Ultimate Kuopio Soccer Travel Guide

At Soccer Trippers, we’ve explored the world’s greatest stadiums, matchday cultures, and fan experiences. This soccer travel guide combines expert knowledge and local insights to help you plan the perfect football trip to Kuopio.

Why Kuopio is a top destination for football fans

KuPS (Kuopion Palloseura) is a historic Finnish club with a strong fanbase and recent success in the Veikkausliiga. With a blend of tradition and ambition, the club has become a consistent contender and a host of European qualifiers.

Combine that with Kuopio’s natural beauty, lakeside lifestyle, and welcoming community, and you get a football trip that’s both relaxed and meaningful.

Insider tip: KuPS night matches in the summer sun — known as “white nights” — offer a surreal and unforgettable stadium experience.

Must-visit football stadiums in Kuopio

Väre Areena (Savon Sanomat Areena) → Full Guide

Located near the city center and the lake, Väre Areena is a compact, well-maintained venue with around 5,000 seats. It’s the home ground for KuPS and often used for national team youth fixtures.

Pro-tip: Tickets are affordable and can be bought online or at the gate. Local fans are friendly and the atmosphere is intimate but lively.

Where to stay in Kuopio as a football fan

Accommodation in Kuopio is comfortable and conveniently located:

• Hotels near Väre Areena → See top picks
• Lakeside resorts and spas → Explore options
• Budget hostels and inns near the train station → View list
• Best neighborhoods for football fans → Neighborhood guide

Pro-tip: Stay near the harbor area (Satama) for beautiful views and a short walk to both the stadium and city center.

Best sports bars & places to watch football

Kuopio’s bar scene is casual but football-aware:

• Ale Pupi – Popular student bar with live sports and a local crowd.
• Amarillo Kuopio – Chain bar with large screens and match broadcasts.
• Olutravintola Malja – Craft beer spot that occasionally shows football.

See the full Kuopio Sports Bars Guide

Vibe check: Locals are low-key but knowledgeable football fans. Expect calm discussion over loud chants — unless it’s a derby.

How to get around in Kuopio?

Kuopio is compact and easy to explore:

• Walking: The best way to get around the city center and stadium.
• Buses: Operated by Vilkku, they cover the city and outer districts.
• Biking: Popular in summer and supported with good bike lanes.

Getting to the stadium:

• Väre Areena is about a 15–20 minute walk from the train station.

Kuopio Public Transport Guide

Pro-tip: Download the Vilkku app for schedules and mobile ticketing.

Other must-visit landmarks for football fans

• KuPS Fan Shop – Merchandise available on matchdays and online.
• Kuopio Market Square – A central meeting point for fans.
• Puijo Tower – Great view over the city and lake, perfect for pre- or post-match photos.

Where to eat:

• Ravintola Kummisetä – Classic Finnish fare near the center.
• Trattoria Sorrento – Italian food with big screens for matchdays.

Football Landmarks in Kuopio
Restaurants for Football Fans in Kuopio

Conclusion

Kuopio offers a football trip full of character, scenery, and Finnish hospitality. Whether you’re watching KuPS chase the title or enjoying lakeside downtime, the city makes for a rewarding and off-the-beaten-path football adventure.

Have you experienced football in Kuopio? Share your story and explore more guides to unique Nordic football destinations.

Discover more football destinations:

• Ultimate Helsinki Soccer Travel Guide
• Tampere Football City Guide