· RU

Kareliya

Kareliya, Russia

Journey to the Land of a Thousand Lakes: Kareliya Awaits Escape to the enchanting embrace of Kareliya, a land nestled in northwest Russia where pristine nature reigns supreme. Imagine a mosaic of emerald forests reflect…

#Kareliya#Russia#Northern Region#Forests#Lakes

1/5

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Kareliya.

Top Hotels in Kareliya

Top Flights to Kareliya

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Kareliya.

Tours

Explore Kizhi Island

Visit the historical and architectural complex on Kizhi Island, featuring traditional wooden architecture from the 18th century.

Petrozavodsk City Tour

Discover the capital of the Republic of Karelia with its scenic embankments and vibrant cultural scene.

Visit Kivach Waterfall

See one of the largest plain waterfalls in Europe, surrounded by dense forests.

Rausos Ruins Exploration

Explore the ruins in northern Karelia, remnants of ancient settlements offering a mysterious journey into history.

Outdoor

Hiking in Ruskeala Mountain Park

Experience breathtaking views as you hike through marble canyons and forests.

Valaam Archipelago Cruise

Take a cruise through the scenic Valaam Archipelago, famous for its monastery and pristine nature.

Snowmobiling in Karelia

Enjoy a thrilling snowmobile ride through the snowy landscapes of Karelia.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Kareliya.

Currency

₽ | RUB | Russian Ruble

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Kareliya, Russia is 0.6 million.

Languages

Russian, Karelian, Vepsian, Finnish

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Kareliya.

What people love

Karelia, located in northwestern Russia, offers a unique and picturesque destination for travelers. Here are some pros of traveling to Karelia:

Natural Beauty: Karelia is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, including vast forests, crystal-clear lakes, and rugged mountains. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and wildlife watching in the region's pristine wilderness.
Kizhi Island: One of the most famous attractions in Karelia is Kizhi Island, home to an open-air museum with historic wooden architecture, including the iconic Church of the Transfiguration. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Outdoor Activities: Karelia is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, kayaking, and rafting on its numerous lakes and rivers. In the winter, visitors can enjoy skiing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding in the snowy landscapes.
Cultural Heritage: Karelia has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from both Russian and Finnish traditions. Visitors can explore traditional villages, visit local craft workshops, and learn about the region's folklore and customs.
Local Cuisine: Karelian cuisine is known for its hearty and flavorful dishes, featuring fresh fish, wild game, berries, and mushrooms. Visitors can indulge in local specialties such as kalitki (pancakes), fish soup, and cranberry desserts.
Solovetsky Islands: Located off the coast of Karelia, the Solovetsky Islands are a historic archipelago with ancient monasteries, fortifications, and stunning natural scenery. The islands offer a unique glimpse into Russia's religious and military past.

Overall, traveling to Karelia offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities that can appeal to a wide range of travelers seeking a unique and off-the-beaten-path destination.

What to know

Traveling to Karelia, a region in northwestern Russia known for its beautiful natural landscapes, can be a rewarding experience, but there are several potential drawbacks to consider:

Weather Conditions: Karelia has a cold climate, with long, harsh winters and short, cool summers. If you are not accustomed to cold weather, this might be a challenge. The region is also known for its high humidity and significant rainfall, which can affect travel plans and outdoor activities.
Remote Location: Karelia is relatively remote and underdeveloped compared to more urban areas of Russia. This can mean longer travel times to reach your destination and limited transportation options within the region. It may also affect the availability of certain services and amenities.
Limited Infrastructure: The tourism infrastructure in Karelia is not as developed as in more popular destinations. Accommodation options might be limited, especially in rural areas, and the quality of services can vary. This can impact comfort and convenience during your stay.
Language Barrier: English is not widely spoken in Karelia, particularly outside of the main cities like Petrozavodsk. This can pose challenges in communication, especially in more remote areas. Basic knowledge of Russian or a translation app can be very helpful.
Connectivity Issues: Internet and mobile phone connectivity might be unreliable in more remote parts of Karelia. This can be inconvenient for travelers who need to stay connected for work or personal reasons.
Wildlife and Nature Risks: While the natural beauty of Karelia is one of its main attractions, it also comes with risks. Travelers should be aware of wildlife (such as bears), ticks in the forests, and the general challenges of wilderness travel.
Visa Requirements: For many nationalities, traveling to Russia requires obtaining a visa, which can be a time-consuming and sometimes complicated process. This is a factor to consider when planning your trip.
Cultural Differences: Travelers should be prepared for cultural differences, including local customs and social norms, which may be different from what they are used to. Understanding and respecting these differences can enhance the travel experience.

Overall, while Karelia offers stunning natural landscapes and unique cultural experiences, travelers should be prepared for these potential challenges to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Kareliya, or Karelia, is a region that spans the border between Russia and Finland. It is known for its rich history and cultural significance. Below is a detailed history of the region:

Ancient and Medieval History

Early Inhabitants: The area now known as Karelia has been inhabited since the Stone Age. The indigenous people are primarily Finno-Ugric tribes, including the Karelians, who have a close cultural connection to the Finns.
Medieval Period: During the Middle Ages, Karelia was a contested region between Novgorod, Sweden, and later, the Grand Duchy of Moscow. The region was strategic for trade routes and access to the Baltic Sea.

Russian and Swedish Conflicts

Treaty of Nöteborg (1323): The first treaty between Sweden and Novgorod, which defined their spheres of influence in Karelia.
16th-17th Centuries: Karelia was a battleground during the Russo-Swedish Wars. The Treaty of Stolbovo (1617) resulted in parts of Karelia being ceded to Sweden.
Great Northern War (1700-1721): After the war, the Treaty of Nystad returned eastern Karelia to Russia.

20th Century

Finnish Independence (1917): Following Finland's independence from Russia, Karelia became a focal point for conflicts between Soviet Russia and Finland.
Winter War (1939-1940) and Continuation War (1941-1944): Finland and the Soviet Union fought over Karelia. Portions of Finnish Karelia were ceded to the Soviet Union as a result of these conflicts.
Post-War Period: The Soviet Union incorporated parts of Karelia into the Karelo-Finnish SSR, which was later downgraded to the Karelian ASSR within the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic in 1956.

Modern Era

1991-present: After the dissolution of the Soviet Union, Karelia became a republic within the Russian Federation. It has since focused on developing its economy and preserving its cultural heritage.

Significant Figures

Elias Lönnrot: A Finnish physician and philologist who compiled the "Kalevala," an epic poem based on Karelian and Finnish folklore and mythology.
Gustaf Mannerheim: A Finnish military leader who played a significant role in Finnish history and had operations in the Karelia region during the wars with the Soviet Union.

Important Landmarks

Kizhi Pogost: A UNESCO World Heritage Site located on Kizhi Island, known for its wooden churches and historical architecture.
Valaam Monastery: An important spiritual center located on the Valaam Archipelago in Lake Ladoga.
Ruskeala Mountain Park: Known for its marble canyon and beautiful natural scenery.
Petrozavodsk: The capital city of the Republic of Karelia, featuring various cultural and historical sites.

Karelia is a region rich in history and culture, with a complex past influenced by both Russian and Finnish narratives. Its unique position has made it a significant area for both nations, contributing to its diverse heritage and historical importance.