Kajaani

If you have decided to travel to Kajaani, get ready to encounter the picturesque nature of the Kainuu region in central Finland. This cozy city, surrounded by forests and lakes, serves as an excellent starting point for active leisure and exploring local history. Finding out how to get to Kajaani is straightforward, as the developed transport network allows you to reach the destination comfortably by plane, train, bus, or car.

The fastest way to reach the region is by air. The city has its own Kajaani Airport (KAJ), receiving regular flights from Helsinki. The flight from the capital takes less than an hour and a half, and the terminal is located just 7 km from the centre, which saves time on transfers.

If a direct flight is unavailable, consider routes via neighbouring regional hubs. The nearest major airports are located in the cities of Oulu (about 180 km) and Kuopio (approximately 170 km). A drive from there takes about 2–2.5 hours. You can also use Kuusamo Airport, located slightly further away. From these points, it is convenient to reach Kajaani by intercity bus or a rental car.

Travelling by train is one of the most comfortable and scenic ways to get to Kajaani. The city operates a railway station that receives trains from various parts of Finland. The station is within walking distance of the centre, sparing travellers the need to arrange complicated transfers upon arrival.

Most tourists arrive here via the services of the national carrier, VR. The journey from Helsinki takes on average from 6 to 7 hours. Depending on the chosen service, the trip can be direct (InterCity or Pendolino) or involve one short connection, most often in the city of Iisalmi. Modern carriages are equipped with everything necessary for a pleasant journey: from power outlets and Wi-Fi to a dining car.

Furthermore, convenient rail connections are established with neighbouring major cities such as Oulu and Kuopio. A train ride allows you not only to reach your destination quickly but also to admire the beauty of the local nature—dense forests and lakes passing by the window.

Bus services reliably connect the region with neighbouring transport hubs, making the trip comfortable and predictable. The most popular routes lead from Oulu and Kuopio: covering the distance of 170–180 kilometres will take you approximately 2.5–3 hours. Modern buses run regularly, offering passengers comfortable conditions, allowing you to relax and enjoy the views outside the window.

If you are travelling from the north, consider a direct route from Kuusamo. This journey lasts about 3.5–4 hours, covering a distance of 250 kilometres through picturesque taiga landscapes. The bus station in Kajaani is conveniently located relative to the city centre, allowing you to easily reach your hotel or start exploring local attractions immediately upon arrival.

Travelling by car becomes a separate adventure thanks to high-quality roads and peaceful landscapes outside the window. A trip from Oulu will take about 2.5 hours, covering 180 kilometres, while the journey from Kuopio via Highway No. 5, which is 170 kilometres long, will take just over two hours.

The route from the north, from Kuusamo, is longer: you will have to drive 250 kilometres, which will take approximately 3–3.5 hours. Please note that taxi services for intercity directions in Finland are expensive and can cost several hundred Euros, so renting a car often becomes a more profitable and flexible solution.

To ensure your trip to Kajaani is as comfortable and carefree as possible, it is worth considering a few local features in advance. We have prepared a list of practical tips to help you easily navigate this cozy Finnish city and take away only positive experiences from your journey.

1. Clothing and Seasonality: The climate here can be changeable. In winter, thermal wear, a warm windproof jacket, and sturdy footwear are mandatory, as frosts can be severe. In summer, light clothing is useful, but always bring a windbreaker or sweater for cool evenings, as well as comfortable shoes for walking in forest parks.
2. Transport: The city centre is compact and is most pleasantly explored on foot. For trips to the outskirts, you can use local buses (Kajaanin Joukkoliikenne), the schedule of which is very precise. Renting a bicycle is also a popular and convenient option, especially in the warm season.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Euro. Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere: in hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, and even on transport. However, keeping a small amount of cash is useful for visiting markets or buying souvenirs in small shops.
4. Health and Safety: Finland is one of the safest countries in the world, so you can walk the streets calmly at any time. Pharmacies are marked with the sign "Apteekki". A prescription may be required to purchase specific medicines, but basic first aid supplies are freely available.
5. Communication: The main language of communication is Finnish. Nevertheless, the level of English proficiency among locals is very high, so you will not have problems with understanding in tourist places, shops, and hotels.
6. Local Etiquette: Finns value personal space and silence. Greetings are usually limited to a handshake. In public places, it is not customary to speak loudly or draw excessive attention to oneself. It is also extremely important to observe punctuality here.
7. What to Avoid: It is strictly recommended not to violate nature conduct rules. Fires can only be lit in specially equipped places, and trash must be taken with you. Violation of these norms threatens large fines and disapproval from locals.
8. Additional Tip: If you plan a trip in summer, be sure to stock up on insect repellents. Kajaani is surrounded by bodies of water and forests, so mosquitoes can be quite active, especially during evening walks by the water.

Following these simple recommendations will help you avoid minor inconveniences and focus on the main thing—relaxation and impressions. We wish you a pleasant and organized journey!