Oulu is the European Capital of Culture 2026!

Meet Oulu, that quirky northern city by the sea.

This is a home of people who like to choose their own path and do things differently. We are the ones who created the modern mobile technology and are forerunners in 6G. The ones who made up the peculiar Air Guitar World Championship to promote the message of world peace, and are now nominated as European Capital of Culture 2026. In Oulu, life is an adventure, filled with rich tones of creativity and the magic of pure northern nature. We welcome everyone like an old friend, so please come and enjoy the laid-back, creative atmosphere of our beautiful seaside city.

We are building an unforgettable Capital of Culture year 2026

Oulu is European Capital of Culture 2026, together with 39 municipalities. The whole Northern Finland will awaken when the cultural events bring the region to life and inspire joy and creativity in people every day. This is a journey of several years, which will culminate in 2026. We are building an unforgettable Capital of Culture year with the aim of creating a positive, lasting impact on our region. Our main goal is cultural climate change. We want to open up a new connection between people – are you ready to discover it?

Winter getaway to northern Finland – Discover the TOP 9 reasons to visit Oulu in the wintertime!

Starry skies, snow-covered sceneries, the frozen sea, and with a bit of luck, even the northern lights – these are just a few of the wonders that await you in Oulu and Northern Finland. If you’re dreaming of a magical winter getaway, look no further! Oulu is easily accessible with a direct Lufthansa flight from Munich and a direct Finnair flight from Helsinki. Read our winter travel tips to Oulu to ensure your stay with us is truly unforgettable!

Journey into the sunlit North: exploring Oulu and beyond in summer

With excellent road trip opportunities and a summer calendar bursting with events, there’s something for everyone, including family-friendly attractions such as a children’s amusement park, water park, and the scenic Turkansaari island. In Oulu, you can indulge in a myriad of activities including cycling and kayaking along the river delta, explore an array of summer cafes and restaurants, and immerse yourself in the perfect fusion of nature and city life.

Nallikari by the sea – beach vibes in the summer, the magical frozen sea in the winter

Thanks to its picturesque seaside views and breath-taking natural scenery, it’s no wonder that so many people flock to Nallikari for their vacation. Whether you’re looking for an adventure-filled vacation for the whole family, or a romantic getaway, there is something that suits your needs. The long, sandy beach, the natural environment bursting with life, and the gorgeous location guarantee that you’ll be making unforgettable memories by the sea. The frozen sea in the winter is an unforgettable bucket list experience!

It's pure, it's peaceful, it's breathtakingly beautiful – The northern nature at its best

Nature gives you energy as well as peace of mind. What are you looking for on your trip to Oulu? Are you more of an independent adventurer, or one to enjoy an easy trip to a close-by nature site?

Is your air guitar ready to rock? Oulu is a place of wild creativity

Creativity runs high in the waterways of Oulu, so much so that we’ve been nominated the European Capital of Culture 2026. So take it all in and dive into the culture and events while you’re here!

Dear Human. It's me, the Earth. Would you please take good care of me while traveling?

We’ve compiled five tips on how to make your trip to Oulu more sustainable and responsible. Check them out!

Sustainability

Travel Responsibly in Oulu and Pohjola Route

Shhh... We are now about to reveal you the best kept secret of the North. Are you ready?

Here we go: Pohjola route – a new way to discover Finland! Oulu is located along the northern scenic route together with ten other municipalities and tourist destinations. On a road trip of a few days, you will see Finland’s southernmost fell, the sea and archipelagos, forests, lakes and authentic little villages.

Find yourself on the edge of creativity and nature

Siirry Pohjolan rengastielle

Winter Getaway to Northern Finland – Discover the TOP 9 Reasons to Visit Oulu this Winter