Historic charm meets vibrant riverfront life
Best time to visit
May–September
Average cost
$100–$180 per day
Language
Finnish, Swedish
Currency
Euro (€)
Turku, Finland’s oldest city, offers a captivating blend of medieval history and modern culture along the banks of the Aura River. Known for its charming cobblestone streets and lively waterfront, Turku invites travelers to explore its rich heritage and vibrant urban life in a compact, walkable setting.
Visitors to Turku can immerse themselves in iconic landmarks like Turku Castle and the Turku Cathedral, enjoy fresh Nordic cuisine at riverside cafes, and experience a lively arts scene with festivals and galleries. The city’s unique mix of history, nature, and contemporary culture makes it a must-visit destination in Finland.
Explore Finland’s oldest city with well-preserved medieval sites like Turku Castle.
Enjoy scenic walks and dining along the picturesque Aura River waterfront.
Experience vibrant cultural events including music festivals and art exhibitions.
Summer months offer the best weather and longest daylight hours for sightseeing.
English is widely spoken, but some knowledge of Finnish or Swedish enhances the experience.
Public transport is reliable but renting a bike or walking is ideal for exploring the compact city center.
Turku, Finland’s oldest city, offers a captivating blend of medieval history and modern culture along the banks of the Aura River. Known for its charming cobblestone streets and lively waterfront, Turku invites travelers to explore its rich heritage and vibrant urban life in a compact, walkable setting.
History enthusiasts eager to explore medieval architecture and museums., Food lovers interested in Nordic cuisine and fresh local seafood., Nature seekers wanting to explore nearby archipelago islands and parks.
Pack layers as weather can be variable, even in summer., Book accommodations early during festival seasons to secure the best options.
Visit the riverside cafés in the evening to enjoy the lively atmosphere and local craft beers.
The best time to visit Turku is from May to September when the weather is mild and the city hosts many cultural events. Summer offers long daylight hours perfect for sightseeing.
Turku’s city center is compact and walkable, but you can also rent a bike or use the reliable public bus system to reach outer areas and nearby attractions.
Key attractions include Turku Castle, Turku Cathedral, the Aura River waterfront, and the lively Market Square. Don’t miss the nearby archipelago for natural beauty.
Turku was the capital of Finland until 1812 and remains a key cultural and historical hub. The city hosts the annual Medieval Market, one of the largest historical festivals in the Nordic countries. Turku’s archipelago, accessible by ferry, is a stunning natural attraction with over 20,000 islands to explore.