Founded in 1775, Kuopio is a thriving, modern city, where science and technology blend into the verdant natural beauty of the local environment. Surrounded by lake Kallavesi, much of Kuopio has been developed on islands. Indeed, one-third of Kuopio is water and half forest; the surrounding area possesses great natural beauty, rich in flora and fauna, making it an ideal travel destination for nature lovers and those seeking quiet relaxation without being too far from a thriving urban center.
Kuopio is also a hugely popular holiday destination for sports enthusiasts, with three highly recommended ski centers in Tahko, Kasurila, and Puijo for winter sports, as well as providing plenty of water-based alternatives in the summer, such as sailing, windsurfing, jet-skiing, and water-skiing.
Visit the town center where a vibrant open marketplace is surrounded by the best in modern shopping outlets and malls and features the delightful Kuopion Kauppahalli, or Market Hall, which has been providing the finest quality fresh produce since 1902, with 20 local stallholders displaying homemade bread, cheeses, and condiments, as well as fresh meat, fish, and vegetables, and teas, coffees, candies, and much more.
And when in Kuopio, be sure to try the local delicacy, Kalakukko, a Finnish fish pie, or any of the numerous vendace dishes which are a specialty of the region.