Oulu, in northern Finland, isn’t just about technology and innovation — it’s also a lively place for exploring on foot, bike, or even by fatbike. What makes Oulu stand out for tours is its seamless blend of urban charm and natural beauty. Imagine strolling through the city’s historic Market Hall, biking along scenic riversides, or hunting for the elusive Northern Lights in the wilderness. Some tours, like the Oulu City Tour, are perfect for a quick, relaxed introduction, while others, such as the Northern Lights hunting, offer a deep dive into the Arctic’s magical spectacle. We love how many experiences are tailored to different interests and energy levels — whether you’re after cultural insights, outdoor adventures, or festive holiday fun.
If you’re short on time but want to get a taste of Oulu, the 1-hour Oulu City Tour is unbeatable for its straightforward coverage of landmarks like the Rotuaari pedestrian street and the Oulu Cathedral. For those eager to explore outside the city, the Lampivaara Amethyst Mine Tour combines geology with a scenic trip, offering a chance to unearth your own gem. And if the Northern Lights are calling, the Northern Lights Hunting Tour promises an unforgettable chase with professional photos and cozy campfire moments. Below, you’ll find detailed options to help you choose your perfect Oulu experience.
1. Oulu City Tour: Discover the heart of Oulu in just 1 hour!
Discover Oulu’s lively city center on a quick, guided walk that hits the highlights in just an hour. Starting at The Bobby at the Market Place, this tour takes you through notable landmarks like the Market Hall, Rotuaari pedestrian street, City Hall, and Oulu Cathedral. It’s a relaxed and easy-paced stroll, making it ideal for first-time visitors or anyone short on time but eager to get a feel for the city’s atmosphere. Your guide shares stories that make the architecture and local traditions come alive, blending history, culture, and bits about everyday life.
This tour is especially good if you want a rundown without a big time commitment. It’s rated 4/5 based on three reviews, with many appreciating its friendly pace and informative commentary. For those new to Oulu or traveling on a tight schedule, this is an excellent way to orient yourself quickly. The value at $24 per person makes it a practical choice for a brief yet enriching introduction.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick city snapshot, especially if you’re arriving or departing and want to make the most of a short visit.
2. Rovaniemi: Lampivaara Amethyst Mine Tour with Transport
At number 2 on our list, the Lampivaara Amethyst Mine Tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Finland’s geological treasures. The tour includes a comfortable ride from Rovaniemi — about two hours in a van — and a guided walk at the mine. Visitors get the chance to dig their own amethyst, provided it fits in their fist, and keep a gemstone as a special keepsake.
What makes this experience stand out is the combination of geology, lore, and scenery — you’ll take in sweeping views of the Pyhä-Luosto fells and forested landscapes. The guide shares insights into the mystical lore surrounding amethysts and their historical uses. With reviews rating it at 4.4/5, many travelers appreciate the hassle-free transportation and the personal touch of unearthing your own gemstone. It’s ideal for those who love nature, geology, or collecting unique souvenirs. The approximately five-hour itinerary offers a good balance of travel and activity, making it well worth the $… (Check availability for prices).
Bottom Line: A distinctive tour perfect for geology enthusiasts and those craving a memorable Finnish wilderness experience.
3. From Oulu to Lapland: Northern Lights Hunting Tour
Number 3 is the Northern Lights Hunting Tour, a 10-hour adventure that takes you deep into the Arctic wilderness in hopes of catching the elusive Aurora Borealis. For $354 per person, you get a small-group experience with a local guide who’s expert at finding the best viewing spots. The tour includes hot drinks, snacks, and professional photos, making it a cozy yet thrilling night out.
What makes this tour special is the personalized attention and the opportunity to see the Northern Lights in comfort. The guide’s deep knowledge of the area’s weather patterns and aurora activity increases your chances of a sighting. The experience also involves warming around a campfire, which adds a genuine Finnish touch. Reviews are not specified, but the focus on quality photos and private small groups makes it appealing for travelers seeking a memorable Arctic night. Suitable for those who want a dedicated, well-organized chase rather than a generic tour.
Bottom Line: Ideal for Aurora chasers who want a personalized, well-supported experience with professional photos.
4. Oulu: 1-Hour Fatbike Tour from Nallikari to Hietasaari
Number 4, the Fatbike Tour from Nallikari to Hietasaari, is perfect for those who want to combine outdoor activity with seaside scenery. Riding a fatbike through forest paths and along the coast, you’ll cover about 3 km. The tour begins at Nallikari Beach, a popular seaside spot, and takes you to Hietasaari, an island known for its natural beauty.
Rated with no specific reviews yet, the tour offers a relaxed, scenic ride that’s suitable for beginners and experienced cyclists alike. It’s just a one-hour experience, making it easy to fit into a busy schedule or as part of a broader day of sightseeing. The focus on coastal views and forest paths makes it an enjoyable way to see Oulu’s natural side without strenuous effort. The $118 per person price reflects the bike rental and guide service, giving good value for a quick outdoor escape.
Bottom Line: A well-paced, scenic outdoor activity ideal for a short outdoor break and nature lovers.
5. Oulu: Cultural Bike Tour
Number 5, the Cultural Bike Tour, is a 2.5-hour ride that dives into Oulu’s cultural and artistic scene. Starting from the city center, the tour explores historic sites, art installations, and riverside areas like Ainola Park and Pikisaari Island, known for artisanal workshops. Along the way, you’ll visit Oulu Cathedral, the Tietomaa Science Centre, and the Oulu Museum of Art.
What sets this tour apart is the focus on the city’s creative side, with stops at places that reveal Oulu’s artistic and historic layers. The guide shares stories behind the landmarks and local art, making it engaging and educational. The $70 price offers a good value considering the depth of cultural insights and the diverse stops. It’s ideal for travelers interested in local culture, architecture, and art who want an active, enriching experience.
Bottom Line: A practical, enriching way to discover Oulu’s creative spirit while cycling through its scenic neighborhoods.
6. Oulu: Driven Aurora Hunting Tour in Oulu & Nature Spots
At number 6, the Driven Aurora Hunting Tour offers a 5-hour journey to chase the Northern Lights with the comfort of a vehicle. Starting with pickup from your accommodation, the tour visits iconic spots like Koitelinkoski Rapids and Nallikari beach, with the guarantee of professional photos and a cozy bonfire with Finnish snacks.
This tour is great for travelers who prefer less walking and more comfort but still want a high chance of seeing the Aurora. The focus on photo opportunities and scenic stops makes it especially appealing for those who want visual memories of their trip. Although price details aren’t listed, the 5-hour length and inclusions suggest good value for a luxurious, flexible experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for Aurora enthusiasts who prefer a warm, comfortable ride with memorable photo moments.
7. Oulu: Guided Fatbike Tour From Nallikari Around Hietasaari
Number 7, the Guided Fatbike Tour from Nallikari, is a 3-hour adventure exploring Oulu’s seaside and forest trails. The tour takes you through scenic Hietasaari Island, with a stop at a cozy farm for a BBQ break by the bonfire. It’s ideal for those who want a longer outdoor experience combining scenic rides and local flavor.
The guide takes care to capture your adventure with professional photos, adding to the tour’s appeal. The mix of seaside, forest, and countryside makes it well-rounded for outdoor lovers without overexertion. The price of $295 reflects the quality of the experience, including the BBQ break and photo service.
Bottom Line: A great choice for active travelers who want to combine physical activity with Finnish countryside charm.
8. Oulu: Guided Night Walking Tour with Northern Lights Hunting
Number 8 is the Night Walking Tour, a 3-hour guided stroll perfect for those who want to experience Oulu’s night ambiance and possibly catch the Northern Lights. Starting in the city center, the walk takes you to Nallikari Beach and back, with stops for learning about the Northern Lights, local history, and Finnish nature.
The highlight is the chance to see the Aurora Borealis while enjoying a warm cup of hot drinks. The tour’s intimate setting and focus on learning and photography make it appealing for curious travelers. At $83 per person, it’s a reasonable price for a well-organized, atmospheric experience.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers who want a relaxed, educational evening with a chance to see the Northern Lights.
9. Oulu: Hietasaari Nature Tour with Local Guide
Number 9, the Hietasaari Nature Tour, is a 1-hour walk that invites you to enjoy the peaceful forests of Hietasaari with a local guide. It’s a simple, relaxing way to connect with Finland’s natural environment and learn about the island’s cultural background.
Perfect for travelers pushing for a short but meaningful nature experience, the tour offers insights into local history and island life. The price of $35 makes it an affordable way to get outside and breathe in pure Nordic air. The guide shares tips on nature photography, which can turn your walk into a visual memory.
Bottom Line: An easy, scenic option for a quick nature fix in Hietasaari.
10. Oulu: Santa Claus Village Day Tour Included Lunch
Number 10 is the Santa Claus Village Day Tour, a full-day excursion to Rovaniemi, perfect for families and holiday enthusiasts. This 10-hour trip includes meeting Santa Claus, crossing the Arctic Circle, and visiting a reindeer farm. The tour offers a Lappish lunch buffet and round-trip transportation from Oulu.
The experience is highly visual and festive, with opportunities to snap photos with Santa and learn about reindeer herding. The detailed itinerary ensures you get a well-rounded taste of Lapland’s holiday spirit. The 2.5–3 hour drive each way makes it suitable for those willing to spend a full day on the road.
Bottom Line: A magical family-friendly trip that captures the essence of Lapland’s holiday traditions, especially for those with children.
11. Oulu: Walking Tour. A Deeper, Wilder Exploration of Oulu
Finally, the Wilder Oulu Tour is a 5-hour guided walk that takes you beyond the typical sights. It explores iconic landmarks, hidden corners, and local art galleries, with a focus on current exhibitions and historic buildings. The tour includes a street photography mini-course and a scenic picnic at a charming café.
This tour is great for curious travelers who want to experience Oulu’s vibrant street life, natural spots, and community vibe. The guide’s insider knowledge makes it a deep dive into what makes Oulu unique. The price of $59 makes it a good value considering the duration and activity-packed itinerary.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for those wanting a full, immersive exploration of Oulu’s urban and cultural landscapes.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When selecting among these tours, consider your budget, time available, and your specific interests. If a quick city overview is enough, the Oulu City Tour offers great value. For outdoor lovers, the fatbike experiences and guided forest walks provide scenic escapes.
Travelers eager for Arctic magic should consider the Northern Lights or the Santa Claus Village. Budget-conscious visitors might prefer the shorter cultural bike or city walk. Book early, especially for popular options like the Northern Lights or Santa tours, which fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Oulu offers a broad spectrum of tours that match different interests and schedules. For city explorers, the City Tour provides a quick introduction, while outdoor fans may prefer the energetic fatbike rides. Nature lovers will appreciate the Hietasaari Nature Tour, and adventure seekers can chase the Northern Lights in style with the Aurora hunting.
If you’re traveling with family or craving a festive experience, the Santa Claus Village offers a magical day out. For a more immersive, artsy exploration, the Wilder Oulu Tour is hard to beat.
Whatever your style, booking these tours in advance ensures a smooth and memorable trip. Oulu’s unique mix of city charm and wilderness adventure makes it a rewarding destination for every traveler.