Turku, Finland's second-largest city, offers a charming blend of history and modernity.
It's enchanting castle and cobblestone streets are complemented by a vibrant community that thrives on innovation in design, music, art, and architecture.
Top Reasons to Visit Turku
1. Turku Castle
Dating back to 1280, Turku Castle (Turun Linna) is a historical gem featuring dungeons, galleries, and a captivating medieval museum.
2. Fascinating Museums
Beyond the castle, Turku offers unique museums like the Luostarinmäki Handicrafts Museum, showcasing Finnish traditions in pottery, carpentry, and glassblowing.
3. Lively Festivals
Turku is a festival hotspot, hosting events like the Turku Music Festival in August and a renowned biennale, making it a cultural hub.
4. Art and Architecture
Explore the Wäinö Aaltonen Museum, the impressive Turku Art Museum, and the riverside Titanik-galleria, offering something for every art lover.
5. The Stunning Archipelago
Just offshore, the Turku Archipelago awaits with scenic villages, pristine forests, and hidden coves. Cycle the Archipelago Trail to fully experience this natural beauty.
What to Do in Turku
Visit Kauppatori
The Market Square (Kauppatori) is the heart of Turku, bustling with shops, cafés, and key landmarks like the Swedish Theater. Enjoy strong espressos or explore the nearby Hansa shopping center.
Explore Turku Castle
This medieval fortress, built in the late 13th century, once served as Finland's seat of government. Tour its halls, battlements, and exhibitions, including the impressive King’s State Room and chapel.
Enjoy Moomin World
Located on an island near Turku, Moomin World is a family-friendly park celebrating Finland’s beloved Moomin characters. The park offers fun activities and delicious Scandinavian cuisine.
Board Historic Ships
Visit the Suomen Joutsen and Sigyn, two historic sailing vessels turned museums. These graceful ships, over a century old, highlight the age of sail and maritime trade.
Experience Turku Cathedral
Dating back to the 1300s, Turku Cathedral is a national treasure. Attend the Turku Cathedral International Concerts during the summer for an unforgettable experience.
Where to Eat in Turku
Turku’s culinary scene focuses on fresh, local seafood and meat. Top picks include Smör, offering locally sourced dishes in a cozy cellar setting, and Tintå, known for its relaxed atmosphere. Expect meals to cost around EUR 25–35 at mid to high-end restaurants.
When to Visit Turku
Turku is best enjoyed during the summer months of July and August when the weather is warm and festivals are in full swing. Events like the Turku Music Festival make this season especially vibrant. Winters are colder but offer a quieter charm for visitors.
Getting to Turku
Plane: Turku Airport (TKU) is just 5 miles from the city. Take bus line 1 (€3) or a taxi (~€40).
Train: Daily trains connect Turku to Helsinki and Tampere.
Car: Drive from Helsinki via the E18 or from Tampere via the E63.
Bus: Express buses from Helsinki (around €29.50) are available through operators like Pohjolan Liikenne and OmniBus.
Where to Stay in Turku
Keskusta (City Center): The commercial hub of Turku, offering easy access to attractions like the Turku Art Museum.
Luostarinmäki: A charming district featuring the crafts museum and cultural venues.
Turku Harbour: The historic harbor area is home to Turku Castle and serves as a gateway to the archipelago.
How to Get Around Turku
Public Transportation
Buses are an affordable way to travel around Turku, with single tickets costing €3.00 and 24-hour passes available for €7.50. Additionally, a free ferry crosses the Aura River, though it is limited to pedestrians and cyclists.
Taxi
Taxis in Turku have a starting fare of €5.90, with an additional charge of approximately €3 per mile. Be aware that rates increase significantly during evening hours.
Car Rental
Rental cars are available from companies like Avis, Sixt, and Hertz, with daily rates starting at around €20.
The Cost of Living in Turku
Shopping Streets
For unique, handmade crafts, visit Luostarinmäki. For general shopping, the Hansa shopping mall near the main market square offers a wide range of stores.
Groceries and Markets
Local supermarkets like Lidl and K-Supermarket provide affordable grocery options, with a gallon of milk priced at under €3.20. For fresh and local food, head to the Turun Kauppahalli market.
