10 Best Things To Do In Oulu, Finland

1. Learn science and history at Tietomaa Science Centre

This establishment is one of the oldest of its kind in the area. A tour inside the museum is both fun and informative as you gain insights into science and local history in a playful setup. Also, watch their 40-minute science movie that’s eye-opening. Other than the text-oriented exhibits, you will also find ancient boats and motorcycles. Climb up to the facility’s tower and enjoy uninterrupted views of Oulu and its environs.

Tietomaa Science Centre

Address: Nahkatehtaankatu 6, 90100 Oulu, Finland

Website: Tietomaa Science Centre

Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)

2. Take pictures at Toripolliisi

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

A good way of capturing a destination’s attractions is by taking pictures in or close to them. While in Oulu, take pictures close to Toripolliisi, a bronze sculpture situated at the market square. It was made by Kaarlo Mikkonen, a Finnish sculptor, and serves as a vital landmark. The sculpture that resembles a market square police officer was built in 1987. Aside from that, its close proximity to the market puts you in a good spot to sample local food and snacks sold there.

Toripolliisi

Address: Rantakatu 6, 90100 Oulu, Finland

Website: Toripolliisi

3. Admire the beautiful displays at The Oulu Museum of Art

Are you in search of a great place with beautiful pieces of art? If yes, then visit this art museum that’s one of Oulu’s gems. Some of its numerous informative displays include paintings and sculptures. Apart from being the biggest museum in the area, its curation and neatness are on point. Visit the small gift shop in the facility to buy handmade gifts and souvenirs as well. To add to its charm, it’s situated within a walking distance from the city center.

The Oulu Museum Of Art

Address: Kasarmintie 9, 90100 Oulu, Finland

Website: The Oulu Museum Of Art

Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon & Tue)

4. Spend family time at Vauhtipuisto

If you enjoy sitting in a quiet place with playful kids, then this amusement park is for you. The facility is blessed to have plenty of rides for all ages, making it an ideal spot for the whole family. Moreover, the staff in the park are friendly and welcoming. You’re also free to visit eateries in and around the establishment serving tasty food and drinks.

Vauhtipuisto

Address: Hietasaarentie 9, 90500 Oulu, Finland

Website: Vauhtipuisto

5. Be mesmerized by the exotic flowers at University of Oulu Botanical Gardens

Are you a big fan of flowers and trees? If yes, then you should make University of Oulu Botanical Gardens a priority. The garden is endowed with plenty of exotic flowers of different shapes and sizes, making it worth a visit. In addition to that, the establishment is clean, well maintained, and with a collection of tropical, Mediterranean, and temperate vegetation. There are also small ponds that make the area more refreshing.

University of Oulu Botanical Gardens

Address: Kaitoväylä 5, 90570 Oulu, Finland

Website: University of Oulu Botanical Gardens

Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (daily)

6. Soak up the sunset at Nallikari Lighthouse

For an amazing bird’s eye view of the sea in Oulu, then you should visit Nallikari Lighthouse. Also, at this location, you also enjoy stunning sunset views. Accessing this attraction site is made possible by a bus that plies the route from the city center. Head to a restaurant nearby for a cup of hot chocolate or ice cream. If you enjoy the sea breeze on a great scenic spot, then this destination is for you.

Nallikari Lighthouse

Website: Nallikari Lighthouse

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

7. Enjoy stunning view of the city from Oulu Castle

You’re treated to breathtaking views of the expansive Oulu town atop this caste tower. Take a guided tour of the facility and learn about the history of the building that was built around 1590. On the basement is a café serving tasty coffee and ice cream that’s a nice stop to relax and unwind after touring the castle. You can also sit in the castle’s well-maintained garden and enjoy food and drinks.

Oulu Castle

Address: Linnansaari 1, 90100 Oulu, Finland

Website: Oulu Castle

8. Dance the night away at Kaarlenholvi

Nightclubs and pubs are a good way of familiarizing yourself with a destination’s nightlife. In Oulu, enjoy a night out in Kaarlenholvi, a popular nightclub in the area. Get treated to trendy music as you sample local beers and cocktails. The facility prides itself on having a large dancing floor that’s perfect for people who just want to dance the night away. In addition, you also enjoy great customer service.

Kaarlenholvi

Address: Kauppurienkatu 6, II kerros, 90100 Oulu, Finland

Website: Kaarlenholvi

Opening hours: Wed - Thu: 11am - 4:30am; Fri - Sat: 10pm - 5am (closed on Sun, Mon & Tue)

9. Sample delicious food at Ravintola Makosa

There’s always that good feeling you get after finding an eatery serving tasty dishes in a cozy and welcoming setting. That said, Ravintola Makosa is out to make sure you enjoy delicious food coupled with amazing ambiance and cool music. Indulge your taste buds by eating flavorful meals such as chicken, burgers, kebabs, and pork. Try out their soups that are made from locally produced ingredients. There’s also an outdoor seating area that’s ideal for people looking to eat outside.

Ravintola Makosa

Address: Kiviharjunlenkki 6, 90220 Oulu, Finland

Website: Ravintola Makosa

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 2pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

10. Relax and unwind at Sankivaaran golf course

Other than playing golf on Sankivaaran golf course, you have plenty of things to do and see at the establishment. You’re at liberty to engage in fun recreational activities such as hiking and jogging. Being in a peaceful and tranquil location, you’re in a nice place that’s perfect for relaxing in order to pass time and connect with nature. You can also order food and enjoy eating out in a quiet location. During winter, the extensive golf course is used for skiing.

Sankivaaran golf course

Address: Mikonmäentie 201, 90660 Oulu, Finland

Website: Sankivaaran golf course

The enchanting Oulu

A visit to Oulu, Finland, should be exciting right from the time you arrive. One way of making sure you have a good time in the town is by engaging in fun leisure activities. That said, indulge in the above activities and create wonderful memories.