Your tourism business companion in the easternmost part of Finland
VisitKarelia is a DMO organization in North Karelia, Lakeland Finland. Your customers deserve only the best and we are here to help you succeed. We will offer you tailored tips and get you in contact with local tourism operators to create unforgettable experiences together.
Here we are!
North Karelia is located in the Lakeland Finland. Our region is easy to reach via Finland’s capital Helsinki. Read more about the most convenient ways of reaching our destination.
How to do business with us?
Whether you are searching for the best attractions, pre-planned routes or hidden highlights, our Account Managers are ready to help you! Don’t hesitate to contact us. Also, local DMCs, guides, coach services and several service providers are waiting for you.
Accommodation in North Karelia
Would you like to stay in city center in a hotel or do you prefer traditional Finnish cottage life in the middle of nature? In North Karelia we have a versatile selection of accommodations – cottages, guest houses, holiday centers, camping areas, hotels and many other options! Find your favorite and enjoy your stay in North Karelia.
Top Attractions In North Karelia
Koli National Park
The Finnish national landscape that opens from the oldest bedrock of Europe, Koli hills is of course something that everyone should experience at least once in a lifetime.
Ruunaa Wilderness Area
For nature lovers our four national parks, Ruunaa wilderness area and other nature attractions offer great trails for day-hikes.
Valamo Monastery
The peaceful atmosphere of Valamo Monastery gives a relaxing break in the middle of Orthodox religious traditions.
Bomba Karelian Village
Karelian culture and architecture can be experienced by the lake Pielinen. Bomba Karelian Village is a holiday village of logbuilt houses decorated in traditional style with carvings and ornamental paintings. Bomba area offers a broad range of activities such as a spa, nature activities and events both in summer and winter.
Parppeinvaara Rune Singer’s Village
For culture enthusiasts, Parppeinvaara Rune Singer’s Village in Ilomantsi is an attractive museum area with a great variety of other local specialties such as traditional Karelian food and local wines.
Sculptor Eva Ryynänen’s artishome and Paateri Church
Sculptor Eva Ryynänen is known especially for her numerous wooden sculptures and Paateri church in Vuonisjärvi, Lieksa. The museum is open in summertime.
Cottage Holidays by the lake
In North Karelia you may spend a relaxing holiday in a traditional holiday house located by a lake. A great opportunity to live like a local and try for instance Finnish sauna.
The Artisan’s Quarter Taitokortteli
Taitokortteli is a unique tourist attraction in Joensuu city center. The old wooden houses hide inside small shops, a café and various craft services.
Möhkö Village in Ilomantsi
In Möhkö locates an old ironworks from 1800s, which is nowadays a museum with exhibition. There are also accommodation, a summer cafe and Petkeljärvi National Park nearby.
Travel responsibly
Choosing sustainable accommodation when traveling is one of the best ways to travel responsibly. Sustainability certification and eco-labels are granted to venues which meet sustainability criteria and minimize the negative effects of their operations – both natural & cultural – and is beneficial to the area in which it takes place. It is the balance between environment, economy & ethics, supporting the present needs of the tourists and the future of the region.
Stories of Sustainability
In the North Karelia region there are several companies that are certified as sustainable. These forerunners told their story behind the sustainable actions and the articles are gathered behind the following link.
Media and materials
Media representatives and social media influencers are warmly welcome to our area. We will help you to find the best spots for making attractive content. In the meantime, check out our videos from the region and read articles from other journalists, bloggers and social media influencers to get inspiration.
Contact us!
Local DMCs
In North Karelia we have two local DMCs which are specialised to arrange experiences both for groups and individuals. Also in addition, four other DMCs are operating all over Finland including North Karelia.