Resting on the shores of the Bay of Bothnia in central Finland’s region of North Ostrobothnia, Oulu is famous for its cycling opportunities, urban vibrancy, and excellent gallery and museum culture. The cycleway is the most extensive in the country, and ski tracks, alluring well-maintained parks and the lovely sand dune island of Hailuoto provide further opportunities for enjoying the outdoors.

Those interested in history will delight in visiting the Kierikki Stone Age Centre, where visitors can see what life was like thousands of years ago, and the Northern Ostrobothnia Museum, which features an enormous model of the city as it was in 1938. Other highlights include the atmospheric Rotuaari Promenade, the excellent Oulu Museum Of Art and numerous other galleries, and a wonderful array of shops, boutiques, and restaurants.