Things to do in Oulu: the best experiences in the city

What is it? Hupisaaret City Park – known to locals as Ainolanpuisto – is Oulu’s leafy meeting point, perfect for picnics, strolls and lazy afternoons outdoors. Whether you’re after a quiet walk under the trees or a laid-back evening by the fountains, this is the place to unwind.

Why go? Spread across several small islands, this central park has barbecue spots, a dog park, a playground, cafés and even a summer theatre. The islands are linked by cute little bridges, paved paths and sandy trails, so there’s plenty of space to explore – we dare you to find your own favourite corner of the park.

Don't miss: From Ainolanpuisto, walk under the Merikoski bridges to Linnasaari, where you’ll find the remains of Oulu Castle. The original fortress was destroyed in a gunpowder explosion in the late 1700s, and an observatory tower was later built on the site in 1875. Today, it’s home to the charming Tähtitornin Café, which opens in summer and hosts gigs and cultural events. Climb to the top for lovely views over the city, the market square and Pikisaari.

Ainolanpolku 1

What is it? In summer, Oulu’s Market Square is where everyone gathers – from teens hanging out on the theatre steps to locals sipping coffee and munching buns. As autumn quiets the crowds, it’s the perfect place for a seaside stroll and a bite to eat.

Why go? You haven’t really been to Oulu until you’ve snapped a photo with the bronze Toripolliisi statue. The sculpture honours the city’s old-time market policemen and also makes a handy landmark for finding the Market Hall, located right beside it. Inside you’ll find fresh fish and meat, crafts, gifts and great coffee. Don’t miss the café’s salmon soup – it’s top-notch.

Time Out tip: The historic red tar warehouses by the square are home to all sorts of small shops, stalls and restaurants. Check out Kofeiinikomppania’s extensive tea and coffee selection, or browse handmade gifts at the little boutiques along the waterfront.

Kauppatori. Market Hall open on Mon–Fri 08.00–19.00, Sat 08.00–16.00, Sun closed.

What is it? Anchored in the same spot for ten years now, this floating Koivuranta sauna is a local favourite for steamy sessions and icy dips.

Why go? The sauna raft is where locals, exchange students and hardcore winter swimmers all come together. The wood-burning stove delivers hot yet gentle steam, while outside you can cool down to the gentle lapping of the River Oulujoki – and maybe snap the perfect photo with its peaceful riverside scenery in the background. The raft is open year-round, but during colder months it’s best to book your session online in advance. The changing room is compact, so if it’s busy, wear your swimsuit under your clothes for a quicker route to the steam.

Time Out tip: After your sauna and swim, refuel with a waffle from the raft’s café – the savoury one topped with smoked reindeer and Finnish squeaky cheese is especially good, but all the options hit the spot.

Kasarmintie 31. Mon–Fri 15.00–22.00, Sat 12.00–22.00, Sun 12.00–20.00. Expect to pay: 1.5-hour sauna session €12.50

What is it? A free art experience at Oulu City Hall that invites you to pause and take it in.

Why go? Oulu City Hall is one of the city’s most striking architectural landmarks, but few people have reason to step inside, except during the European Capital of Culture year. Throughout 2026, the building hosts Ekho Collective’s Rauhankoneen kierroksia installation, spread across three floors. It not only lets you experience the artwork but also offers a rare glimpse inside City Hall itself. Visits are free but must be booked in advance, and the dark-toned installation creates a calm space to slow down. Lie back on a bench and take in the visual experience.

Don’t miss: Right next to City Hall you’ll find one of Oulu’s most unusual restaurants, Super Kioski. Serving Mexican food, it doubles as a shop.

Kirkkokatu 2A. Free entry with advance booking required. Open Tue–Fri 13–19, Sat and Sun 11–17.

What is it? Support your local! Located in Tuira, Elokuvateatteri Star is a fourth-generation family-owned cinema showing the latest blockbusters across five screens – with expansion plans on the horizon.

Why go? On the north side of the Oulujoki River, Star is a much-loved independent cinema offering all the comfort of the big chains but with a homely, personal touch – and cheaper tickets. Its plush seats and freshly renovated auditoriums (the newest updated in 2020) make movie nights extra cosy. Even the pre-film ads are worth watching: they’re all locally produced, featuring businesses from the Oulu region. There’s also a Dolby Atmos theatre for top-notch sound.

Don't miss: The snack selection here is solid, but you can also bring your own treats – a local favourite is Tuiran Halpakarkki, a discount sweet shop just 400 metres away, where it’s impossible to leave without an enormous bag of pick ’n’ mix.

Kalliotie 6. First screenings around 13.00, last screenings around 20.00. Standard ticket €12–17.

What is it? An escape room experience that transports you to another world

Why go? How about an adventure in Wonderland? Or ancient Egypt? Or maybe a mysterious pirate island? At Exit Oulu, you can step into a completely different world. There are 13 expertly designed games on offer, packed with detail, plot twists and, of course, those satisfying moments when everything clicks into place. Many of the games come in both easier and more challenging versions, so there’s something for both first-timers and seasoned players. One word of warning: these are addictive. Once you’ve tried one, you’ll already be planning your next.

Don’t miss: The escape rooms are located right next to the city’s iconic Paska kaupunni graffiti, so you can check out how the ever-changing artwork looks while you’re there.

Uusikatu 13–15 and Uusikatu 22. Expect to pay €80 for two players. Open daily, with game-specific times available in the booking calendar.

What is it? Oulu’s pizza culture has its own distinct flavour, as the city is packed with pizzerias that go big on toppings. The local speciality is pizza with mayonnaise, typically enjoyed late at night.

Why go? You haven’t been to Oulu if you haven’t had känkky. This is no standard pizza, but a generously topped, indulgent disc that you’ll find in Oulu centre on almost every other street, if not every single one in the centre. One of the oldest känkky spots is Da Mario, which has been filling locals’ stomachs for over 40 years and remains a favourite among Oulu residents. That’s saying something in a city with no shortage of pizzerias. With its thin base, heavy toppings and especially its huge layer of cheese, this local style of pizza will be giving Neapolitan-style artisan pizzas a run for their money in Oulu for a long time to come.

Don’t miss: The generous salad buffet included in the price of the pizza. Expect several types of salad, grated vegetables, cold cuts, stuffed vine leaves and sauces.

Torikatu 24. Open Mon–Thu 10.30–22, Fri–Sat 10.30–4.30 and Sun 12–4.30. Expect to pay from €13.90 for pizzas.

What is it? About a 30-minute drive from central Oulu, the Koiteli Rapids in Kiiminki are a stunning stretch of the Oulujoki River, almost entirely untouched by development. The area is made up of several rapids, small islands and bridges that connect them.

Why go? Koiteli is an easy yet breathtaking destination for visitors of all ages. Well-maintained trails make exploring effortless, and there are plenty of fire pits along the way – just grab some firewood from the shed by the gate. In summer, you can try river swimming or soak up the mellow vibes of the acoustic music festival; in winter, listen to the icy landscape hum around the rushing water. You can easily spend several hours here, whether on a family outing or a romantic escape. There’s a summer café on-site, but in colder months it’s best to bring your own snacks.

Don't miss: Koiteli is beautiful in every season – even in less-than-perfect weather. If you have the time, it’s always worth the trip.

Koitelinkoskentie 418.

What is it? A short walk from the market square takes you to Pikisaari, Oulu’s wooden artists’ district. Beyond its charming architecture and peaceful nature, it’s a hub for the city’s creative community.

Why go? This picturesque island is full of beautifully preserved wooden houses and studios. At its far end, the old wool factory now houses artists and cultural projects. You can also dive into Oulu’s maritime past at the tiny but delightful Seaman’s Home Museum (Merimiehenkotimuseo).

Time Out tip: Stop for a drink at Hailuoto Brewery’s Mallassauna, where you can sample the brewery’s own beers and hearty German-style bar food. For something fancier, head across the street to Winebar Kurkela and ask co-owner Jenny for one of her award-winning cocktails, like the Feeniks Sour or Cotton Dreams.

What is it? A lighthouse island just off Oulu’s coast, offering pure tranquillity in the middle of the Bothnian Bay.

Why go? Getting to Hailuoto is part of the adventure. Bright yellow ferries make the half-hour crossing from Oulunsalo pier to the island’s port – free of charge. The journey from Oulu city centre takes just over an hour, and at the end of it you’ll find a peaceful little island brimming with community spirit. Head for Marjaniemi on the island’s western shore, home to Hailuoto’s iconic lighthouse, a long sandy beach and a cluster of red fishermen’s huts. Recently renewed boardwalks make exploring the coastline easy, and the wide walkways are also accessible by wheelchair. A long-debated bridge is set to shorten the journey to the island, with completion expected at the end of 2026.

Don't miss: In midwinter, a temporary ice road opens to Hailuoto, letting you drive across the frozen sea – but only when it’s officially declared safe.

Hailuoto ferries operate weekdays from 05.00 to 00.30, with a reduced schedule at weekends. Ferry crossing is free of charge.