Joensuu

Joensuu is a center of culture, education, research, and technology. The city is home to the University of Eastern Finland and the Karelia University of Applied Sciences, which provide a solid foundation for academic conferences, professional meetings and international collaboration. 

Joensuu is a world leader in forestry expertise, and the city is even known as the “Forest Capital of Europe.” Forests offer abundant opportunities for work, studies, entrepreneurship, and leisure. Joensuu is also one of Europe’s leading centers of photonics expertise. Cutting-edge photonics research, education, new technologies, light art, and business all come together in Joensuu. 

Joensuu has a lively cultural and event scene, with music, festivals, theatre, museums, visual arts and sporting events enlivening the city throughout the year.  City is a prominent part of the Finnish cultural scene, having birthed several well-known artists and inspiring scores of film production companies to shoot in the area. 

Ilosaarirock is one of the city's best-known annual events, bringing nationally and internationally renowned artists to Joensuu. 

The city’s museums, galleries, theatre, orchestra, and varied cultural events offer experiences for visitors throughout the year. 

The nearby wilderness areas provide the perfect setting for nature enthusiasts. Gravel and bikepacking trails and wide variety of facilities are a delight to sportsmen and women alike. The iconic Koli National Park is only an hour drive north of Joensuu. 

Joensuu believes in regional and international cooperation as vehicles for development, which is manifested in numerous projects spanning different areas of expertise. 

If you'd like to know more about the lively Karelian culture, read our article about this region at visitfinland.com.