Joensuu Airport serves the main city of North Karelia, near the Russian border, about 11 km from the city center.
Joensuu is a university center and departure point for exploring the region of Karelian lakes and Koli National Park, with its celebrated panoramic views.
How to get to Joensuu Airport
By Car
By Train
By Bus
Average travel time to JOE
Parking near Joensuu Airport
The parking, not large, is just a few steps from the terminal.
The parking is not under direct surveillance, but rates remain reasonable.
How to get to Joensuu from JOE
By Train
By Bus
By Taxi
Need an airport transfer?
Compare taxis and shuttles on Booking.com
Car rental at Joensuu Airport
The major car rental companies have desks in the arrivals area, useful for reaching Koli National Park.
The required documents are driver's license, passport, and credit card.
Hotels near Joensuu Airport
Joensuu centre
Bus route JOJO 6 (Savo-Karjalan Linja), 15 minutes, about €5 cash only, running on weekdays but not on weekends or public holidays; taxi 15 minutes, about €20, with cars waiting at arrivals.
Best for: Any stay: it's the only area with a real hotel offering, 15 minutes by bus or taxi from the Liperi terminal.
- All the city's hotels, the Pielisjoki River and the covered market within walking distance
- Several hotels to choose from, from Sokos to cheaper options near the market
- On weekends, without the JOJO 6 bus, the only way to reach the airport is by taxi
- No properties near the terminal: anyone with a dawn flight has to arrange the transfer the evening before
Recommended hotels
- Original Sokos Hotel Kimmel Joensuu Right on the bank of the Pielisjoki River, with the railway and bus station directly opposite, across the street; 230 renovated rooms and a sauna for guests. View availability
- Original Sokos Hotel Vaakuna Joensuu In the heart of the city since 1943, next to the market and a few steps from the train and bus station; sauna for guests heated every evening. View availability
- Scandic Joensuu A 10-minute walk from the station, near the Joensuu Art Museum; sauna and gym included, among the hotels most praised for their central location. View availability
- GreenStar Hotel Joensuu A budget, eco-certified option a few metres from the Carelicum museum and the market, a 10-minute walk from the station; free bicycles for guests. View availability
Airport services
Shopping & Duty Free
Lounges & relaxation
Connectivity & Wi-Fi
Families & Children
Terminal guide
The terminal is small in size, consistent with its role as a regional hub for northern Karelia.
It's best to be at the airport with 1.5 hours of margin if traveling on flights.
Map of Joensuu Airport
Frequently asked questions
Q. What makes Koli National Park special?
The famous panoramic views over Lake Pielinen, among the most photographed and painted landscapes in Finnish artistic tradition, about an hour from the airport.
Q. Is Joensuu close to the Russian border?
Yes, it's the main city of Finnish North Karelia, not far from the border with Russia.
Q. Can you still cross the Russian border near Joensuu?
No, Finland has closed all land border crossings with Russia since December 2023 for security reasons and they remain closed: this is not currently a viable travel option.
Q. Is Joensuu a university city?
Yes, it hosts a major university campus and is a leading cultural center for the Karelia region.
Flight board
Real-time status of arriving and departing flights