Overview
Music, art, and stories are essential parts of Kotka. This excursion offers a multifaceted cultural experience, during which we explore the city’s mural art, visit renowned graphic art, admire Kotka’s sculpture promenade, and delve into the soulful landscapes depicted in Junnu Vainio’s music. The journey also includes a glimpse into history as we visit Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge and explore Kotka Steam Brewery.
The excursion begins with murals. Murals catch the eye upon their appearance but gradually blend into the cityscape over time. Guided by our instructor, we discuss wall art, artists, and contemplate the symbolism and techniques employed in mural creation. After this guidance, you’ll view urban spaces with new perspectives. Optionally, the excursion may include visits to a few indoor public art installations, such as Tove Jansson’s mural in a school cafeteria and a visit to Savarte Art Gallery, specializing in Finnish graphic art. The gallery is located in an old fire station, where, by appointment, visitors can also explore artists’ studios.
For lunch, we’ll enjoy fish soup at Kuusinen Restaurant. After lunch, we’ll shift gears from art to music, immersing ourselves in the works of Junnu Vainio. We’ll visit sites featuring stones inscribed with Junnu’s lyrics and then proceed, either on foot or by bus, to the sailor’s tavern, Restaurant Kairo. At Kairo, we’ll receive a guided tour of the restaurant’s interior, taste local beer, and learn about the stories of the old port.
Suitable for
Friend groups and cousin gatherings
Culture excursion enthusiasts
City travelers
Artistic souls
Fans of Junnu Vainio and other music lovers
Suitable for both small and large groups. Guide available for groups of up to 25 people.
(For accommodation, maximum 49 people at Gasthaus Vanha-Merivartioasema)
Includes
Guided city tours
Exploration of Kotka’s murals
Lunch at Restaurant Kuusisen Kalamaja
Introduction to Kotka’s music scene past and present
Visit to Restaurant Kairo
Show & Dinner “Kotkan Ruusu and the Stories of the Harbor” at Bar Merikotka
Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge and Museum area
Optional Ferry trip from Katarina Seaside Park-Langinkoski-Katarina Seaside Park (possible only 24.6.-7.8.)
Lunch at Restaurant Keisarinsatama
1-night accommodation at Gasthaus Vanha-Merivartioasema
Group size
10-25 persons
Itinerary
Day 1
The day begins at Gasthaus Vanha-Merivartioasema. The Kotka region guides’ mural guide introduces the day’s program. Depending on the group’s preferences, the mural tour can be done on foot, by bicycle, or by bus. Along the route, there are seven artworks, six of which are on Kotkansaari and one in Katarina Seaside Park. The tour starts at Katarina Seaside Park.
The guidance is fun and interactive, providing both entertainment and informative experiences. Led by the guide, discussions revolve around wall art, artists, symbolism, and techniques. Kotka’s newest mural was painted to celebrate Kotka’s maritime days in 2021. Before that, the city received two artworks in 2018. The painting by English artist Helen Burin on Satamakatu addresses community and recycling, inspired by recycling and circular workshops. The painting, located on the wall of the Nelosteatteri building, depicts two women of different ages repairing items in the spirit of sustainable development. In parallel with Burin’s work, Ukrainian artist Waone Interesni-Kazkin created the mural “Spirit of Antique Book,” depicting a moment when the reader is completely immersed in their book. As part of the UPEA art festival, next to Kotka Concert Hall, Sam Bates, painting under the pseudonym Smug, created a piece that sparked much discussion and admiration. Locally known as “Man and Rat,” the artwork portrays a moment when the reader is completely absorbed in their book.
The mural tour concludes at Savarte Art Gallery or another indoor art space. After a brief summary, the guide leads the group to lunch at Kuusisen Fish Restaurant. During lunch, a guide knowledgeable about Kotka’s music scene, past and present, joins the group. After a few moments dedicated to Junnu Vainio, the group moves to the Sailor’s Pub Cairo, where they taste local beers and learn about Cairo’s history, including its famous 1970s wall paintings by the theater set designer Tauno Rantaruikka. Those interested can leave their initials on the legendary staircase wall.
After Cairo, there is some free time before the evening program. The story of Kotkan Ruusu (Rose of Kotka) with dinner awaits at the tiny bar of Hotel Merikotka. Kotkan Ruusu provides tips for further entertainment venues.
Day 2
Option 1 ) After breakfast, the group heads to the Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge on the banks of the River Kymijoki. The place is explored with a role-playing guide. After the tour, we’ll head to the Kotka Steam Brewery, where we’ll have lunch at the Keisarinsatama restaurant. The delicious lunch buffet will surely satisfy even the hungriest travelers.
Those who wish can enjoy some refreshing two-kilometer walk and head to the Steam Brewery on foot. The walking route runs along the river, past the allotment gardens, and across the Metsola boat harbor.
Option 2) Only possible 24.6.-7.8. After breakfast, the group will head to Katarina Seaside Park, where they will board a ferry to the Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge on the banks of the River Kymijoki. En route, they will disembark at the Steam Brewery to enjoy a delicious lunch buffet at the Keisarinsatama restaurant. Continuing their journey, the ferry will take them to Langinkoski, where a role-playing guide will share the rich history of the area. After the tour, the group will return by ferry to Katarina Seaside Park.
Services included in the package
Gasthaus Old Coast Guard Station
“Gasthaus Vanha-Merivartioasema” in Kotka’s Pookinmäki area offers accommodation for ordinary people in an extraordinary building where coast guards have worked, studied, eaten, lived, and carried out their daily routines. The place served as Kotka’s coast guard station for a remarkable 70 years. In addition to its history, the gasthaus fascinates those who love the beauty of nature, fresh air, and tranquility.
The location provides almost limitless opportunities to enjoy nature. A short walk takes you to the seafront, a swimming beach, and a guest marina. Guests have access to shared lounge and dining areas, a fully equipped communal kitchen, a sauna, and a barbecue area. There are also two different meeting rooms with all necessary equipment. Guest services include free parking.
Kuusinen kalamaja
In the Kuusinen fishing harbor in Kotka, there is a charming cafe-restaurant called Kalamaja. Opening in the spring of 2013, it brought a nostalgic atmosphere to the area. Kalamaja serves delicious salmon soup and fresh salmon sandwiches daily, which they are known for! The venue boasts a friendly atmosphere and professional service, making your visit even more enjoyable.
Restaurant Kairo
Restaurant Kairo is Kotka’s unique and historic event restaurant that captivates its guests with unforgettable moments of food, drink, and entertainment. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering an immersive dining experience.
Kairo’s reputation is based on its diverse entertainment offerings and history. Guests can enjoy various themed evenings, concerts, stand-up performances, and many other entertaining events. Additionally, it serves as the third stage for the Kotka City Theatre.
Kairo’s pub offers a wide selection of drinks, from delicious cocktails to quality wines and refreshing beers. Experienced bartenders are ready to recommend drinks for every taste and occasion.
Bar Merikotka
Bar Merikotka, which also serves as the evening reception for Hotel Merikotka, opens its doors to all visitors, offering an unforgettable harbor pub atmosphere. You are warmly welcome to enjoy our relaxed atmosphere!
We offer a wide selection of drinks, whether your preference is for a cold beer or a warm cocoa. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the moment at Bar Merikotka.
The Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge and Museum Area
In 1880, the future Emperor of Russia, Alexander III, visited the picturesque area of Langinkoski and was so enchanted by its beauty that he promised to return. A fishing lodge was then built for the imperial family, providing them with a retreat from the bustling court life of St. Petersburg where they could enjoy fishing, cooking, and each other’s company.
Today, the former Imperial Fishing Lodge and other historical buildings at Langinkoski create a charming museum area by the river. Surrounded by old-growth forest teeming with diverse plant species, the area features two cozy cafes inviting visitors to enjoy relaxing moments by the water.
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