The Ultimate Student Guide to Kouvola

Vol.28, Issue 12, 05 December 2025 

When you arrive in Kouvola for a semester abroad, you might expect a quiet town. But step outside the city center, and you quickly discover endless forests, breathtaking lakes, and cool spots to chill after class. Kouvola may be small, but it surprises anyone willing to explore it.

One of the first things you should do here is head into the forest. No matter the season, the trails surrounding the city are gorgeous. You’ll easily spot squirrels, plenty of birds, and sometimes even a deer crossing the path as if it owned the place. Whether it’s for a run after lectures or a walk with friends, exploring the forest is a must and quickly becomes part of your routine.

Not far from the center, the ski station at Mielakka is another unmissable spot. Hike up to the top and you’ll get a stunning view over Kouvola, especially at sunset when the whole sky turns orange. In any season, you can grill some food there, enjoy the slopes, or walk back down through the surrounding forest filled with wild blueberries and BMX trails. Perfect for a spontaneous afternoon that ends as a chill evening.

Another essential spot is the lake Käyrälampi. Here, the water and the sky often blend together, creating a super calming atmosphere. The bravest go for a swim, while others relax on the shore, sunbathe, or play volleyball. There are also outdoor workout stations for those who want to squeeze in some exercise. And of course, the forest around the lake makes the whole place even more beautiful.

Here are some pictures of the ski station, Lake Käyrälampi, and a thrilling ice hockey match.

For sports fans, catching a Kouvola ice hockey match is a must. The local team, KooKoo, plays at the Lumon Arena, and the atmosphere is electric, especially during high-stakes games. It’s a perfect way to experience Finnish culture, meet locals, and bond with friends over cheering, snacks, and the sheer excitement of the rink. Whether you’re a hardcore fan or just curious, a game night is a highlight of the semester.

For student nights out, the must-visit is Las Palmas: big spaces, themed parties, an international vibe on Fridays, and a very Finnish crowd on Saturdays. It’s the perfect place to soak in local culture. For a more relaxed atmosphere, Bar Q is ideal: board games, billiards, and the best karaoke in town to break the ice during the first weeks of Erasmus.

Food-wise, the Finnish fast-food classic Hesburger is great for quick meals, while Pizza Bravo serves the best pizzas in town. For study sessions or a sweet break, head to Espresso House Veturi, and for surprisingly good sushi, try the selection at K-Market Veturi.

For shopping, the New Yorker Veturi is the go-to spot for cheap and useful basics, while H&M Veturi remains a solid classic. All of this is located inside the Veturi Shopping Centre, the biggest mall in the region. And when you need inexpensive snacks, beauty products, or those random items you can’t find anywhere else, Normal is the lifesaver.

Kouvola may not be the biggest Finnish city, but for students, it’s full of surprises. You come for one semester… and stay for the memories.