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Get InspiredEuropeFinlandSouthwest FinlandTurku

Turku

Southwest Finland, Finland
City·Historic, Cultural, Lively
Turku
Photo by rebaz yousif from Google Places
Turku
Photo by Ioan Iancu from Google Places
Turku
Photo by Ivar Ojamaa from Google Places
Turku
Photo by Gustava Klimt -kinga- from Google Places
Turku
Photo by mojca debeljak from Google Places
Turku
Photo by rebaz yousif from Google Places
Turku
Photo by Ioan Iancu from Google Places
Turku
Photo by Ivar Ojamaa from Google Places
Turku
Photo by Gustava Klimt -kinga- from Google Places
Turku
Photo by mojca debeljak from Google Places

Turku, the oldest city in Finland, is a vibrant cultural center located on the southwestern coast at the mouth of the River Aura. As a former capital, Turku boasts a rich history with numerous historical landmarks and events that have shaped Finnish history. The city is a bilingual municipality, with both Finnish and Swedish as official languages, contributing to its unique cultural atmosphere. Turku was named European Capital of Culture in 2011 and is renowned for its culinary scene, being declared the Food Capital of Finland. Visitors can enjoy a mix of historical sites, modern attractions, and a lively port that connects them to Stockholm and Mariehamn.

Turku, the oldest city in Finland, is a vibrant cultural center located on the southwestern coast at the mouth of the River Aura. As a former capital, Turku boasts a rich history with numerous historical landmarks and events that have shaped Finnish history. The city is a bilingual municipality, with both Finnish and Swedish as official languages, contributing to its unique cultural atmosphere. Turku was named European Capital of Culture in 2011 and is renowned for its culinary scene, being declared the Food Capital of Finland. Visitors can enjoy a mix of historical sites, modern attractions, and a lively port that connects them to Stockholm and Mariehamn.

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Highlights

  • European Capital of Culture 2011.

  • Historic port city with rich maritime history.

  • Bilingual municipality with Finnish and Swedish.

  • Home to Finland's oldest restaurants and food culture.

  • Known as the 'Paris of Finland'.

Before you go: Turku essentials

  • Rich cultural heritage with many historical sites.

  • Important commercial and passenger seaport.

  • Vibrant food culture with high-quality restaurants.

Getting Around

Turku is well-connected with public transport options including buses and ferries.

Local Cuisine

Don't miss the chance to try local Finnish dishes at the city's renowned restaurants.

Best For

History buffs and cultural explorers.

Currency

EUR €

Average Cost

$100-$200 p/day

Languages Spoken

Finnish, Swedish, English

Cultural Events

Check out the city's calendar for cultural events, especially during the summer.

Historical Sites

Explore the Turku Castle and the Cathedral for a glimpse into the city's past.

Shopping

Visit the Market Square for local crafts and fresh produce.

Best time to visit Turku

April-JuneSeptember-November

Best Season

Spring

Spring in Turku offers mild weather, perfect for exploring the city's parks and historical sites.

Best Season

Summer

Summer is lively with festivals and events, ideal for experiencing the city's vibrant culture.

Best Season

Fall

Fall brings fewer tourists and pleasant weather, great for sightseeing and enjoying the local cuisine.

Winter

Winters are cold but offer a magical atmosphere, especially during the Christmas season.

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Get early access to exclusive partner discounts, tips & user itineraries.

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Location

Turku, Southwest Finland, Finland

Things to do in Turku

Järvelä Sauna Experience in the Turku Archipelago
From $19

Järvelä Sauna Experience in the Turku Archipelago

Duration: 2h
Turku
Explore Turku in 60 minutes with a Local
From $93

Explore Turku in 60 minutes with a Local

Duration: 1h
Turku
Best Intro to Turku in 2 hours with a Local
From $131

Best Intro to Turku in 2 hours with a Local

5.0(2)
Duration: 2h
Turku
Guided Evening Sea Kayaking in Turku Archipelago
From $88

Guided Evening Sea Kayaking in Turku Archipelago

5.0(37)
Duration: 3h 30min
Turku
Historic Turku Private Walking Tour – Cultural Heritage
From $649

Historic Turku Private Walking Tour – Cultural Heritage

5.0(4)
Duration: 2h
Turku
Experience Turku with a local guide
From $282

Experience Turku with a local guide

5.0(2)
Duration: 2h
Turku
Turku Private Transfer from Turku (TKU) Airport to City centre
From $95

Turku Private Transfer from Turku (TKU) Airport to City centre

Duration: 30 min
Turku
Turku Private Transfer from Turku city centre to Turku airport
From $95

Turku Private Transfer from Turku city centre to Turku airport

Duration: 30 min
Turku
Explore on Viator

Natural & historic sites near Turku

Place
Place
Place
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Place

Teijo National Park

Protected Area · Peaceful, Scenic, Historic Leaning
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Torronsuo National Park

Protected Area · Serene, Expansive, Natural, Quiet
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Puurijärvi-Isosuo National Park

Protected Area · Tranquil, Vast, Untouched, Scenic
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Kurjenrahka National Park

Protected Area · Serene, Wild, Untouched
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Ekenäs Archipelago National Park

Protected Area · Serene, Rugged, Natural, Untouched
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Liesjärvi National Park

Protected Area · Serene, Natural, Historic
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Bothnian Sea National Park

Protected Area · Serene, Rugged, Expansive

Archipelago National Park

Protected Area · Rugged, Quiet, Pristine, Vast