Finland is reachable by sea through Helsinki and Turku primarily; but has lots of ferry ports, including Vaasa, the closest to Oulu, where ferries from Northern Sweden arrive. The fastest route is from Tallinn to Helsinki, taking only two hours. The most common routes are from Stockholm and Tallinn, though there are many others available:

• Nynashamn
• Tallinn
• Stockholm
• Kapellskar
• Langnas
• Mariehamn
• Travemunde
• Muuga
• Umea

Direct Ferries is a good price comparison site where you can book with lots of companies. It includes a map of all routes into Finland. Booking in advance is always advisable for the summer months.

Helsinki

Helsinki is closest to Tallinn, Estonia, which is also easily reachable from Riga in Latvia by bus. This link means you can make it overland from a lot of places, then take the ferry to Helsinki. It is also linked to Germany, via the port of Travemunde. Once in Helsinki, you can take the train to Oulu, which takes up to 7 hours, but is comfortable and has cabins available for sleep, see below.

Other Ports

Outside of Helsinki, Turku is a large port in southern Finland, where ferries from Sweden dock several times daily. Both are well connected to Oulu by train, or car. 

Reaching Finland by land will most likely involve coming in via ferry, and completing the rest of your journey via land once there. Finland has a land border with Sweden in the Northwest, Norway in the North, and Russia in the East. 

Trains

Booking train tickets for travel in Finland is best done online, directly from the main provider VR. Seats are assigned on booking (apart from short journeys on the commuter trains), and for the long journeys of 7-8 hours from Helsinki and Turku, we recommend booking a cabin. Train station platforms are labelled so you will know which carriage stops where, it’s easiest to board directly on the one labelled on your ticket. Mind the screens at the station, and the destination written on the train, as trains to various destinations may stop at the platform, and delays can happen. 

Your ticket will outline if you are upstairs or downstairs, which carriage and what seat you are on, including if it is window or aisle. Trains have a restaurant, you do need to eat in the restaurant and cannot bring the food back to your seat, they will also announce when it opens and closes. All announcements are made in English as well as Finnish.

Driving

Driving up to Oulu might take a while, but it can be a great way to experience Finland’s impressive natural landscape, especially if you can make your way off the highway (with the help of a satnav). A couple of tips if you intend to do this:

1. In Finland you drive on the right hand side of the road
2. Elk, reindeer and other wildlife can wander onto the road, be mindful of road signs indicating the presence of wildlife. Elks are more commonly seen in twilight; reindeer are not as jumpy as other deer, but do drive carefully past them.
3. Self-service gas stations are popular, chip-and-pin cards work best. There may be long stretches without gas stations, so fill up when you’re in town.
4. Street names are often on the side of buildings rather than posts.

Helsinki

By train there are various options, many of which are direct, and take around 6 to 8 hours, depending on the number of stops the train makes. If you do have to change, this will be at Tikkurila, about 20 minutes from Helsinki.

Driving will take around seven hours, going through Jyväskylä through the middle of Finland. It is drive of around 600km, so if you have the time we recommend stopping overnight somewhere and taking it over two days.

1. Take Kaisaniemenkatu/Kajsaniemigatan, Djurgårdsvägen/Eläintarhantie, Wallininkatu/Wallinsgatan, Sturegatan/Sturenkatu and Hämeentie/Tavastvägen to Gustav Vasas väg/Kustaa Vaasan tie/E75, for 17 min (5.2 km)
2. Follow E75 to Kainuuntie/Route 22 in Oulu. Take exit 8 from Route 4/E75/E8, for 6 hr 26 min (599 km)
3. Continue on Kainuuntie. Drive to Saaristonkatu, for 6 min (2.4 km), until you arrive at Oulu.

Turku

By train, you will most likely need to change at Tampere after about an hour and a half, in total this takes between 6 and 7 and a half hours. There is a direct train, but this takes considerably longer at around 11 hours. Depending on the time you are travelling, you may prefer this as you can get a cabin and sleep. 

Driving will take you around seven and a half hours, also going through Tampere but going further inland afterwards. It is a very long drive of 647km, so we recommend stopping overnight somewhere and taking it over two days.

1. Continue on Kainuuntie. Drive to Saaristonkatu, for 6 min (2.4 km), until you arrive at Oulu.
2. Take Maariankatu/Mariegatan to Aningaisgatan/Aninkaistenkatu/Route 9, for 2 min (600 m)
3. Follow E63 and E75 to Kainuuntie/Route 22 in Oulu. Take exit 8 from Route 4/E75/E8, for 7 hr 13 min (644 km)

Helsinki-Vantaa Airport, located in Vantaa, is the main international airport serving the city of Helsinki. It is the busiest airport in Finland, with about 90% of Finland’s international air traffic passing through it. The airport has 32 airlines operating and serving flights to and from 88 destinations, with Finnair leading with 116 flight destinations.

Other airports in Finland are mainly for national travel from Helsinki, they are small and efficient, like Oulu’s airport. 

Helsinki-Vantaa Airport

Arriving at Helsinki-Vantaa you will have the option to continue to Oulu overland, by train or car; or take another flight to Oulu.

By train, because the airport is outside of Helsinki, you will have to first take the commuter train and then change at Tikkurila, about 20 minutes from Helsinki. The journey time varies between just under 6, and 7 hours.

Driving will take around seven hours, going through Jyväskylä through the middle of Finland. It is a very long drive of around 600km, so we recommend stopping overnight somewhere and taking it over two days.

1. Get on Route 50/E18 from Parkerinsvägen/Parkkitie, Datavägen/Tietotie and Flygstationsvägen/Lentoasemantie/Parkerinsvägen/Parkkitie, for 5 min (3.9 km)
2. Follow Route 4/E75 to Kainuuntie/Route 22 in Oulu. Take exit 8 from Route 4/E75/E8, for 6 hr 23 min (596 km)
3. Continue on Kainuuntie. Drive to Saaristonkatu, for 6 min (2.4 km), until you arrive at Oulu.

Flying to Oulu will take an hour and ten minutes. There are between 3 and 7 flights a day from Helsinki to Oulu, they can range in price but seem to be a little cheaper at the weekend than the week. All are operated by Finnair and depending on the day can be very pricey compared to the train.

Oulu Airport

Oulu Airport is part of the Finavia airport network. Serving the bustling technology and university city of Oulu, it is the second busiest airport in Finland.

By bus: from the airport, you can take buses 8, 9, or 9K to the city. Buses operate on pay when you get on, you can simply tap a contactless card on the machine next to the driver. It takes 32 to 42 minutes to reach Oulu city centre.

Driving typically takes 16 to 28 minutes, the airport is 15km from Oulu city centre.

1. Turn right to merge onto Route 4/E75/E8 towards Oulu
2. Head south-east for 250 m
3. Continue onto Vänrikintie for 600 m
4. Turn right onto Lentokentäntie/Route 815 for 290 m
5. At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit and stay on Lentokentäntie/Route 815 for 2.4 km
6. At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit and stay on Lentokentäntie/Route 815 for 4.9 km

Oulu Museum and Science Centre produces, records and presents northern science, art and history. They promote cooperation around these themes in the region. With their work, they want to strengthen local identity by guiding and inspiring people in the present moment and nurturing what is important for future generations.

Oulu Market Hall Kauppahalli is one of the most important buildings in Oulu by cultural history standards is the Market Hall which has served its customers since 1901. The building was designed in neo-Gothic fashion by Karl Lindhal and Valter Thomé, and a massive reconstruction finished in 2020 restored its old-time glory.

Oulu Symphony is a Finnish orchestra based in Oulu. Oulu Sinfonia gives concerts primarily at the Oulu Music Centre, in the Madetojan sali (Madetoja Concert Hall), located in the Karjasilta district, and named for Leevi Madetoja, who was born in Oulu.    

Oulu Theatre is the largest professional theatre in northern Finland. The diverse programme produced by the artistically and operatively high-class professional corporation offers audiences high-quality and ambitious performances. 

Oulun Music Centre is a significant cultural centre in Northern Finland, offering diverse cultural experiences for visitors of all ages. 

Cultural Centre Valve s a cultural centre for all ages, open seven days a week. In Valve, you can enjoy cultural experiences by both local organisers and international visits; in the three galleries, two auditoriums and one cinema there is much to see and experience!

Air Guitar Championships Contestants around the world put their best on stage shamelessly with their invisible instruments. This phenomenon promoting world peace with a smile has inspired both filmmakers and doctorate researchers. You can’t hold a gun while you play the air guitar.

Nallikari Lighthouse with its splendid sunsets is home to a lighthouse – actually, a lookout tower – that is a must for countless holiday photos and a landmark loved by locals.

Kierikki Stone Age Center takes you back in time thousands of years into the distant past of the North. The Kierikki Centre is located along the Iijoki River on a Stone Age dwelling site that has been studied since the 1960s.

Oulu Cathedral stands in Oulu’s monumental centre, on the same site where several church buildings were located over the centuries. The wooden church that was built on the site in the 1610s was replaced by a cathedral designed by Daniel Hagman of Sweden and completed in 1777. The cathedral, built of natural stone, was so big that all the 2,400 inhabitants of Oulu could fit in it at the same time!

Parks & Greenspaces

Nature trails in Oulu

Top 10 hiking trails near Oulu

Beaches in and near Oulu

Kayaking in Olu, the delta of River Oulu is a diverse paddling location providing both cultural and natural scenery as well as a unique perspective on the cityscape of Oulu. 

Poro-Panuma Reindeer farm there will be a tour organised by the conference to the reindeer farm but if spots fill up it is worth visiting on your own.

Pohjola route runs in the Oulu region in Northern Finland. Travel in parts or as a whole and choose your destinations, experiences and adventures from the route however you like. The best parts of Northern Finland can be found along the route, whatever the season. 

Northern Lights should be abel to be seen as the confrence will be taking place during the Solar Maximum.

Guided walking tours in Oulu A walk of an hour and a half –  two hours takes you from the old monumental centre to the new one. The guide will tell you about the persons and events of the past, show you where the long narrow boats full of tar barrels landed and lead you to the old storehouses and to the market hall guarded by the statue of a policeman. You will be revealed the humorous stories behind this figure loved by everyone.

Saunatour is a tour of saunas around Northern Finland. It includes different kinds of Finnish Sauna Experiences, always accompanied by a trained Finnish sauna guide.

Nature photo tour is a guided nature tour where guests will receive valuable tips and tricks on how to get the best out of their camera. 

Salamapaja offers photography tours and workshops in Lapland and Oulu area. Tours range from 1-evening Aurora borealis chase to 1-week photography tours as well as tailored multi-day tours. Workshops concentrate on landscape, nature and night photography.

Lappis offers a variety of wind and watersport activities in Oulu. With us you can learn how to snowkite in the winter or kitesurf in the summer. Both of their locations offer guided tours, lessons and instructions to all of the cool activities. 

Loihakka specialises in husky safaris. They are based in Varjakka, Oulu.

Outdoors Oulu Oy offers a variety of experiences in and around Oulu.

Luonnokas Oy is a traditional sauna with a focus on the natural and sauna traditions. There are options for group bookings as well as solo pampering.

Kesän Sauna is a ferry sauna which allows you to also dip into the river at a good price.

Five must-experience saunas in Finnish Coast & Archipelago

Koivuranta Floating Cafe, when in dock, the raft operates as a floating café. Treat yourself to their famous sweet and savoury waffles! They have gluten free, lactose free and vegan options. They also have a sauna on the raft, which is limited to 20 people at the time so you should book ahead.

Saunatour is a tour of saunas around Northern Finland. It includes different kinds of Finnish Sauna Experiences, always accompanied by a trained Finnish sauna guide.

Have a look at this list of 10 authentic Finnish saunas for more ideas!

Fafa’s Restaurant Valkea offers authentic handmade gourmet street food with straightforward and friendly service, meat-eaters, vegetarians and vegans alike are warmly welcome.

Sokeri-Jussin Kievari is an atmospheric restaurant located in a timber storehouse in Pikisaari. The Tavern kitchen creates a delicious Finnish menu out of pure domestic ingredients flavoured with the delicacies of the season.

De Gamlas Hem Restaurant‘s charming and atmospheric restaurant is based on their very own vision that combines modern cuisine with De Gamlas Hem’s traditions.

Vegan Love V&W is a unique vegan food kiosk located in the heart of Oulu. Always fresh smoothies, desserts and lunches. Open for outdoor dining and to-go orders.

At Ravintolamaailma Linnanmaa they offer food and beverages from three different brands: Pizza&Buffa, Presso and Hesburger. It is an entire buffet available at a single price, with special prices for children.

Restaurant Mallassauna on top of tap beers offer tasting trays, German style Pretzels and other snacks and warm food, beer and other products to shop, gigs and events, both in the beautiful rustic house or during the summer, out on the green.

Amarillo in Oulu is a social dining experience, which is about sharing encouraged by their dishes. They also offer a meal experience known as The Table, with unique drinks and dishes.

SuperPark Restaurant, Robson’s restaurant, located next to the SuperPark activation park, serves tasty lunch, small snacks and sweet and savoury coffee breads. It is a fixed price menu, including salad buffet, two hot food options, dessert and coffee (lunch only).

Frans & Camille Bistro is a rural French restaurant, traditional French recipes and new creations by their chefs guarantee a great meal experience for all tastes. It has good vegetarian options.

Koivuranta Floating Cafe, when in dock, the raft operates as a floating café. Treat yourself to their famous sweet and savoury waffles! They have gluten free, lactose free and vegan options. They also have a sauna on the raft, which is limited to 20 people at the time so you should book ahead.

Cafe-Restaurant Seelari in Hietasaari is a cafe with stunning views to Oulu city centre. Located in the beautiful island of Hietasaari, it is only short walk from the Oulu marketplace. It has good vegetarian options. 

Café Kaari is located in the historic Åström Brothers factory building next to the scenic Ainola Park. They have lovely sweet and savoury treats, fantastic special coffee varieties and some fabulous sparkling wines. Their selection emphasises local products from the North.

Kahvila Kiikku is in the heart of central park of Oulu, Ainolanpuisto. There is also a big playground for children nearby. 

Bacaro Doppio Café offers a laid-back and stylish atmosphere for friends of Italian coffee, wine and delicacies. You’ll enjoy the feel of a Venetian wine bar where tradition blends effortlessly with modern elements.

Cafe Tunnelmatupa at Koiteli rapids area offers home-baked pancakes, organic and fair trade coffee, ice cream and many kinds of snacks.

Coffee House Café offers a great atmosphere, coffee, croissants and bagels, open 08:00-20:00 it’s a great place to wind down after panel sessions. Their savoury selection includes good vegetarian options.

Mango Disco Bar – Mango DiscoBar combines a bar and a disco: the unhurried bar’s personal competent service and relaxed atmosphere, as well as the best dance floors in the city. Open from 10 pm to 3 am on Wednesday and 10 pm to 5 am on Friday.

45 Special – a rock bar and known as a venue for live music. Open Wed, Thur, Sun 6pm to 2 am, Fri–Sat 6pm to 4:30 am.

Ilona – nightclub with a lot of different offerings London, Live, Disco, Retro and Karaoke. Open Friday to Sunday 10 pm to 5 am.

Ihku Oulu – a combination karaoke bar and nightclub. Open from Wed – Thu at 9 pm, Fri – Sat at 6pm, Sun at 9 pm closes at 5am.

Jumpru Patio Live! – club will start at Jumpru Pub Patio on Tuesday June 13th and there will be live music every week from Tuesday to Saturday from 9 pm to 10.30 pm.

1bar is your relaxed living room in the center of Oulu, where cocktails, wine and people meet to have a good time.

Restaurant and winebar VENN offers simple and delicious food, charming wines and exhilarating cocktails.