Oulu, located in northern Finland on the shores of the Bothnian Bay, is one of the country’s most exciting cities. This vibrant yet tranquil city offers visitors the perfect harmony of technology, culture, and nature. Oulu is not just an exciting travel destination but also an authentic representation of the northern lifestyle, where modern urban life meets natural wonders. It provides a convenient starting point to explore the exceptional nature of Northern Finland and Lapland.
History
The history of Oulu dates back to 1605 when Charles IX of Sweden granted the settlement city status. Initially, the city owed its significance to salmon and tar trade. However, in the 19th century, a devastating fire almost entirely destroyed the city, which was subsequently rebuilt with a modern street network and buildings. Today, Oulu is renowned not only for its rich history but also as an innovative technological hub, hosting one of Europe’s most advanced IT clusters.
Must-See Attractions
TIP: Oulu City Tour
Lapland Private Snowmobile Safari with Arctic Local Guide
Pikisaari : Located across the river from Oulu’s market square, Pikisaari is a tranquil wooden town and industrial district easily connected by a stylish, modern bridge. The area gets its name from a tar distillery established there in the 17th century, and it also housed an essential shipyard at the time. Many of Oulu’s oldest wooden buildings can be found here, although many were destroyed by the British during the Crimean War in 1854. Since the 1970s, when the Oulu Crafts School took over the former wool mill, many residents of Pikisaari have been active artists and craftsmen. The area boasts a lovely café, a fine dining restaurant, parks, beaches, and outdoor trails and bike paths along the riverbank, as well as a charming craft shop.
Nallikari Beach: Nallikari is a seaside resort that remains popular year-round and is just a 45-minute walk from Oulu’s city center. In summer, sunbathers flock to this one-kilometer sandy beach, which teems with cyclists and beach volleyball players enjoying the warm weather. In winter, however, the sea turns into solid ice, creating a surreal landscape perfect for walking and ice fishing.
Tietomaa Science Centre:One of Oulu’s most recommended attractions, the Tietomaa Science Centre, features more than 150 interactive exhibits and displays. Each year, the center introduces new exhibitions exploring various fields of science and technology.
Loihakka: Husky dogs are not only irresistibly cute and lovable but also incredibly resilient runners, making a sled dog tour or a visit to a husky kennel a must-have experience in Oulu. Loihakka, which has been organizing husky safaris in Northern Finland and the Oulu region for over 15 years, is ideal for adventure enthusiasts. Each dog has a unique personality, and the team takes pride in introducing their joyful and well-cared-for dogs to visitors.
TIP: Loihakka
Hupisaaret Islands:Located near Oulu’s city center, the Hupisaaret Islands offer visitors a charming natural oasis. Cozy little bridges connect the islands, which are adorned with cycling paths, museums, and greenhouses. A summer café invites guests to enjoy the proximity to nature. Hupisaaret is captivating year-round: lush gardens in the summer and a magical snow-covered landscape in the winter. If you have limited time in Oulu, this is the perfect place to quickly and enjoyably explore Finland’s beauty.
Oulu Market Hall:The Oulu Market Hall is one of the city’s most popular spots, where local flavors and artisan products can be discovered. Located near the iconic Toripolliisi statue, this historic building attracts visitors with its friendly and authentic atmosphere. Fresh fish, pastries, cheeses, and various Finnish specialties await those who want a taste of local gastronomy. The market hall is not only great for shopping but also an excellent place to enjoy a coffee and observe the city’s lively scene.
DID YOU KNOW?
According to Finnish tradition, the northern lights originate from a fox brushing its tail across the snow, creating sparkling lights in the sky. While Rovaniemi is more famous for viewing the Aurora Borealis, during the dark season, this stunning natural phenomenon can also be seen in Oulu. The northern lights are caused by charged particles from the Sun colliding with gases in the Earth’s atmosphere. Remote locations free of light pollution are ideal for observation, and Oulu’s surroundings offer plenty of such scenic spots.
Oulu is approximately 220 km south of Rovaniemi, which takes about 2.5–3 hours by car along the E75 highway. It is also easily accessible by train or bus, with travel times similarly ranging from 2.5 to 3 hours.
Rovaniemi, the gateway to the Arctic Circle, offers numerous exciting attractions in every season. One of the most popular destinations is Santa Claus Village, where you can meet Santa, visit his famous post office, and cross the Arctic Circle line. The Arktikum Museum provides fascinating insights into northern life, Arctic nature, and Lapland’s culture. Nature enthusiasts should explore Ounasvaara Hill, which offers breathtaking views and excellent hiking trails, as well as skiing and snowboarding in winter. The Ranua Wildlife Park is also a must-visit, showcasing native Lapland animals in their natural habitats. Northern lights observation is a popular activity here as well, with organized aurora safaris offering a true adventure. Joulukka and the Mysterious Forest provide a magical experience with their fairytale settings and interactive programs.
TIP: reindeer-sleigh-long-ride
Rovaniemi-santa-claus-village-reindeers-and-arctic-circle 🎅
Finnish Cuisine
Finnish gastronomy is built around natural ingredients, simplicity, and seasonal dishes. Salmon and reindeer are essential parts of meals, often served smoked or cooked. Karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pie) is a traditional Finnish dish made of dough filled with rice or barley porridge and served with egg butter. In winter, kalakeitto (fish soup) and lihakeitto (meat soup) are popular, as they are ideal warm dishes for the cold weather. Among Finnish desserts, mustikkapiirakka (blueberry pie) and salmiakki (salty black licorice) are the most famous.
Oulu is not just a city, it is a way of life, where tradition and innovation coexist in perfect harmony. The locals are friendly, the environment is magical, and the experiences are endless. s. Discover this gem of Finland and let it amaze you!