Ylivieska Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Ylivieska, Finland with this comprehensive travel guide that lists the best places to visit, activities to do, food and drink to try, and where to stay. Discover the local culture, safety tips, transportation options, and nearby excursions.


Introduction to Ylivieska

Ylivieska is a town in the Southern Oulu region, in Northern Finland. It is a serene and idyllic destination surrounded by picturesque scenery, rich culture, and many outdoor activities. Ylivieska offers its visitors a peaceful atmosphere and an opportunity to experience authentic Finnish culture, which makes it an ideal destination for all types of travelers. Whether you’re seeking adventure or a relaxing holiday, Ylivieska is the perfect place to take a break.

List of Places to Visit in Ylivieska

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ylivieska Museum – This museum showcases the history of Ylivieska and includes fascinating exhibitions on local culture. It’s an excellent place to explore and learn about the town’s past and present.

  • Kuivaniemi Church – This beautiful church is a historical landmark that dates back to the 16th century. Its stunning architecture and fascinating history make it a must-visit for anyone interested in the town’s past.

Natural Attractions of Ylivieska: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kalajoki Sand Dunes – These sand dunes are one of the largest natural attractions in the area and present a breathtaking sight. They are perfect for outdoor treks and hikes, taking in the scenic surroundings of the town.

  • River Kalajoki – The river Kalajoki is an idyllic river which forms the boundary between the towns of Ylivieska and Kalajoki. You can enjoy fishing, rafting, kayaking, or canoeing on the river, all of which offer fantastic scenic views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ylivieska

Ylivieska is perfect for hikers and bikers interested in exploring the great outdoors. Some of the best hiking and biking routes in the area include:

  • Kalajoki Route – This route will take you along the beautiful river Kalajoki, on a peaceful and scenic 13 km ride.

  • Hiking Trail of Rehja – It’s a 4.5 km trail that will take you to a cliff over the Varjakka Bay, where you’ll have the opportunity to observe beautiful scenery.

Best Things to Do in Ylivieska: Activities and Tours

  • Visit Rajahovi – The Rajahovi is a fantastic destination for visitors to Ylivieska. Here you’ll find an excellent restaurant and a variety of activities available, including hiking, swimming, golfing, and more.

  • Varjakka Bay Hot Tub – Relax and get lost in the beauty of the Finnish wilderness. This hot tub is a perfect place for people to unwind, surrounded by beautiful nature.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ylivieska

  • Day 1: Explore Ylivieska Museum during the morning, then head to Kuivaniemi Church and admire its unique architecture.

  • Day 2: Rent a bicycle and explore the town on a 20 km cycling route.

  • Day 3-4: Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking on the Rehja Trail, kayaking on the river Kalajoki, or golfing at Rajahovi.

  • Day 5: Visit Varjakka Bay and soak in the hot tub.

  • Day 6-7: Relax and unwind at Rajahovi while exploring the town’s local culture and cuisine.

Food and Drink Scene of Ylivieska

Must-Try Dishes

  • Squeaky Cheese – This is Finland’s most iconic cheese, and it has a mild, salty flavor with a unique rubbery texture.

  • Karjalanpiirakka – These are traditional pies filled with rice, potato, and other ingredients.

Local Beverages

  • Kaleva Brewery – This brewery produces a wide variety of beer styles, including light beers, wheat beers, and dark beers.

  • Karhu Beer – This classic beer has been brewed since 1920 and is one of the most popular beers in Finland.

Where to Stay in Ylivieska: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Käenpesä – The hotel has a traditional Finnish design and offers all modern amenities, including a sauna and an on-site restaurant.

  • Pihlajamäen Lomamökit – This beautiful lakeside cottage offers guests the perfect place to relax in a private, scenic location in the heart of nature.

What to Buy in Ylivieska: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the best souvenirs to bring home from Ylivieska include:

  • Handmade Crafts – These include various handicrafts made by local artisans, including basketry, weaving, and ceramics.

  • Finnish Chocolate – Finland is famous for its chocolate, and Ylivieska has a wide variety of chocolate shops offering many different flavors and varieties.

Local Culture and Customs of Ylivieska

In Ylivieska, like many other parts of Finland, people value solitude, personal space, and privacy. They also respect nature and the environment, which is evident in the many conservation and eco-friendly initiatives throughout the town.

Best Time to Visit Ylivieska

The best time to visit Ylivieska is during the summer months from June to August. During this time, the weather is warm and pleasant, and the scenic surroundings come to life with lush greenery and beautiful sunshine

Do’s and Don’ts of Ylivieska

Do:

  • Respect personal space and privacy.
  • Explore the local culture and natural surroundings.
  • Connect with locals and learn about their way of life.

Don’t:

  • Litter or disrespect the environment.
  • Disrespect local customs or traditions.
  • Be loud and disruptive in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ylivieska

Ylivieska is a safe and friendly town with low crime rates. However, be sure to take basic precautions like locking your car and keeping your valuables safe.

Health in Ylivieska

The healthcare system in Finland is known for being among the best in the world. In case of medical emergencies, the Ylivieska Health Centre is available 24/7.

Getting to Ylivieska: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ylivieska

The Kokkola-Pietarsaari Airport is the closest airport to Ylivieska. It is around 85 km south-west of the town.

Bus Stations Near Ylivieska

The Ylivieska Bus Station is located in the centre of the town, and buses from all over Finland make regular stops there.

Other Options

You can also take a taxi or rent a car and drive to Ylivieska.

How to Get Around in Ylivieska

The best way to get around Ylivieska is by car or bicycle. Taxis are also available, but they tend to be more expensive than renting a car or bike.

Where to Go Next from Ylivieska: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Kokkola – This charming port town is only 70 km from Ylivieska and boasts cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and plenty of shopping and dining opportunities.

  • Oulu – Oulu is the largest city in the area and is known for its lively nightlife, cultural festivals, museums, and natural beauty.

Conclusion

Ylivieska is a beautiful destination, ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful experience in the serene atmosphere of Northern Finland. Whether you’re interested in nature, culture, history, or adventure, Ylivieska has something to offer. Use this comprehensive travel guide to explore the many attractions and activities that this charming town has to offer.

Savisilta; the Savisilta; the "Clay Bridge"