Eastern Finland is a place where nature’s quiet strength meets authentic local culture. Its expansive lakes, forests, and charming towns offer plenty of unique experiences that go beyond the typical tourist trail. We love the Puumala: Lake Saimaa Seal Watching Cruise because it offers a rare glimpse of the elusive Saimaa seals — the only freshwater seals in the world. Plus, cruising on an electric eco-boat adds an eco-friendly touch to your adventure. The Best of Kuopio: Private Walking Tour with a Local is perfect if you want a personalized way to explore the city’s neighborhoods and learn about local life, away from tourist-heavy spots. And for those interested in arts, design, and sustainability, the Kuopio: Vegetarian Lunch with Local Power Couple provides a memorable chance to connect with local entrepreneurs over delicious vegetarian cuisine.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through each of these top tours, sharing what makes them special and helping you pick the right one based on your interests and schedule.
1. Puumala: Lake Saimaa Seal Watching Cruise
At number one on our list is the Puumala: Lake Saimaa Seal Watching Cruise – an experience not to be missed if you want to see one of Europe’s rarest seals. For around $91 per person, you’ll join a professional guide on a comfortable electric eco-boat for a 3-hour trip across Lake Saimaa. The primary goal? Spotting the endangered Saimaa seals, which are surprisingly shy and only found in this freshwater lake system. The cruise is designed to maximize your chances of seeing these elusive creatures, with knowledgeable guides sharing insights about their behavior and habitat.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on wildlife conservation and eco-friendly travel. The electric boat is quiet and emissions-free, letting you enjoy the peaceful lake without disturbing the animals. Many visitors mention how lucky they felt to see seals during sunset, making the experience even more memorable. With a rating of 4.7/5 from 12 reviews, it’s clear this cruise offers both a beautiful landscape experience and a rare wildlife encounter.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in wildlife, serene lake views, and eco-conscious travel, this cruise is a top pick. It’s suitable for nature lovers and those curious about Finland’s unique freshwater seals.
2. Best of Kuopio: Private Walking Tour with a Local
Number two on our list is the Best of Kuopio: Private Walking Tour with a Local. For 2 to 3 hours, a friendly local guide will take you through the city’s most interesting neighborhoods and hidden corners. This tour is customizable to your interests, whether you’re into architecture, local cafes, or learning about Kuopio’s traditional and modern culture.
What makes this walking tour stand out is its flexibility and personalized approach. You’ll visit spots that aren’t on the usual tourist map, and your guide will share insider tips and stories that bring the city to life. It’s a relaxed way to explore at your own pace, uncovering local favorites and seeing the city like a resident. The reviews are solid, with a 4.2/5 rating, and many visitors appreciate the engaging, tailored experience.
This tour is ideal if you want to walk through Kuopio’s streets, discover its vibe, and get tips for dining and shopping. It’s a good fit for travelers who like customized experiences and enjoy chatting with local guides.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who prefer a flexible and intimate introduction to Kuopio, especially if you enjoy discovering lesser-known spots and hearing personal stories.
3. Kuopio: Vegetarian Lunch with Local Power Couple
Closing out our list at number three is the Kuopio: Vegetarian Lunch with Local Power Couple. For about 2 hours, you’ll dine with a local artist and architect couple at a popular Kuopio restaurant <– see the details here]. This isn’t just a meal — it’s a chance to listen to inspiring stories about their work in art, design, and sustainability.
The experience is centered around authentic conversation and connection, giving you insights into the creative scene in Kuopio. You’ll also learn about eco-friendly design practices and the challenges entrepreneurs face in Finland’s creative industries. The vegetarian lunch is thoughtfully prepared, showcasing local ingredients and flavors. The tour lasts about 2 hours, during which you can ask questions and engage directly with the couple. With a 4.1/5 rating from reviews, it’s a well-regarded choice for those interested in art, sustainability, and local culture.
Bottom Line: If you’re keen on exploring Finland’s creative side while enjoying a delicious vegetarian meal, this tour offers a meaningful, personal experience perfect for art lovers and eco-conscious travelers.
How to Choose Between These Tours
When deciding which of these top tours in Eastern Finland is right for you, consider your interests, schedule, and budget. If wildlife and eco-travel are your passions, the seal watching cruise offers a unique chance to see rare seals in their natural habitat. For those who prefer exploring a city with a local, the Kuopio walking tour provides an intimate, tailored look at Kuopio’s neighborhoods. And if connecting over food and stories with local entrepreneurs appeals, the vegetarian lunch delivers an authentic taste of Kuopio’s creative scene.
Check availability ahead of time, as these tours tend to fill quickly, especially in peak seasons. All three experiences offer excellent value — whether it’s for the chance to see seals, explore like a local, or enjoy insightful conversations over a meal.
Final Thoughts
Eastern Finland offers a wonderful mix of nature, urban charm, and creativity. Our top choices highlight the best ways to experience this region authentically — from wildlife safaris on Lake Saimaa to discovering Kuopio’s hidden corners and meeting local artists. For travelers seeking adventure, culture, or a bit of both, these tours provide memorable ways to connect with Finland’s extraordinary landscape and people.
If any of these experiences catch your eye, remember to book early — Finnish summers are popular, and these tours fill up fast. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful wildlife encounter, a city stroll, or a meaningful chat over vegetarian food, Eastern Finland’s tours are well worth the effort.