Ancient city-seaport Kotka (in translation from Finnish – “an eagle”) was founded in 1878 ashore the Gulf of Finland at the place of Swedish city Rochensalm.
Kotka - the ideal place for the lovers of the sea
Kotka is the center of maritime navigation, trade and forest industry as well as the perfect place for lovers of the sea.
This city of parks and fortifications is located near the Russian border. So it attracts tourists with its history and opportunities to relax close to nature: on the beach “Mansikkalahti”, on the rapids of the river Kemijoki, on the islands of national park “Itajnen-Suomenlahti” and other not less attractive places.
Sights in Kotka
You’ll be able to walk along the islands of the archipelago near the city, to enjoy nature and to see above-ground fortifications “Kyuminlinna”, which are in the form of a star.
Such monuments of marine fortifications as the ruins of round fortress at the fort Slava on the island Kukouri, the remnants of the fort Elizabeth on the island Varissaari, the remnants of the sunken frigate “St. Nicholas” and the monument in honor of the battle in the Ruotsinsalmi Strait are of particular interest.
There is an interesting museum-icebreaker “Tarmo”, which was built in England in 1907. Local History Museum will acquaint with the 120-year history of Kotka.
Kotka also deserves attention due to the beautiful cathedrals, which are harmoniously entered with their architecture in the surrounding nature. One of the oldest in Finland Orthodox Church of St. Nicholas, which was built in 1795 in the Empire style by James Perrin’s project, and the main Lutheran church of the city (1897) in the Gothic Revival style by Josef Stenbeck are worth seeing.
Tarja Carell’s Puppet Theatre “Katinkonti” with the fabulous house for over 400 dolls will please with nice performances.
Tourists will enjoy their rest under the shady canopy of maples in Sibelius Park in the city center.
The neighborhood of Langikoski rapids, where is the main attraction of the city – Emperor’s House - is protected area. This house was designed by Finnish architect M. Shirbek and it’s notable for the constraction innovation of that time - the toilet in the room. There is his majesty’s fishing hut, which is kept in its original form. It will bring to your attention the atmosphere, household items and other artifacts from the royal life.
There is unique water park “Sapokka” in Kotka - an oasis in the heart of the city. Water, vegetation, rocks and light act in harmony as one in this water park.
Maritime Centre “Maretarium” will surprise its visitors with unique aquariums. The guides-divers will acquaint with the rich underwater world of the Baltic Sea as well as lakes and rivers in Finland.
Family holidays in the surroundings of Kotka
You’ll be able to swim in the pools of swimming complex “Katrina” or visit the entertaining park “Tykkimäki” in the surroundings of Kotka.
Shopping in Kotka
You’ll get the excellent opportunities for shopping in Kotka, which has lots of shopping centers and fashion stores: “PASAATI”, “Sitimarket”, “Euromarket”, “ANTILLA”, “Lastentarvike”, ‘Hemteks”, etc.