Welcome to Oulu!
The Oulu2026 area spans a large part of northern Finland. You can easily reach the heart of the European Capital of Culture year, Oulu, using various modes of transportation. Trains and buses run to Oulu several times a day from different parts of Finland. Oulu Airport is just a stone’s throw from the city center, making it convenient to arrive by air from Helsinki or Munich.
Once you arrive in Oulu, the best way to get around the city center is, of course, by bicycle or the local bus!
Travelling to Oulu
By plane
Oulu Airport makes air travel the fastest way to reach Oulu. Located approximately 15 kilometers from the city center, the airport is well-connected to Helsinki and Munich. The flight time from Helsinki to Oulu is about one hour. From Oulu Airport, you can reach the city center via bus, taxi, or car rental. The airport bus service, Line 8, provides a convenient and affordable connection to downtown Oulu.
By train
Oulu is well-connected by train. The Finnish national railway company, VR, operates daily trains to Oulu from major cities like Helsinki, Tampere, and Rovaniemi. The journey from Helsinki to Oulu takes approximately 5–6 hours. For regional travelers, there are frequent connections from nearby cities such as Ylivieska and Kemi.
By bus
Traveling to Oulu by bus is convenient and affordable. Several bus companies provide frequent services to Oulu from major cities across Finland. The trip from Helsinki to Oulu takes around 8–9 hours, with multiple departures daily. Oulu Bus Station is centrally located, providing easy access to the city’s cultural events, attractions and accommodations.
Accommodation
Everything from luxurious suites to picturesque boutique hotels and hostels. Check out accommodation tips in the European Capital of Culture on the Visit Oulu website.
Eat and Drink
Our friends at Visit Oulu have put together their best tips for restaurant experiences and relaxing coffee breaks in our wonderful city.
