Best Things to do in Oulu | Must-see attractions 2025

University of Oulu Botanical Gardens

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Park

Pentti Kaiteran katu 1

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University of Oulu Botanical Gardens, situated on the campus of the University of Oulu in Finland, features diverse plant species and scenic views by Lake Kuivasjärvi.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Oulu Cathedral

10:00 AM–3:00 PM

Church

Kirkkokatu 3 A

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Oulu Cathedral is a Lutheran church in Oulu, Finland, notable for its historical significance and unique architecture.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Certain cultural events may require a paid ticket.

Northern Ostrobothnia Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Ainolanpolku 1

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Northern Ostrobothnia Museum in Oulu, Finland showcases the region's cultural history from its earliest settlement to the 20th century, with exhibits including a model of 1938 Oulu.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Hupisaaret Islands

Open 24 hours

Park

90100

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Hupisaaret Islands is a scenic city park in Oulu, Finland, featuring picturesque landscapes, rich history, and tranquil walking paths along the waterfront.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid entry.

Toripolliisi

Open all day

Monument

Rantakatu Oulun Tori

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The Toripolliisi statue in Oulu, Finland, is a stout bronze depiction of a former marketplace policeman, created by Kaarlo Mikkonen.

Duration: Approximately 30 minutes.

Free.

Northern Photographic Centre

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

Hallituskatu 7 Cultural centre Valve

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The Northern Photographic Centre in Oulu, Finland, showcases contemporary photography, offering exhibitions, workshops, and a rich archive of photographic art.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some workshops and special exhibitions may have a fee.

Cultural Centre Valve

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Event hall

Hallituskatu 7

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Cultural Centre Valve in Oulu, Finland, offers diverse art exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events, serving as a hub for community engagement and creativity.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some exhibitions and workshops may require a ticket.

Oulu City Hall

8:00 AM–4:00 PM

Architectural Building

Kirkkokatu 2a

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Oulu City Hall, located in Oulu, Finland, serves as the administrative center of the city, showcasing unique architecture and cultural significance.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

Oulu University of Applied Sciences

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

College

Teuvo Pakkalan katu 19

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Oulu University of Applied Sciences offers diverse degree programs emphasizing research and collaboration with local industries in Oulu, Finland.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Access to some specific events may require a fee.

The Oulu Museum Of Art

Tu-Fr 09:00-18:00; Sa 10:00-16:00; Su 11:00-18:00

Museum

Kasarmintie 9

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The Oulu Museum of Art in Oulu, Finland, features contemporary Finnish and international art. Opened in 1963, it is located by the Hupisaaret Islands park.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Oulu Castle

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Linnansaari 1

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Oulu Castle, built in 1590, is a historic site in Finland featuring a modest exhibit on its history and a café, located in scenic Oulu.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Pateniemen sahan museo

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

90800 Oulu

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Pateniemen sahan museo in Oulu, Finland showcases the history of the area’s sawmill industry and the cultural heritage linked to it.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Hollihaka Park

Open 24 hours

Park

2 Saarankatu

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Hollihaka Park is a city park located in Oulu, Finland, offering natural landscapes, walking paths, and recreational areas for visitors.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. No entry fees apply.

Kauppakortteli Pekuri

Mo-Fr 07:00-21:00; Sa 09:00-21:00; Su 21:00-18:00

Mall

Kauppurienkatu 10 (Saaristonkatu 9)

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Kauppakortteli Pekuri is a shopping centre in Oulu, Finland, offering diverse retail options and local experiences in a modern environment.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Hupisaarten kesateatteri

Various times depending on events.

Theater

Hupisaaret

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Hupisaarten kesateatteri in Oulu, Finland, is a vibrant open-air theater showcasing diverse performances amidst a natural park setting.

Duration: 2-3 hours recommended for shows.

Free. Some special events may require tickets.

Oulu City Theater

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Theater

Kaarlenvayla 2

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Oulu City Theater in Finland hosts a diverse array of performances and events, showcasing local and international talent in a modern setting.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Varies by performance. Some events are free, while tickets for others range between €10-€30.

Jaakarinmuistomerkki

Open all day

Art object

Vaaranpuisto

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Jaakarinmuistomerkki in Oulu commemorates the struggle of the Finnish people for independence, featuring a unique granite monument and surrounding park.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Special events may require tickets.

Oulun Lahetysseurakunta

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

Uusikatu 33

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Oulun Lahetysseurakunta, located in Oulu, Finland, offers a hub for community engagement and spiritual growth with a focus on missions and outreach.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations encouraged for mission activities.

Intion kappeli

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

Oulu

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Intion kappeli is a serene chapel in Oulu, Finland, known for its modern architecture and tranquil setting, making it a unique spiritual and cultural landmark.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Special events may have a ticket fee.

Viesti

9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Monument

Mikropuisto (Teknologiakylä)

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Viesti, located in Oulu, Finland, serves as a hub for communication and information technology, featuring innovative architecture and rich cultural significance.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some workshops may require a paid ticket.

Valita

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Monument

Mikropuisto (Teknologiakylä)

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Valita in Oulu, Finland offers a unique blend of historical architecture and cultural exhibitions, showcasing the region's rich heritage.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Koskelan ostokeskus

Mo-Fr 08:00-22:00; Sa 09:00-22:00; Su 10:00-22:00

Business Center

Tullimiehentie

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Koskelan ostokeskus in Oulu, Finland, is a versatile shopping center offering diverse shops, eateries, and entertainment options for all ages.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special events may have separate admission fees.

Toppilan Molja

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Theater

Pitkänmöljäntie 2

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Toppilan Molja is a notable lighthouse in Oulu, Finland, established in 1863, serving as a guide for maritime navigation and a popular sightseeing destination.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Special tours may have a fee.

Maikkulan kappeli

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Kangaskontiontie 9

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Maikkulan kappeli is a modern chapel in Oulu, Finland, built in 2005. It serves as a peaceful gathering place and community center amid natural beauty.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Special events may require a ticket.

Holy Family of Nazareth Church

10:00 AM–2:00 PM

Church

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Holy Family of Nazareth Church in Oulu, Finland, features modern architecture and serves as a vital community hub for worship and gatherings.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for church upkeep.

Kastelli Church

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Töllintie 38

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Kastelli Church in Oulu, Finland, serves as an important site for community worship and features unique modern architecture with beautiful stained glass.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free entry for visitors.

Oulujoki Church

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

Oulujoentie 69

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Oulujoki Church in Oulu, Finland is a notable architectural site with a rich history, attracting visitors with its serene atmosphere and unique craftsmanship.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free.

Karjasilta Church

9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

Nokelantie 39

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Karjasilta Church in Oulu, Finland, is a notable religious site, recognized for its unique architecture and community importance since its foundation.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Some special events may require an admission fee.

Hintan seurakuntatalo

10:00 AM–3:00 PM

Church

Hintantie 89

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Hintan seurakuntatalo in Oulu serves the local community with various events and gatherings, emphasizing unity, collaboration, and cultural activities.

Duration: Around 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may involve fees.

Kalevala Park

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Theme Park

Leiritie 10

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Kalevala Park in Oulu, Finland, offers a themed amusement ride inspired by Finnish legends. Experience the Noitarumpu Witch Drum during the summer months.

Duration: Around 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

K-Citymarket Oulu Rusko

7:00 AM–10:00 PM

Mall

4 Laakeritie

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K-Citymarket Oulu Rusko is a large grocery and retail market in Oulu, Finland, offering a wide range of products from fresh produce to electronics.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. No entrance fee required to shop.

Oulu Climbing Center

3:00 PM–10:00 PM

Spa Center

7 Paakakatu

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Oulu Climbing Center offers a modern indoor climbing experience in Oulu, Finland, featuring diverse climbing walls, training areas, and bouldering options.

Duration: Around 2 to 3 hours.

Adults: €12, Children: €8. Discounts for students and families available.

University of Oulu

8:00 AM–4:00 PM

University

Pentti Kaiteran katu 1

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University of Oulu, located in Oulu, Finland, is known for its research and educational excellence, with a strong emphasis on technology and natural sciences.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Access to the library and some events may have fees.

Turkansaari Open Air-Museum

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

Turkansaarentie 165

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Turkansaari Open Air-Museum in Oulu, Finland features traditional wooden buildings and a historic 1694 church across scenic river islands.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Oulun Golf

7:00 AM–9:00 PM

Golf Course

Mikonmäentie 201

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Oulun Golf is a premier golf course in Oulu, Finland, featuring a challenging 18-hole layout amidst natural Finnish landscapes and a club with modern facilities.

Duration: 4–5 hours.

Varies by season and membership; green fees apply for non-members.

Letonniemen nuotiopaikka

Open 24 hours

Camping

Letonniemen luonnonsuojelualue

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Letonniemen nuotiopaikka is a scenic campfire site in Oulu, Finland, offering natural beauty and outdoor cooking spaces, ideal for relaxation and gatherings.

Duration: 1 to 3 hours.

Free. No entry fees to access the campfire site.

Kauppakeskus Valkea

Mo-Fr 09:00-21:00; Sa 09:00-19:00; Su 11:00-18:00

Mall

Isokatu 25 (Kauppurienkatu)

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Kauppakeskus Valkea is a modern shopping centre in Oulu, Finland, featuring over 100 stores, restaurants, and an entertainment hub, catering to diverse shopping needs.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Shopping and dining costs vary by individual preferences.

Koneensauna

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Spa Center

Finland

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Koneensauna in Oulu, Finland offers a unique sauna experience integrated with nature and modern design. Embrace relaxation amid scenic views of the surrounding area.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free entry. Special sauna events may require a fee.

Kiiminki Church

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

Kirkkotie 6

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Kiiminki Church in Oulu, Finland, is a historic wooden church built in 1784, renowned for its traditional architecture and cultural significance.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for the upkeep of the church.

Oulun rauhanyhdistys

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Professorintie 7

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Oulun rauhanyhdistys is a spiritual community center in Oulu, Finland, promoting peace and faith with its events and programs aimed at fostering unity.

Duration: Around 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcome for events and programs.

Turkansaari

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

Turkansaarentie 167

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Turkansaari is an outdoor museum in Oulu, Finland, showcasing historical Finnish architecture and traditional rural lifestyles, with nature trails and events throughout the year.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Oulun vapaaseurakunta

10:00 AM–1:00 PM

Church

Kirkkokatu 34

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Oulun vapaaseurakunta is a free church in Oulu, Finland, founded in 1921, known for its active community and modern architecture.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed to support church activities.

Tietomaa Science Centre

Check online calendar for hours

Landmark

Nahkatehtaankatu 6

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Tietomaa Science Centre is a large science museum in Oulu, Finland. It features a 35m-high IMAX screen, interactive exhibits about planets and the human body, and an observation tower.

Duration: approx. 2-4 hours

$10

Kauppahalli

8:00 AM-6:00 PM

Sights

Kauppatori

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Kauppahalli is a historic market hall located in Oulu, Finland. Opened in 1901, it features various local vendors selling fresh produce, meat, and handmade products.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

Lylyjarvi

Open all day

Lake

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Lylyjarvi is a scenic lake located in Oulu, Finland. It offers beautiful views and recreational activities like fishing and hiking around its shores.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

Lintulampi School

8:00 AM-4:00 PM

Landmark

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Lintulampi School is a primary school located in Oulu. It focuses on providing quality education to children while promoting a healthy environment for learning.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

Intio

10:00 AM-6:00 PM

Landmark

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Intio is a creative space in Oulu. It offers workshops and events for artists and the community, focusing on collaboration and innovation.

Duration: approx. 1-3 hours

Free