This small Russian town on the Gulf of Finland has a medieval old town with narrow streets and wooden houses. Its hilltop castle overlooks the town and sea.
Vyborg, a small city near the Finnish border, has a unique blend of cultural influences. You can climb the medieval Vyborg Castle, stroll through the rocky landscapes of Monrepos Park on the Gulf of Finland, and taste local krendels, a traditional pretzel-like pastry. The city's streets are lined with buildings from different eras, including the 16th-century Round Tower and the early 20th-century Vyborg Library designed by Alvar Aalto.
Location and Overview
Vyborg is located on the Karelian Isthmus, about 130 km northwest of St. Petersburg and 38 km from the Finnish border. With around 80,000 residents, it's a relatively small city.
Vyborg Castle
Vyborg Castle, built by the Swedes in 1293, is a central landmark of the city. You can climb to the top of St. Olaf's Tower for views of the surrounding area or visit the castle museum to learn about its past. In summer, the castle grounds host medieval festivals and reenactments.
Old Town Architecture
As you walk the cobblestone streets of Vyborg's Old Town, you'll see buildings from various periods and styles. The 16th-century Round Tower now contains a restaurant. The early 20th-century Vyborg Library, designed by renowned Finnish architect Alvar Aalto, showcases functionalist design. Many structures display a mix of Nordic and Russian architectural elements.
Monrepos Park
Monrepos Park is located on the outskirts of town. This English landscape garden has rocky outcrops, winding paths, and neoclassical structures overlooking the Gulf of Finland. In autumn, the park's trees change color, creating a vibrant scenery.
Local Cuisine
Vyborg's krendel, a pretzel-like pastry, dates back to medieval times. For a full meal, you can try traditional Russian dishes at restaurants like Slavyanskaya Trapeza. The Round Tower restaurant offers dining with a medieval theme in a historic building.
Getting There
You can reach Vyborg by train from St. Petersburg's Finland Station. Elektrichka commuter trains make the journey in about 2 hours, while the high-speed Allegro train to Helsinki stops in Vyborg and takes just 1 hour from St. Petersburg. Buses also run this route, which are slightly cheaper but take longer.
History
Vyborg has changed hands multiple times between Sweden, Finland, and Russia over the centuries. This varied past has left its mark on the city's architecture, culture, and even cuisine, contributing to Vyborg's unique atmosphere.
