National Geographic has included Oulu in its list of the world’s best travel destinations. Alongside the legendary Alps, Beijing, Morocco, Rio de Janeiro, and other well-known destinations, our northern gem has now risen to prominence with its charming combination of culture and nature.
“A new public art route opening in June will showcase climate-themed works created through collaboration between artists and researchers. The ten-day Lumo Art & Tech festival in November will bring light art, a symphony concert combining astronomical nature photography, and much more to the city,” writes National Geographic.
One of the world’s most renowned and respected magazines highlights Oulu’s status as next year’s European Capital of Culture in its article.
A celebration of culture, nature, and northern cuisine
In 2026, Oulu will be the European Capital of Culture together with 39 other municipalities in the north. The Oulu2026 programme includes performing arts, festivals, exhibitions, content for children and young people, community projects, and permanent artworks and art trails. The programme covers the entire Oulu2026 region, and most of it is free of charge.
The National Geographic article highlights Oulu’s nature and Sámi culture in particular. Oulu is the biggest Sámi village in Finland, and Sámi culture is featured in a variety of ways in the Oulu2026 programme, especially during the early part of the year. The Arctic Food Lab food culture programme is also mentioned in the article, and readers are recommended to check out events such as the Summer Evening’s Table event in August and the Flavour Adventure in late autumn.
In a more in-depth article focusing solely on Oulu, National Geographic highlights how the city seamlessly combines urban life with proximity to nature: wide skies, old wooden and brick buildings, and the spirit of a seaside town where technology and culture coexist. The magazine describes Oulu as a northern city where community spirit, ingenuity, and closeness to nature define the local way of life.
Easy access to the north
In its article, National Geographic mentions the new Pendolino Plus travel class, which will open in the winter season and further improve the travel experience to the north. In addition, the growth of flight connections to Oulu will make it easier for international travellers in particular to reach the northern capital of culture.
- National Geographic’s article on the best travel destinations for next year: Best of the World 2026 | National Geographic
- National Geographic’s article specifically about Oulu, with travel tips: Oulu 2026: When to visit, where to stay, and what to do | National Geographic
- More information about Oulu2026 European Capital of Culture and its cultural programme: European Capital of Culture Oulu2026