How to get to Kitee

Kitee is a picturesque town in the North Karelia region, attracting tourists with its peaceful nature and the authentic atmosphere of Finland. If you are planning a trip and looking for information on how to reach Kitee, it will be useful to know about the various route options, including flights to nearby hubs, railway connections, and road trips. This land of lakes and forests is open to guests all year round, offering convenient logistics for travelers.

Since there is no airport within the town itself, the fastest way to reach the region is to use air connections to neighboring cities. The nearest airport receives flights in the city of Joensuu (JOE), which is located just 59 km from the destination.

An alternative option could be flying via the city of Savonlinna (SVL), located 70 km away, or through a larger transport hub — Kuopio (KUO), situated 155 km away. From these airports, travelers usually continue their journey by rental car or taxi, as the air hubs are well-connected to the road network.

Rail travel is one of the most comfortable ways to get to the region, as it has its own station. Trains regularly pass through the Kitee station on the Helsinki — Joensuu route, making it easy to arrive here from the capital or other major centers of Finland.

Modern Finnish trains ensure a high level of service and punctuality. If you are traveling from remote corners of the country, you can also consider transferring via junction stations in the cities of Savonlinna or Kuopio, from where it is convenient to continue the journey by ground transport.

Bus services connect the town with neighboring regions, offering an affordable travel option. The fastest and most popular route runs from the city of Joensuu: the bus covers the distance of about 76 km in approximately 1.3 hours.

Travelers also often choose trips from the city of Savonlinna; the 93 km journey will take around 1.8 hours. If you are departing from the city of Kuopio, be prepared for a longer journey: due to logistics, covering 216 km may take up to 12.4 hours.

Traveling by car allows you to enjoy the scenic views of the lake district and reach your destination with maximum comfort. The shortest route leads from the city of Joensuu: the distance of 67 km can be driven in just 0.8 hours.

The road from the city of Savonlinna (83 km) will take about 1.1 hours, and a trip from the city of Kuopio, spanning 202 km, will require approximately 2.4 hours. Renting a car often proves more economical than a taxi, especially if you plan to actively explore the surrounding areas.

Preparing for a trip to this cozy corner of North Karelia requires attention to detail to ensure your holiday is as comfortable as possible. Here are several practical tips that will help you plan your visit to Kitee.

1. Seasonal Clothing. The weather in Finland is changeable, so the principle of "layering" is your best friend. Even in summer, it is recommended to carry a windbreaker and waterproof shoes for walks in the forest.
2. Transport. Public transport in small towns may run infrequently. For complete freedom of movement and visiting natural attractions, it is better to rent a car or a bicycle.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, but a small amount of cash may be useful for minor purchases at markets or kiosks.
4. Health. The tap water here is of excellent quality and purity; it can be drunk without boiling. Pharmacies operate on a strict schedule, so it is better to bring necessary medicines with you.
5. Language. Locals speak Finnish, but in the tourism and service sectors, many speak English well. A few phrases in Finnish will be received with gratitude.
6. Etiquette. Finns value personal space, silence, and punctuality. Greetings are usually modest, and loud conversations in public places are not customary.
7. Everyman's Right. In the forests, the "Everyman's Right" (Jokamiehenoikeus) applies, allowing you to walk and pick berries, but it is important not to disturb the peace of private properties and not to litter.

Following these simple recommendations will help you feel at home and receive only positive emotions from your journey through this hospitable northern region.