5 Days of Adventure in Budget-Friendly Oulu

Experience Finnish hospitality without breaking the bank in Oulu.

21 June 2023

Oulu, Finland is a great destination for a trip on a limited budget. Explore the city's rich cultural scene by visiting free museums and art galleries. Take a walk along the stunning Oulu river and enjoy the beautiful scenery while keeping your expenses to a minimum.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Oulu

  • Check into Forenom Aparthotel Oulu Rautatienkatu, a budget-friendly hotel close to train and bus stations.
  • Visit the Oulu Market Square, a bustling hub of food and craft vendors.
  • Stop by the Oulu City Library, a modern architectural wonder.
  • Try the delicious Finnish dish of reindeer meatballs at Ravintola Uleaborg or grab a burger at Hesburger.
Day 2

Nature Exploration

  • Head to the Hupisaaret Park, which consists of many small beauiful islands connected by bridges
  • Visit the Botanical Garden at the park for some amazing plant life
  • Walk around the Syöte National Park, 90 minutes north of the city, for a true wilderness experience with breathtaking views and some hiking trails.
  • Head back to the city to rest and have dinner at Kuja Bar & Bistro.
Day 3

Art and Culture

  • Check out the Oulu Art Museum for Finnish artists and great exhibitions.
  • Visit Tietomaa, a great interactive science center for kids and adults.
  • Wander around the Toripolliisi statue, a favourite of many locals.
  • Experience the black-tongued drinking culture of Finland with a night out at Locke & Key, a cosy cocktail bar.
Day 4

Sports and Leisure

  • Grab a bicycle to explore Oulu's many cycle paths and parks, or check out the marina and beaches.
  • Play frisbee golf at the Ahvenisto DiscGolfPark.
  • Have a sauna session at Rajaportin Sauna, a traditional Finnish sauna and one of the oldest in the country.
  • Get a taste of Finland's national sport, ice hockey, by seeing a live game at the Oulun Kärpät arena.
Day 5

Farewell Oulu

  • Take a stroll along the pedestrian zone Rotuaari and pick up interesting souvenirs.
  • Enjoy the Finnish version of tapas at Kulttuuritalo Valve, a cultural house that also serves great food.
  • Make your way to the airport or train station to continue your travels, refreshed and happy.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Oulu, Finland by plane is to fly into Oulu Airport (IATA code: OUL) from your departure city.

Car

Driving from Helsinki to Oulu is the most convenient way to get there by car. The drive takes approximately 6-7 hours and is well-maintained.

Train

There are no direct trains to Oulu, Finland. However, you can take a train to Helsinki and then take the Allegro train from Helsinki to Oulu.

Boat

There are no direct boats to Oulu. However, you can travel by ferry from Tallinn, Estonia to Helsinki, Finland and then take a train to Oulu.

Bus

Taking a bus from Helsinki to Oulu is the best way to get there by bus. You can catch a bus from Helsinki Bus Station to Oulu Bus Station.

More travel plans

Escape for a Winter Weekend in Oulu

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Oulu Uncovered: 2 Days of Budget-Friendly Fun

Oulu, located in northern Finland, offers a unique mix of modern city life and breathtaking natural beauty. With a limited budget, travelers can explore the city's popular museums and parks, try traditional Finnish cuisine at local cafes, and take advantage of the extensive network of free public transportation. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Hailuoto Island and Oulanka National Park offer stunning hiking and nature experiences.

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