Tripwalk Mikkeli

Mikkeli is a small town in Eastern Finland, the capital of the Southern Savo region. Mikkeli is named after the patron of these places – St. Michael. The distance from Mikkeli to Helsinki is 228 km, to St. Petersburg – 304 km.

Mikkeli has an indoor mini-water park, a summer water park and two swimming pools. In the center there is a football field, where in winter there is a free skating rink. One of the city’s sporting attractions has recently been the Kampparit bandy team, which became the Finnish champion in 2012 and 2015.

The city is very cozy and definitely worth visiting.

Below I would like to present my personal top-5 attractions of the city that you must see on your first visit.

1. Mikkeli Cathedral

The cathedral was built in 1896-1897, in the neo-Gothic style, and the design was created by the outstanding Finnish architect Josef Stenbeck.

The building amazes with its grandeur and size. Tourists often come to the city to see with their own eyes the masterpiece of 19th century architecture.

2. Mannerheim’s Saloon Car

Marshal Mannerheim’s carriage is another one of the city’s main attractions. During the winter war, Mannerheim traveled over 79 thousand kilometers in this carriage.

You can come in and see the interior decoration only one day a year – June 4th. This day combines two holidays: Mannerheim’s birthday and Finnish Defense Forces Day.

3. Naisvuori Observation Tower

The observation deck is located at the highest point of the city and therefore offers a wonderful view of the entire city. It will take a little effort to get to the top, but it’s worth it.

4. Kalevankangas

The green forests of the nature reserve, the flowing rivers in the area and the beautiful Hanhilampi create a cohesive whole that is rarely found in the bustle of the city. The forests surrounding the area offer a well-maintained network of open trails for walking, running, skiing and biking.

5. Kenkavero

The wonderful, unique Kenkavero Rectory in Mikkeli is an unforgettable attraction, right on the banks of Lake Saimaa. The restaurant, shops, garden and events form a unique entertainment ecosystem available all year round.

Of course, these are not all the sights of the city, but these are some of those that resonated in my heart and, perhaps, will find it in yours.