Things To Do
in Mikkeli
Mikkeli is a lakeside town in Southern Savonia, Finland, known for its Saimaa waterfront and relaxed pace. It blends historic architecture with modern galleries and green spaces, all set around Finland's largest lake system. The city serves as a gateway to Saimaa's nature, offering easy access to boat trips, forests, and scenic promenades.
In every season, Mikkeli shows a different face — tranquil in winter, vibrant in summer, and colorful in autumn.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Mikkeli and check into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll around the city center to familiarize yourself with the surroundings. Savor a traditional Finnish breakfast in one of the local cafes.
Visit the Mikkeli Military Museum to learn about the region's military history. Continue your exploration at the beautiful Mikkeli Cathedral and the nearby park. Engage with locals and learn about their way of life in this charming town.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling dishes made from fresh, seasonal ingredients. As nighttime falls, explore the vibrant nightlife options, with a range of bars and music venues to choose from. End your evening with a relaxing walk by the waterfront.
Head out for a morning trip to Lake Saimaa, the largest lake in Finland. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride that allows you to take in the stunning landscapes and spot local wildlife. Don't forget your camera, as the scenery here is breathtaking.
Enjoy a lakeside picnic with local delicacies while soaking in the natural beauty. Afterward, engage in recreational activities like kayaking or hiking along one of the many scenic trails. Explore the surrounding nature with its diverse flora and fauna.
Return to Mikkeli and indulge in a hearty dinner at an atmospheric lakeside restaurant. Try some freshly caught fish from Lake Saimaa, accompanied by traditional Finnish sides. Spend the evening listening to live music at a local venue.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-100 |
| 🚆Public transit monthly pass | $40-60 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (one night) | $90-150 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning lakeside scenery and easy access to nature
- Compact city center with walkable streets and charming heritage sites
- High-quality public services and safe environment
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to major cities
- Limited real-time public transport options late at night in some areas
- Some attractions and services may have seasonal hours
- "Hei" - Hello
- "Kiitos" - Thank you
- "Ole hyvä" - You're welcome
- "Missä on…?" - Where is…?
- "Puhutko englantia?" - Do you speak English?
- "Paljonko tämä maksaa?" - How much does this cost?
- "Voitte suositella hyvää ravintolaa?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
- "Anteeksi" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
Places to Visit in Mikkeli
Visit one of these nice places.
A short hike up Naisvuori Hill rewards you with panoramic views over Mikkeli and Lake Saimaa, especially dramatic at sunrise or sunset.
Impressive brick architecture perched on a hillside; great for wide shots of the town and surrounding greenery.
Colorful, historic wooden buildings along the river provide charming photo opportunities, especially in golden hour light.
Lively waterfront square with market stalls, boats, and day-to-day life; ideal for candid street photography.
Modern gallery exterior and a quiet courtyard space that pairs well with urban photography and architectural shots.
Waterfront paths and small harbors along Lake Saimaa offer serene lakeside photography, especially at dawn.
Food in Mikkeli
Mikkeli Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional fish pie baked in a rye crust, often filled with perch or other freshwater fish; common at local bakeries and cafés.
Must-Try!
Creamy salmon soup with potatoes and dill; widely available in restaurants and cozy cafés.
Cured salmon slices with dill and rye bread, a common starter or light lunch option in many eateries.
Dense rye bread, a staple served with cheese, butter, or soups; widely available at markets and bakeries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls selling berries, mushrooms, fresh fish, pastries, and local specialties; great for a quick bite or a picnic by the water.
Indoor market space with fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and ready-to-eat Finnish snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Finns value quiet behavior in public spaces and punctuality. Give advance notice for meetings and avoid loud talking in public areas.
Maintain personal space in queues and public transport; greetings are typically a firm handshake and eye contact.
In many homes, it is customary to remove shoes when entering; guests may be offered house slippers.
Waitstaff appreciate modest tips if service is good; when dining, thank you (kiitos) and a nod to the server are common.
Safety
Tipping in Mikkeli
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Finland, and service charges are usually included. Rounding up or leaving a small tip for exceptional service is appreciated but not expected.
Cash is accepted but most places prefer card payments. Contactless and mobile payments (e.g., Apple Pay/Google Pay) are widely supported at shops, restaurants, and public transport.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with lingering winter chill early on. Gentle greenery emerges, and markets reopen fully. Pack layers and be prepared for intermittent rain.
Warm days and long evenings with plenty of outdoor events, lake activities, and vibrant greenery. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water on day trips.
Fiery foliage around late September to October; cooler temperatures and crisp air. Perfect for scenic walks and photography by the lakes.
Cold, snowy, and quiet with opportunities for ice skating, cross-country skiing, and cozy indoor venues. Dress warmly with layers, a good coat, hat, gloves, and waterproof footwear.
Mikkeli at Night
Hiking in Mikkeli
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short, scenic ascent to a city viewpoint with forested sections and rewarding lake views.
Accessible forest trails near the Visulahti area offering peaceful nature immersion.
Several easy-to-moderate loops along the lake’s edge, ideal for day hikes and sunset photography.
Airports
How to reach Mikkeli by plane.
Small regional airport within roughly 1.5–2 hours by car or bus from Mikkeli; useful for regional flights and connections.
Larger regional airport about 100–120 minutes from Mikkeli by car, with more flight options, including international routes.
Finland’s main international hub, roughly 2.5–3 hours by train or car from Mikkeli; offers the broadest range of international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A family-friendly town with parks, playgrounds, and calm neighborhoods.
A portion of the population is connected to nearby education centers and local business.
The Saimaa region attracts visitors year-round, boosting seasonal employment and activity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular winter sport across Finland, with local leagues and public skating options.
Extensive forested areas around Mikkeli offer well-groomed trails in winter.
Saimaa’s extensive waterways support water sports during the summer.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mikkeli.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian options such as mushroom dishes, rye breads with toppings, salads, and vegetable-based mains. When ordering fish is avoided, look for mushroom or plant-based dishes; many cafés can adapt soups and pastas to be meat-free.