Nallikari

Nallikari is one of Oulu’s most popular destinations and it has earned the nickname “Riviera of the North”. It offers a beautiful sandy beach, perfect for relaxing or taking a dip in the sea. There are also rental services at Nallikari Safaris where you can book guided safaris, or just a bike to search the surroundings or go to the sea with a kayak, canoe, or SUP-board.

Hupisaari Islands and City Park 

Hupisaaret is a beautiful park area in the heart of Oulu formed by islands and bridges. It’s a wonderful place for a stroll, with picturesque paths and garden areas. The park is a perfect spot for a picnic or just enjoying the scenery. There is also a café and ice cream shops. You can also find the Art Museum there.

Pikisaari Island 

If you’re interested in art and culture, visit Pikisaari Island. This charming island is home to old wooden buildings and several local artisans’ ateliers. You can explore the island’s nature path, about 2 km long circling the island. In summer time there is Environmental Art Path Pikinen Poloku along the nature path. The Sailor’s Home Museum is in Pikisaari and is free entry. It offers a glimpse into Oulu’s maritime history showcasing the life and times of sailors from the past. Also visit the design center PROTO. Don’t miss the traditional Finnish restaurant, Sokeri-Jussin Kievari, for a taste of local cuisine or brewery restaurant Mallassauna and Winebar Kurkela while exporing the old town island.

Linnansaari Island and Oulu Castle

Explore the ruins of the old Oulu Castle on Linnansaari Island. The historic exhibition in the castle cellar is free to enter and provides insight into the area’s history. You can also enjoy a coffee at the café in the old observatory tower, which offers great views of the surroundings. During Summer Oulu Paddling Center offers water park and rents fat bikes, kayaks and sup boards in Linnansaari. 

The attractions above are located near the Oulu city center. The numbers 2-4 might be fun to visit as a walking tour as they are located within a walking distance from each other and from the city center. You can enter the islands by foot since they are connected with walking bridges. 

Turkansaari Open-Air Museum

A bit outside the city (15 km), Turkansaari Open-Air Museum offers a look at traditional Finnish rural life. The museum features old wooden buildings, and during the summer, they often have demonstrations of traditional crafts and trades. 

Hailuoto Island

For a day trip, consider a trip to Hailuoto Island. It’s a peaceful place known for its beautiful landscapes, birdwatching opportunities, and unique culture. The ferry harbor is located approx. 30 km from Oulu where you can take a free ferry to Hailuoto. In Hailuoto the most popular place is Marjaniemi, an old fishermen’s town (30 km from the Hailuoto ferry harbor) where you can find a lighthouse, hotel and restaurant, beautiful beaches, and nature paths among other services. In Hailuoto you can also find the brewery Hailuodon Panimo.

Kierikki Stone Age Centre

Kierikki is a fascinating archaeological site and museum that gives insight into life during the Stone Age in northern Finland. It is located approx. 1 hour drive from Oulu.  

Nature destinations

Koitelinkosket and Pilpasuo would be good places for a short hike if you would like to enjoy the Finnish nature. Koitelinkoski whitewater rapids area is located approx. 30 km from Oulu in Kiiminki, there is many campfire sites in the island among the rapids, and also ice cream shop and Summer Café Tunnelma Tupa. Pilpasuo is more of a traditional hiking place in the middle of the woods 18 km from Oulu, with longest trails being 7 km. Protected area of Sanginjoki offers even longer hikes as well as shorter accessible trails. Loppula Nature Café serves customer in summer and in weekends. Sanginjoki area is located about 20 km from city centre.