7 Summer Tips for Oulu: What to Do and See in Oulu this Summer?

1. Idyllic and Creative Pikisaari: Art, Historical Vibes and Culinary Culture

Pikisaari, the charming old town, is a dream destination for culture and food enthusiasts! Known for its creative and historical ambiance, Pikisaari is just a short walk away from Oulu’s market square; you cross the bridge near Oulu Theater to reach it.

This summer, Pikisaari hosts a unique demolition art exhibition called Reformi. The exhibition takes place in an old educational institution scheduled for demolition next autumn. You can freely explore the premises on weekdays between 12 PM to 6 PM. Admission is free!

History enthusiasts should visit the Merimiehenkotimuseo (Seamen’s Home Museum), located in Oulu’s oldest preserved wooden house. The museum offers a glimpse into the fascinating history of Oulu and Pikisaari. Did you know that ships were built in Pikisaari? The museum is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, and admission is free.

For those who love good food and drinks, Pikisaari offers several interesting options. At Hailuodon Panimo’s Mallassauna terrace, you can taste local organic beers and enjoy Finnish-German cuisine. The Mallassauna hosts various live concerts and other music and cultural events throughout the summer!

Sokeri-Jussin Kievari, on the other hand, is a cozy restaurant located in a log warehouse in Oulu’s Pikisaari. Their kitchen creates delicious Finnish dishes, made from pure domestic ingredients, seasoned according to the seasons’ rhythm and local produce.

Round off your Pikisaari day with a walk along the nature trail that encircles the island! This picturesque path leads along the shores, where you’ll hear tales of Pikisaari’s history. You can find some of the Oulu’s most Instagrammable spots along the trail. Furthermore, some sections of the trail are adorned with art: the Pikinen Poloku art trail near the Old Wool Factory displays local artists’ works.

3. Gems of the River Delta: Island Tour by Kayak and Sauna on a Raft!

The River Delta offers the most beautiful summer experiences in Oulu! Whether you’re an active traveler or someone who prefers a leisurely pace, The Oulu River has something for everyone.

Hietasaaren Seelari offers a café and a summer terrace with a stunning view, as well as concerts and events.

At Linnansaari, just a short walk from Oulu’s market square, you’ll find Oulun Melontakeskus (Oulu Canoe Center) and Lappis Vesipuisto (Lappis Water Park), perfect for both kids and adults! At Oulu Melontakeskus, you can rent a SUP board or a kayak and take a self-guided tour around Pikisaari, for example. Oulu Melontakeskus also offers Maanantaimelonta (Monday Paddle) and Torstain torimelonta (Thursday Market Paddle), open to everyone and suitable for beginners, taking you on low-threshold paddling excursions to the river delta.

What’s a summer without proper saunas and a dip in the Oulu River? Koivurannan Saunalautta (Koivuranta Sauna Raft) offers a public sauna turn on the riverbanks. The saunalautta also houses Koivuranta Igloos, which provide a unique experience of accommodation and sailing along the Oulu River.

5. Local Nature's Best Spots: Ainola Park, Pilpasuo and Koiteli

In Oulu, nature is always close by! You can reach several nearby natural attractions on foot, by bike, or by paddling from the city center. And if trekking on nature trails doesn’t entice you in the summer heat, consider having a picnic in one of the city’s parks, such as Ainola Park or Hollihaka.

Within a short drive, there are several fantastic natural destinations to explore.

Pilpasuo, a vast wetland area, is one of the favorite hiking spots in the Oulu area. It is a nationally protected wetland and a Natura 2000 site. You can choose between two different routes in Pilpasuo: the short Lystireitti (1 km) and the longer Aistireitti (7 km).

Koitelinkoski rafts in Kiiminki can be reached in about half an hour’s drive from Oulu’s city center. When visiting Koitelinkoski rafts, don’t forget to stop by the cozy café Koitelin Tunnelmatupa, surrounded by the stunning Koitelinkoski. In summer, Koitelinkosket also has an ice cream kiosk.

Sanginjoki is a contiguous forest area located about 16 kilometers from Oulu’s city center. The area has features of a natural forest, with old spruce stands, as well as swamps and dry ridge nature. Sanginjoki is home to endangered fungi and rare bird species.

7. Day Trips from Oulu: Road Trip on the Pohjola Route

Oulu is the perfect hub for unforgettable summer road trips, with plenty of exciting day trip destinations nearby. One of the best ways to explore the region is by following the Pohjola Route, a scenic journey through Northern Finland that starts and ends in Oulu. Along this route, you’ll discover charming towns and breathtaking nature in Hailuoto, Syöte, Rokua Geopark, Tyrnävä, Lumijoki, Liminka, Kempele, Ii, and Raahe.

Just a short ferry ride from Oulu lies the enchanting island of Hailuoto. There, you’ll find the picturesque Marjaniemi fishing village, known for its historic lighthouse and wide stretches of white sandy beaches. While visiting, be sure to stop by Hailuodon Panimo (the local brewery) and grab a delicious bite at Kujalan Burgeri in Marjaniemi.

Within a couple of hours’ drive, you’ll reach two stunning national parks: Syöte and Rokua. And this summer, you can even travel directly from Oulu to Rokua by bus – no car needed! The Pohjola Route also hides several nature lovers’ gems, like Markkuu Nature Trail in Tyrnävä, Köykkyri recreation area in Kempele, and the Liminganlahti Nature Centre, a paradise for birdwatchers in Liminka.

History buffs will enjoy wandering the quaint old quarters of Wanha Hamina in Ii and Wanha Raahe in Raahe, both rich with stories and summer charm. In Lumijoki, a visit to the family-friendly Lännentila Experience Center is a must.

Whether you’re seeking natural beauty, cultural heritage, or just a peaceful escape, the Oulu region has it all.

Happy summer exploring!