Find the best South Karelia Hotels

Top reasons to visit South Karelia

• Stunning Natural Landscapes: South Karelia boasts breathtaking views of lakes and forests, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Rich Cultural Experiences: Explore local heritage through charming churches, historic forts, and vibrant town life.
• Scenic Lake Tours: Enjoy delightful boat trips on Saimaa Lake, renowned for its beauty and tranquillity.
• Unique Activities: Try paddle cars for a fun way to explore the picturesque surroundings.
• Comfortable Accommodations: A variety of lodging options cater to all preferences, ensuring a pleasant stay.

Find great hotels in South Karelia

Discover a variety of delightful accommodations in South Karelia, Finland, perfect for every type of traveller. Whether you seek a comfortable hotel or a charming guesthouse, you'll find options that cater to pet-friendly needs and business travel. Experience the region’s natural beauty with adventure vacation rentals and enjoy insightful hotel reviews to guide your stay. South Karelia promises a memorable getaway with welcoming hospitality and diverse lodging choices.

• Holiday Club Saimaan Rauha: This 4-star hotel, boasting a guest rating of 8.2, is perfect for families seeking a beach holiday experience. Located in South Karelia, it offers direct beach access and a range of amenities tailored for children, including a water park, mini-golf, and supervised childcare services. Guests appreciate the family-friendly atmosphere that encourages fun and relaxation, making it an excellent choice for a memorable family vacation.
• Imatran Kylpylä: With a guest rating of 8.4, this 4-star hotel is ideal for adventure seekers and families alike. Situated in South Karelia, it features a golf theme, inviting guests to engage in golfing experiences along with various adventure sports such as parasailing, hiking, and windsurfing available nearby. The hotel also caters to children with amenities like a shared playground and an arcade game room, creating a dynamic environment for all ages.
• Original Sokos Hotel Lappee: This eco-certified 4-star hotel, rated at 8.4, is perfect for eco-conscious travellers and pet owners. Located in South Karelia, it allows pets with specific restrictions and provides necessary amenities like food and water bowls. Guests appreciate the hotel's commitment to sustainability and its welcoming atmosphere, making it a standout option for those seeking a unique and responsible travel experience.

Where to stay in South Karelia

South Karelia offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures, rich culture, and historical charm. Explore the picturesque cities like Lappeenranta, with its stunning lakeside views and vibrant atmosphere, perfect for families and excursions. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the local heritage and natural beauty that Southern Karelia has to offer. With its welcoming environment, South Karelia is an ideal destination for a memorable vacation experience.

• Lappeenranta: Nestled in the heart of South Karelia, Lappeenranta is a charming city that offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities and historical exploration. The city experiences a steady influx of visitors, with peaks in February and the summer months of June to July. Enthusiasts seeking adventure will find ample opportunities for hiking and golfing, with scenic trails and well-maintained courses nearby. Lappeenranta is also home to significant landmarks, including an impressive historic fort and various monuments, making it a perfect spot for history buffs and outdoor lovers alike.
• Imatra: Located close to the Finnish-Russian border, Imatra is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and vibrant cultural scene. The city sees a surge in tourist numbers from June to August, attracting those interested in outdoor sports and cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy relaxing at the local resorts or exploring the nearby beaches and the fascinating monastery. Imatra's unique charm lies in its ability to blend recreational activities with cultural richness, making it a wonderful destination for families and solo travellers alike.
• Luumäki: A picturesque city in South Karelia, Luumäki is an ideal destination for families and adventure seekers. With visitor numbers peaking between May and July, this city offers a range of outdoor activities, including access to pristine lakes and recreational parks. The local campground provides an excellent base for those wishing to immerse themselves in nature. Moreover, Luumäki features historic sites and beautiful beaches, ensuring a fulfilling experience for anyone looking to explore the natural and historical treasures of the region.

Things to do in South Karelia

South Karelia offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences for tourists. Visitors can enjoy scenic lake tours, explore stunning natural attractions, and navigate nature trails. For a unique experience, try paddle cars, which provide a fun way to appreciate the region's stunning landscapes. Don't miss the chance to relax at a private country club, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Shopping

In South Karelia, visit the Lappeenranta Shopping Centre, where you'll find a mix of Finnish brands and local boutiques. Don't miss the Lappeenranta Market Square, offering charming stalls with handmade crafts and traditional Finnish souvenirs, perfect for unique gifts.

Recreation

In South Karelia, the Lappeenranta Spa offers rejuvenating wellness treatments with breathtaking lake views. Enjoy soothing saunas and thermal baths at the Imatra Spa, where relaxation meets nature, perfect for a tranquil escape.

Adventure

Experience the serene beauty of Saimaa Lake by kayaking or paddleboarding, where you can explore its tranquil waters and stunning shores. For a thrilling adventure, head to the Lappeenranta Adventure Park and tackle its high ropes and zip lines, perfect for adrenaline seekers.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in South Karelia at the lively Bar Hovi, where you can enjoy live music and cocktails. For a more relaxed vibe, visit the local pub, Rakuuna, for a pint of Finnish beer and friendly banter with locals.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for South Karelia

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in South Karelia are May, September and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February and June to July, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in South Karelia is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in South Karelia is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in South Karelia with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in South Karelia

South Karelia offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and historical exploration, making it an excellent choice for your Finnish holiday. You can visit charming churches, historic forts, and beautiful beaches while enjoying activities around Saimaa Lake and the Saimaa Canal. For a comfortable stay, consider local vacation rentals and immerse yourself in the rich history of Karelia as you discover the region's captivating attractions.

• Imatrankoski Rapids: Experience the breathtaking beauty of Imatrankoski Rapids, where the powerful flow of the Vuoksi River creates stunning scenery and an exhilarating outdoor atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and those seeking adventure.
• Lappeenranta Harbour: Enjoy the idyllic beach vibes at Lappeenranta Harbour, a picturesque location where you can relax by the water, take leisurely walks, or indulge in local cuisine at nearby cafés while soaking up the stunning views.
• Lappeenranta Fortress: Discover the rich cultural heritage at Lappeenranta Fortress, a historic fort that offers a glimpse into the area's past. Explore its charming surroundings and enjoy the unique blend of history and scenic landscapes.

The nearest major airports for your trip to South Karelia

South Karelia can be conveniently accessed via several airports. HELsinki Airport (HEL-Vantaa) is situated 193.1km away, with excellent hotel options like Hotel St. George Helsinki and Hotel Kamp, both 10 to 17.7km from the airport. Lappeenranta Airport (LPP), only 1.6km from South Karelia, offers nearby accommodation including the Original Sokos Hotel Lappee and Scandic Patria, both within a couple of miles. JOEnsuu Airport (JOE) is also 193.1km from South Karelia, with hotels such as Scandic Joensuu and Original Sokos Hotel Kimmel, both about 9.7km away. Each airport provides various transportation services to facilitate your journey.