Exploring Turku: Finland’s Oldest City with a Modern Twist
Exploring Turku is like stepping into a living time capsule—one that has gracefully evolved with the times. As Finland’s oldest city, Turku offers a compelling blend of medieval history, Nordic culture, and cutting-edge design. From its iconic castle and riverside cathedral to vibrant food halls and quirky art installations, Turku balances the past and present with effortless charm.
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If you’re curious about Finland’s roots but also enjoy fresh, forward-thinking cities, exploring Turku may be the perfect addition to your travel itinerary.
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Why Exploring Turku Should Be on Your Travel List
Turku, located on the country’s southwest coast, was Finland’s capital until 1812 and remains one of its most historically and culturally significant cities. Today, it’s a thriving urban center with a youthful energy, thanks to its universities, festivals, and ever-evolving creative scene.
Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, nature enthusiast, or architecture admirer, Turku has something to offer in every season.
A Brief History Before You Start Exploring Turku
Turku was founded in the 13th century, making it the oldest city in Finland. It quickly rose to prominence as a trading hub of the Swedish Empire, and by the 14th century, it was the religious and administrative center of Finland.
The city has survived plagues, wars, and the Great Fire of Turku in 1827, which destroyed much of the old city. Despite these challenges, it has remained a symbol of resilience and cultural identity. Today, exploring Turku means walking through layers of Finnish history, all while enjoying the conveniences and creativity of a modern European city.
Exploring Turku’s Historic Heart: Must-See Sights
🏰 Turku Castle (Turun Linna)
Begin your journey through history at Turku Castle, a massive medieval fortress that has stood watch over the Aura River since the late 13th century. Originally built to guard trade routes, it has served as a royal residence, prison, and military base.
Inside, you’ll find exhibitions covering:
- Medieval life and warfare
- The Swedish Empire’s influence in Finland
- Royal chambers and court intrigues
- Finnish cultural evolution over centuries
Tip: Allocate at least 2 hours to fully explore the castle’s many halls, towers, and dungeons.
⛪ Turku Cathedral (Tuomiokirkko)
No guide to exploring Turku would be complete without mentioning Turku Cathedral, the most important religious building in Finland. Consecrated in 1300, it is the national sanctuary of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland.
Highlights include:
- Gothic and Romanesque architectural elements
- Tombs of historical figures, including Queen Karin Månsdotter
- A peaceful atmosphere for quiet reflection
- A fascinating museum inside the South Gallery
Along the Aura River: Where the Old Meets the New
The Aura River is the lifeline of Turku, flowing right through the center of the city. As you stroll along its banks, you’ll encounter a vibrant blend of historic buildings, modern cafés, art installations, and summer terraces.
Notable stops along the river:
- Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova Museum – A dual museum where underground ruins of medieval Turku meet cutting-edge contemporary art.
- Brinkkala House – Site of the annual Christmas Peace Declaration since the 14th century.
- Riverboats – Old ships converted into floating restaurants and bars.
Pro Tip: Rent a bike or take a leisurely river cruise to see Turku from a new angle.
Exploring Turku Through Food
Turku’s culinary scene is thriving, thanks to its blend of traditional Finnish fare and global fusion cuisine. The city proudly holds the title of Finland’s Food Capital, and for good reason.
Where to Eat
- Kaskis – Michelin-starred Nordic fine dining with local ingredients.
- Smör – Known for elegant tasting menus and river views.
- Turku Market Hall (Turun Kauppahalli) – A must-visit for traditional snacks, fresh produce, and local treats. Try a salmon sandwich or “runebergintorttu.”
Where to Drink
- Panimoravintola Koulu – A brewery set in an old school building.
- Blanko – Chic cocktails with a laid-back vibe right by the river.
- Café Art – Best known for its coffee and views of the Aura River.
The Modern Side of Exploring Turku
Turku isn’t just about cathedrals and castles. The city has reinvented itself as a hub for innovation, design, and sustainability. Modern Turku thrives with:
🎨 Contemporary Art & Events
- Logomo – A cultural venue for exhibitions, concerts, and startup events, housed in a former railway workshop.
- Turku Music Festival – One of the oldest classical music festivals in Finland.
- Ruisrock – Finland’s biggest rock festival, hosted on the beautiful Ruissalo Island.
🌿 Green Spaces & Outdoor Life
- Kupittaa Park – Great for a picnic, skate park, or a lazy afternoon.
- Ruissalo Island – Just a short bike ride or bus ride away, offering beaches, nature trails, and 19th-century villas.
Day Trips from Turku
While exploring Turku, consider venturing just a bit further to discover more of Southwest Finland:
- Naantali – A charming seaside town known for its harbor and as the home of Moominworld.
- Archipelago Trail – Rent a car or bike and follow a breathtaking route through hundreds of islands connected by ferries and bridges.
- Littoistenjärvi Lake – A serene spot for swimming and relaxing just outside the city.
Where to Stay When Exploring Turku
🏨 Top Hotel Picks
- Hotel Kakola – A luxury hotel in a renovated prison. Seriously stylish and totally unique.
- Scandic Julia – Centrally located with modern amenities.
- Solo Sokos Hotel Turun Seurahuone – Elegant, atmospheric, and close to everything.
How to Get to Turku
- By Train: 2-hour ride from Helsinki with scenic countryside views.
- By Plane: Turku Airport has regular domestic and international connections.
- By Ferry: Daily ferries from Stockholm make Turku an ideal stop on a Nordic trip.
Final Thoughts on Exploring Turku
Exploring Turku is a journey through centuries—a tale of resilience, rebirth, and reinvention. It’s a place where cobblestone streets lead to contemporary art galleries, and where Gothic cathedrals watch over tech-savvy students and trendy cafés. As Finland’s oldest city, Turku holds stories in its stones, but it tells them with a modern twist.
So if you’re craving a travel experience that’s both historically rich and vibrantly current, start exploring Turku—you just might find that this overlooked gem becomes one of your favorite cities in the Nordics.
Planning a Trip? Save This Exploring Turku Guide
📍 Includes: Historic sites, museums, food tips, and modern highlights
📆 Ideal duration: 2–3 days
🎒 Best for: History lovers, culture seekers, foodies, and weekend wanderers
