11 Best Things to Do in Oulu in Winter

Oulu is a charming city in northern Finland, known for its winter landscapes and interesting culture. It offers a unique combination of outdoor activities and modern urban life. During winter, the city transforms into a wonderland of snow-covered streets, frozen waterways and stunning northern lights displays. Whether you love adventure or prefer cultural experiences, Oulu has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll cover the best things to do in Oulu in winter, where to stay, where to eat and more!

European Capital of Culture 2026

Oulu has been selected as the European Capital of Culture for 2026, bringing an exciting, year-long programme of cultural events, art exhibitions, and performances to the city. This title highlights Oulu’s vibrant and innovative arts scene and will make it an even more attractive destination in the coming years.

Throughout 2026, visitors can expect a wide range of creative experiences, including PLAY, a specially designed collaboration with Fotografiska Tallinn that blends contemporary photography with interactive and playful elements.

Things to Do in Oulu in Winter

1. Visit the Bobby Statue and Marketplace

The Bobby Statue is one of Oulu’s most iconic landmarks. Located in the city center, it represents a friendly policeman who once patrolled the area.

The nearby marketplace is a great place to try traditional Finnish foods and find handmade crafts.

Visiting the frozen sea at Nallikari is one of the most memorable winter experiences in Oulu. During the colder months, the Baltic Sea freezes over, creating a vast white landscape that feels almost otherworldly. You can walk out onto the ice, watch locals cycling or skiing across the frozen surface, or spot people ice fishing through holes drilled into the thick ice.

The Nallikari Lighthouse is a particularly popular spot for photographers and, if you climb to the top, offers beautiful views out across the frozen sea. There are also many winter activities to enjoy on and around the frozen sea, from biking and skiing to ice fishing, festivals, and guided experiences, all of which are covered in more detail below.

3. Winter Biking on the Frozen Sea

Oulu is well known for its biking culture, and the winter snow isn’t enough to stop the locals from cycling. You can rent a fat bike with Lappis rentals or book an experience and ride across the frozen sea, enjoying breathtaking views of the icy landscape.

There are usually special winter biking paths, but unfortunately it had been too warm and sunny before we arrived. This caused the top layer of snow to melt, leaving the frozen sea like a sheet of glass. Hopefully you’re luckier with the weather, but if not, you can still ride around the edge of the lake with the same incredible views.

4. Take Part in an Air Guitar Workshop

One of the more unexpected things about Oulu is the fact it’s home to the Air Guitar World Championships.

The championships themselves take place in summer, but you can join in on the fun all year round at an air guitar workshop. The sessions are entertaining, and make for a great workout! Our workshop was with the air guitar champion ‘Black Raven’ in Restaurant Mallassauna, accompanied by beer tasting from Hailuodon Panimo Brewery.

5. Cross-Country Skiing

Cross-country skiing is one of the most popular winter activities in Finland. Oulu has well-maintained skiing trails, perfect for both beginners and experienced skiers.

You can rent equipment and go it alone, but it’s better to join a guided excursion.

6. Explore the City in Winter

Oulu’s streets and parks look magical under a layer of snow.

You can take a leisurely walk along the Oulu River, visit the beautiful Hupisaaret Park to see the Oulu sign, and admire the historic wooden houses on Pikisaari Island.

Make sure to stop by Oulu City Hall, a stunning historic building in the heart of the city. Inside, you’ll find grand halls and meeting rooms that showcase Oulu’s rich history.

Behind the building, a row of small bronze statues represents various professions that were once common in Oulu.

7. See the Northern Lights

Oulu offers an excellent chance to witness the northern lights. On clear nights, you can head outside the city, away from artificial lights, for the best viewing experience.

You can also join guided northern lights tours, where experts help you find the best locations and offer tips for capturing the perfect photo. The best time of year to see the northern lights in Oulu is from September to March.

8. Visit the Oulu Art Museum

If you enjoy culture and creativity, the Oulu Art Museum is worth a visit.

The museum houses contemporary Finnish art, rotating exhibitions, and interactive displays. It’s a great indoor activity, especially on particularly cold days.

9. Go Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is an exciting way to explore Oulu’s winter landscapes. You can trek through peaceful pine forests and across frozen lakes. Guided tours are available where you can learn more about the region’s wildlife, plants, and natural beauty.

One popular place to do this is across the frozen sea at Nallikari.

10. Try a traditional Finnish sauna

Saunas are an essential part of life in Oulu, especially during the long winter months. After a day spent outdoors in the cold, there’s nothing better than warming up in a traditional Finnish sauna. Oulu offers a variety of sauna experiences, from modern city saunas to more traditional settings close to nature, some even combined with winter swimming for the brave.

You can relax in traditional river-side saunas such as Olosauna, which combines sauna sessions with refreshing river ice dips. There is also a café on site, making it a great place to enjoy food or drinks after your sauna experience.

For something more unique, try a sauna tent on the frozen sea, where you can alternate between the heat of the sauna and dipping into an ice hole carved directly into the ice, a truly unforgettable Finnish winter experience.

Mallas Sauna is a cosy sauna in Oulu, offering a relaxing and authentic Finnish sauna experience. Once you’re fully warmed up, the experience doesn’t have to end there, Mallas Sauna also offers beer tasting sessions, featuring a selection of local Finnish craft beers. It’s a great way to unwind, warm up, and sample the local beer scene all in one place.

11. Attend the Frozen People Music Festival

The Frozen People Music Festival is a unique winter event held on the frozen sea.

The festival hosts live music performances as well as colorful light installations and brings a much-needed boost of warmth and energy to the cold season.

If you have more time in Oulu, here are some activities which are just a couple of hours drive away.

Skiing

For downhill skiing and snowboarding, you can visit ski resorts near Oulu.

Places like Iso-Syöte, Pikku-Syöte and Ruka are within driving distance and offer slopes for all skill levels. These resorts also have plenty of cosy lodges where you can relax after a day on the slopes.

Experience Husky Sledding

Husky sledding is our favorite way to explore Finland’s winter landscapes. You can join a guided tour where a team of energetic huskies pulls you through snowy forests. It’s the perfect combination of adrenaline and nature, and you get to interact with the friendly Arctic dogs.

We went with Syötteen Eräpalvelut, located around a two-hour drive from Oulu. They offer husky safaris of varying lengths, and the tours include the chance to meet and learn about the huskies, making it a perfect activity for all ages.

Where to Stay in Oulu

Luxury: Lapland Hotels Oulu – A stylish hotel with modern amenities, cosy Nordic decor, and an excellent restaurant. Located near the city center.

Mid-Range: Scandic Oulu City – A comfortable hotel with spacious rooms, a sauna, and a great breakfast buffet.

Nordic Art Hotel Lasaretti – A stylish riverside hotel in Oulu, known for its Nordic design, peaceful setting, and on-site art gallery.

Budget-Friendly: De Gamlas Hem Hotel & Restaurant – A charming boutique hotel with a historic atmosphere and friendly service.

Where to Eat in Oulu

Vegan & Vegetarian Food in Oulu

Restaurant Nallikari is located right on Nallikari beach offering a tasty buffet brunch and evening meals.

Sokeri-Jussi Tavern is a cosy restaurant located in a historic timber storehouse in Pikisaari, Oulu, and is part of the Arctic Food Lab, a culinary initiative celebrating northern ingredients and flavours. Their menu features a range of delicious Finnish dishes made with local, seasonal produce, along with several vegan and vegetarian options.

Mallas Sauna is a relaxed and cosy place to eat in Oulu, serving simple, hearty food in a warm and welcoming setting, with the bonus of being able to combine your meal with a sauna or beer tasting experience.

How to Get to Oulu

You can reach Oulu by plane, train, or bus. Oulu Airport has frequent flights from Helsinki, making air travel the fastest option.

Trains from Helsinki to Oulu offer a scenic journey, and long-distance buses provide budget-friendly travel options.

Getting Around Oulu

Oulu has an efficient public transport system, with buses running regularly. Walking is also a pleasant way to explore the city center.

How Long to Stay in Oulu

A 3-to-4-day stay is ideal for experiencing Oulu’s winter activities, exploring the city, and taking day trips to nearby nature areas. If you want to enjoy skiing or northern lights excursions, consider staying longer. If you have extra days in Finland, consider a trip to either Kuopio, Koli National Park, or both. These are a 4-5 hour drive from Oulu and a great addition to your itinerary.

Oulu FAQs

How Cold Does It Get in Oulu in Winter?

Temperatures in winter typically range from -5°C to -20°C, but wind chill can make it feel even colder.

What Should I Pack for Winter in Oulu?

You should bring warm layers, a waterproof jacket, insulated boots, gloves, and a hat. Thermal clothing is essential for outdoor activities.

Is Oulu Worth Visiting?

Yes! Oulu offers a fantastic mix of nature, culture, and unique experiences, making it a great winter destination.

Is Oulu an Expensive City?

Oulu is moderately priced compared to Helsinki. Accommodation and dining can be expensive, but budget-friendly options are available.

What Is Oulu Famous For?

Oulu is known for its technology industry, winter sports, air guitar championships, and northern lights.

Do They Speak English in Oulu?

Yes, most people in Oulu speak English well, especially in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas.

Does Oulu have an airport?

Oulu has an airport situated 10km from the city. The airport offers around 10 daily flights to Helsinki.

11 Best Things to Do in Oulu in Winter

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