The Finnish village of Vainikkala is less than a mile from the Russian border, and is the first stop on public transport for anyone arriving by train. Linked by rail between Finnish capital Helsinki and the Russian cities of Moscow and St Petersburg, car hire from Vainikkala Railway Station is recommended for anyone who wants to get out and explore Finland's beautiful South Karelia region once they arrive. The majestic Lake Saimaa and the city of Lappeenranta present tourists with a fine example of the country's striking contrast between thriving city and beautiful scenery.
Just half an hour's drive from Vainikkala is the city of Lappeenranta, which sits on Lake Saimaa. The city gets a lot of visitors from Russia during the warmer summer months, with great shopping and accommodation on offer. You'll benefit from hiring a car in Vainikkala if you wish to see more of the fine city and visit its historical sites of interest, including the grand fortress which looks over the harbour area and hosts museums and galleries. From the harbour you can book a cruise around Lake Saimaa and even visit Russia, visa permitting.
