Things To Do
in Mikkelin Maalaiskunta

Locally smoked lake or sea salmon, commonly served cold with rye bread or as part of a salad; available at markets and restaurants.

Must-Try!

Small lake fish, battered and fried whole—crispy and popular in summertime market stalls and lakeside kiosks.

Dense, sour rye bread that accompanies most meals; buy fresh loaves at Kauppahalli or local bakeries.

Hearty braises made from local game or beef, served with mashed potatoes and lingonberries in traditional restaurants.

Central outdoor market where producers sell berries, mushrooms, fish, cheeses and seasonal treats; summer stalls often serve fried muikku and sausages.

Indoor market hall with fishmongers, bakeries, deli counters and cafés—great for sampling local products and buying picnic supplies.

Tipping is not obligatory in Finland; good service is appreciated but bills are typically not supplemented with large tips—rounding up or leaving a small amount in restaurants is common but optional.

Card payments (debit/credit) and contactless mobile payments are widely accepted, often preferred; cash is used less frequently but small shops and rural vendors may still accept it—carry some euros just in case.

Long daylight hours and warm weather (often 15–25°C) make summer prime for boating, swimming, hiking and festivals; mosquitoes and midges can be plentiful—bring repellant.

Crisp air and vibrant autumn foliage (ruska) from late September into October; cooler temperatures and shorter days—ideal for photography and mushroom/berry foraging.

Cold, snowy conditions with temperatures often between -5°C and -20°C; frozen lakes enable ice fishing and cross-country skiing but require caution on ice thickness and winter driving preparedness.

Melting snow and returning migratory birds; muddy trails and fluctuating temperatures—wildflowers and budding forests make it atmospheric but some services may open later in season.

The majority are native Finnish speakers, often long-term residents involved in agriculture, forestry, services and small businesses.

Rural areas have a higher proportion of older adults and retirees who maintain cottage traditions and local culture.

Families living in villages or commuting to Mikkeli town for work and education form a stable local community.

There is a modest student presence and seasonal workers in tourism, hospitality and agriculture during summer months.

Ice hockey is hugely popular—Mikkeli’s club Jukurit competes nationally and local ice rinks are hubs for youth and adult play.

Local clubs such as Mikkelin Palloilijat (MP) are focal points for community sport during summer.

A national pastime in winter with many groomed trails in and around the region, enjoyed by all ages.

Given the extensive waterways, recreational rowing, paddling and boating are widely practised in summer.

Vegetarian options are commonly available in cafés and restaurants (salads, mushroom dishes, root vegetable stews), but many traditional dishes feature fish or meat—ask staff for vegetable or cheese-based alternatives.

Vegan choices are increasing in town cafés but can be limited in small rural eateries; pack snacks if heading into remote areas and ask restaurants to adapt dishes when possible.

Gluten-free bread and options are increasingly available at supermarkets and some bakeries; always mention 'gluteeniton' when ordering to avoid cross-contamination.

Many dairy-free milk alternatives are sold in stores; Finnish cuisine uses dairy frequently, so request lactose-free or plant-based options when dining out.