Welcome to Mikkeli - your local guide

Warmly Welcoming

Welcome to Mikkeli, the heart of Lake Saimaa!

Our city seamlessly blends modern vitality with pristine nature. Enjoy a smooth everyday life, friendly locals, and a peaceful atmosphere. We are delighted to have you here!

Warmly welcoming you to Mikkeli!

Home to 50,000 residents, Mikkeli is a Finnish city tucked away in the heart of our stunning lake district. We are closer than you might think—just a two-hour drive or train journey from Helsinki.

As locals, we genuinely enjoy meeting new people. There’s a bit of an “open-door” spirit here; we tend to look for possibilities where others see obstacles. We’d love the chance to show you around because, honestly, there is so much to see. Mikkeli is a place where you can still dream big, but it’s also a place where “normal life” just works—it’s calm, it’s manageable, and it’s easy to navigate.

Our city teams work hard across the board to keep things running smoothly. Whether it’s keeping our environment clean, making sure the streets are safe, or building lively spaces for recreation, we invest heavily in making Mikkeli a place where you can thrive. We want you to feel settled from day one, whether you’re arriving on your own or moving here with your whole family.

Life moves at a slightly more relaxed pace here, and we do our best to make daily living feel effortless. Your wellbeing isn’t just a buzzword to us; it’s the core of what we do. By working closely with local partners, we’re constantly opening new opportunities for everyone, from kids to seniors. We truly hope you find your feet here and discover that Mikkeli is a place you can call home.

Janne Kinnunen Mayor of Mikkeli

Four seasons in Mikkeli

The annual cycle in Mikkeli is clearly defined by four seasons. The coldest months are January and February, and the warmest are June, July and August.

A snowy winter usually begins in Mikkeli in November or December and ends in March. However, sometimes winter can be mild with little snow due to rain and fluctuating temperatures. Spring begins in April, and deciduous trees start to green after the beginning of May.

In summer, Mikkeli usually experiences several periods of hot days. The Finnish summer is known for its bright nights. Daylight lasts longest in June. Summer weather begins to cool down after August.

In heart of Saimaa

Lake Saimaa is the largest lake in Finland, and the fourth largest in Europe. It spreads accross Eastern Finland in small, crooked straits and larger open water areas. It’s unique shape makes for a fascinating landscape of rocky islands and hills. It is also the home of the Ringed Saimaa Seal, an endangered species of freshwater seal that doesn’t appear anywhere else.

Saimaa UNESCO Global Geopark

A Geopark is a coherent geographical area containing geological sites of international importance. Geoparks tell the story of the planet through the geology, wildlife, landscapes, and cultural heritage of their area. More information: saimaageopark.fi

Multilingual Mikkeli

Finland has two official languages: Finnish and Swedish. Mikkeli’s administration and services language is only Finnish, as the city has few Swedish-speaking residents.

In Finland, primary school students start learning their first foreign language, English, early. Most people have a good command of English and understand it well. English can be used for everyday matters, such as shopping, library visits, health services, housing and transport, and official issues. Many recreational activities in Mikkeli are also available in English.

In Finland, the influence of English-language culture is strongly present in media, art, and entertainment. English-language TV series or films are not dubbed but subtitled, with some exceptions, such as children’s films. So, you can confidently go to our cinemas to watch Hollywood films: Tom Cruise speaks English, not Finnish!

The most significant linguistic minorities in Mikkeli are immigrants, refugees, or asylum seekers who speak Russian, Estonian, Thai, Ukrainian, or Arabic as their mother tongue. Their integration includes studying Finnish, which enables better employment opportunities and integration into our society.

Easy transport

Mikkeli is a compact city by design. Whether you are heading to work, a hobby, or out into nature, you’ll find that everything is within reach.

Short distances mean that your daily routine stays stress-free, regardless of whether you go by car, bus, bike, or foot. Best of all? You can say goodbye to traffic jams.

Cycling is a way of life here, with many locals riding year-round. Since the city centre is so walkable, many people choose to simply go on foot. For longer trips, our local bus network frequently serves the centre and surrounding neighbourhoods. You can track routes and buy tickets easily using the Waltti app.

If you are heading further afield, the long-distance bus station is conveniently located right next to the railway station. There are several direct trains to Helsinki every day, and buses run frequently between Mikkeli and the capital region.

Local buses

Mikkeli’s bus network primarily serves the city centre and surrounding areas. For real-time schedules and routes in English, download the Waltti public transport app. waltti.fi/en

Regional & national connections: Train tickets: VR offers online and station ticket purchases. vr.fi/en

Long-distance bus tickets: Matkahuolto and OnniBus provide bus travel options. matkahuolto.fi/en onnibus.com

Taxi services: Let’s Go Taksi Mikkeli: +358 600 30 055 02 Taksi: +358 20230 Menevä: +358 800 02120

meneva.fi/en/service-areas/ southern-savonia/mikkeli

Renting an apartment in Mikkeli

Real estate agents operate in Mikkeli and serve their clients in English.

If you are an international newcomer and you want to find housing in Mikkeli, the following real estate agencies are happy help you to find suitable rental homes. They also sell apartments and houses. Feel free to contact them!

Aitoasunnot / Palhomaa Oy

mirkka.muhonen@aitoasunnot.fi / +358 44 237 6038 aitoasunnot.fi/mikkeli-in-english

Kiinteistömaailma Mikkeli / Asuntoporras Oy

mikkeli@kiinteistomaailma.fi / +358 44 054 0028 kiinteistomaailma.fi/in-english Jalon Oy jussi.myllymaki@jalon.fi / +358 45 225 9050 jalon.fi/en

Asenne LKV leevi@asennelkv.fi / +358 44 979 3586

OP Koti Itä-Suomi opkoti.mikkeli@op.fi / +358 10 258 8545

AK-asunnot LKV info@ak-asunnot.fi / +358 40 775 1385

The city’s rental housing company Mikalo Oy also serves international clients.

Mikalo Oy

tero.tuhkanen@mikalo.fi / +358 15 321 3573 mikalo.fi/en

Rental homes can be also found at vuokraovi.com.

Early childhood education

In Finland, early childhood education is intended for children under the age of six. Mikkeli has over 20 municipal daycare centres and more than 10 private daycare centres.

Bilingual early childhood education in Mikkeli is offered by Päiväkoti Enkku, where the languages of instruction are Finnish and English. The centre is a private daycare run by the Mikkeli Finland-America Association. The City of Mikkeli cooperates closely with the daycare centre.

Päiväkoti Enkku

Päämajankatu 18, 50100 Mikkelii paivakotienkku.fi/in-english

For more information, please contact:

Taina Halinen, head of early childhood education

+358 44 794 2373

taina.halinen@sivistys.mikkeli.fi

Basic education

In Finland, basic education (comprehensive school) lasts for nine years. It is divided into a six-year lower school (primary school) and a three-year upper school (lower secondary school).

Pre-primary education, which lasts one year, precedes the first grade of basic education. In Finland, children start the first grade at around the age of seven. Some schools cover both lower and upper school grades; these are called comprehensive schools (yhtenäiskoulu).

There are 14 basic education schools in Mikkeli: seven lower schools, one upper school, and six comprehensive schools. Bilingual education in Mikkeli is offered by Rantakylä Comprehensive School, located approximately five kilometres from the city centre, near excellent outdoor recreation opportunities.

At Rantakylä, the school’s mission is to build a learning pathway that supports the principle of lifelong learning. The teaching is grounded in the current curriculum and is implemented in close cooperation with families and the surrounding community. Bilingual education is provided from Year 1 onwards in both Finnish and English.

In Mikkeli, as in Finland in general, most schoolchildren travel to school independently by bus, on foot, or by bicycle.

Rantakylä Comprehensive School

Vanhamäentie 2, 50600 Mikkeli mikkeli.fi/rantakylaschool

For more information, please contact:

Seija Manninen, director of education +358 44 794 3010

seija.manninen@sivistys.mikkeli.fi

General upper secondary education

Mikkeli offers high-quality general upper secondary education (lukio) that provides a strong foundation for higher education and future careers.

The city’s leading provider, Mikkelin lukio, is a modern and forward-looking school located in the city centre.

Studies in upper secondary school typically last for three to four years and culminate in the Finnish Matriculation Examination. This qualification is widely respected and provides eligibility for university studies both in Finland and abroad.

At Mikkelin lukio, the primary language of instruction is Finnish. For young people moving to Mikkeli permanently, this presents an excellent opportunity to immerse themselves in the local language and culture, thereby supporting their full integration into Finnish society. The school offers a supportive and encouraging environment that enables all students to achieve their academic goals.

In addition to the youth education at Mikkelin lukio, Otavan Opisto offers flexible options, including an upper secondary school for adults and an online high school, catering to diverse life situations and educational needs.

For more information, please contact:

Marja Ukkonen, principal of Mikkelin lukio +358 44 794 2774 marja.ukkonen@sivistys.mikkeli.fi

Vocational education

The local vocational education and training provider in Mikkeli, Esedu, offers a range of long-term and short-term courses in English. All students are also provided with basic Finnish language skills. For more information, do not hesitate to contact us. You are warmly welcome to develop your skills.

Marika Auvinen, communications manager

marika.auvinen@esedu.fi

+358 44 711 5511

esedu.fi/en

Mikkeli University Consortium

The Mikkeli University Consortium is a network comprising units from three Finnish universities operating in Mikkeli: Aalto University, the University of Helsinki, and LUT University. These universities conduct research and development activities and offer education in specific fields. The Consortium welcomes staff from other universities to join the Mikkeli University community.

More information

Matti Malinen, secretary general

matti.malinen@muc.fi

+358 50 496 8981 muc.fi

Mikkeli

City founded in 1838

With

South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences

Study and learn

South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences, Xamk, is a modern and innovative university of applied sciences with campuses in Mikkeli, Kouvola, Savonlinna, and Kotka.

We offer degree programs, flexible study options, and lifelong learning opportunities designed to support career growth and integration into Finnish society. Our approach combines theoretical and practical learning with strong connections to working life.

In addition to degree programs, Xamk offers flexible solutions for lifelong learning through Xamk Pulse. Individuals can upskill or explore new fields with online courses and study modules, while companies can develop their workforce with tailored training. We also provide Finnish language and culture courses and preparatory programs to support smooth integration for international professionals.

Xamk works closely with businesses and organizations through research, development, and innovation (RDI) projects as well as a wide range of other partnerships. Companies benefit from access to skilled talent, tailored training solutions, and opportunities to co-create new innovations. Collaboration can include customized continuing education, joint projects, internships, and applied research that supports business growth and competitiveness.

Degree Programs in English

You can study in English at Xamk both on campus and online.The following English-taught bachelor’s degree programs are available at the Mikkeli campus:

• Bachelor of Engineering, Information Technology

• Bachelor of Engineering, Water Technology and Sustainability

• Bachelor of Health Care, Nursing (Top up)

• Bachelor of Hospitality Management, Tourism and Hospitality Business

Online:

• Bachelor of Culture and Arts, Game Art

• Bachelor of Culture and Arts, Game Design

Master’s Degree Programs

Xamk offers flexible master’s programs for professionals who want to deepen their expertise while working. Admission requires a suitable higher education degree and at least two years of relevant work experience. Fields include business, technology, health care, and design.

Open Studies and Lifelong Learning at Xamk Pulse

Xamk Pulse offers extensive opportunities for lifelong learning and professional development. You can choose from hundreds of courses and study modules, ranging from short, one-credit units to larger packages of 15–60 credits. Most courses are online and self-paced, allowing you to study anytime, anywhere. Topics cover business, technology, health care, creative industries, and Finnish language and culture to support integration. Whether you want to strengthen your expertise, gain new skills, or prepare for a degree program, Xamk Pulse provides flexible solutions for every stage of life. For companies and organizations, Xamk also offers tailored continuing education packages to meet specific workforce development needs.

Preparatory Education for Immigrants

Xamk also provides immigrant-oriented preparatory programs that help you strengthen language skills, understand Finnish society, and prepare for higher education studies. These programs are designed to make your transition smoother and open new opportunities. More information www.xamk.fi

Employment

Mikkeli Region Employment Services offers sustainable employment solutions.

You can access all employment services in your municipalities as a job seeker and employer in the Mikkeli region. Mikkeli organises employment services with Hirvensalmi, Juva, Kangasniemi, Mäntyharju, and Puumala.

More information at mikkeli.fi/employment

Local services for entrepreneurs

Mikkeli Development Miksei Ltd supports businesses whether they are starting up, securing funding, growing, or expanding internationally.

More information at mikseimikkeli.fi/en/

Entrepreneur networking

The Suomen Yrittäjät website offers you information, help and tips for the daily running of your business. As a member of Suomen Yrittäjät you are entitled to many services and benefits. The local branch is Etelä-Savon Yrittäjät.

More information at yrittajat.fi/en/

Diverse commercial offerings

Mikkeli’s city centre is compact but diverse. It has two shopping centres with specialty shops, restaurants, cafés, and pharmacies. The Graani area, east of the city centre, has two hypermarkets.

Beyond its supermarkets, Graani offers a range of specialty retail. Mikkeli further provides diverse hardware and furniture options. Postal and courier lockers are available at most large stores for convenient package pick-up.

In the summer, the city centre, especially Hallituskatu, a pedestrian street, is filled with restaurant terraces where you can enjoy summer days with good company, food, and drinks.

And don’t forget the fresh produce and local food from the famous market square!

Public social, health, and rescue services

The South Savo Wellbeing Services County Eloisa provides social, health, and rescue services for the entire population of South Savo. In addition to the City of Mikkeli, South Savo includes ten other towns and municipalities. In Mikkeli, Eloisa’s largest units are the central hospital and the fire station.

etelasavonha.fi/en/

Key Service Channels

General Emergency Number 112

Call 24/7 in emergencies, such as seizures, traffic accidents, fires, or other life-threatening or safety-threatening situations.

Emergency Assistance 116 117

Call 24/7 for acute health problems when you need healthcare assistance on the same day. Please call Emergency Assistance before arriving independently at the central hospital’s emergency department.

Health Advice +358 15 211 411

Call on weekdays from 8:00 to 15:00 for health problems or appointment needs. A trained nurse will answer at Health Advice and assess your treatment needs.

Oral Healthcare +358 15 194 4410

Weekdays from 7:30 to 15:00 for dental appointment booking. Weekends and public holidays from 9:00 to 10:00 for emergency dental care.

Social Emergency Services +358 44 794 2394

Call 24/7 in social crises, such as the death of a loved one, domestic violence, becoming a victim of an accident or crime, or other severe crises.

Veterinary services

In addition to municipal veterinary services, private veterinary clinics operate in Mikkeli. Municipal veterinary services are on call seven days a week, around the clock. The on-call service is intended for urgent cases requiring immediate treatment.

More information about public veterinary services can be found at mikkeli.fi/en/services/ veterinary-services/

Move like Mikkeli!

In Mikkeli, nature is present everywhere. And for us Finns, nature often means recreational opportunities.

Forest trails invite hiking, running, or mountain biking. Road cycling is also possible on minor paved roads throughout the city region. In winter, you can ski, and ice skating is possible, among other places, at Hänninkenttä in the city centre.

In Mikkeli, you can try various sports, both indoors and outdoors. Kalevankangas area offers modern facilities for many sports.

In addition to the local nature, Mikkeli has Saimaa UNESCO Global Geopark sites, places with significant landscapes and geological history that inspire various activities and experiences. Visitors to Neitvuori are treated to a genuinely Finnish experience: a rugged landscape featuring pristine lakes and sprawling forests. mikkeli.fi/en/services/sports

Discover our culture and history

From the 6,000-year-old Astuvansalmi rock paintings to modern-day landmarks, Mikkeli’s history is etched into its landscape.

We are perhaps best known as Finland’s “Headquarters City” during the 20th-century wars. You can still feel that history today. The Muisti Centre of War and Peace offers a moving look at the human side of conflict, and your ticket also gives you access to the original Headquarters Museum.

For art lovers, the Mikkeli Art Museum hosts ever-changing modern exhibitions, while the St. Michel Strings chamber orchestra fills the Mikaeli concert hall with world-class classical music.

A local favourite is Kenkävero, a stunning old vicarage on the shores of Lake Saimaa that now houses a top-tier restaurant and lush gardens. If you’re looking for a classic manor house atmosphere, both Tertti Manor and Landhaus Kekkola offer unforgettable culinary experiences.

The Muisti Centre of War and Peace: muisti.org/en Infantry Museum: jalkavakimuseo.fi/en/ Other museums in Mikkeli: mikkeli.fi/en/services/culture-and-leisure/museums/ Kenkävero Vicarage: kenkavero.fi/english

Tertti Manor: tertinkartano.fi/en

Mikkeli Theatre

Our local theatre has been a staple of city life since the 1920s. Actors have been treading the boards in our current building since 1946, and during the summer, the open-air shows at the Naisvuori stage are must-see.

Do you have any questions? We can help!

Ms. Riikka Hälikkä, head of international affairs +358 406 197 766 riikka.halikka@mikkeli.fi

You can find more information about the city’s services on our English websites: mikkeli.fi/en liveinmikkeli.fi

Social media: Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn

Mikkeli video can be found at:

Mikkeli is committed to strengthening its international profile by attracting global talent, fostering inclusion, and building a vibrant, future ready community. International House Mikkeli brings together key services for international residents and employers under one roof, making it easier to settle in Mikkeli while offering a welcoming meeting place for cultural and community activities.