Turku

Overview

Turku is the oldest city in Finland and was once the country’s capital. It sits along the Aura River and is full of both old charm and modern life. The city is known for its rich history, shown through well-kept medieval buildings like Turku Castle and the grand cathedral. You can walk along the riverside and enjoy cafés, museums, and boats that tell stories of Turku’s strong sea traditions. The city also feels young and lively because of its large university, which brings students, events, and a creative spirit. Turku mixes old and new in a fun and interesting way. Whether you like history, art, food, or relaxing by the water, Turku has something special to offer. It’s a great place to explore Finnish culture in a beautiful and friendly setting on the southwest coast of Finland.

Top Attractions In Turku

Turku Castle

Finland's largest surviving medieval fortress dates back to the 1280s, featuring impressive stone halls, historical exhibitions, and period rooms that chronicle the Swedish-Finnish kingdom's fascinating past and royal history.

Turku Cathedral

This imposing 13th-century national shrine represents Finland's most important religious building, with its distinctive brick Gothic architecture, religious artifacts, and tombs of important historical figures including a medieval Finnish bishop.

Aura River and Riverfront

The heart of the city where locals and visitors gather along landscaped riverbanks dotted with historic ships, charming restaurants, and bustling summer terraces creating a lively atmosphere particularly during the long summer evenings.

Turku Archipelago

One of the world's largest archipelagos with over 20,000 islands and islets accessible by ferry or yacht, offering idyllic Finnish summer experiences with red granite shores, fishing villages, and opportunities for sailing and kayaking.

Things to Do

In Turku, you can take a boat trip through the beautiful archipelago on old steamships or modern ferries. Ride a bike along peaceful riverside paths that connect many historic places. Try a traditional Finnish sauna at one of the public bathhouses to relax like the locals. In summer, enjoy music and shows at the medieval castle during festivals. Visit the Market Hall to taste local foods like fish, bread, and sweets. Turku also has a lively café culture, influenced by its many students, where you can enjoy coffee and meet friendly people.

Shopping

Turku is a great place for shopping and local treats. At the Market Hall, you can try Finnish foods like archipelago bread and fresh fish. In the old town area, small shops sell handmade items like Finnish knives, sea-themed souvenirs, crafts, and Moomin gifts. For modern shopping, the Hansa center has Finnish fashion and design brands. It’s a fun mix of tradition and modern style, all in one city.

Dining and Nightlife

Turku has tasty local food, especially fresh fish and seasonal meals from the nearby islands. Many cozy restaurants are by the Aura River, with great food and lovely views. You can enjoy drinks in old cellar pubs or stylish bars. At night, people go to the Old Great Square or near the university, where clubs stay open until 3 AM. The city has fun nightlife but still feels safe and welcoming.

Transportation & Safety

Turku is easy to get around. You can walk to many places, or take buses that run often and are easy to use. Biking is also popular with many bike paths around the city. Turku is a safe place, even at night, but it’s still smart to watch your things and stay alert in crowded areas. People are friendly and helpful, making it a nice and comfortable city to visit.

Accomodation Options

Turku has many different places to stay. Near the cathedral, you can find boutique hotels in old, charming buildings. Along the river, modern hotels offer beautiful views. For budget travel, there are hostels popular with students and young people. You can also rent apartments in old wooden houses full of character. If you want something special, stay on nearby islands in the archipelago, which you can reach by ferry.

Tourist Seasons in Turku

Summer (June-August) brings the popular Medieval Market, archipelago boat tours, and outdoor dining with temperatures around 20°C, while winter offers Christmas markets and cozy indoor attractions despite shorter daylight hours and occasional snow; spring and autumn provide fewer crowds with moderate conditions ideal for exploring the city's historical and cultural sites.

Safety Tips for Indian Tourists

Turku Market Hall offers local Finnish delicacies including archipelago bread and fish products, while the historic quarter houses specialty shops selling handcrafted items like traditional Finnish knives, maritime-themed souvenirs, local handicrafts, and Moomin merchandise, with the modern Hansa shopping center providing contemporary Finnish design and fashion brands.