Top reasons to visit Oulu
- Outdoor Adventures: Oulu is perfect for beach lovers and families, offering outdoor activities and beautiful coastal views.
- Cultural Attractions: Visit the stunning Oulu Cathedral and explore the Oulu Museum to experience the city's rich history.
- Vibrant Public Market: Discover local delicacies and crafts at the lively public market, showcasing Oulu's vibrant atmosphere.
- Charming Accommodations: Enjoy a range of lodging options, from pet-friendly hotels to cozy bed & breakfasts.
- Friendly Locals: Experience the warmth of the locals, making your visit even more delightful.
Find great hotels in Oulu
Oulu offers a diverse selection of accommodations, including hotels and charming bed & breakfasts, catering to all types of travelers. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly option, a family-friendly experience, or a business travel-friendly stay, you'll find the perfect fit in this vibrant city. Explore various hotels, including the renowned Lapland Hotel Oulu, and enjoy a memorable vacation in Northern Ostrobothnia.
- Radisson Blu Hotel, Oulu: This 4-star hotel boasts a remarkable guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, making it a top choice for adventure seekers and eco-conscious travelers. Located in the heart of Oulu, Radisson Blu offers a unique blend of modern comfort and outdoor activities. Guests can enjoy various adventure sports nearby, including snowshoeing, hiking, and skiing. Families will appreciate the amenities tailored for children, such as complimentary breakfasts and cribs available at no charge. The hotel's eco-certification underscores its commitment to sustainability, ensuring a responsible vacation experience.
- Lapland Hotels Oulu: With a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, this 4-star hotel is ideal for families and business travelers alike. Situated in Oulu, Lapland Hotels Oulu combines a welcoming atmosphere with pet-friendly policies, allowing you to bring your furry friends along for the trip. The hotel offers essential amenities for children and accommodates pets with food and water bowls provided. Its convenient location makes it perfect for both leisure and business stays, ensuring a comfortable experience whether you're exploring the city or attending meetings.
- Best Western Hotel Apollo: This 3-star hotel, rated 8.6 out of 10, delivers a solid option for business travelers and pet owners. Located in Oulu, Best Western Hotel Apollo offers a practical and comfortable stay with a focus on convenience. The hotel welcomes pets, providing amenities such as food and water bowls, while making it easy for guests traveling with their dogs. Its central location ensures easy access to local attractions and business venues, making it a reliable choice for travelers looking for both comfort and accessibility.
Where to stay in Oulu
Oulu, a charming subprovince in Northern Ostrobothnia, is perfect for outdoor and family vacations. Explore the beautiful coastal views, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, and embrace the friendly locals. Whether you're discovering the city's rich history or seeking romantic spots, Oulu offers a delightful blend of experiences. Don't miss the chance to venture beyond and discover Helsinki as well, making your trip truly unforgettable.
- Oulu: Nestled in the northern part of Finland, Oulu is a vibrant city that offers a rich blend of culture and outdoor activities. Known for its beautiful beaches and unique island resorts, Oulu attracts visitors year-round, with peak travel times in June to July and September. Here, you can explore the local market, indulge in arena entertainment, and immerse yourself in the city's cultural scene. Oulu's stunning coastal scenery and family-friendly beaches make it an ideal destination for all types of travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
- Kempele: Located just a short drive from Oulu, Kempele is a charming city that seamlessly combines outdoor recreation with urban conveniences. With a focus on city-themed experiences, it attracts visitors throughout the year, peaking in March and summer months. Kempele boasts lovely beaches, a variety of shopping options, and engaging sports activities. Its family-friendly dog parks provide a perfect space for relaxation and enjoyment, making it a great spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
- Liminka: A hidden gem in the Oulu region, Liminka is renowned for its eco-friendly adventures and breathtaking natural landscapes. This city sees a surge in visitors during April, July, and September, thanks to its proximity to stunning nature reserves and national parks. Popular activities include exploring urban parks and engaging with the local wildlife. Liminka offers a unique opportunity for travelers seeking outdoor adventures, making it a fantastic destination for nature lovers and those looking to experience Finland's pristine environment.
Things to do in Oulu
Shopping
In Oulu, visit the Oulu City Market Hall for local delicacies and handmade crafts. For a wider selection, head to the Ideapark shopping mall, featuring various shops and restaurants. The Rotuaari pedestrian street also offers charming boutiques and gift shops to explore.
Recreation
Spa Oulu offers a tranquil escape with rejuvenating treatments, saunas, and relaxation areas, allowing you to unwind in a soothing atmosphere. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Oulu River provides opportunities for kayaking and cycling, letting you connect with nature while exploring scenic views along the waterfront.
Adventure
Oulu offers thrilling activities like husky sledding through snowy landscapes, exhilarating snowshoe hikes in serene forests, and ice fishing on frozen lakes. For a unique experience, explore the Oulu Archipelago by kayak, discovering the beauty of its uninhabited islands and rich wildlife.
Nightlife
In Oulu, the Club Teatria offers a vibrant atmosphere with live music and DJ performances, while the Oulu City Theatre presents engaging shows. For a more laid-back vibe, check out the local pubs and bars, where you can enjoy craft beers and mingle with friendly locals.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Oulu
To save money on your trip to Oulu, consider visiting in April or December to January for lower accommodation prices, avoiding more expensive months like February and July. Sundays tend to be the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are pricier. Utilize Expedia to find budget-friendly hotels, sort by price, and filter for eco-certified options. Additionally, look for package deals that combine flights and activities for extra savings. Take advantage of public transport, which is affordable, or explore the city on foot to enjoy free activities and stunning views.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Oulu are April and December to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February, July and November, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Oulu is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in Oulu is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can easily arrange your search results from the lowest to the highest prices, allowing you to discover the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your options by hotel category—selecting the Eco-certified filter will display sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Oulu with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in Oulu
Oulu is perfect for beach, outdoor, and family vacations, offering a variety of attractions like urban parks and dog parks. Visitors can explore the vibrant center of Oulu, visit the stunning Oulu Cathedral, enjoy the Oulu Museum, and stroll along the picturesque Oulu River. This destination caters to travelers seeking a mix of beach fun, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures.
- Toripolliisi Statue: This iconic statue stands as a symbol of Oulu's cultural heritage. Located in the heart of the city, it captures the essence of local traditions and is a popular spot for visitors to snap photos and immerse themselves in Oulu's vibrant atmosphere.
- Mannerheim Park: A delightful urban park that offers a serene escape in the city. With its lush greenery and family-friendly spaces, Mannerheim Park is ideal for leisurely walks, picnics, and enjoying outdoor activities amidst the bustling urban landscape.
- Nallikari: This beautiful beach is a perfect getaway for sunbathing and swimming during the summer months. Nallikari's sandy shores and stunning views of the sea provide a refreshing experience, making it an excellent spot for relaxation and recreation.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Oulu
Flying into Oulu, Finland, is convenient with three major airports nearby. Oulu Airport (OUL) is located 19km from the city, with excellent hotel options like Lapland Hotels Oulu and Radisson Blu Hotel, both about 11km away. Rovaniemi Airport (RVN), 183km away, offers nearby hotels such as the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel and Arctic Light Hotel, both providing accessible transportation services. Additionally, Lulea Airport (LLA-Kallax) is 185km away, with quality hotels like Clarion Hotel Sense and Elite Stadshotellet Luleå, also offering airport access. Each airport provides various transportation services to ensure a smooth travel experience.