Turku has a fantastic reputation along the visitors – and for a good reason. The beautiful city is abundant in colourful history, urban joys and unique coastal atmosphere. One weekend in Turku is enough to tackle the most important sights, but there’s plenty to do for a longer stay. Whether you’re into outdoors activities, culture, arts or culinary experiences, you’re in for a treat.

Omena Hotel is conveniently located in the heart of the city, from where it is easy to explore all the important sites by foot. Right by the hotel you will find the Market Square, the River Aura and the shopping centres Hansa, Stockmann and Sokos. Many of the most interesting sites are located a stone’s throw away from the hotel.

Are you planning a trip to Turku? We have compiled a list of recommendations and popular attractions in Turku to help you make the most of your stay.

Top attractions & things to do in Turku

1. Historical Turku: the Cathedral

The Turku Cathedral is considered as Finland’s most valuable historical monument. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary and Finland’s first bishop, St Henry, the church was consecrated in 1300. The Cathedral Museum takes you on a journey through history from the early 1300’s.

2. Nature in Turku: Ruissalo Island

Ruissalo Island has it all – stunning nature, lively events and beautiful beaches. Once the hunting island for the court of Turku Castle, the island is now open for everyone to enjoy. Located just off the mainland, the visitors are provided with a wide range of activities to choose from. You can spend a perfect day enjoying the outdoors, relax in a spa or explore the botanical garden. Ruissalo Island is both beautiful and budget-friendly destination.

3. A must-see: Turku Castle

The history of Turku is fascinating. Turku Castle has stood guard over the river Aura estuary since the 1280’s, and alongside the Cathedral it is an important historical monument. The impressive venue now offers a variety of events and exhibitions and is also a fantastic place to visit with children.

4. The River Aura (Aurajoki)

Where to eat in Turku? Head to the riverfront! The River Aura is the heart of Turku. Both locals and visitors love the riverfront boats, many of which serve as bars or restaurants. Most of the historical sites are also located by the riverfront, so taking a stroll along it is a great way to get to know the city.

5. Turku with children: Luostarinmäki

Luostarinmäki is a special place to visit right in the city centre and a great attraction for the whole family. Located on a hill, it is a home for the only continuous district of wooden houses that survived the fire of 1827 in Turku. The district was made into an open-air museum in order to preserve the historically valuable buildings. The Luostarinmäki Handicrafts Museum was opened to the public in 1940.

6. Forum Marinum and Suomen Joutsen

Almost all sights in Turku are located by the River Aura, and by walking all the way towards the sea gate you’ll find Forum Marinum Centre. The museum is a home for two impressive tall sail ships, four naval ships and several smaller vessels. The museum ships are open during the summer months only, while the exhibitions are open throughout the year.

Museums and art galleries in Turku

If a rainy day hits your holiday in Turku, don’t worry! There’s plenty to see and do indoors. Here’s a few interesting museums to explore:

• Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova
• Wäinö Aaltonen Museum of Art
• Sibelius Museum
• Pharmacy Museum and the Qwensel house
• Turku Art Museum

For more information about the museums check out Visit Turku.

Dining in Turku

How to find the best restaurants and where to eat in Turku? The most beloved restaurants in Turku are located at the riverside. Especially over the summer months the streets bordering the river are full of people enjoying the almost Southern European feel. Visit Eat my Turku website for restaurant recommendations. For the best bars and nightlife in Turku see here.

Events in Turku

In addition to being a perfect summer holiday and Christmas celebration city, Turku can be enjoyed any time of the year. The city also takes care of its business travellers, keeping them entertained, fed and happy. Browse the City of Turku event calendar to see what’s going on in the city during your stay.

Turku is known for its conventions. Turun Messukeskus (The Convention Centre of Turku) hosts regular events gathering people together from all over Finland, whether it’s for pet shows, handicrafts, books or recruitment events. At the time of big events it is wise to book the accommodation in Turku well in advance.

Action & outdoors in Turku

Looking for active travel ideas in Turku? For a sure adrenaline rush we recommend you visit the biggest adventure park in Finland, Flow Park. If you prefer adventuring indoors, Super park will have the whole family entertained. In Kupittaa’s adventure park there are fun activities for all ages, making it a perfect way to spend a sunny summer day with the whole family. For a good sweat you can go to Megazone or try one of the escape rooms!

• Flow Park Turku
• Megazone, Erikinkatu 4
• Mystik Escape Room
• Mysteeri Escape Room Turku
• Kupittaa Adventure Park
• Super Park

To leave the city behind and get some fresh country air, head to the Archipelago Trail. Whether you rent a car, get on a boat or hope on a bicycle, you get to enjoy some stunning views on the way! Get out of the city just to return to the comfort of Omena Hotel for the evening. After a long day it feels amazing to lift your feet up and restore, saving some energy for the days to follow!