Savonlinna secures partnership with Zonista GmbH for winter tourism boost in Finland

Savonlinna, a city in Finland, is set to boost its winter tourism for 2026 by negotiating a preliminary agreement with the German travel operator Zonista GmbH for direct charter flights. Traditionally, Savonlinna’s tourist season peaks during the summer months, and city officials are eager to position it as a gateway to Eastern Finland for international visitors.

Direct flights from Frankfurt to Savonlinna were already organized for the summer of 2024, with plans to increase the number of flights from four to five. The upcoming winter tourism for 2026 is being prepared this winter, with Zonista offering holidays through Helsinki to the Saimaa region, accessible via train, bus, or plane.

Additionally, Savonlinna’s tourism board is collaborating with the Dutch company Voigt Travel, which has already brought 13 charter flights from Rotterdam this year, a partnership that will continue. Zonista’s CEO, Alfred Becker, notes that German residents are seeking snow and space during their winter holidays, highlighting a desire for tranquility and outdoor activities. Becker mentioned that many customers prefer cozy cabin stays in peaceful environments surrounded by winter scenery.

According to city mayor Janne Laine, approximately 16,000 German tourists stayed in the Savonlinna area last year, more than doubling over the past decade. The city has also upgraded its airport technology to mitigate issues with GPS interference from Russia, which affected flights earlier this year. The increase in air traffic is crucial for a city of Savonlinna’s size, especially for local businesses involved in international trade.