft shops sell gifts and souvenirs that reflect Heinola's history and culture. Before you go shopping, it can be useful to check opening hours, as some shops may be closed on certain days.
Heinola city centre offers a charming shopping experience in small boutiques. The centre has a lively market life and a wide variety of shops where you can make bargains.
On the shopping street you can explore the local speciality shops. Here you will find unique products and creations by local artisans. You'll get personalised service and the chance to support local entrepreneurs while you shop in the boutiques.
Heinola market is a central place for shopping. Here you will find local delicacies, handicrafts and seasonal products. It's also a great place to get a feel of the city and meet the locals.
Heinola Tourist Information is located at Kauppakatu 4. There you can ask for more information about shops in the city centre and get tips on the best places to shop.
Remember that many small boutiques may be closed on Sundays. Check opening hours in advance to ensure a successful shopping experience in the charming centre of Heinola.
The city has numerous restaurants offering a variety of tasty delights. One popular destination is the Lähiruokatori Heila, where you will find a wide range of Finnish delicacies such as jams, cheeses and bakery products.
You can also enjoy a varied choice of lunch options at Haila. For example, you can choose from delicious salmon soup and fried mussels made from high-quality, domestic ingredients. If you want to support local producers, Heila is a good choice. It sells many products from small producers, such as handicrafts and gift items.
In Heinola's restaurants you can taste local specialities and enjoy high-quality meals. The city's varied food offerings ensure that there is something for every taste bud.
