Oulu Market Square
Oulu Market Square (Kauppatori) is the city's vibrant heart, offering local delicacies, crafts, and the iconic Toripolliisi statue. A must-visit hub.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fresh produce, lively atmosphere
Oulu Market Square
Best Time
Fresh produce, lively atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Oulu Market Square (Kauppatori) is the city's vibrant heart, offering local delicacies, crafts, and the iconic Toripolliisi statue. A must-visit hub.
"A lively spot by the sea where tradition meets the present. Colorful market stalls, local treats, and the iconic Toripolliisi statue make this a must-visit."
📸 Snap a pic with Toripolliisi
Don't miss a photo with the iconic Market Square Policeman statue! It's a must-do Oulu tradition.
🛍️ Explore local crafts
Find unique souvenirs like reindeer leather goods, shirts, hats, and accessories.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Toripolliisi Statue
Oulu Market Square
The iconic bronze statue of a market policeman, a beloved symbol of Oulu. Perfect for a memorable photo op!

Local Culinary Delights
Market stalls and cafes
Savor traditional Finnish treats like fresh berries, smoked fish, reindeer meat, and pastries. A true taste of Oulu!

Old Market Hall
Indoor market building
Explore this historic market hall, though some stalls may be closed, you can still find seafood and restaurants.

Summer Water Taxi
Torinranta (Market Square)
Enjoy a scenic ride from the Market Square to Hietasaari and Toppilansalmi during the summer months.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Market Buzz
Seasonal Delights & Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Snap a pic with Toripolliisi
Don't miss a photo with the iconic Market Square Policeman statue! It's a must-do Oulu tradition.
🛍️ Explore local crafts
Find unique souvenirs like reindeer leather goods, shirts, hats, and accessories.
🍓 Taste seasonal berries
In summer, indulge in the freshest local berries available at the market stalls.
☕ Enjoy a cafe break
Relax at one of the many cafes with a coffee and a traditional Finnish pastry.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Snap a pic with Toripolliisi
Don't miss a photo with the iconic Market Square Policeman statue! It's a must-do Oulu tradition.
🛍️ Explore local crafts
Find unique souvenirs like reindeer leather goods, shirts, hats, and accessories.
🍓 Taste seasonal berries
In summer, indulge in the freshest local berries available at the market stalls.
☕ Enjoy a cafe break
Relax at one of the many cafes with a coffee and a traditional Finnish pastry.
💧 Check water taxi schedule
If visiting in summer, confirm the water taxi operating times for a scenic trip.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Oulu Market Square is a vibrant and central hub, praised for its lively summer atmosphere, delicious local food offerings like berries and smoked fish, and the iconic Toripolliisi statue. While some visitors note that the Old Market Hall can be sparsely populated, the overall experience is considered a delightful taste of Oulu's local life and culture, with potential for construction due to upcoming cultural events.
"Lots of food, clothing, and cafes in the outdoor square.
Inside the Old Market, it is quite empty with only a few stalls open. There is a fresh seafood stall and several restaurants but not much else."
Karen Graham
"But of construction as they prepare for Culture Capitol 2026, but don't let that stop you. They have a great variety of things there to eat and some fun things to buy like shirts, hats, and accessories."
Jason Brower
"They know the prices - you will not get it cheaper but fur sure you will get what you search for. Leather of Reindeer, all kind of meat and more…."
Kamil NOWAK
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Oulu Market Square (Kauppatori) is centrally located in Oulu, Finland. It's easily accessible by foot from most city center accommodations. Public buses also stop nearby. If arriving from Helsinki, the train is a popular and comfortable option, taking approximately 5-6 hours.
Yes, there are several parking options available around the market square. Paid parking garages and street parking are common. Consider public transport if you want to avoid parking hassles.
Absolutely! Numerous bus lines stop in the vicinity of Oulu Market Square, making it a convenient destination via public transport. Check local Oulu public transport schedules for routes and times.
Yes, Oulu Market Square is very walkable and is a central point in the city. Many attractions and shops are within easy walking distance.
The most common and recommended way to travel from Helsinki to Oulu is by train. It's a comfortable journey that allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery. Flights are also available for a quicker option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Oulu Market Square is a public outdoor space and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely wander and enjoy the atmosphere.
The outdoor market square is generally accessible throughout the day. Individual stalls and cafes will have their own operating hours, typically from morning to late afternoon or early evening, with extended hours in summer.
Entry to the Old Market Hall is free. However, you will need to pay for any purchases made from the stalls or restaurants inside.
International markets, like the 'Kansainväliset Suurmarkkinat', are held at specific times of the year. Check local event listings or Visit Oulu for dates, as they are not a permanent fixture.
The Toripolliisi statue is a public sculpture on the market square, so there is no admission fee to see or take photos with it.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
You can find a variety of local delicacies, including fresh berries, smoked fish, reindeer meat, local pastries like pulla, and other traditional Finnish foods. There are also cafes and restaurants.
Yes, you can find various craft items and souvenirs, such as reindeer leather products, shirts, hats, and accessories.
Prices at the market are generally set, and you might not find significant discounts, but you can expect quality local products.
Absolutely! The market is known for its fresh produce, especially berries in the summer and fresh seafood.
While traditional Finnish cuisine can be meat and fish-heavy, you can often find options like berry pastries, salads, or other dishes that can be adapted. It's best to ask vendors directly.
📸 📸 Photography & Attractions
The most popular photo spot is the Toripolliisi statue. The colorful market stalls, the Old Market Hall, and the waterfront views also make for great pictures.
Toripolliisi, meaning 'Market Square Policeman,' is a bronze sculpture created in 1987 by Kaarlo Mikkonen. It's a beloved landmark and a symbol of Oulu.
Yes, Oulu Market Square hosts various events throughout the year, including summer markets, international markets, festivals, and seasonal celebrations like Christmas markets.
The Old Market Hall, opened in 1901, is a historic building that originally served to improve food safety regulations. It now houses a few stalls and restaurants.
During the summer, a water taxi operates from Torinranta (Market Square) to Hietasaari and Toppilansalmi, offering a unique way to see the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During summer, the water taxi offers an exciting short adventure. While some parts of the Old Market Hall might be less engaging for very young children, the overall lively atmosphere of the square, with space to walk around, makes it an enjoyable outing. Keep an eye out for any family-friendly events or festivals that might be happening.
💰 Budget Travelers
Buying fresh produce like berries or bread can also be a cost-effective way to assemble a picnic lunch. While some items might be priced as expected for quality local goods, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the atmosphere and sample Oulu's flavors without breaking the bank.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Explore the historic architecture of the Old Market Hall for a different photographic style. During summer, the water taxi and the waterfront views offer unique perspectives. Don't miss the opportunity to capture the lively atmosphere, especially during market days or local events.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Oulu: Kauppatori's Role
Historically, the market square has been a focal point for commerce and community gatherings. The construction of the Old Market Hall in 1901, driven by food safety regulations, signifies its long-standing importance. Today, it continues to be a place where tradition meets the present, hosting everything from daily market trade to significant cultural events and festivals.
As Oulu prepares to be the European Capital of Culture in 2026, the market square is undergoing developments, which might involve some construction. However, this vibrant hub remains a must-visit for experiencing the authentic Oulu lifestyle, sampling local flavors, and soaking in the city's unique charm.
A Taste of Oulu: Culinary Experiences
For a truly authentic experience, try traditional Oulu specialties such as reindeer meat, often prepared in various delicious ways. Don't miss out on local pastries like 'pulla' (sweet buns, often with cinnamon or cardamom), perfect with a cup of coffee from one of the market's charming cafes. The market is an excellent place to sample a variety of local treats and find unique food items to take home.
While the outdoor stalls offer a dynamic selection, the Old Market Hall, though sometimes less busy, still provides opportunities for dining, including seafood and other restaurant options. Exploring the market is a sensory delight, with the aromas of fresh food and the bustling sounds of vendors creating an unforgettable gastronomic adventure.
Iconic Landmarks and Photo Opportunities
Beyond the Toripolliisi, the Old Market Hall itself is a historic landmark worth admiring. Its architecture tells a story of Oulu's past, and while some stalls may be closed, its presence adds to the square's character. The colorful market stalls, especially when laden with seasonal produce or crafts, create a vibrant visual tapestry perfect for photography.
For those seeking unique perspectives, the summer water taxi offers a different vantage point of the market square and the surrounding waterfront. It's a fun way to capture the essence of Oulu from the water, especially during the long summer days.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit