Olonets is a city in Republic of Karelia, Russia, capital of the Olonets Raion. It is one of the most ancient settlements in the North Russia and has the status of "historical city ". The earliest records of Olonets are dated by 1137. In 1649 it was granted the city status, with the construction of a fortress.

Olonets is the only city in the republic where Karelians are in majority (over 60% as of 2004).