Things To Do
in Oulu
Oulu is a vibrant city located in northern Finland, known for its strong focus on technology and innovation. It is home to a renowned university and research institutions, contributing to its reputation as a hub for cutting-edge research and development. Oulu offers a mix of modern amenities and outdoor activities, with its beautiful waterfront and surrounding nature providing ample opportunities for recreation.
The city also hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, showcasing its rich heritage and vibrant community spirit.
- "Moikka" - Hi
- "Kiitos" - Thank you
- "Ole hyvä" - You're welcome
- "Yhteystiedot" - Contact information
- "Näkemiin" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll around the beautiful Hupisaari Park. Enjoy the serene lakes and lush greenery as you breathe in the fresh morning air.
Visit the Oulu Market Hall for lunch and try local delicacies like Kalakukko. Afterward, explore the nearby Tietomaa Science Centre for a fun and educational experience.
Wrap up your day with a sunset walk along Oulu's waterfront. Enjoy a meal at a seaside restaurant while taking in the stunning views.
Visit the Oulu Cathedral to admire its striking architecture and serene atmosphere. Take a moment to reflect in the quiet interior.
Explore the Oulu City Museum to learn about the city's history and culture. The exhibits provide a fascinating glimpse into the region's past.
Enjoy dinner at a traditional Finnish restaurant in the city center. Try some local fish dishes paired with Finnish berry desserts.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- High quality of life with a clean environment
- Strong emphasis on education and technology innovation
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including parks and lakes
- A vibrant cultural scene with various events and festivals
- Excellent public transport and infrastructure
- Harsh winters with long periods of cold and darkness
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors
- Higher cost of living compared to some other areas in Finland
- Possible language barrier for non-Finnish speakers
- Relative isolation from other major cities
Best Activities in Oulu
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy breathtaking coastal views and pristine nature while hiking at Nallikari Beach and Hietasaari Island.
Experience the beauty of Oulu's landscape by cycling along the picturesque Oulu River, which offers both relaxing and scenic routes.
Explore the natural wonders of Liminka Bay, a significant birdlife area where you can observe diverse bird species in their natural habitat.
Tours
Uncover the best of Oulu with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Oulu
Visit one of these nice places.
Beautiful sandy beach with a long pier and views of the Gulf of Bothnia.
Scenic park with walking paths, bridges, and views of the Oulu River.
Historic church with a tall spire offering panoramic views of the city.
Modern science museum with a rooftop terrace providing views of the city skyline.
Food in Oulu
Oulu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rössypottu is a traditional Finnish stew consisting of lamb or beef, root vegetables, and barley. It's rich, hearty, and perfect for warming up on chilly Oulu evenings. For an authentic taste, visit Ravintola Rauhala, located in the heart of Oulu.
Must-Try!
Kalakukko is a savory Finnish pastry filled with fish (often perch or salmon), pork, and a combination of bacon and beef. To savor this classic dish, head to Kauppahalli, Oulu's historic indoor market, where you'll find stalls serving freshly baked Kalakukko.
Puikula potatoes are a local specialty, known for their earthy flavor and firm texture. These heirloom potatoes are commonly used in Oulu's traditional dishes, such as stews and casseroles. Sample Puikula-based delicacies at the Tori market, one of Oulu's bustling outdoor markets.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Oulu better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Kauppahalli is a historic indoor market offering a wide range of local produce, artisanal foods, and traditional dishes. Visitors can enjoy street food delights like smoked fish, reindeer meat, and Nordic pastries while immersing themselves in the vibrant atmosphere.
Tori Market is a lively open-air market where local vendors showcase an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, berries, and homemade preserves. It's an excellent place to sample street food specialties like grilled sausages, crepes, and Finnish pancakes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Oulu, Finland, it's important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others during conversations or interactions.
It's customary to remove your shoes before entering someone's home in Oulu as a sign of respect for the cleanliness of the indoor space.
Being punctual is highly valued in Oulu, so it's important to arrive on time for appointments and meetings as a sign of respect for others' time.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Oulu with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Oulu
Ensure a smooth experience
In Oulu, Finland, tipping is not a common practice. It is not expected in restaurants, bars, or for most services. However, if you receive exceptional service or want to show appreciation, rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount as a tip is appreciated but not obligatory.
In Oulu, Finland, cashless payments are widely accepted and preferred. Credit and debit cards, as well as mobile payment methods, are commonly used. Contactless payment is also widely available. It is rare to encounter businesses that do not accept card payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Oulu.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Oulu is in winter, especially if you enjoy winter activities like skiing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing. Oulu experiences a magical winter with snow-covered landscapes, frozen sea, and the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights.
Summer is also a wonderful time to visit Oulu, with long daylight hours and pleasant temperatures. You can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and visiting the beautiful beaches along the Bothnian Bay. Summer is also a great time to experience the Midnight Sun phenomenon.
Spring and autumn are transitional seasons in Oulu. In spring, you can witness the stunning rebirth of nature, including the blooming of flowers and trees. Autumn offers beautiful foliage and the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights as the nights begin to get longer.
Oulu at Night
Hiking in Oulu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful park area with various trails and scenic views along the Oulu River, perfect for leisurely hikes.
A popular beach destination with nearby trails that offer stunning views of the coastline and opportunities for nature walks.
An iconic landmark with surrounding trails that provide an opportunity for hiking while exploring the area's history.
A scenic hiking trail along the Siikajoki River, known for its beautiful natural surroundings and wildlife.
An island reachable by a short walk or bike ride, featuring trails that allow you to explore the rural landscapes and historic buildings.
A picturesque route beside the Kemi River, offering a mix of forested areas and open landscapes, ideal for hiking and nature exploration.
A protected area nearby Oulu, featuring various trails that allow hikers to experience diverse flora and fauna.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Oulu through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Oulu by plane.
The main international airport serving Oulu, Finland, located approximately 11 kilometers northeast of the city center.
The busiest airport in Finland, located approximately 900 kilometers south of Oulu, serving as a major hub for international flights.
An international airport located about 200 kilometers north of Oulu, known for flights to and from destinations in Lapland.
Located approximately 100 kilometers south of Oulu, it serves both domestic and limited international flights.
An airport located approximately 200 kilometers southwest of Oulu, with primarily domestic flights and some international connections.
Located about 150 kilometers to the southeast of Oulu, this airport offers domestic flights and limited international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Oulu, making up a significant portion of the population.
A smaller minority group in Oulu, representing the Swedish-speaking community.
A demographic group that includes individuals with Russian heritage or citizenship.
A community originating from Somalia, contributing to the multicultural aspects of Oulu.
A group that has immigrated from Estonia, adding to the diversity of the population.
Includes individuals from various Arab countries, contributing to the demographics of Oulu.
Various individuals from other countries, adding to the multicultural fabric of Oulu.
The Soul of Oulu
Discover the essence of Oulu through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is one of the most popular sports in Oulu, with the local team, Oulun Kärpät, being a prominent competitor in the Finnish league.
Football is widely played and followed in Oulu, with several local clubs and a vibrant youth league system.
Due to its northern location, cross-country skiing is popular during the winter months, with many trails available for enthusiasts.
Volleyball enjoys a strong following in Oulu, with many clubs and organized leagues for both recreational and competitive play.
Athletics, including running, jumping, and throwing events, is a popular sport in Oulu, supported by various clubs and events throughout the year.
Floorball has a significant presence in Oulu, with numerous teams and a passionate community participating at various levels.
Basketball has a growing popularity in Oulu, with local teams competing in regional leagues and an active youth scene.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Oulu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Oulu's dining scene is accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants and cafes offering plant-based menus. Options range from innovative plant-based dishes to classic Finnish recipes reimagined without animal products. Notable venues include Ravintola Sokeri-Jussi and Café Rooster.
For those with gluten intolerances, Oulu features eateries with dedicated gluten-free offerings. Diners can savor gluten-free versions of Finnish specialties and international cuisine, ensuring a diverse dining experience. Restaurants like Ravintola Sokeri-Jussi provide a range of gluten-free selections.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Oulu with these cultural adventures.
