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Helsinki, Uusimaa to Oulu, North Ostrobothnia from $35: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Helsinki, Finland
to
Oulu, Finland

How to Get from Helsinki to Oulu: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$35 by busBest price
537 kmDistance
3h 24m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Helsinki to Oulu with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Finnish Railways (VR)
Train
Average Duration
5h  25m
Estimated price
$50-80
Recommended
Company
Onni Bus
Bus
Average Duration
8h  10m
Estimated price
$35-45
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 537 km
Duration: 3h 24m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Finnish Railways (VR)
Train
Average Duration
9h  15m
Estimated price
$50-80
Company
Finnair
Plane
Average Duration
3h  24m
Estimated price
$73-237
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  7m
Estimated price
$120-190
Company
Viking Line / Finnair
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
8h  8m
Estimated price
$202-305

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $18 $17 $20 $17 $17 $17 $17
Train $26 $30 $24 $32 $32 $30 $27
Fly $69 $68 $69 $67 $69 $95 $74

Traveling From Helsinki to Oulu

Your journey from the vibrant urban landscape of Helsinki to the serene, nature-centric environment of Oulu offers a captivating contrast between the excitement of city life and the tranquility of Finland's northern beauty.

Best Neighbourhoods in Oulu

Oulu offers diverse neighborhoods that showcase its rich culture and natural beauty.

Keskusta (City Centre)
• Bustling cafes and shops along pedestrian streets.
• Home to the notable Oulu Market Hall.
Linnanmaa
• Vibrant student community from the university nearby.
• Access to beautiful parks and green spaces.
Kaukovainio
• Peaceful residential area perfect for family stays.
• Close proximity to stunning nature trails.

Best Times To Visit Oulu's Attractions

Timing your visits can elevate your experience at Oulu's major attractions.

Oulu Market Square
Visit in the early morning for fresh produce and fewer crowds.
Nallikari Beach
Late afternoon in summer presents stunning sunsets and a quieter atmosphere.
Tietomaa Science Centre
Mid-week visits offer a more relaxed, family-friendly environment.

Oulu Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Oulu experiences a subarctic climate, characterized by cold winters and mild summers, making it essential to plan your visit according to the season. The best times to explore are late spring and summer, when the weather is more temperate, allowing for outdoor adventures and events.

Dining in Oulu: A Flavorful Contrast

Try the traditional Finnish dish 'kalakukko' at a local eatery, a fish pie that showcases the region's fresh lake fish and hearty rye bread. The rustic ambiance and emphasis on locally sourced ingredients provide a dining experience in Oulu that distinctly highlights the flavors of northern Finland, setting it apart from the urban cuisine found in Helsinki.

Helsinki - Oulu operators

Explore transport companies operating between Helsinki and Oulu, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+358 600 41900
Website
https://www.vr.fi/en/

Train from Helsinki Central Station to Oulu

Average Duration
5h 25m
Estimated price
$50-80

Train from Helsinki Central Station to Oulu

Average Duration
9h 15m
Estimated price
$50-80
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+358 600 02010
Website
https://www.onnibus.com/home

Bus from Helsinki, linja-autoasema, Kamppi to Oulu, linja-autoasema

Average Duration
8h 10m
Estimated price
$35-45
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.finnair.com

Plane from Helsinki (HEL) to Oulu (OUL)

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$65-290
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+358 9 123 575
Website
https://www.vikingline.fi/sv-fi/

Other from Helsinki to Tallinn

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
$76-0

Helsinki to Oulu: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Helsinki and Oulu offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Helsinki to Oulu covering 379 miles of stunning Finnish landscapes. The drive typically takes around 7 hours and 7 minutes, offering an opportunity to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Finnish countryside. 💸 Enjoy budget-friendly travel options with prices ranging from €111 to €175 for the journey by car from Helsinki to Oulu. Explore the flexibility of a road trip as you make pit stops along the way to discover charming towns and local attractions, creating memorable experiences throughout your adventure.
Average price
€111 - €175
🚆 Travel from Helsinki to Oulu by train for a scenic journey through Finnish landscapes. The direct train departs from Helsinki Central Station and arrives at Oulu, a trip that takes approximately 5 hours and 25 minutes. 💰Ticket prices for the Helsinki to Oulu train range from €46 to €74, offering an affordable and efficient way to explore Finland by rail. Experience the convenience and beauty of train travel as you make your way from Helsinki to Oulu.
Departure Point
Helsinki Central Station
Arrival Point
Oulu station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Helsinki to Oulu, you'll have access to various onboard catering services, primarily by VR (Finnish Railways). The restaurant car offers a selection of hot meals, sandwiches, and beverages, along with local Finnish delicacies. Remember to check the menu when you board, and consider pre-ordering your meal during busier travel times.
• The VR train services from Helsinki to Oulu offer multiple seating options: First Class features spacious reclining seats with extra legroom and power outlets, while Business Class includes standard comfortable seats with access to a quiet zone. Economy Class offers affordable seats, which are suitable for budget travelers. If you prefer tranquility, opt for First or Business Class for a more enjoyable journey.
• The route is primarily operated by VR (Finnish Railways) and train operator OnniBus. You can visit their websites for bookings and schedules: VR and OnniBus. For local transport schedules in Oulu, the Oulu public transport site is also useful: Oulu Transport.
🛫 Flying from Helsinki to Oulu is quick and convenient with the direct flight taking just 1 hour and 5 minutes. Finnair provides flights between Helsinki Airport and Oulu Airport for this route. 🌍 The journey from Helsinki to Oulu by plane typically takes around 3 hours and 24 minutes. This flight route offers travelers a seamless way to travel between these two Finnish cities. 💸 Travelers can find flight tickets between Oulu and Helsinki priced between €67 to €219, making it accessible for various budgets. Consider booking in advance to secure the best deals for this flight route.
Departure Point
Helsinki Airport
Arrival Point
Oulu Airport
🚌 Embark on a scenic journey from Helsinki to Oulu by bus, departing from Helsinki Kamppi station and arriving at Oulu bus station. Explore the beautiful Finnish landscapes during the 8-hour and 10-minute ride. 💶 Ticket prices for the bus ride from Helsinki to Oulu range from €32 to €42, offering an affordable transportation option for travelers looking to explore the charming city of Oulu in northern Finland. Prepare for a memorable experience as you traverse the picturesque Finnish countryside en route to your destination.
Departure Point
Helsinki, linja-autoasema, Kamppi station
Arrival Point
Oulu, linja-autoasema station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Helsinki to Oulu.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Helsinki and Oulu is 337 miles, with a road distance of 379.2 miles. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. By train, it takes approximately 5 hours and 24 minutes to reach Oulu from Helsinki. By taking a bus and then a train, the travel time increases to 12 hours and 25 minutes. Alternatively, by plane, it only takes 3 hours and 19 minutes to reach Oulu from Helsinki.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Helsinki to Oulu is by bus, with prices ranging from €27 to €41. However, this mode of transportation will also take the longest, with a travel time of 7 hours and 46 minutes. On the other hand, if time is a priority, the quickest way to reach Oulu from Helsinki is by flying, which takes only 3 hours and 19 minutes but is more expensive, with prices between €68 and €181.
The prices for traveling from Helsinki to Oulu by train range from €45 to €72. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket between Oulu and Helsinki range from €27 to €41. Please keep in mind that these prices are subject to change and may vary based on factors such as travel dates and demand. It is recommended to check with the specific transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To travel from Helsinki to Oulu without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 379 miles, and it takes about 7 hours and 7 minutes to drive from Helsinki to Oulu. The cost of renting a car and fuel expenses can range from €109 to €172, depending on the vehicle and fuel prices.
To travel from Helsinki to Oulu without a car, the best option is to take a train. The train journey takes approximately 5 hours and 24 minutes and costs between €45 and €72. Alternatively, you can also take a bus, which takes around 7 hours and 46 minutes and costs between €27 and €41. Another option is to fly, which has a travel time of 3 hours and 19 minutes and costs between €68 and €181. Choose the mode of transportation that suits your preferences and budget the best.
Yes, there is a direct link between Helsinki and Oulu. Finnish Railways operates trains that depart hourly from Helsinki station and arrive at Oulu station, with a journey time of approximately 5 hours and 24 minutes. Additionally, Onni Bus provides direct bus services from Helsinki to Oulu, with departures every four hours and a travel time of approximately 7 hours and 46 minutes. Both trains and buses operate daily for convenient travel options between the two cities.
The flight between Helsinki and Oulu typically takes 1 hour and 5 minutes. The prices for this flight can range from €70 to €181. It is the quickest and most convenient mode of transportation between the two cities.
There are over 150 hotels available in Oulu providing a variety of options for accommodation. Prices for these hotels start at €68, offering affordable choices for travelers. Visitors to Oulu can choose from a range of accommodations to suit their preferences and budget, ensuring a comfortable stay during their visit.