A Day of Culture & Cuisine in Turku

Discover the charm of Turku, Finland - where history meets modernity.

22 April 2023

Exploring Turku as a tourist immerses you in Finnish culture and history. The city is known for its picturesque riverside, Gothic architecture and impressive museums dedicating to Finnish art and history. Indulge in local cuisine such as smoked salmon or sautéed reindeer while enjoying the relaxed Finnish way of life.

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Day trip plan

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Day

A Taste of Turku

  • Start the day with a visit to Turku's bustling Kauppatori market square. Sample some smoked salmon, fresh berries, and other local flavors.
  • Take a 10-minute walk to Turku Castle, an impressive medieval fortress with rich historical significance. Explore the castle's various rooms and exhibitions.
  • For lunch, head to Smör, a cozy restaurant that serves Nordic-inspired dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients. Try their popular crispy fried vendace.
  • Walk along the banks of the Aura River towards Turku Cathedral. This stunning cathedral dates back to the 13th century and features impressive Gothic architecture.
  • In the afternoon, visit the Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova museum, which combines history and contemporary art in a creative way. Make sure to see the fascinating underground ruins.
  • End the day with a dinner at Kaskis, a Michelin-starred restaurant that has elevated Turku's dining scene. The menu changes frequently depending on seasonal ingredients, but expect innovative dishes with surprising flavor combinations.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

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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.

Destination

Turku

Welcome to a small city that is big on charm and culture, where you can learn to pronounce 'Turku' correctly and impress all your friends back home. Just don't ask the locals to give you directions to Ikea – they take their rivalry with Helsinki seriously.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

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More travel plans

Turku, Finland: The Ultimate 3-Day Adventure

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.

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.

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As a tourist in Turku, Finland, you'll discover a beautiful city that seamlessly combines modernity with the rich history of its past. From visiting the historical Turku Castle to strolling along the Aura River, Turku offers an array of cultural and natural experiences to visitors. You can also indulge in the local cuisine such as Karelian pies, Archipelago bread, and a sip of Finnish Koskenkorva vodka.

Romance and Adventure in Turku: A 3-Day Getaway

Turku, a historically and culturally rich city located on the southwestern coast of Finland, is an ideal destination for a romantic getaway. From exploring its medieval castle and vibrant riverfront to savoring a variety of local cuisine, Turku offers endless opportunities to bond with your significant other. At night, cozy up in a traditional Finnish sauna or watch the sunset over the archipelago islands for a truly unforgettable experience.