Background

Sailor's Home Museum: A Glimpse into Oulu's Maritime Past

Explore Oulu's maritime heritage at the Sailor's Home Museum, a captivating glimpse into the lives of 19th-century seafarers on Pikisaari Island.

4.6

Housed in Oulu's oldest wooden building on Pikisaari island, the Sailor's Home Museum offers a captivating look into the lives of 19th-century Oulu sailors and their families. The museum recreates a typical sailor's home, showcasing maritime artifacts and stories of life at sea.

A brief summary to Sailor's Home Museum

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Explore Pikisaari: Take some time to wander around Pikisaari island, known for its charming wooden houses, art galleries, and unique atmosphere.
  • Check for events: The museum hosts various events throughout the summer, including treasure hunts and storytelling sessions.
  • Look for the dogs: Learn the significance of the porcelain dogs on the windowsill, a traditional symbol in sailors' homes.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Oulu city center, the Sailor's Home Museum is accessible by a pleasant walk. Head towards the Oulu River and cross the bridge to Pikisaari island. Follow Pikisaarentie road; the museum is located at Pikisaarentie 6. The walk from the city center takes approximately 30-40 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Oulu city center, take bus number 2, 3, 5, 7 or 9 towards Pikisaari. Get off at the 'Pikisaarentie' stop. The museum is a short 5-minute walk south towards the waterfront at Pikisaarentie 6. A single bus ticket costs €2.60.

  • Car

    From Oulu city center, follow signs for Pikisaarentie. Drive onto Pikisaari island. Limited parking is available near the museum. Parking fees vary depending on the zone, with city center parking costing around €60 for a ticket. Consider parking in the main square (Toriranta) where there is a large parking area.

Unlock the Best of Sailor's Home Museum

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Sailor's Home Museum

Step back in time at the Sailor's Home Museum, nestled within the historic Matila House on Pikisaari island in Oulu. This charming museum, located in the oldest surviving wooden house in Oulu, offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of sailors in the 1880s, when Oulu was a significant seaport city. The Matila House itself has a rich history, dating back to the 1730s when it served as a customs house. It was moved to Pikisaari in 1983 and opened as a museum in 1989. The building has been carefully restored to reflect the interior of a typical sailor's home during that era. Inside, you'll discover a collection of maritime artifacts, photographs, and personal stories that bring to life the experiences of Oulu's sailors and their families. From the tools they used to navigate the seas to the traditional clothing they wore, the exhibits offer a tangible connection to the region's maritime past. Pikisaari island, where the museum is located, adds to the charm and historical significance of the site. Once a hub for shipbuilding and industry, the island is now a vibrant community of artists and artisans, with colorful wooden houses and a unique atmosphere. A visit to the Sailor's Home Museum provides a multifaceted experience, exploring not only the life of sailors but also the history of Pikisaari and the Matila House itself.

Popular Experiences near Sailor's Home Museum

Popular Hotels near Sailor's Home Museum

Select Currency