Turku, Finland: The Ultimate 3-Day Adventure

Discovering the charm of Turku - where past and present collide.

22 April 2023

Turku, Finland is a fantastic destination for tourists who enjoy exploring picturesque cities with rich cultural heritage. Visitors can experience the stunning medieval architecture of Turku Castle and the Turku Cathedral and immerse themselves in local art and history at the Turku Art Museum and the Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova museum. Additionally, the city is surrounded by breathtaking nature, including the Turku Archipelago, offering ample opportunities for outdoor activities and scenic hikes.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Old City

  • Stay at the boutique hotel, Hotel Kakola, a converted prison with beautiful views of the city and sea.
  • Explore Turku's Old City. Start at the Turku Cathedral and walk down the cobblestone streets filled with quirky shops and cafes.
  • Visit Turku Castle, Finland's oldest and largest castle, and learn about its fascinating history.
  • Have lunch at the trendy restaurant Smör that serves Finnish-inspired cuisine with a modern twist.
  • Walk along the Aura River and admire the beautiful scenery, including the iconic Turku Log Boat.
  • Finish the day with a sauna and dip in the sea at Ruissalo Spa Hotel.
Day 2

Island Hopping

  • Catch a ferry to the Turku Archipelago, a beautiful collection of islands that make up the largest archipelago in the world.
  • Visit the charming island of Nauvo, known for its traditional wooden houses and great seafood restaurants.
  • Explore the historic island of Jussarö and its abandoned iron mine.
  • Have a picnic on a secluded island and enjoy the peacefulness of nature.
  • Return to Turku and dine at the Michelin-starred restaurant Smakbyn, known for its creative Nordic cuisine.
  • Sleep peacefully back at Hotel Kakola.
Day 3

Art and Culture

  • Visit the Turku Art Museum, which houses a collection of Finnish and international art.
  • Explore the Turku Market Square, where you can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and outdoor concerts.
  • Learn about Finnish design at the Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova museum.
  • Take a walk through the beautiful Kupittaa Park and visit the tranquil botanical gardens.
  • Have dinner at the trendy restaurant Kaskis, known for its Nordic cuisine made with local ingredients.
  • End the night at Panimoravintola Koulu, a stylish craft beer bar and restaurant in a former schoolhouse.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Turku, Finland by plane is to fly to Turku Airport from Helsinki, Stockholm, or Copenhagen.

Car

Driving from Helsinki to Turku is an easy way to get to the city, taking just over 2 hours on the main E18 highway.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no international trains that go directly to Turku, Finland.

Boat

You can take a ferry from Stockholm, Sweden to Turku, Finland with companies like Tallink Silja Line or Viking Line, making it a fun and unique way to arrive in Turku.

Bus

Taking a bus from Helsinki or Tampere to Turku is a reliable way to get there quickly and affordably.

More travel plans

Turku's Charm: A Romantic Day Trip

A romantic trip to Turku, Finland promises to be full of charming experiences. You and your partner can explore the picturesque streets of this historic city, admire the stunning architecture and enjoy romantic walks along the river. Indulge in delicious Scandinavian cuisine, visit museums and art galleries and relax in the cozy, inviting cafes.

Turku Tales and Treats: The Ultimate 3-Day Family Getaway

Turku, Finland offers a perfect family-friendly getaway with its rich history and range of activities for all ages. From exploring the medieval Turku Castle, kids can enjoy interactive exhibits while parents appreciate the stunning architecture. The nearby Moomin World amusement park, inspired by the popular Finnish cartoon characters, provides endless fun with its rides, shows, and charming Moomin characters, making it an unforgettable trip for the whole family.

Turku Tales: Unveiling Finnish Delights in 5 Days

Turku, Finland offers a delightful family-friendly trip with its rich history, stunning architecture, and abundant recreational activities. Explore the medieval Turku Castle, where kids can immerse themselves in the past through interactive exhibitions and guided tours. Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Aura River, visit the Moomin World theme park for a dose of enchantment, or simply unwind by the numerous picturesque parks and beaches scattered throughout the city.

Turku on a Budget: One Day Bliss

Turku, the oldest city in Finland, offers plenty of fun activities for a budget-friendly trip. You can explore the charming pedestrian-filled streets of the Old Town, visit museums for free on Fridays, and have a picnic in one of the many parks. A great way to end the day is by catching the stunning sunset over the Aura River.