Oulu
The port of Oulu
Capital of Northern Scandinavia
Oulu is the largest and the oldest city, in Northern Finland, located in the Gulf of Bothnia in the Oulujoki River delta. Oulu consists of the cultural life of a modern business and tourism city, it also has extensive shopping opportunities as well as the northern arctic nature exoticism. Oulu is called the silicon valley of the north as city is a nationwide center of excellence focused on telecommunications, electronics, software, medical technology and biotechnology.
Cruise ships have visited Oulu for a decade.
Welcome to Oulu
Port attractions and shore excursions
The Oulu Cathedral - The crown of the old monumental centre
The Oulu Cathedral built in 1842 is designed by Carl Ludvig Engel after the big fire that almost destroyed the whole city in 1822. The church represents neoclassical style. Straight lines, light surfaces, marbling and gilding create a festive and precious atmosphere.
Excursion example: The bus tour takes you to the River Oulujoki surroundings and the beautiful seasides. You will see the old and new monumental centres of Oulu and the sites of culture and the sites of technology. During the tour you will hear stories about tar merchants, ship builders, sea farers and salmon fishers during the history of Oulu. The tour includes visits to the Oulu Cathedral and the Museum of Northern Ostrobothnia. In the Museum of Northern Ostrobothnia you can dive a little bit more in detail into the history of the Oulu Region.
The River Oulujoki - Finnish river landscape from history to the present
The Angelina river boat takes you to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the river Oulujoki. On board you will hear stories about pine tree tar production and transportation and salmon fishing that have all played important roles in history of Oulujoki and the growth of the city.
Excursion example: First, take a guided bus tour to the main sights of Oulu. The excursion concludes with a guided river cruise with stunning scenery and an entertaining tale of river history and modern times. Bar is open on board during the cruise.
Turkansaari Open Air Museum - How we lived and worked
Turkansaari Open Air Museum is located on three islands in the Oulujoki River 12 kilometres upstream from downtown Oulu. The museum is Finland’s second-oldest open air museum. It was officially established in 1925 when the island’s wooden church dating back to 1694 was restored to its original location. The museum islands currently host a number of old buildings relocated to the museum to save them from demolition. The main themes of the museum are traditional agriculture and forestry, fishing and Oulu’s history as the leading exporter of pine tree tar.
Excursion example: On the way to Turkansaari our guide tells you the facts and features of Oulu today. In the idyllic Turkansaari you can step into the past and listen to the stories of Northern heritage, everyday life and celebration in the countryside.
City of Oulu - An urban living room with a historical twist
The Market Square area along with Rotuaari Promenade and the other streets in downtown Oulu form an urban living room. Whether you are looking for souvenirs, local crafts or top quality brands, Oulu provides great shopping opportunities for your needs. There’s plenty to see: the City Hall and the Market Hall among others. All comings and goings are supervised by ‘The Bobby at the Market Place’. This statue stands in front of the Market Hall in honour of the officers who used to police the square in days gone by.
Excursion example: Take a guided sightseeing tour on foot or by bike and take a break in the numerous cafes and shopping! Try nordic walking or paddling to see the city centre and surrounding islands and parks from another view!
Koiteli rapids - Beautiful nature just close by
Koiteli is an unique, natural rapids area. It’s only 25 km from Oulu city center. Beautiful surroundings, ancient trees and the silence surrounding you will give you an extra-ordinary nature experience. The area is easily accessible thanks to covered paths.
Excursion example: On the way to Koiteli our guide tells you the facts and the features of Oulu today. When we arrive to the famous sites of the rapids it will be the nature and traditions that fill our visit. You will hear stories about pine tree tar production that has played important role in the history of Oulu Region and about saw mill history that was the busiest time of Koiteli area over 100 years ago.