Finland attracts many tourists to its expanses. Joensuu is the city of the greatest interest among tourists. The settlement is located in the east of the country, and is the administrative center of North Karelia. Its population reaches 74 thousand inhabitants. This small town was established relatively recently, in 1848. Its founder was Tsar Nicholas I. At first it was a small town, but over time, Joensuu turned into a large port and an incredibly important industrial city. In the 60s of the last century, it was given the status of the provincial capital. This place is also called the forest capital of Finland. Joensuu is beautiful at any time of the year, there is something to admire and where to relax.
Brief historical background
Finland is not too ancient country. Joensuu is no exception. It was founded only in the first half of the 19th century. Then, at the mouth of the Pielisjoki River, Emperor Nicholas I set up a small settlement. At that time, it played the role of a trading town. In 1860, restrictions on industrial activity were removed in the city. As a result, local sawmills began to actively develop.enterprises. In 1856, the Saimaa Canal was built, thanks to which the conditions for water transportation improved significantly.
Finland, Joensuu in particular, developed very quickly. So, by the beginning of the last century, it was already one of the largest port settlements of the state. Over the past decades, the city has turned from a small agricultural region into a bustling center of North Karelia. In 1954, the local population was 24 thousand inhabitants. And already in 1970 it grew to 36 thousand people. In the same period, Joensuu saw many improvements in social security.
The local university, opened in 1969, plays a huge role in the life of the capital. Today, the educational institution has eight faculties and nine independent divisions. As the settlement grew, neighboring settlements gradually began to enter it. And already in our century, two municipalities located in the neighborhood were included in the city.
Climate and attractions
The weather in Joensuu (Finland) is changeable, it strongly depends on the season. So, it's pretty cold in the city. The maximum summer temperature is +21 degrees. In winter, frost reigns here. It is very dark outside, so you need to be extremely careful. It often rains in autumn, and temperatures start to drop lower and lower after summer.
Despite such unfavorable weather conditions, there are always many tourists in Joensuu, becauseit is incredibly beautiful and there are a huge number of attractions. This picturesque village is surrounded by forests of indescribable beauty. It makes you want to take a walk along the cozy streets.
You can enjoy local sights from a sightseeing road train. It runs between the center of Joensuu and the port. You can also rent a bike and explore all the sites on your own. It is worth visiting the town hall, which is located on the waterfront. Today there is a theater here. And the most beautiful buildings of the city can be called the churches of St. John the Theologian and St. Nicholas.
Hotels
Of course, if a tourist decides to visit the capital of North Karelia, then he will definitely be interested in hotels in Joensuu (Finland). There are few of them in the city, but they all offer excellent service and maintenance. So, for example, the Hotel Aada is located a ten-minute walk from the central part of the city. The establishment is always ready to receive tourists. The hotel rooms have everything you need for a comfortable stay: a balcony, a seating area, a work desk and cable TV.
Sokos Vaakuna Hotel, located in the very center of the city, is just as wonderful. The institution opened in 1942 and was completely renovated in 2010. There are 144 rooms and car rentals to explore Joensuu. Each room provides free Wi-Fi connection, trouser press, minibar and other luxury amenities.
Shopping inJoensuu
Shoppers are also interested in Finland. Joensuu is one of the cities that receives thousands of buyers every year. The center of the capital of North Karelia is simply replete with all kinds of shops, boutiques and commercial premises. They sell goods of well-known European brands. Fairs are also regularly held here, where you can buy fresh farm products.
Where to relax for children
The city of Joensuu (Finland), the photo of which is in our article, is a real paradise for children. In the local cultural center "Karelikum" you can visit a special children's street. It is called Mukulakatu. This place will be of particular interest to children of preschool age. After all, only here they can feel like shopkeepers, fishermen or builders.
Sinkolla Mini Farm is another place that young tourists will definitely want to visit.