Things to Do in Imatra – Rapids & the Vuoksi River

Imatra is a town in South Karelia on the Vuoksi river, famous for the Imatrankoski rapids show. The town combines industrial history, river nature and a border-region atmosphere close to Lake Saimaa.

The Imatrankoski dam, the banks of the Vuoksi and the historic State Hotel are the town's best-known sights. Imatra offers activities for families and outdoor lovers.

Use the map to discover the best things to do in Imatra.

Top activities in Imatra

Here are the most popular activities in Imatra. Click any place to see it on the map.

  1. 1. Koskentori Marketplace
  2. 2. Imatrankoski Rapids & Dam Show
  3. 3. Imatran Valtionhotelli
  4. 4. Imatra Urban Stream
  5. 5. Kruununpuisto Park
  6. 6. Imatra Art Museum
  7. 7. Saimaa Geopark Visitor Centre, Imatra
  8. 8. Ukonniemi Playground
  9. 9. Ukonniemi DiscGolfPark (disc golf course)
  10. 10. Imatra First Snow Ski Track

Attractions and the rapids

The Imatrankoski rapids show is the town's most famous attraction. What to see in Imatra? The Imatrankoski rapids show, the historic State Hotel and the banks of the Vuoksi.

Nature and outdoors

The banks of the Vuoksi, Kruununpuisto – Finland's oldest nature reserve – and riverside routes offer recreation in the heart of town.

Family activities in Imatra

The Ukonniemi sports area, beaches and playgrounds offer plenty for families. Filter by "Family-friendly" in Neardo.

Winter activities in Imatra

In winter the Imatrankoski rapids shows run less often, but the dry riverbed and the Crown Park scenery are striking under snow. City ski tracks, outdoor rinks and the swimming hall cover everyday exercise, and the spa is a popular winter destination for families.

What to do in Imatra in winter? Walk in the Crown Park, ski and skate, and visit the spa or swimming hall.

Summer activities in Imatra

In summer the Imatrankoski rapids show is the town's best-known attraction. The shores of Saimaa, paddling, fishing and boating are close by, and the Crown Park trails suit a short nature walk.

What to do in Imatra in summer? Watch the rapids show, walk in the Crown Park, swim in Saimaa and try paddling or fishing.

Imatra and the Saimaa area

Imatra sits at the southern end of Saimaa near the eastern border, about a 40-minute drive from Lappeenranta. The train from Helsinki takes roughly 2.5 hours.

When is the Imatra rapids show held? Shows run mainly daily during the summer season; check the city's schedule before visiting.

The whole region

Content updated

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Imatra?
Imatra offers a wide range of activities – outdoor adventures, nature spots, museums, sports venues and family-friendly places. Neardo shows the best options on the map so you can quickly find something that suits you.
What free activities are there in Imatra?
Free activities in Imatra are often found in parks, beaches, nature trails and public sports areas. They are a great option for short day trips and visitors who want things to do without booking or entrance fees.
What to do in Imatra with kids?
Imatra offers family-friendly activities both indoors and outdoors. Playgrounds, swimming halls, museums and easy nature spots are popular choices. Use the "Family-friendly" filter in Neardo to see suitable places on the map.
What to do in Imatra when it rains?
On rainy days, head to indoor venues in Imatra: museums, swimming halls, bowling alleys, cafés and indoor playgrounds are good options. Filter by "Indoor" in Neardo to find them quickly.
When is the best time to visit Imatra for activities?
Imatra is worth visiting year-round – summer brings beaches and nature trails, winter offers ice skating, sledding and indoor activities. Neardo highlights the best spots seasonally on the map.