Though it’s the oldest city in Finland, Turku, located just two hours from Helsinki, is anything but outdated. Mostly destroyed by the Great Fire of 1827, it was rebuilt shortly after, showcasing charming architecture that makes it a must-visit destination today. Although it’s no longer the largest city in Finland, there remain plenty of engaging sights, delectable food, and great shopping opportunities. Here are the top seven reasons to visit Turku.
Island Hopping on the Turku Archipelago
The Turku Archipelago comprises around 20,000 islands and skerries, making it the perfect destination for island hopping during the warmer months. There is no shortage of activities available, including biking, hiking, kayaking, and fishing. Ruissalo is particularly popular for its biking trails and picnic spots and can also be explored easily on foot. For a romantic excursion, consider taking a pleasure cruise on the Ukkopekka steamship, where you can enjoy hors d’oeuvres and smoked fish as it sails from the Aura River to Loistokari Island.
The 250km-long Archipelago Trail, featuring 12 bridges and nine ferries, is a nature lover’s paradise. While it can be completed by car in a day, it also provides an excellent biking route with numerous dining and lodging options in the small villages along the trail.
Feasting on Kakolanmäki Hill
Visit Kakolanmäki Hill for stunning views and remarkable food. Once home to Kakola prison, this area has transformed into a lively neighborhood filled with several eateries. A short ride up the funicular, which opened in May 2019, gives access to various restaurants and cafes along with a breathtaking vista from the second-highest hill in Turku. One standout option is Kakolanruusu, where meals are prepared over an open fire. Dishes are served family-style, and for a truly indulgent experience, opt for the ‘Feast,’ which consists of a series of chef’s-choice small plates. Pair your meal with a refreshing beer from Kakola Brewing or a warm beverage from Bageri Å.
Uncovering Stories of the Past
As Finland’s oldest city, history is palpable in Turku. The granite walls of Turku Castle offer a glimpse into Nordic life from centuries past. Now a museum with guided tours, the castle has a storied history, having served as a court and prison. In addition, Turku Cathedral, consecrated in 1300, stands not only as a treasure for Turku but for all of Finland, featuring frescoed walls and a spire that rises just over 100m.
Taste Testing at Turku Market Hall
The only dilemma at Turku Market Hall is deciding what to eat. Options range from kebabs to sushi from Kado and delicious treats from MBakery’s Piece of Cake, which has been voted Finland’s best bakery. Spanning an entire block, be sure to visit with plenty of time and an empty stomach. Even if you can’t sit down for a meal, there are numerous breads, cheeses, spices, and teas to sample and purchase to take home. Opened in 1896 and designed by Finnish architect Gustaf Nystrom, Turku Market Hall is the second-oldest market in Finland.
Drinking in the Coffee Culture
Did you really experience Finland without trying the coffee? Although you don’t have to consume as many cups as locals (Finns are the highest coffee consumers per capita in the world), it’s essential to sample some. Enjoy a cup at one of the city’s many cafes or visit local roastery Frukt Coffee Roasters in Kakola, which is open by appointment only. Discover their space and take home bags of coffee sourced from Ethiopia, Colombia, or Guatemala, or enjoy a cup from Bageri Å.
Festivals of All Flavours
While Turku may not be renowned as a party capital, it hosts a variety of festivals catering to diverse tastes. Ruisrock, occurring on Ruissalo Island since 1970, is one of Finland’s oldest festivals and attracts over 100,000 revellers for a three-day celebration featuring international artists. In June, the city hosts the New Potato Festival to honor this key ingredient in many Finnish dishes, and the Medieval Market, a four-day festival with vendors, reenactments, and fun activities for children.
Shopping for Secondhand Steals
Turku’s large student population and Finnish sustainability ethos contribute to an impressive array of secondhand shops. Visit Ecolocal Market or Second Hand Ilona, the latter featuring a café. Alternatively, check out the popular Maanantaimarket, which offers two floors filled with clothing and accessories. Search for unique scarves, brooches, or contemporary and vintage items. If you look closely, you may even find pieces from acclaimed Finnish design house Marimekko.
