You can explore iconic landmarks such as Turku Cathedral and Turku Castle, and experience local life in the historical streets and lively squares. Beyond the urban city center, you can explore the diverse neighborhoods and districts, filled with green parks, cultural hubs, and scenic coastal surroundings.
Exploring Turku’s other areas allows visitors a chance to experience everyday life in Turku, discover hidden gems and unique attractions, just a short distance away from the city center.
The Aura River (Aurajoki) flows through the heart of Turku, connecting historic landmarks, riverside restaurants, museums, and lively walking routes. It is one of Turku’s most iconic attractions and gathering places for visitors and locals alike.
The Old Town of Turku covers the historic centre and the university area. Here, history can be found in many layers, from the Middle Ages to the present day.
Kakolanmäki, one of Turku’s iconic seven hills, has transformed from Finland’s most notorious former prison area into a vibrant destination filled with restaurants, cafés, a brewery, a spa, a hotel, cultural attractions, and striking views over the city.
Stop for a morning coffee in Turku Market Square.
From cultural attractions to a lively riverside atmosphere, Turku is an ideal destination for a relaxed yet diverse day. The compact city center offers a perfect mix of history and modern Nordic lifestyle.
Turku Market Square is the best place to have some coffee and ice cream, as well as purchase fresh produce from local farmers. The restaurants along Aura River offer a great selection of lunch.
To explore outside the immediate city center, you can walk or cycle, and find idyllic residential districts, green parks and waterfronts that offer a more relaxed and intimate perspective of the city.
For families, the adventure park and outdoor swimming pool of Kupittaa park are a must-visit, as well as JukuPark water park.
Nb. Turku Cathedral is under renovation 9.2.2026 - 2.12.2028.
©© Alvar Gullichsen, Posankka (1999). Turku city art collection. Image: Raakkel Närhi, WAM museum of modern art.
The Pigduck (Posankka) is a creation of artist painter and sculptor Alvar Gullichsen. It swam to the city of Turku in 1999.
There are several parks in Turku. This outdoor swimming pool can be found in Kupittaa park.
Turku Castle’s construction began in the 1280s.
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Hidden gems
If you’re here during the summer season – try the food trucks from the riverside!
If you want to be like a local – you can also rent a Fölläri city bike and bike through the riverside! For longer distances you can easily use Turku’s public transportation Föli. Most buses depart from The Market Square.