Oulu is European Capital of Culture 2026!

Meet Oulu, that quirky northern city by the sea.

This is a home of people who like to choose their own path and do things differently. We are the ones who created the modern mobile technology and are forerunners in 6G. The ones who made up the peculiar Air Guitar World Championship to promote the message of world peace, and are now nominated as European Capital of Culture 2026. In Oulu, life is an adventure, filled with rich tones of creativity and the magic of pure northern nature. We welcome everyone like an old friend, so please come and enjoy the laid-back, creative atmosphere of our beautiful seaside city.

We are building an unforgettable Capital of Culture year 2026

Oulu is European Capital of Culture 2026, together with 39 municipalities. The whole Northern Finland will awaken when the cultural events bring the region to life and inspire joy and creativity in people every day. This is a journey of several years, which will culminate in 2026. We are building an unforgettable Capital of Culture year with the aim of creating a positive, lasting impact on our region. Our main goal is cultural climate change. We want to open up a new connection between people – are you ready to discover it?

Explore the program

Culture

Best restaurants in Oulu 2025 – try these 11 local favorites

Oulu offers plenty to see and experience for both travelers and locals – and just as much to eat.

Activities

Hop on a bike and go – explore Oulu easily with a rental bike

Oulu is one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in Finland, and renting a bike is an effortless way to explore the city at your own pace.

Info

Direct flights from Frankfurt and Riga strengthen Oulu’s international connections

Oulu’s flight connections to Europe are expanding ahead of Oulu 2026 – European Capital of Culture.Discover Airlines launched a new Frankfurt route in June 2025, with direct flights to Oulu twice a week and year-round service starting January 2026.

Culture

8 of the most unique and surprising dining experiences in Oulu

In Oulu, you can enjoy your meal on the deck of a boat, to the beat of Caribbean rhythms, or in a historic seaside villa.

What can you see and do in Oulu? Discover experiences easily in our online store!

Fatbike tours and bike rentals, guided safaris, excursions, activities and other unforgettable experiences are now conveniently available in Visit Oulu’s online shop! Whether you want to rent equipment for your own independent adventure or join a guided tour with a local expert, you can book your experiences in advance through our website. You’ll also find great gift ideas for a loved one or a friend – how about a gift card for Oulu-based adventures or even a forest walk with alpacas?

Online store

8 Must-Do Experiences in Oulu This Autumn 2025 – Events, Adventures & Nature Escapes

Autumn in Oulu pampers lovers of nature and culture! This coming fall, Oulu offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy art, theater, and cultural events. Nearby nature and the destinations along the Pohjola Route invite you to explore a wide range of activities, from hiking and mountain biking to canoeing. The city also has plenty of fun experiences for families with children! In this article, you’ll find a curated selection of cultural and event highlights, autumn outdoor activities, and tips for enjoying the autumn break in Oulu with kids.

Autumn Tips for Oulu

Oulu is the European Capital of Culture 2026 – see the already published programme here

World-class experiences near, far and everywhere in between. Welcome to an inspiring celebration of Nordic and European culture!

On this page, you’ll find the latest updates of Oulu2026 programme.

Is This Finland’s Most Beautiful Beach? Discover Nallikari by the Sea

Thanks to its stunning seaside views and vibrant natural surroundings, it’s no wonder that so many people head to Nallikari for their summer vacation. Whether you’re dreaming of an adventure-packed getaway for the whole family or a relaxing, romantic escape by the sea, Nallikari has something for everyone.

The long, sun-drenched sandy beach, the lively coastal nature, and the breathtaking setting promise unforgettable summer memories.
Here, you can soak up the sun, feel the warm sea breeze, and enjoy the endless light of Nordic summer days — a true bucket list experience by the sea!

It's pure, it's peaceful, it's breathtakingly beautiful – The northern nature at its best

Nature gives you energy as well as peace of mind. What are you looking for on your trip to Oulu? Are you more of an independent adventurer, or one to enjoy an easy trip to a close-by nature site?

Is your air guitar ready to rock? Oulu is a place of wild creativity

Creativity runs high in the waterways of Oulu, so much so that we’ve been nominated the European Capital of Culture 2026. So take it all in and dive into the culture and events while you’re here!

Dear Human. It's me, the Earth. Would you please take good care of me while traveling?

We’ve compiled five tips on how to make your trip to Oulu more sustainable and responsible. Check them out!

Sustainability

Travel Responsibly in Oulu and Pohjola Route

Shhh... We are now about to reveal you the best kept secret of the North. Are you ready?

Here we go: Pohjola route – a new way to discover Finland! Oulu is located along the northern scenic route together with ten other municipalities and tourist destinations. On a road trip of a few days, you will see Finland’s southernmost fell, the sea and archipelagos, forests, lakes and authentic little villages.

Find yourself on the edge of creativity and nature

Go to Pohjola rengastie