The sun is still shining, and the roads are not frozen yet, so it is the perfect time to take the last road trip of the year around autumnal Finland. Here are five Finnish towns and cities for you to explore if you have not done it yet.
Mikkeli
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Mikkeli is a town located on the shore of Lake Saimaa. The town has beautiful landscapes thanks to its surrounding nature. Mikkeli’s historical background is fascinating to all history lovers out there. For example, the headquarters of the Finnish armed forces during the Winter War and the Continuation War located in Mikkeli, thus, the town’s coat of arms incorporates a pair of crossed Marshal’s batons. However, if you are more into shopping, I would recommend visiting Kenkävero. Kenkävero offers you beautiful, handcrafted gifts and souvenirs and brilliant exhibitions to explore.
Joensuu
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Joensuu is a city in Eastern Finland. It is a lively student city with lots of events all year round. When you are visiting Joensuu, you must taste some of their iconic Finnish delicacies like e.g. Karelian pie! Furthermore, Koli National Park is only an hour drive away from Joensuu, and the views from the top of the forested hills are breathtaking. It is definitely worth a visit!
Jyväskylä
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Jyväskylä is also known as the educational center of Finland. Even Elias Lönnrot, the compiler of our national epic poem, the Kalevala, called it the “Athens of Finland”! There are many explorable museums in this city too. For instance, the Alvar Aalto Museum specializes in architecture and design. However, if you do not have time to wander around the museum, at least, check out the building itself – it was also designed by Aalto.
Porvoo
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Porvoo is an idyllic, cozy town near Helsinki. You can spot beautiful, original wooden houses around this town. Remember to visit Finland’s national poet’s J.L. Runeberg’s Home while you are there!
Tampere
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Tampere is the most populous inland city in the Nordic countries. Taste its local food specialty, mustamakkara, which is sort of the black pudding of Northern Europe. Many authors, such as Väinö Linna and Minna Canth, lived in Tampere. Their books often depict the lives of the working class, widely presented in Tampere, so be sure to visit the local bookshops too!
So, say yes to new adventures and enjoy your travels!