The world is looking north as Oulu steps into the spotlight as Europe’s Capital of Culture in 2026. Recognised by National Geographic, BBC, Forbes and Condé Nast Traveler, Oulu is listed among the world’s top travel destinations for 2026. From floating saunas and air guitars to festivals on frozen seas and Arctic light, there are countless reasons to visit — made even easier with direct airBaltic flights from Riga to Oulu in under two hours.
Add to favouritesShow all favouritesDiscover Oulu: From far Northern city to one of the world’s best travel destinations in 2026
A Year-Round Cultural Programme Across Northern Finland
In 2026, Oulu is Europe’s Capital of Culture, with a programme designed to be experienced year-round. Culture is not confined to the city alone, but spread across 40 municipalities throughout Northern Finland!
The Oulu 2026 region offers some of the most unique festivals in Europe, from the world-famous Air Guitar World Championships to jazz concerts by the Bothnian Bay, poetry weeks, folk and Irish music festivals, and small community-driven events rooted in northern traditions.
Alongside seasonal events, exhibitions, installations and cultural venues remain open year-round, making Oulu a destination where there is always something to experience — no matter when you arrive.
Explore the Oulu2026 Cultural ProgrammeFood culture shaped by the North
Arctic Food Lab captures the essence of northern Finland’s food culture, highlighting clean local ingredients and the unique flavours of the North. At the heart of the Oulu2026 programme, it brings together the region’s local chefs and producers to create experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
As part of Oulu’s year as European Capital of Culture, Arctic Food Lab connects food with culture through events, collaborations and everyday dining. One of the highlights is Summer Night’s Dinner on 15 August 2026, when a 1-kilometre-long communal table stretches through the city, from the railway station to the Market Square, inviting everyone to share food, stories and the joy of togetherness.
Northern flavours can be enjoyed year-round in restaurants across Oulu and the surrounding region. From relaxed local eateries to carefully crafted tasting menus, Arctic Food Lab makes it easy to experience the authentic taste of the North.
Learn more about Arctic Food LabNorthern nature, without the crowds
Oulu offers easy access to northern nature — the sea, forests, islands and wide-open landscapes — right at the edge of the city. In winter, the Northern Lights may light up the sky; in summer, the midnight sun stretches the days into long hours of light. Just beyond the city, visitors can experience some of the North’s most iconic activities, from husky safaris and sleigh rides pulled by Finnish horses to meeting reindeer and discovering polar bears up close. Unlike many northern destinations, Oulu remains largely untouched by mass tourism, making it an inviting choice for travellers seeking space, calm and authenticity.
Choose your way to experience the NorthLiving the Sauna culture
In Oulu, sauna is part of everyday life — a simple, natural way to unwind and connect with the elements. Many hotel rooms feature a private sauna, allowing visitors to experience this Finnish tradition in complete privacy and at their own pace. Beyond hotels, saunas can be found along the riverbanks and floating on the river, while another iconic sauna sits at Oulu Market Square, right by the sea in the heart of the city.
The Oulu River is home to three floating saunas, all of which offer the chance to take a refreshing dip in an ice hole during winter — a much-loved ritual among locals. Sauna in Oulu is enjoyed throughout the year, often combining heat with cold and time spent outdoors.
In winter, the experience becomes even more memorable: it’s also possible to sauna in a sauna built entirely from ice, surrounded by snow and crisp Arctic air. Whether by the river, at the Market Square or on ice, sauna in Oulu is about embracing the northern way of life — calmly, authentically and close to nature.
Discover sauna the Oulu wayWhere to stay in Oulu and beyond
From stylish city hotels and cosy boutique stays to cabins by the water and camping close to nature, Oulu makes sleeping easy. Choose a hotel for soft sheets, great breakfasts and a touch of everyday luxury — or pick a cabin or campsite if nature is your favourite neighbour. Many places come with a sauna, and yes, Oulu is pet-friendly too, so even your four-legged travel buddy is welcome to many hotels.
Find your place to stayDiscover Northern Finland from Oulu
Oulu, where the sea meets the river, is the starting point of the Pohjola Route – a journey into the heart of Northern Finland. The route winds through three unique national parks and diverse landscapes, from fells and forests to wetlands, lakes, rivers, and the Bay of Bothnia. Within two hours you can ski at Syöte, Finland’s southernmost fell, wander the historic wooden streets of Raahe, or take a ferry to Hailuoto island, famed for its birdlife and serene shores.
The Pohjola Route also leads you to Rokua Geopark, Finland’s first UNESCO Global Geopark, shaped by the Ice Age with its ridges, pine forests and crystal-clear lakes. Further north lies Ranua in Lapland, home to the Ranua Wildlife Park, where visitors can meet Arctic animals — including polar bears — in spacious, natural surroundings.
Along the way are Kemi with its magical SnowCastle, the artistic and eco-minded community of Ii, and the welcoming towns of Tyrnävä, Lumijoki, Liminka and Kempele — each offering an authentic glimpse into northern life and culture.
Plan your journey along the Pohjola RouteHere’s a quick overview of Oulu, Finland!
- Finland’s 5th largest city, home to 216,000 people
- A dynamic university hub, known for innovation and brands like Nokia and Oura
- Gateway to the North – close to the Arctic Circle and surrounded by stunning nature
- On the Bothnian Coastal Route, near the Swedish border
- European Capital of Culture 2026
- Unique events like the Air Guitar World Championships and Polar Bear Pitching
- Nature at your doorstep – 3 national parks, forests, lakes, and seaside views
- Magical skies – Northern Lights in winter, Midnight Sun in summer
- Cycling capital of Finland with year-round bike paths
- Arctic Food Lab – from traditional rössypottu to vibrant restaurants and cafés
- Sauna culture – from floating sauna rafts to cozy lakeside cabins
- Family-friendly city – safe, welcoming, and full of activities for all ages
Discover Oulu 2026 – Fly direct from Riga to Oulu with airBaltic >>
