11 Things to do in oulu in winter
Things to do in Oulu in winter
Oulu Finland is the perfect place to visit in winter. There are many things to see as well as a variety of outdoor activities on offer. It is around an hour’s flight from Helsinki and should be added on your winter bucket list if you visit Finland.
If you do plan to go to Oulu I would recommend spending some time in Helsinki even if it is just for a day. You may also be interested in a day trip to Tallinn or an overnight cruise to Sweden.
Visit Nallikari Beach
A must if you’re ever in Oulu. During winter the lake is frozen however you can still participate in activities such as e-biking and ice fishing. There is also an electronic music winter festival called the Frozen People that happens annually in March – you can literally party on the frozen lake.
Frozen People – winter festival
If you are into electronic music Oulu has an annual musical festival located on the frozen lake of Nallikari Beach. This is such a unique experience to experience Finland’s winter with a unique twist.
Winter Biking on Nallikari Beach
This unique experience is not for the faint-hearted. You can hire a fat bike and ride on the frozen lake on Nallikari beach. Beware this can be extremely icy but it was still such a great experience. Be sure to wrap up warm the wind bites!
Go to an Air Guitar workshop
Did you know that the air guitar world championships are held in Oulu every year in August? During the winter period you can attend an air guitar workshop with an air guitar finalist. So cool and very unique. Are you ready to unleash your inner rock star?
Kauppahalli – Market Hall
Kauppahalli is the market hall in Oulu and is the perfect place to purchase snacks for your journey. I would highly recommend Karelian Pies (Karjalanpiirakka) they had lingonberry and blueberry pies on offer in the market hall.
Toripolliisi – the Fat Policeman Statue
This statue is famous in Oulu. Located right outside Kauppahalli the market hall you will find the “fat policeman”
Cross Country Skiing
Cross country skiing is a popular choice for Finns and for good reason. It is enjoyable and gets you places, I met someone on this route who was doing their grocery shop while cross country skiing – that’s one way to get around. I went to Syote to try this out.
Skiing
Skiing or snowboarding in Syote. I was so surprised at how quiet it is here in Syote. On a Saturday there was no wait time at all for the lifts and barely anyone on the mountains.
Take a walk and visit the Oulu sign
Taking a stroll around Oulu in winter is so magical with all its snow covered trees. I would be advised visiting the Oulu sign and take a selfie, you know just to prove you did in fact explore Oulu.
Oulu Town Hall
Another landmark to visit in Oulu is the Town Hall. Located in the Pokkinen district of central Oulu it is pretty easy to get there. Be sure to go around the back and see the statues of “the passage of time”.
Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is something not to be missed if you ever visit Oulu. You will be equipped with some snowshoes and poles and follow your guide in the forest.
Husky Sledding
This is one of my favourite activities to do in Oulu and a must if you love huskies. You have the choice of being the driver or the passenger. My friend and I opted to swap so we got to experience both and it was amazing to do both although driving is way more difficult for sure.
There is a guide to teach you the ropes before you go ie how to stop and turn.
Helsinki to Oulu
Fly from Helsinki to Oulu
The quickest way to get from Helsinki to Oulu is to fly. There is an airport in Oulu and it takes a 55-1hr 20min flight to get there. There aren’t many flights as this is usually a commuter route.
Train Helsinki to Oulu
Another option is to take the sleeper train. This more sustainable option allows you to save on a night’s accommodation and arrive in Oulu in the morning. Be sure to book in advance as this route sells out quickly.
Northern Lights in Oulu
You may get to see the northern lights in Oulu however this is never guaranteed. Be sure to check out the Aurora forecast daily to get the best chance of seeing the northern lights.
Where to stay in Oulu Finland
I would recommend staying in Lapland Hotels Oulu. The rooms were cosy and the breakfast was one of the best I’ve ever had. Lapland Hotels is also located in the centre so it is easy to get everywhere in Oulu.
Another option is the Scandic Oulu City Hotel and if you are staying in Syote the newly renovated Hotel Pikku-Syote Hotel.
What to wear in Oulu Finland
I’d advise wearing a waterproof coat, hiking boots/waterproof boots, warm thick trousers and many many layers as it can get quite chilly. I would also suggest a hat, gloves and a scarf for the winter months.
