Sightseeing in Oulu - what to see. Complete travel guide

Oulu is an internationally famous center of research; this is a modern university town, which has managed to preserve the pristine beauty of nature despite its "technical" targeting. This is the main "peculiarity" and together with interesting sights they attract thousands of tourists.

Charles IX was the founder of Oulu, which received the status of the city in 1605. By the middle of the 18th century Oulu turned into the largest shipbuilding center from a simple port town. In 1882 almost all buildings were destroyed by fire, then the city was renewed from the ruins after the Second World War, so the largest part of the historical heritage is now lost. Despite the fact that this city has never been a resort, there are always many visitors here. Oulu will be particularly attractive for outdoor enthusiasts and active rest fans.

In summer the main attractions here are cruises on beautiful yachts, nighttime fishing and beach sports, as well as walks in shadowy lanes. In winter you can make a safari on snowmobiles or enjoy skiing in picturesque woods. In warm part of the year you can see local people who enjoy roller-skating or riding a bike in the city’s parks. Sport is really popular here. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Within last several years here have been opened many centers and stadiums, so travellers can visit the hippodrome, play hockey or jump from the tower into a pool. Of course, such well-equipped city is often chosen as a location of sports events. Competitions take place here literally every week. When it comes to cultural programs, we can recommend making a tour to the Northern Ostrobothnia Museum, which exhibits a unique historical collection. You will also get acquainted with the achievements in science in the Tietomaa Center, and children will surely love the Holiday Club Oulu Eden Water Park.

Beautiful Botanical Gardens are located in the campus of the University of Oulu in a very picturesque area, on the shore of Lake Kuivasjärvi. The indoor gardens are located in two huge greenhouses. An extensive collection of rare plants has been formed here over the years of the local university. One of the most interesting greenhouses is the 16-meter-high Romeo. Inside, visitors can see unique tropical plants, including coffee trees, coconut palms and many varieties of lianas.

Not far from the city you'll find the unique Kierikki Stone Age Centre dedicated to the life of primitive people. In the area where the museum is currently located researchers have discovered sites of ancient people dating back to the 4th millennium BC. Today, it is of great archaeological value. The museum is designed in the style of early man site. Not long ago, a small themed hotel, as well as a great national restaurant, was opened here.

In the heart of the city is a beautiful architectural monument - the Oulu Cathedral. The magnificent cathedral was built in 1777, however, in 1822 the building was badly damaged by fire. Restoration of the cathedral, during which a new bell tower was attached, lasted more than 20 years. Over the centuries, the cathedral has managed to preserve its unique design. Its old chair, organ, and beautiful shelves with old prayer books have survived too. The main design feature is a huge ship mockup fixed under the cathedral's arch.

An exciting event would be a trip to the Turkansaari Open Air Museum, which is located just 14 km east of Oulu. The unique museum opened in 1922 looks like an old lovely village. The museum is situated in a unique location, where at the turn of the 19-20 centuries there was a market. Here you can see lots of beautiful buildings dating back over 200 years. Today, the museum has as many as 29 buildings, each house has its unique collections of household items and handicraft exhibits. Interesting thematic events and typical national-style entertainment are regularly organized here.