From Saimaa to Russia

Lappeenranta and Imatra region is located very close to Russian border. While visiting Lappeenranta and Imatra region it's very convinient to use the opportunity and spend a few days in Vyborg or St. Petersburg in Russia.

Vyborg is a town, where one can come across the medieval fairy-tale: the memories of the historical past and the perspectives of the present.In this town you can admire the only medieval castle in Russia, walk along the romantic Monrepos Park and visit the historical Viking village of Svargas.

St. Petersburg is a magnificant metropolis just about 200 km away from Lappeenranta and Imatra region. In the city with population almost equal to whole Finland, the posibilities are infinite. Here one can enjoy endless shopping possibilities, neverending nightlife, tastiest local and foreighn cuisines and astonishing architectural sites. In addition to all that St. Petersburg is well-known as the cultural capital of Russia, with world-famous Hermitage museum, breathtaking Mariinsky Theatre, best balley, art and classical music performances.

How to get there

There are many ways to travel to Russia, ranging from a comfortable train ride in Allegro train with restaurant, to a bumpy quad-bike safari on karelian roads. Some of them require visa, others don't.

Visa-free cruises to Russia

Jump aboard of M/S Carelia in Harbor of Lappeenranta and enjoy a cruise along the historical Saimaa Canal to Vyborg, or continue to St. Petersburg. Once on board, you'll witness amazing scenery while enjoying your food and beverages. Cruises are visa-free for nationals of all countries! The only catch is that you need a multiple-entry visa to Finland.

Find out more about cruise schedules and options

By train

Vainikkala railway station is located 20 km from Lappeenranta. Here you can board a fast and comfortable Allegro train that takes you to Vyborg in 20 minutes and St. Petersburg in 1,5h. There are several trains every day. Those wishing to travel to the heart of Mother Russia, namely to Moscow, should board a Tolstoy train leaving every evening from Vainikkala and arriving to Moscow next morning. An overnight train is very convenient; especially if you believe the saying "Moscow never sleeps". Tickets can be easily purchased in VR online shop or alternatively by using VR mobile application.

More information about Vainikkala railway station

By bus

There's a bus connection from Lappeenranta to Vyborg. This is very convenient for a day trip to the historical town, whether it's sightseeing or shopping trip. Those preferring to take their time and appreciate Vyborg before continuing to the megapolis of St. Petersburg, will also find bus connection the most efficient way of traveling. There are also several transportation companies arranging bus trips to Russia for groups.

Check timetables and book a ticket online

With your own or rental car

If the journey is more important than destination, consider going to Russia with your own or rental car. Before crossing the border with a car, please read the border crossing instructions.

Through Saimaa Canal

Saimaa Canal welcomes captains to explore waters of Saimaa on their own vessels. The total length of the Canal is 43 km, of which 23 km lies on the Finnish side of the border and the rest 20 km in the section leased from Russia. The Saimaa Canal connects Vyborg and Lappeenranta. The water levels of Lake Saimaa are 76 meters higher than the Gulf of Finland and its offset by eight locks. The canal connects to various areas in Finland as well as to several countries in Europe.

All necessary rules of navigation, vessel size limitations, information about locks and contact information of Saimaa Canal authorities can be found in English on Finnish Transport Agency website.

The building of the Canal began in 1845 and it was opened for traffic on 7 September 1856.

More facts and history about Saimaa Canal and Saimaa Canal Museum

Quad-bike safaris to Russia

If museums, shopping and other city life are not what you're looking for in Russia, consider departing on a bumpy adventure on a quad-bike through Russian forest roads with a few friends!

Find out more about Saimaa Adventures safaris