Ii Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, must-try dishes, ideal time to go, transportation options, and nearby destinations in the Western Oulu region of Northern Finland.


Introduction to Ii

Ii is a town located in the Western Oulu region of Northern Finland, a country known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The town of Ii is a perfect hideaway for people looking to escape city living and immerse themselves in nature. The town is surrounded by vast forests, lakes, and rivers, offering visitors a chance to explore and engage in various outdoor activities.

List of Places to Visit in Ii

Ii boasts of several places of interest that are worth including on your itinerary when visiting the town. Whether you’re interested in exploring cultural heritage or seeking new adventures in nature, Ii has a lot to offer visitors. Here’s a breakdown of some of our favorite places to visit in Ii.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kalevala Spirit - This museum showcases the traditional Finnish culture and depicts the country’s ancient folklore. It gives visitors a rare glimpse into the life and beliefs of the Finnish people.
  • Kierikki Stone Age Center - This museum is dedicated to promoting the history of the Stone Age period in Finland. The museum boasts of a replica of a Stone Age village and a collection of artifacts that showcase daily life in Stone Age Finland.
  • Ii Old Church - This church is a popular spot for tourists who want to experience the tranquility and serenity of Finnish churches. The church is located on a hill overlooking the town and offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views.

Natural Attractions of Ii: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Näränkä - This nature reserve is a popular spot for hiking, trekking, and camping. The reserve boasts of diverse flora and fauna, including rare species of birds.
  • Pahkakumpu - This hill offers visitors an incredible panoramic view of Ii town and its surroundings. The hill is accessible on foot and is a perfect spot for picnics and relaxation.
  • Kantti - This beautiful lake is an ideal spot for fishing, boating, and swimming. The lake boasts a sandy beach with crystal clear waters, making it perfect for a warm summer day’s dip.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ii

Ii is a paradise for those who love cycling and trekking. With its vast forests and hills, the town offers numerous trails ideal for hiking and mountain biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best trails in Ii.

  • Kotikirkonpolku - This trail is suitable for amateur hikers and cyclists. It takes visitors through the town’s beautiful countryside and offers scenic views of the Ii River.
  • Pahkakumpu Trail - This trail takes hikers to the Pahkakumpu Hill, where they can enjoy a panoramic view of the town and its surroundings.
  • Kontiosuon Trail - This trail is highly suitable for experienced hikers. It takes visitors to one of the most extensive raised bogs in Finland and offers a chance to spot rare species of flora and fauna.

Best Things to Do in Ii: Activities and Tours

Ii town offers plenty of exciting activities and tours for visitors. Here are some of the best things to do when visiting the town.

  • Fishing in Kantti Lake - Ii is known for its excellent fishing spots, and Kantti lake is one of the best places in town to cast your fishing line. The lake boasts of several species of fish, including pike-perch and pike.
  • Horseback Riding - A horseback ride is an excellent way to explore the Finnish countryside. Several stables in Ii town provide visitors with a chance to experience authentic Finnish horseback riding.
  • Participating in a Smoke Sauna Session - A smoke sauna session is a Finnish tradition that involves taking a sauna bath in a hot chamber heated by burning wood. It is an excellent way to relax and unwind after a long day of exploring the town.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ii

Here’s an ideal one-week itinerary for Ii that will give you a chance to explore the town’s most prominent sites and attractions.

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore the beautiful Näränkä Nature Reserve
Day 2 Visit the Ii Old Church and learn about its history
Day 3 Go hiking on the Kotikirkonpolku Trail
Day 4 Take a horseback ride and enjoy the Finnish countryside
Day 5 Visit the Kierikki Stone Age Center and learn about the Stone Age era of Finland
Day 6 Go fishing in Kantti lake and enjoy the serene surroundings
Day 7 Relax and unwind with a smoke sauna session

Food and Drink Scene of Ii

No visit to Finland is complete without trying out some of the local delicacies. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks when visiting Ii.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kalakukko - This is a traditional Finnish food made of rye, fish, and pork fat. It is a perfect snack when on the go.
  • Poronkäristys - This dish is made of reindeer meat and is a popular dish in Finland, especially during the holidays.
  • Lihapullat - This dish is Finland’s version of meatballs and is a common food served in Finnish households.

Local Beverages

  • Koskenkorva - This is a Finnish vodka brand and is a popular drink in Finland.
  • Simaa - This drink is a type of homemade lemonade that is a staple during the Finnish summer.

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

Ii town boasts several accommodation options where visitors can stay during their visit. Here are some of our top picks.

  • Seurahuone Ii - This hotel is located in the center of Ii town and offers visitors comfortable and spacious rooms.
  • Siuruanjärven Rantamökit - This is a collection of well-appointed cottages located in the countryside and offers visitors privacy and tranquility.
  • Kierikki Stone Age Center Guesthouse - The guesthouse is located next to the famous Kierikki museum and is an excellent option for visitors looking to explore the Stone Age era of Finland.

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

When visiting Ii town, it’s always a good idea to purchase some souvenirs and local products to bring back home. Here are some great ideas.

  • Ii Old Church Postcards - These postcards feature beautiful pictures of the Ii Old Church and are an excellent way of remembering your visit to Finland.
  • Näränkä Honey - Näränkä Nature Reserve is famous for its honey, which is a perfect souvenir to take back home.
  • Traditional Finnish Knives - Finnish knives are famous worldwide for their quality and design and make for great gifts or souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Ii

Finland, like many other countries worldwide, has its unique culture and customs. When visiting Ii town, it’s good to understand and respect the local culture and customs. Here are some of the things to keep in mind.

  • Finns value their personal space and tend to keep their distances when socializing.
  • It’s customary to remove shoes when entering homes.
  • Finnish saunas are an essential part of Finnish culture and are considered a place of relaxation and unwinding.

Best Time to Visit Ii

The best time to visit Ii town is during the summer months, between June and August. The weather is pleasant during this period, and visitors can engage in various outdoor activities comfortably. Winter visits to Ii town can be enjoyable, especially for those interested in winter sports.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ii

When visiting Ii town, it’s good to keep in mind some of the things to do and avoid. Here are some of them.

Do:

  • Always respect the local culture and customs.
  • Explore the numerous outdoor activities that the town has to offer.
  • Try out some of the local delicacies and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Don’t disturb the local wildlife or destroy the natural habitats.
  • Don’t be too loud or boisterous in public areas.
  • Avoid littering.

Safety and Health

Ii town is a relatively safe town, and visitors shouldn’t have much to worry about concerning their safety. However, it’s always good to take precautions to ensure your safety and well-being.

Safety in Ii

  • Always stay in well-lit areas when exploring the town at night.
  • Keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying them in public areas.
  • Be cautious when using public transportation, and avoid traveling alone at night.

Health in Ii

  • Ensure that you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
  • Always carry any prescription medication that you require.
  • Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen when engaging in outdoor activities.

Getting to Ii: Transportation Options and Logistics

Ii town is located approximately 30 kilometers north of Oulu city in Finland. Visitors can access the town using various transportation options.

Airports Near Ii

Oulu Airport

Oulu Airport is the nearest airport to Ii town and is located approximately 29 kilometers south of the town. Visitors can hire a taxi or use public transportation to get to Ii town from the airport.

Bus Stations Near Ii

Oulu Bus Station

The Oulu Bus Station is the main bus terminal in the town and offers daily bus services to Ii town. Visitors can book bus tickets online or at the bus station.

Other Options

  • Rental Cars
  • Taxis

How to Get Around in Ii

Ii town is relatively small and is easy to navigate on foot. However, visitors looking to explore the surrounding countryside and nature reserves may need to hire a car or use public transportation.

Public Transportation

Ii town operates a reliable public transportation system with regular bus services. The buses cover most of the town’s areas and offer an affordable and convenient way to get around.

Car Rental

Several car rental companies operate in Ii town, and visitors can hire cars from the various car rental outlets.

Where to Go Next from Ii: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Ii town’s proximity to Oulu city makes it an ideal starting point for visitors looking to explore Northern Finland. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions that visitors can explore.

  • Rokua Geopark - This UNESCO Geopark is a perfect destination for nature lovers. Visitors can engage in various outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and skiing.
  • Oulu City - The capital city of the Oulu region is a bustling metropolis and is known for its lively nightlife and cultural heritage.
  • Hailuoto Island - This small island is located off the coast of Oulu and is a perfect destination for day trips. The island boasts of beautiful sandy beaches and scenic views.

Conclusion

Ii town is a beautiful place to visit and offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature and explore the country’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities or cultural experiences, Ii town has something to offer for everyone. We hope this comprehensive travel guide helps you plan your visit to Ii town and make your stay a memorable one.

Hamina – the old town Hamina – the old town Why not by boat? Traditional boat used to get to the parish village on Sundays Why not by boat? Traditional boat used to get to the parish village on Sundays Going down the river on a log! Going down the river on a log! Coffee break by the cloudberry swamp Coffee break by the cloudberry swamp