Photo. Oulu is the European Capital of Culture 2026. © Travel Explorations.
Oulu is the town I love so well. Since I met my Finnish wife, who is from Oulu, I have visited this city frequently for over 24 years. With so many variety of attractions and activities to offer, I never get bored of Oulu. Here is my update about opportunities for adventures in the city.
Oulu is the oldest city in northern Finland, the fifth largest city in terms of population, and the fourth largest urban area. Located by the Gulf of Bothnia around 600 kilometres north of Helsinki. It`s the centre of Northern Finland. The region of Oulu has approximately 210,000 inhabitants. There are more than 100 nationality groups in Oulu.
There is something about Finland. Finland ranks as the happiest country in the world in the UN World Happiness Report for the 7th time. Finland's has a low-stress lifestyle. The inhabitants feel safe and relaxed. Each time I visit Oulu I can immediately soak up the good vibrations, friendly and service minded inhabitants. I can feel their sisu (extra energy) in many ways, especially when it comes to party. Mindset - many of the values and attitudes that contribute to Finland's high levels of happiness. Sisu is an integral part of Finnish cultural identity and contributes to national pride. This shared cultural value strengthens community bonds and a sense of belonging, which are important factors in happiness. Don`t worry, be happy!
The sunset magic above Oulu is something I have experienced many times. Then the party has started and everyone is shine. The midnight sun – also known as the nightless night or polar day, get people into the best party mood for a long hard night. During these nights lots of young people go out on picnicking, relaxing and partying in big the green parks, forests, harbour area and market square.
In Oulu, you can indulge in a myriad of activities including cycling and kayaking along the river delta. The pedestrian area in the Oulu centre makes walking a pleasure: beautiful green parks and water channels with several opportunities for sport activities and wonderful views. If you want to experience the sand dunes and beautiful seaside in an active way, you can enjoy a electric-bike trip.
Here are some must-see sights and things to do in the city center:
- Rotuaari Promenade: This pedestrian street is the heart of Oulu's city center, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It's a great place to enjoy a coffee, people-watch, or do some shopping.
- Kesän Floating Sauna - summer sauna: a hot top sisu experience. Probably the most memorable activity you can experience is stepping out on a floating sauna. This sauna truly provides an unique experience: a sauna on a raft. It`s here the Finns get their sisu from? Sisu means having extra energy. It`s the Finnish art of inner strength. Through their sisu the Finns can achieve everything. The spirit of sisu is being stoic determination, hardiness, courage, bravery, willpower, tenacity and resilience. It's an action-oriented mindset, or to put it in another way: you just let your actions do the talking.
- The Tähtitorni Observation Tower - a pastel-coloured Tähtitorni Café, located near the Oulu Market Square in Oulu. The idyllic setting is full of interesting history. There I enjoyed a cup coffee sitting on top of the renovated foundations of Oulu Castle. This building was destroyed in 1793 when the gunpowder storage blew up. From the observation tower, I got a nice panoramic view, especially I observed Pikisaari Island where a stone from the castle landed in the explosion. The stone is still there. Inside the tower you can admire bizarre Finnish art. Nothing compares.
- Pikisaari Island: Just a short walk from the city center, this charming island is known for its artistic community and picturesque wooden houses. It's a peaceful place to explore and enjoy the scenic views of the river.
- Oulu Cathedral: Explore the stone cathedral completed in 1832, replacing the old church destroyed in the big Oulu fire in 1822. This beautiful neo-Gothic cathedral is worth a visit for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere. It's a peaceful place to take a break and enjoy some quiet reflection.
- Toripolliisi - police statue: This sympathetic Bobby bronze sculpture has been standing next to the Market Hall and market square since 1987. It`s guarding the area. Sometimes the Police statue baths in the red glowing light - then it looks very much alive and stands so solid below the magic sunset in the Market Square. He always draw a lot of attention. The statue of a police is a symbol of the town, a popular landmark and meeting place. It's called Toripoliisi in Finnish.
- Nallikari Beach: Enjoy the gently sloping, fine-sanded, one-kilometer-long beach, which is the most popular beach in Oulu. In summer, it’s full of sunbathers, swimmers, bicyclists, and beach sports enthusiasts.
- Oulu Market Hall - Kauppahalli: Explore the almost 120-year-old market hall, which the city has renovated beautifully. Located near the Market Square, this historic market hall offers local delicacies, fresh produce, and Finnish handicrafts. It's an ideal spot to taste local flavors and pick up unique souvenirs.
- Ainolan Puisto -Ainola Park: Spend time in this idyllic park with lush nature and flowing water. Small brooks and waterways divide the area. Perfect for a relaxing stroll. The park is also home to the Oulu Museum of Art and the Northern Ostrobothnia Museum, providing cultural experiences amidst nature.
- Tietomaa: Visit this experimental and interesting science museum.
- Hupisaaret Park: Discover a beautiful outdoor recreation area with flowers, interesting trees, fountains, trails, pedestrian bridges, cafeterias, statues, and more.
These spots provide a mix of cultural, historical, and leisurely experiences that capture the essence of Oulu's city center. Whether you're interested in history, art, shopping, or just enjoying the local atmosphere, Oulu has something to offer.
Oulu offers some lovely spots to enjoy the sunset. One of them is from the sites near the market square. Partying and Soumi Rokkia under the midnight sun in Finland is like standing in the spotlight on a scene. Everyone who stay out in the night here are shining and the magic light are really turning them on. Many sights and activities are open at night during these endless days here. One thing is exploring the wilderness on a surfing board or by a sea kayak under the magical light.
There are also several islands near Oulu which provide a mix of cultural, recreational, and natural experiences, making them perfect for day trips or short getaways from the city. Whether you're interested in exploring art communities, enjoying nature, or relaxing on sandy beaches, there's something for everyone.
Stein Morten Lund, August 2024
Additional information
For they who like to explore a wider area of Oulu, here are some interesting islands nearby: Hailuoto, Pikisaari, Hietasaari, Välikari, Kellahti, Kiikeli, and Rautakallio.
Note: This article is written with assistance from ChatGTP and Copilot.
Finland's reputation as the happiest country in the world is based on several factors that contribute to the well-being and satisfaction of its people. Understanding these elements can provide valuable insights into the Finnish way of life and the societal structures that support happiness. Read about why Finland consistently ranks as the happiest country in the World Happiness Report 2024.
Why is Finland the happiest country in the world for the 7th time? (source: Business Finland).
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