Maritime Oulu

The Baltic Sea glides around the centre of Oulu, bringing a maritime atmosphere to summer days. The old port city exudes maritime history. Discover Oulu at sea!

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Learn about Oulu's tar-scented working-class history

Oulu's history includes people who worked at sea and craftsmen. Take a peek into their lives in the natural surroundings of the sea.

Close to the city centre is the idyllic Pikisaari, which you can walk to from the Market Square over the light traffic bridge, admiring the scenery of the estuary. Explore the island's old industrial landscape and get a feel for the island's artistic community. Make lasting memories in the gallery and craft shop!

Pikisaari is also home to Oulu's oldest preserved wooden house, which houses the Seamen's Home Museum. The house, built between 1737 and 1739, tells the story of the many generations of sailors and craftsmen who lived there over the centuries. Who were the Matils, after whom the house is named?

After exploring Pikisaari, relax and refresh yourself on the terrace of the restaurant Sokeri-Jussin Kievar. Or step inside the atmospheric, hand-carved log building to enjoy seasonal delicacies made from local ingredients.

Walk through culture on foot or take the water route!

Experience Oulu's marine environment first hand with Go Arctic walking tours, which offer information and stories about Oulu. Discover the Hupisaari City Park and the islands of Oulu with your guide, learn about Oulu's history and discover statues, sculptures and reliefs.

Varjakansaari in Oulunsalo is a culturally and historically fascinating environment, where you can arrive in a traditional kapulaloss! Walk along the paths through the sawmill island atmosphere. Admire the neoclassical buildings and step back in time to the bustling sawmill community of the early 1900s.

You can also explore Oulu from the water surface! The estuary in front of Torinranta is a great environment for water sports. Go at a leisurely pace on a SUP board rented from Lappis, explore uninhabited islands or admire the boats of yacht clubs. Or join Finnaction for a kayak trip in the Oulujokisuisto and Mustasalmi scenery.

Fall asleep to the sound of the sea

It's a good way to end a maritime day in Oulu at Restaurant Nallikari, admiring the sunset and enjoying quality Nordic food made from local ingredients.

The seaside atmosphere of a summer night is at its most authentic at Nallikari Holiday Village, which captivates tourists from far and wide year after year. Choose your preferred holiday cottage or come with your own tent, car or caravan.

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