Turku

Turku is a city on the southwest coast of Finland, in northern Europe. It is also the oldest city in Finland, founded around the end of the 13th century.

The Turku Archipelago is one of the most prolific in the world, with a total of 20,000 islands and skerries, most in their pristine natural state. The Archipelago National Park encompasses a broad swath of the Turku Archipelago. Inhabited islands in the Turku Archipelago can be reached by inter-island ferries and many islands are even accessible by bicycle.

Turku's Tourist Information Centre is located in Aurakatu 2. Here visitors can get information, maps and brochures on local attractions as well as purchase tours and the TurkuCard, a tourist benefit card which offers discounts or free entrance to selected attractions. Bikes are available to hire during the summertime.

Turku Castle, which stands on the banks of the Aura River, is one of the oldest buildings still in use in Finland and was founded in the late 13th century.

Luostarinmäki is a whole museum village dating from the 1700s and 1800s. It provides a unique setting to see the craftsmen of the pre-industrial era and observe the life of common people.

Turku Cathedral, consecrated in 1300, is situated on the hillock of Unikankare and is considered to be Finland’s most valuable historical monument. The Cathedral Museum is housed in the south gallery and takes you on a journey through history from the early 1300’s.

Forum Marinum, a National Specialist Museum for Finnish maritime and naval history, stands next to Turku Castle.

The Sibelius Museum is the most significant museum of music in Finland and is named after the famous Finnish composer, Jean Sibelius. The museum building exhibits the life and music of the master composer as well as an interesting collection of instruments from Finland and abroad.

The Turku Biological Museum is a Diorama-Museum, presenting 13 nature scenes showing the fauna and flora of Finland.

Aboa Vetus and Ars Nova combines history and contemporary art. Medieval ruins and a rich collection of artefacts can be found in Aboa Vetus, whilst high quality exhibitions of Finnish and international contemporary art are displayed in Ars Nova.

The Turku University Botanical Garden on Ruissalo Island is both a centre for scientific research and a public showcase for over 5000 species and varieties of plants.

Brinkhall Manor, located on the island of Kakskerta, can trace its history back to the 16th century.

For fans of architecture, head to St. Henry's Ecumenical Art Chapel, located on the island of Hirvensalo.

Popular family attractions include the Juku Water Park, the Adventure Park, on the edge of Kupittaa Park and Moominworld, a theme park based on the beloved stories of Finnish writer and artist, Tove Jansson, located on Kailo island opposite the old town of Naantali.

Turku’s oldest and largest shopping centre Hansa is located in the heart of Turku by the Market Square and offers excellent shopping such as ceramics, jewellery and glassware, with a number of specialist shops and a department store.

There are many beaches to choose from in area including Brinkhall beach on Kakskerta island, Ruissalo beach (accessed by taking the no. 8 bus from the centre of Turku) and Ispoisnen beach (within easy reach from Turku Centre by bus numbers 9 and 13).

Sporting activities include cycling, walking and numerous watersports such as canoeing, fishing and boat trips.

Typical Finnish food includes 'kaalikääryleet' (cabbage rolls), 'sultsina' (rye flatbread),
'kalakukko' (fish pie), 'kalakeitto' (fish stew) and 'mustamakkara' (blood sausage).

There is a wide range of dining options in Turku, ranging from fresh fish and seafood, Italian and Thai to pizzas, pasta and fast food.

Cruise ships can either dock at the main port area or next to the medieval castle, depending on vessel size. Both are within walking distance to town via a scenic promenade. A free shuttle bus however runs from the pier into the town should you prefer this option.

Taxis are available at ranks throughout the city.