Things To Do
in Turku
Turku is Finland's oldest city, situated on the southwest coast along the Aura River. It blends medieval heritage with a waterfront vibe, a lively market culture, and easy access to the Turku Archipelago. Highlights include the Turku Cathedral, Turku Castle, and scenic riverfront strolls that link old and new neighborhoods.
The city is known for its warm hospitality, compact center, and year‑round cultural events.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through Turku's historic center, taking in the beautiful architecture of the old buildings. Visit the iconic Turku Cathedral, where you can explore its stunning interior and learn about its rich history. Don't forget to stop by the nearby Turku Museum of History to gain insight into the city's cultural heritage.
After lunch at a cozy café, head towards the Aura River for a scenic walk along its banks. Explore the various shops and boutiques that line the river, picking up unique souvenirs and local crafts. You can also take a short boat trip on the river to see the city from a different perspective.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant that offers traditional Finnish cuisine. Savor dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients while taking in the beautiful views of the river. After dinner, take a stroll along the riverbanks, where you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and perhaps catch some live music performances.
Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Turku Castle, one of Finland's oldest surviving buildings. Explore its various rooms and exhibitions, which showcase medieval life and the history of the castle itself. Enjoy the interactive displays that bring the castle's rich past to life.
After touring the castle, enjoy a picnic lunch in the surrounding park area, where you can relax and soak in the serene environment. Later, visit the nearby Museum of Art, which houses a diverse collection of Finnish and international art. Take your time appreciating the various exhibits and perhaps join a guided tour to learn more about the artworks.
For dinner, head to a local bistro that specializes in traditional Finnish dishes, where you can try delicacies such as reindeer or salmon. After your meal, take a leisurely walk back towards the castle to see it beautifully illuminated at night. Conclude your evening with a visit to a nearby pub for a taste of Finnish craft beer.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🚆One-way public transport ticket | $3-4 |
| 🏨One-night stay in mid-range hotel | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich maritime and medieval heritage with a compact, walkable center
- Access to the scenic Turku Archipelago and easy riverfront exploration
- Weather can be changeable; summer rain showers are common
- Prices for some tourist services can be higher in peak season
- "Hei" - Hello
- "Kiitos" - Thank you
- "Ole hyvä" - Please/Here you go
- "Puhutteko englantia?" - Do you speak English?
- "Paljonko maksaa?" - How much does this cost?
- "Missä on WC?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Haluaisin..." - I would like...
- "Anteeksi" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Kippis" - Cheers
- "Haluaisin maksaa kortilla" - I would like to pay with a card
Places to Visit in Turku
Visit one of these nice places.
Gothic architecture with a commanding presence over the riverfront; great for sunrise or golden-hour photography.
Imposing fortress with stone walls and moats; expansive exterior shots and atmospheric interiors.
Quieter canals, bridges, and boats along the river; perfect for daytime reflections and sunset portraits.
Vibrant market life, colorful stalls, and maritime backdrops—best in the morning to capture activity and light.
Food in Turku
Turku Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy, comforting soup made with salmon, potatoes, dill, and onions. Common in many Turku restaurants and markets; try a generous bowl by the river or in a traditional bistro.
Must-Try!
A traditional fish pie baked inside a thick rye crust, typically filled with fish and pork. A regional specialty you can find in bakeries and market stalls around Kauppahalli.
Thin rye crust pastries filled with rice, mashed potato, or carrot fillings, served with a rich egg-butter spread (munavoi). Available in bakeries and cafés across Turku.
Cured salmon slices often served on rye bread with mustard-dill sauce; a common item at markets and Nordic restaurants.
A seasonal coffee cake flavored with almonds and berry glaze; a tasty treat especially around winters and festivals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market hall near Market Square with stalls offering fresh fish, berries, pastries, and archipelago snacks. A great place to sample local bites and chat with vendors.
Seasonal stalls along the harbor selling seafood, berries, reindeer products, and quick bites. Excellent for a casual lunch or snack with a waterfront view.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Finns value personal space and straightforward conversation; keep noise levels reasonable in public spaces and public transport.
Being on time is appreciated; if running late, a quick heads-up is courteous.
If invited to a sauna, wash beforehand; swimming afterward is common. Towel etiquette and modesty vary by group.
Safety
Tipping in Turku
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service. A small extra at your discretion is common in fine dining.
Cash is accepted in many places, but card payments and contactless options (debit/credit cards, mobile wallets) are widely used.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild and often wet; blossoms along the river and in parks. Layered clothing recommended, with rain gear for showers.
Long days with pleasant temperatures (roughly 15–25°C). Ideal for outdoor dining, river walks, and archipelago trips; expect frequent festivals.
Cooler temperatures and colorful foliage, especially along the Aura River. Carry a light jacket and be prepared for rain.
Cold with short daylight hours; snow is common but daylight slowly increases from January onward. Embrace sauna culture and cozy cafés.
Turku at Night
Hiking in Turku
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive bogs and forest trails offering solitude and wildlife viewing within a short drive from Turku.
Coastal and forest paths on a scenic island with beaches and historic wooden villas.
An accessible route that connects coastal communities and islands for cycling or hiking experiences.
Airports
How to reach Turku by plane.
Located about 8–10 kilometers north of Turku; regular bus connections to the city center and easy access for arrivals from domestic and select international destinations.
Finland’s main airport, about 165 kilometers northeast of Turku; well-connected by direct train (Pendolino) and long-distance buses to Turku with a travel time around 2–2.5 hours.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Student populations and researchers from the University of Turku and Åbo Akademi contribute to a lively, educated urban vibe.
Historically rooted communities around the archipelago, parks, and historic sites; a family-friendly city with museums and outdoor spaces.
Domestic and international visitors drawn to medieval heritage, markets, and coastal scenery.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular spectator and participation sport in winter; local teams and leagues attract enthusiastic crowds.
Active women's and men's leagues with local clubs and community teams; easy access to fields and arenas around the city.
Winter trails nearby, especially in forested areas and parks around Turku.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Turku.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Turku restaurants offer seasonal vegetarian dishes and Nordic-inspired plates. Look for seasonal vegetable dishes, mushroom substitutes, and cheese-based meals; most places can adapt recipes upon request.