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• Turku

Turku in 5: A Fun & Budget-Friendly Adventure

Explore Turku's charm without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Turku is a charming city in southwestern Finland, known for its picturesque riverfront and historic castle. Despite being one of the country's largest cities, Turku offers numerous free activities, such as exploring the Medieval Old Town and admiring the stunning architecture of Turku Cathedral. For a budget-friendly stay, consider alternative accommodations like hostels or couchsurfing.

Travel plan

• Check into Centro Hotel Turku, a chic budget hotel in the city center
• Take a stroll around Turku Market Square, where you can grab some fresh local produce and souvenirs
• Visit Turku Castle, an impressive historical fortress and museum
• Explore the charming streets of the Old Town, admiring the beautiful architecture and stopping for coffee and cake at Café Art
• Have dinner at Blanko, a cozy restaurant serving Finnish cuisine with a modern twist

• Catch a ferry to the stunning island of Ruissalo, where you can hike through forests and relax on the beach
• Visit the Ruissalo Botanic Garden, a unique collection of flora from around the world
• Take another ferry to the nearby island of Hirvensalo, where you can cycle along picturesque coastal paths
• Have lunch at Saaristobaari, a laid-back bar with great views of the sea
• Return to the mainland for dinner at Smör, a trendy restaurant with a focus on local and organic ingredients

• Visit the Wäinö Aaltonen Museum of Art, showcasing contemporary Finnish art and design
• Explore the Turku Art Museum, which has an impressive collection of Finnish and international art
• Head to the Turku City Theatre for a performance, from drama to musicals
• Have dinner at Kohina, a cozy Japanese restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere
• Enjoy a drink at Kukko, a quirky bar with a retro vibe and live music on weekends

• Spend the morning at Yyteri beach, known for its stunning sand dunes and tranquil atmosphere
• Have lunch at Aurinkoranta, a beach bar serving tasty seafood and refreshing drinks
• Visit the Sauna Café, where you can relax in a traditional Finnish sauna or hot tub
• Indulge in some self-care at Float Kupittaa, where you can float in a sensory deprivation tank
• Have dinner at Smakbyn, a rustic restaurant with a focus on traditional Ålandic cuisine

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Tårget, a beautiful cafe with a lovely outdoor terrace
• Visit the Turku Cathedral, an impressive Gothic-style church with a fascinating history
• Take a final stroll through the city center, picking up any last-minute souvenirs
• Have lunch at the iconic Market Hall, where you can try a variety of Finnish delicacies
• Depart from Turku with fond memories and the desire to one day return.