Turku, Finland’s oldest city and the first capital, combines small-city charm with rich history and serene archipelago nature.
The 13th-century Turku Castle stands as a testament to its medieval past, while the bustling market square and cobblestone streets create a lively, welcoming atmosphere. The Aura riverside promenade is lined with restaurants, cafes, and museums, perfect for leisurely exploration.
Turku’s deep connection to the sea is evident in its maritime history and modern shipbuilding at Meyer shipyards. Surrounded by the world’s largest archipelago, Turku offers a scenic approach year-round, making the destination experience begin long before reaching the port.
Distance from port to city centre
3 kilometers (1.85 miles)
Distance from city to airport
8 kilometers (5 miles)
Airport information
Turku can be reached from many European and US destinations by flights via Stockholm (SAS), Copenhagen (SAS) and Riga (airBaltic). Worldwide direct flights’ network is also available via Helsinki-Vantaa airport within 160 km or 2 hours driving distance from Turku.
Watch the video
The 13th-century Turku Castle stands as a testament to its medieval past, while the bustling market square and cobblestone streets create a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Must See & Do
Turku Castle
The city’s landmark Turku Castle has stood at the edge of the river Aura since the 1280’s. The fortress has been serving as a defensive bastion, a majestic court, an administrative centre, a prison, and nowadays as a museum.
Luostarinmäki
The old quarter of Luostarinmäki has a unique atmosphere where time stands still. The museum is representing the life of common folk from the 1800’s, presenting the professions of the pre-industrial era. Open from June to Mid September.
Turku Cathedral
Dedicated to the Virgin Mary and Finland’s first bishop, St Henry, the church was consecrated in 1300. The Turku Cathedral is considered to be Finland’s most valuable historical monument.
Kakola Prison
Since 1853 the country’s worst villains have been locked inside the bleak walls of Kakola prison. The futures of thousands of men have been lost behind the iron doors and granite stone walls. The Kakolanmäki Hill Museum will present these stories to the visitors. Nowadays there are also restaurants, microbrewery and bakery, a hotel and spa in the old prison area.
Aura Riverside
The vibrant Turku riverside, is a lively hub of cafés, restaurants, and cultural attractions along the Aura River, offering a perfect spot for leisurely strolls and people watching onboard the riverboat terraces
Ruissalo Island
Located just outside the city, Ruissalo island has a beautiful nature and archipelago atmosphere for a perfect day spent outdoors. Visit the botanical gardens, take a small hike along one of the trails, or just stroll or bike on the promenade admiring the old villas and their cute swimming huts.
Shore Excursion Examples
Sightseeing
City tour in Turku by bus and foot, combined with visits to the most popular sights in Turku: Turku Cathedral, Luostarinmäki historical quarter and Turku Castle. Can be modified according to visitors’ interests and wishes, including for example local food culture, maritime history or medieval sights.
Active & Wellness
Sea kayaking in the archipelago offers a chance to explore the close by islands surrounded by scenic views. Excursions can be modified to different skill levels, starting from beginners who have never sat in a kayak to more experienced paddlers, making it a relaxing and enjoyable way to experience the beautiful nature and scenery.
Unique & Local
Dive into Turku’s maritime heritage with a tour starting from Forum Marinum, a maritime center and museum showcasing Finland’s seafaring traditions through interactive exhibits and historical vessels. Continuing from tradition to innovation with a visit to the Meyer Turku shipyard, where the world’s most advanced cruise ships like Icon of the Seas are brought to life. This unique tour offers a blend of maritime history and modern shipbuilding, showcasing Turku’s pivotal role in global seafaring. Visits to Meyer Shipyards on request only.
Food & Tasting
Savor the flavors of Turku on this delightful tour through the historic Turku Market Hall, a culinary treasure since 1896. Explore the stalls brimming with fresh local produce, artisan delicacies, and Finnish specialties. Stop at the seafood stall and popular lunch restaurant, where guests can enjoy tastings of fresh seafood, highlighting the best of Finland’s coastal cuisine. Perfect for food lovers, this tour offers an authentic taste of Turku’s culinary heritage in an iconic setting.
Design & Shopping
Get to know Finnish design on this inspiring tour including visit to the key site of Finnish architecture, furniture design and innovation, the Paimio Sanatorium. Designed by legendary architects Alvar and Aino Aalto, Paimio Sanatorium is one of the most internationally renowned and significant Finnish buildings. The tour continues to Finnish Design Shop Showroom, presenting timeless and contemporary Nordic design items like furniture and decor. This tour displays the Finnish design philosophy, blending functionality with beauty, and is a must for design enthusiasts and architecture lovers.
Annual Events
Checkout some of Turku’s annual events!
Medieval Market
- Late June
- The Old Great Square
The Medieval Turku is Finland’s largest medieval and historical event happening annually in the end of June. A vibrant medieval fair with crafts, performances, and medieval-themed activities held in the heart of Turku.
Turku Music Festival
- August
- Different locations around Turku
The oldest continuously running music festival in Finland has evolved into a diverse urban event with a wide range of music including grand orchestral concerts, chamber music, recitals, jazz, outdoor events and children’s concerts. Main events are taking place annually in August.
Turku Castle Tournament
- Mid-July
- Turku Castle
A medieval-themed event held annually at Turku Castle, usually in Mid-July. It recreates historical jousting and combat tournaments, featuring costumed participants, knights on horseback, archery, and medieval crafts.
Tall Ships Races
- Summer 2028 and 2032
- Aura riverbanks
Turku is hosting Tall Ships Races every four years, next time in the summer 2028 and 2032. The Tall Ships Races is a spectacular event featuring a fleet of grand sailing ships, with festivities along the Aura River.
Christmas Celebrations
- December
- Different locations around Turku
In December magical Celebrations of Christmas are taking over the city with traditional Christmas markets and other seasonal events such as Path of Light art spectacle.
Ready to Elevate Your Travel Offerings? Let’s talk more about Turku!
Contact us for more detailed destination information, shore excursion opportunities and promotional materials or images. We are here to help you sell the destination!
