A relaxed port town on Finland's south coast with a large Russian community. Active harbor district, 1700s buildings, and gateway to coastal archipelagos.
Kotka, a coastal city 130km east of Helsinki, grew around water and maritime culture. Walk through stone formations at the award-winning Sapokka Water Garden, see Finnish fish up close at the Maretarium aquarium, or step aboard the historic Icebreaker Tarmo. The city spreads across several islands, with its center on Kotkansaari, making it an ideal base to experience Finnish coastal life.
Getting Around Kotka
Regular buses run throughout Kotka. You can pay for rides using the Waltti card or mobile app, which shows real-time routes and schedules. The city center is compact enough to explore on foot, with most parks and attractions within a five-kilometer walking route.
Maritime Centre Vellamo
Three museums share space in the Maritime Centre: the Maritime Museum of Finland, Museum of Kymenlaakso, and the Coast Guard Museum. Step aboard the Icebreaker Tarmo, built in 1907, making it the world's oldest preserved icebreaker ship. You'll also find the coast guard vessel Telkkä at the museum quay.
Parks and Gardens of Kotka
Water streams through rock formations at Sapokka Water Garden, with seasonal plants and lighting creating distinct seasonal spaces. The Katariina Seaside Park covers 20 hectares of former industrial land, now filled with walking paths and recreation areas. Walk along the waterfront to see the Sculpture Promenade, where new artworks appear almost every year.
Water Activities
You can fish for salmon at several spots along the Kymijoki River. Choose between rapid rafting, kayaking, or calm archipelago cruises from the harbor. At the Maretarium aquarium, watch more than 50 species of Finnish fish swim in 22 tanks that recreate the environments of Finland's lakes and rivers.
Traditional Food
Local dishes include Baltic herring prepared in various ways and salmon soup. Try "lanttujyrkkö" (turnip potatoes), "ryynipiirakka" (groat pie), or the local deep-fried pastries called "possos". Many restaurants in the city center serve these traditional dishes.
Langinkoski Imperial Lodge
Visit the former fishing retreat of Russian Emperor Alexander III along the Kymijoki River. The museum displays the original 19th-century furniture and belongings of the imperial family. Walk through the surrounding nature reserve's trails and arboretum, which stay open year-round.
