Varkaus

Caviar and the wonders of mechanical music
Renowned building planners, including Ivar and Valter Thomé, Karl Lindahl and Alvar Aalto, were responsible for the urban landscape of the city of Varkaus in the first half of the twentieth century. The city built around industry has a unique architecture. This rich cultural history is presented by the museums of Varkaus and the online exhibits of the museums and by a walking tour of Vanha Varkaus (Old Varkaus).

If you want to admire the lakeland scenery, there are tours on a ship or you can take a trip on a canoe. Fishing is possible in the middle of the city in Pirtinvirta waterway or in the extensive 3 000 hectare fishing area nearby. The Linnansaari and Kolovesi national parks nearby are paradises for boaters, and are also home to the famous Saimaa ringed seal. Watch the canal locks operating in the canal district of Taipale and learn stories about the construction of the canal in the Canal Museum.
Juuri sitä parasta

Kohokohtia

Mechanical Music Museum

Arts & Culture

The number one attraction of Varkaus is the unique Mechanical Music Museum. It is one of the best of its kind in Europe. The collection of instruments is unbelievable; music boxes, automatic pianos and orchestras, violins and accordions and hurdy gurdys from small table models to an enormous Amadeus. The grandest of all is the world’s largest orchestra, a 75-man Popper Goliath.

Canal Area of Taipale and Canal Museum

Wildlife & Nature

At the canal area of Taipale you can watch ships at the edge of the canal that is part of the deep channel of Saimaa. The height difference of the upper and lower side is about five metres, and it is interesting to watch the canal locks in action. At the same time you can learn about the 170-year-old canal built of stone and take the charming canal path that is guided with information boards. The centre point of the area is the Canal Museum.

Torni Terrace Café and observation deck

Landscapes & Sceneries

Torni Terrace Café is open during the summer on the top of the most visible landmark of Varkaus, the water tower. Customers are able to enjoy the gorgeous views on padded terrace deck chairs and sofas sitting and enjoying the service. Living plants create an ambiance and there are lounge chairs for soaking in the sun. The café offers blankets for colder days.