As Finland’s oldest city, Turku has plenty to offer for those who want to dive into medieval history or explore the city’s renowned culinary scene. This small town packs a lot of history. It’s a great day trip from Helsinki, and a wonderful break from the hustle of the city.
Located along the banks of the Aura River, Turku is Finland’s oldest city, brimming with history and charm. While many travelers might rush past on their way to the more famous destinations, spending just one day in Turku offers a delightful glimpse into Finnish culture, stunning architecture, and a vibrant food scene. From wandering through the cobblestone streets of the historic old town to exploring the lively markets and enjoying the serene riverside, Turku is a city that invites you to slow down and savor each moment.
Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Turku promises an enriching experience that’s perfect for a day of exploration. Join me as we uncover the best spots to visit, eat, and enjoy in this captivating city!
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One Day in Turku: Morning & Lunch
Start your day by exploring the main historic sights and stop for a lunch in one of my favourite restaurants by the river Aura.
Turku Cathedral
In Turku, one of its defining landmarks is the impressive Cathedral, which was initially built in wood during the late 13th century. A number of restorations and enlargements have been done to it through time, resulting in today’s majestic view with wonderful stained-glass windows as well as a museum preserving cultural items from centuries ago.
As you wander around this sacred structure, look upon and appreciate all that has gone into creating such an enduring icon standing tall despite going through great fire years back. Feel free to visit its quaint museum while there, housing antiques from medieval times for Insight on history.
Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova
After a 10-minute stroll by the river, you will find Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova, a museum that brings history and modern art together in an exquisite mix. Featuring interactive exhibits, archaeology and artwork from post-WWII Finland as well as the West, it is easy to understand why this historical site should be part of your city tour. While exploring what makes these two eras so uniquely joined here, you can appreciate contemporary art exhibitions through creative expression like nowhere else in Turku. Take advantage of such a special opportunity to explore the blend between antiquity and innovation during your visit!
Early Lunch by the River
Finnish cooking offers a delightful blend of European, Scandinavian and Russian flavors. Traditional dishes such as pea soup, salmon soup and fried reindeer are renowned for their deliciousness across the globe. To finish off your culinary experience in Finland with something sweet, try some blueberry pie or lingonberry-filled pastry along with cinnamon buns, all part of the unique combination that characterizes Finnish cuisine! It will surely be an unforgettable feast for any food lover’s taste buds!
I recommend checking out Smor by the river (fine dining), or nearby restaurants like Target, Huge (vegetarian), Bassi Restaurant (picture below) or Tintå.
One Day in Turku: Afternoon & Evening
Luostarinmäki Handicrafts Museum
If you want to get a memorable experience, a trip to the Luostarinmäki Handicrafts Museum is just for you. This open-air museum from Turku in Finland offers insight into life there throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. Workers wearing traditional garb are busy showing off their crafting proficiency as well as imparting knowledge about how citizens of that era used to live day by day.
Come explore these charming wooden houses and admire all they have created – artwork pieces or ordinary stuff still dear to Finnish culture, while savouring this long gone atmosphere? It’s time now if one wishes really to witness such history up close.
Old Market Hall
The Old Market Hall in Turku is a place to visit for all foodies, located conveniently at the heart of the town. This traditional market boasts an array of cozy cafes and restaurants that serve delectable dishes prepared from local products like fresh produce, artisanal cheeses as well as other regional flavors. You can stroll around this lively hall savoring its offerings and get acquainted with wonderful tastes from Turku’s cuisine.
The bustling ambience coupled with mouth-watering delicacies makes it impossible to leave without feeling completely satisfied, which makes it an ideal spot where you can indulge yourself!
Riverboat Bars & Restaurants
The stunning views of the city can be fully appreciated from Turku’s riverboat bars located along the Aura River. A great way to end your day is spending it on one of these boats, indulging in cocktails and taking pleasure in watching as night falls over the waterway. It makes for an unforgettable experience! This part of town provides a special opportunity to relax with its captivating sunset vistas, truly unique among other local spots.
Brewery-Restaurant Koulu
After a day spent exploring Turku, why not come and relax at Brewery-Restaurant Koulu? This is one of my favourite places in the city, due to its unique charm, great food and selection of drinks.
An inviting atmosphere awaits visitors in the beautiful old school building it occupies, making you feel like part of the local community. You’ll have plenty to choose from when it comes to craft beer, so raise your glass and enjoy each sip.
If You Have More Time to Spare
Aura River Stroll
A pleasant way to explore Turku is by taking a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Aura River. Here, you will be able to pass through some iconic historic sites in Turku including its famous castle and cathedral as well as several cafes, recreational areas popular with locals and museums. This delightful journey offers an opportunity to escape from life in a bustling city while admiring what makes it so unique!
Green Spaces
If you are searching for a place of peace and tranquility, Turku’s green spaces such as Kupittaanpuisto or Tuomiokirkonpuisto may be the perfect destination. Enjoy leisurely walks through nature, experience its captivating beauty while taking in the gentle sounds of birdsong or simply relax during a sunny day with an outdoor picnic.
Accommodation and Travel Tips
When traveling to Turku, make sure you plan ahead. Start by making reservations for a stay in the city center, so that all attractions are close at hand.
Summer is by far the best time to experience Turku, along with its many festival and events. Book your accommodation early to avoid disappointment.
If you’re coming around the end of June, you might find the city unsuually quiet and empty – that’s because everyone heads to the summer cottage for the midsummer celebrations.
Where to Stay
Turku is a great place to visit and provides accommodation for all types of budgets. From economical hostels to mid-range hotels, there will be something perfect after a day full of activities in the city center.
A popular option among travelers wanting both comfort and location close by is Radisson Blu Marina Palace Hotel. This hotel has lots on offer such as: comfortable rooms, an onsite restaurant/bar. Plus fitness facilities including free Wi-Fi access, 24h front desk service with a business centre too! It’s situated conveniently right at the heart of Turku, which makes it ideal for your stay during your time here, ready when you are!
Best Time to Visit
The perfect time for a visit to Turku is between June and September, when the days are longer and pleasant weather adds extra enjoyment. Exploring the Aura River along with all of its attractions promises an unforgettable trip in this Finnish city during the summer months.
Summary
Turku is a city filled with captivating history, abundant culture and scenic beauty, the perfect location to explore in one day.
From its old roots to modern artistry, this delightful destination has something special for everyone. No matter if they are into historical monuments or gourmet meals!
So come experience all that Turku has to offer and create wonderful memories of your time spent there.
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Author Bio
Lucia is a travel blogger at Cyprus Escape, where she shares her travel tips for visiting the beautiful island of Cyprus. She travels to Finland regularly to visit family and friends.
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I love cities like this, they are so easily walkable and you can pack so much into a single day! What a gem.
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