The Ultimate Summer Guide to Turku, Finland: Things to Do, See & Eat

Ultimate summer guide to Finland’s oldest city Turku, from a local who was born and raised here.

If you’re planning your trip to Finland and wondering “Where should I go besides Helsinki?” then let me introduce you to one of Finland’s most charming cities: Turku.

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Turku is Finland’s oldest city, tucked along the southwest coast, and trust me when I say: it’s so worth visiting. Especially in summer. That’s when Turku comes alive: café terraces spill onto the cobbled streets, boats drift down the Aura River, and the entire city slows down in the best way possible.

I was born and raised right here in Turku. And I’ll be honest, it took me a while to really see how beautiful this city is. When you grow up somewhere, you kind of take it for granted, you know? But once I started exploring my own hometown with fresh eyes I completely fell in love.

Now I’m totally obsessed, and I’m here to help you fall for Turku too.

In this guide, I’m sharing everything you need to know to plan the perfect summer day (or weekend!) in Turku, from iconic sights to secret local spots, food recs, nature escapes, and practical tips to make your trip magical.

So grab an iced coffee (or an ice cream cone, because Finnish summers are for ice cream) and let’s dive into the ultimate summer guide to Turku.

Why visit Turku in summer?

Did you know that Turku was voted the Best Summer City in Finland in 2025? I mean… that alone should already put it on your radar, right? But let me break it down a little more and make you go:
“Oh wow, I definitely need to add this city to my Finland itinerary!”

There’s history around every corner. Turku isn’t just any city, it’s actually the oldest city in Finland. And you can feel the history everywhere: from the medieval Turku Castle (which looks straight out of a fairytale) to the cobbled streets of Old Turku where colorful wooden houses sit side by side.

It’s the kind of place where you can grab an iced coffee, wander without a map, and stumble across ancient buildings, quirky museums, and even the site of the Great Fire of Turku (yep, we’ve had some drama).

And the best part? The history isn’t tucked away in dusty corners, it’s woven into everyday life here. Cafés inside old pharmacy houses, summer theatre in castle courtyards… you’ll be walking through living history without even trying.

It’s the best city in Finland for combining urban vibes with nature. You get the cool cafés, riverside walks, museums, cute boutiques, but you’re also just minutes away from nature, the sea, and peaceful islands. In one day, you can brunch by the Aura River, explore a medieval castle, swim in the Baltic Sea, and watch the sunset from a boat terrace. Nowhere else in Finland gives you this same effortless city + sea + nature combo.

Here’s something most people don’t know before they visit: Turku is the gateway to the Finnish Archipelago, one of the most beautiful island regions in the world (and I’m not just saying that because I’m a local).

In the summer, this means endless opportunities for: boat trips to cute little islands like Ruissalo, Vepsä or you can explore the famous Archipelago Trail (hello, road trip!) taking a sunset ferry rides or enjoying outdoor picnics by the sea. Honestly, there’s nothing better than hopping on one of those tiny yellow ferries, feeling the sea breeze on your face, and watching the islands slip by. It’s the ultimate slow-travel, Nordic nature dream.

Turku is like Finland’s under-the-radar foodie capital: amazing local food, brunches, vegan spots, craft beer, seaside dining, but without the big city prices or hustle. Plus: tons of live music, art events, quirky festivals, open-air theatre—and you actually get to experience them like a local, not crammed in with tourists. It’s authentic and easygoing, with just the right amount of buzz.

Travel tips for visiting Turku in summer

Ok, before we dive into where to stay and what to do, there are a few things I gotta tell you first, just so you’re fully prepared for your trip to Turku.

First off, Turku is one of the southernmost cities in Finland, so summers here are usually pretty warm and lovely. BUT… this is Finland, so you better pack layers just in case. Weather can change on a dime! And if you’re planning to explore the Archipelago, heads up, the wind can get seriously wild out there.

Swing by the Tourist Info to grab free local guides and tips, plus the latest scoop on events, festivals, and hidden gems. They also have free city maps and discount cards, which are clutch for making the most of your trip.

If you’re planning a longer stay, definitely get a Föli Card for the buses, it also works on the Föli boat cruising the Aura River in summer. Super handy and a fun way to get around.

Oh, and Turku’s cobblestone streets? Gorgeous and historic, but make sure you pack comfy shoes because your feet will thank you.

How to get to Turku

Getting to Turku is actually super easy, whether you’re coming from Helsinki, elsewhere in Finland, or even abroad. Here’s the lowdown on the best ways to arrive in this charming city:

By train

Getting to Turku is super easy, whether you’re coming from Helsinki or anywhere else in Finland. If you’re starting in Helsinki, the VR train is one of the most relaxing ways to travel—it takes about 2 hours, the seats are comfy, there’s free Wi-Fi, and you can just sit back and enjoy those peaceful Finnish countryside views.

By bus

There are plenty of direct buses to Turku from Helsinki and other cities. You can hop on a bus with OnniBus or Matkahuolto, both of which have regular and affordable connections straight to Turku. The ride from Helsinki takes around 2–2.5 hours, so it’s totally doable for a weekend trip or even a day visit.

By car

If you love road trips, renting a car is a fantastic way to get to Turku, especially if you want to explore the beautiful archipelago and surrounding nature spots on the way or after you arrive. From Helsinki, it’s about a 2-hour drive via the E18 highway. Parking in Turku is generally manageable, especially if you stay near the city center.

By plane

While Turku has its own airport, it’s very small and doesn’t have many direct flights. I recommend flying into Helsinki and then taking a quick train or bus to reach Turku, which usually takes around 2 hours.

By ferry

For those coming from Sweden or the Åland Islands, there are ferry connections to Turku. It’s a scenic and relaxing way to arrive, and the ferry terminals are just a short ride from downtown.

Getting around

Most of the city center is super walkable, and strolling along the Aura River is one of my absolute favorite things to do. Just grab comfy shoes with you! Some other ways to get around:

The Föli bus is definitely one of the easiest and most affordable options. There are tons of routes that connect all the main spots around the city, so you’ll have no trouble getting where you want to go. If you want all the details, just check out Föli’s website. It’s super handy!

Also, during spring through fall, you can rent e-scooters and e-bikes all around town, which is such a fun and quick way to explore.

If you prefer driving, there are plenty of car rentals available right at the train station. Perfect if you want the freedom to explore Turku’s beautiful surroundings at your own pace.

And here’s a cool local secret: the Föli boat runs along the Aura River in the summer, stopping at popular places like Ruissalo and Naantali. It’s a really unique way to see the city from the water and get to some amazing spots.

My tip? Spend most of your time walking and biking to really soak up that local summer vibe. And don’t forget to take a ferry trip or two, it’s part of the magic of Turku in summer!

Where to stay in Turku

Let me start by saying that summer is peak season in Turku and the city gets super busy in then, especially during festivals. So I highly recommend booking your stay early to snag the best spots. And if you can, try to stay near the Aura River, that’s where the summer magic really happens.

There are plenty of places to stay in Turku, but let me make it easier for you, here are my favorite spots that I would actually recommend to friends (and have, many times!)

Unique & memorable stays Park Hotel Turku is a charming, over a hundred-year-old hotel building with personalized rooms. Hotel Kakola was once known as Finland’s largest and most dangerous prison, but now is a hotel with so many cool room options, such as a boat suite and even a prison cell.

Cozy & budget-friendly stays: Ship hostel s/s Bore you can spend an unforgettable hostel night on a museum ship right next to Aura River. Omena Hotel Turku is affordable, central, and no fuss. Perfect if you’re out exploring all day and just need a comfy place to crash.

Well-known chains: Original Sokos Hotel Kupittaa is a modern, comfy option with great breakfast and it’s near the train station so the location is perfect. Original Sokos Hotel Wiklund is right next to the market square. Plus the Walo rooftop terrace is perfect for dreamy summer nights.

Okay, so if you’re the kind of traveler who loves to mix in a little pampering with your sightseeing (same, honestly), here are a couple of spa hotel options in Turku you might want to check out.

Ruissalo Spa Hotel is located on Ruissalo Island, so you’ll be right by the sea, surrounded by nature, with easy access to walking trails and beaches. The hotel has a full spa, indoor pool, and saunas. Holiday Club Caribia is great if you’re traveling with family or just love a good waterpark moment. Caribia has pools, waterslides, a spa, and several restaurants, plus, you’re still close to Turku’s main sights.

Where to eat in Turku

Turku is seriously a foodie’s dream, especially in the summer when the terraces open up and fresh local ingredients are literally everywhere. It’s the kind of city that makes me want to eat my way through every corner (and trust me, I’ve tried). Here are some of my absolute favorite spots around the city that I can recommend 100%. These are the places I always go to when I’m in Turku because I know they deliver every single time.

Cafes

• Cafe Qwensel has to be one of my favorite cafés in Turku, and honestly, the main reason is that you can really feel the history here. It’s like stepping back in time—sipping coffee from a beautiful old-fashioned cup, surrounded by charming old wooden houses that have seen centuries of life. The café is actually inside one of Turku’s oldest wooden houses, and the vibe is just next-level cozy. It’s the kind of place where you can sit for hours, just soaking it all in. And even though it’s right in the center, just steps from the Aura River, it somehow feels like the perfect little escape from the city noise.

• Cafe Art is one of those spots that locals keep coming back to and as a local myself, I can say firsthand why this place is a favorite for so many. The location couldn’t be better — right next to the Aura River, so you can sit outside, enjoy the fresh air, and watch the river and Turku Cathedral right in front of you. I love coming here when I want a relaxed coffee break with a view, but nothing too fancy or complicated. Just good vibes, good coffee, and that classic Turku summer feel.

• Cafe Carre. Another one of my go-to spots right next to the Aura River—can you tell the river is my favorite view since I basically choose all my coffee stops by it? Here, the coffee is always on point, and the pastries? Fresh and super tasty every single time. It’s one of those places where I love to sit down with my laptop or just steal a quiet moment for myself in the middle of a busy day exploring Turku.
• Cafe Eino. This is a real hidden gem in Turku’s Market Square and one of those spots people just keep coming back to. If you’re after the coziest café in Turku, this might just be it. But it’s not your typical café—Café Eino is inside a big tent that’s open year-round (yes, a heated tent even in winter!). They serve a delicious selection of sandwiches, pastries, and hot drinks that hit the spot no matter the season.
• Also as someone born and raised in Turku, I recommend going to the Market Hall where you can find MBakery. This bakery is from Turku and it also won the title of best bakery in Finland a few years ago.

Restaurants

• Niska is hands down one of the best spots in Turku to eat outside on a sunny day. And the pizza? Honestly, it’s some of the best I’ve had around here. The whole concept comes from Åland, where they serve Plåtbröd, these thin, crispy Åland-style pizzas made with top-quality ingredients. Trust me, it’s delicious and perfect for a chill summer meal by the water.
• Pizzeria Dennis is a total local legend for pizza lovers — and guess what, they just celebrated their 50th anniversary in 2025! On top of that, Dennis was chosen as the “Most Turku Company of 2024” (yep, that’s a real thing!). Here you can find all the classics: pizzas, pasta, and steak — and honestly, everything is delicious. If you want a reliable spot with a cozy vibe and great food, Dennis should definitely be on your list.
• Blanco. This is definitely one of my go-to spots as a local. The food is excellent, the staff are super friendly, and the location, yep, you guessed it: is right next to the Aura River. But fair warning: if you’re after a quiet meal, this might not be your best bet. It fills up fast and can get pretty lively, especially during lunch. Still, I love the vibe here, it’s perfect when you want great food with a buzz of energy around you.

Unique food spots

• Cafe Ankka. Café Ankka is one of those local gems that’s only open during the summer season. Perfect if you want to sit back next to the Aura River, watch the boats go by, sip on a great coffee, and just soak in those relaxed summer vibes.
• Mantun Grilli. This is a classic Finnish fast food that’s been around for decades and is beloved by locals for its simple, satisfying burgers and sausages. Not fancy, but totally iconic. So if you want a real taste of Turku street food culture, this is the place to hit up!
• Riverboat restaurants. Now these are definitely unique. Eating on a boat floating right on the Aura River? That’s not something you do every day!
• Right in the center is Market Hall, which has been around since 1896, packed with bakeries and places to grab a bite. Also, I never leave without picking up some local treats from here.

Drink spots

If you want to catch Turku from above, Walo’s rooftop terrace is hands down the number one summer spot. Another great option is Kuppis Rooftop Bar, a bit more low-key but still with great views and a chill atmosphere.

Kirkkopuisto terrace is right next to the Turku Cathedral and open all summer long! There is also a program every week: jazz concerts, park discos and other enjoyable activities.

What to eat in Turku: A local treat you can’t miss

“If you’re into sweet treats, you’re in luck, Turku has some of the best doughnuts around!

It is called: piispanmunkki (some people call it berliininmunkki, but as a true local, I’m here to set the record straight. In Turku, it’s always piispanmunkki!). It’s a sweet, fried dough treat, kind of like a donut but with its own Finnish twist. For the absolute best, head to MBakery. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

Things to do in Turku

This city seriously has a little something for everyone. Whether you’re into history, nature, good food, or just soaking up those easygoing summer vibes, Turku’s got you covered.

I’ve lived here my whole life, and honestly, it took me a while to realize just how much this city has to offer. But once I started exploring, I was hooked. From peaceful walks along the Aura River to lively summer festivals and hidden gems only locals know about, Turku comes alive in the summer, and you’re going to want to make the most of it.

So, here are the best things to do in Turku. Trust me, you won’t get bored in this city.

Museums & city history

If you’re even a little bit into history, culture, or just want to understand what makes Turku the city it is today, these are the places you don’t want to miss. I’ve been to all of these (some of them more times than I can count) and I promise they’re not just for “history nerds”—they’re genuinely interesting and fun to explore.

Turku Castle is hands down one of the most iconic sights in the city, and honestly, in all of Finland. This medieval castle has stood at the mouth of the Aura River since the 1200s, and walking through it feels like stepping straight into a fairytale. Inside, you’ll find everything from grand banquet halls to old prison cells, plus exhibitions covering everything from Finnish royal history to everyday medieval life. It’s huge, so give yourself plenty of time to explore. I always tell people: don’t rush this one, it’s absolutely worth a slow wander.

Turku Cathedral. Right in the heart of the city, Turku Cathedral is the most important religious building in Finland and a symbol of the city. It dates back to the 13th century and has seen everything from royal weddings to war. The architecture alone is beautiful, but there’s also a small museum inside where you can learn more about the cathedral’s role in Finnish history. Even if you’re not usually into churches, this one is special and free to visit, so there’s really no reason to skip it. Plus, the area around the cathedral is one of the prettiest spots in town.

Pharmacy Museum & Qwensel House. We already talked about this place earlier when I mentioned Café Qwensel (one of my favorite little coffee spots in Turku!), but did you know it’s also home to a museum? This place is small but absolutely charming and super unique. You get a glimpse into how people actually lived in Turku back in the 1700s as you wander through the preserved rooms of the Qwensel House, and then you step into Finland’s oldest pharmacy. It’s like a little time capsule right in the middle of the city.

Forum Marinum Maritime Centre. Turku has always been a port city, and you can’t really understand its story without diving into its maritime history. Forum Marinum is the place to do that. What makes this museum extra special is that you can actually go aboard the old ships docked outside in the summer. There’s everything from traditional sailing ships to military vessels, and inside you’ll find exhibitions about seafaring life, shipbuilding, and even the history of the Finnish navy.

Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova. This is one of my personal favorites because it gives you the best of both worlds: history and modern art. Aboa Vetus is an underground museum built around the preserved ruins of medieval Turku. You literally walk through the old cobbled streets of the city, right under your feet. It’s such a cool way to see how people lived hundreds of years ago. Ars Nova, on the other hand, is a contemporary art gallery in the same building. I always say: come for the history, stay for the art (and the cozy café).

Luostarinmäki Handicrafts Museum. This is one of those spots that people often skip, and they really shouldn’t. Luostarinmäki is an open-air museum that shows you how life looked in Turku before the Great Fire of 1827. The houses here are real survivors, they’re the last original wooden homes left from that time. Inside each house, you’ll find artisans practicing traditional crafts: leatherwork, bookbinding, pottery, and more. It’s hands-on, authentic, and one of the most atmospheric places in the city, especially on a sunny day.

Turku Art Museum. If you’re more into arts and aesthetics, the Turku Art Museum is a must. It’s located on top of a hill (Puolalanmäki), so even the walk there gives you some of the best views of the city. The museum itself is in a beautiful old building, and inside you’ll find Finnish art from the Golden Age to contemporary works. They also have rotating exhibitions, so there’s always something new to see. I love popping into the cute café downstairs too, such a good spot for a fika moment.

Nature & outdoor adventures

Kupittaa Park. This is Finland’s oldest urban park and a classic spot for locals to hang out, have a picnic, or just chill. There’s a cute little café, playgrounds, mini zoo, and plenty of green space for walking or relaxing. I come here all the time when I just need to reset.

Ispoinen Beach and Sauna. If you want the true Finnish experience, this is it: a public sauna right by the sea where you can dip into the water (yes, even if it’s freezing) and then warm up again. In the summer, it’s also a super chill beach spot for swimming and sunbathing.

Ruissalo. This is hands down my favorite nature spot in Turku, like, if you have time for only one outdoor place, let it be this one. Ruissalo is a beautiful island that you can easily reach by bus (it only takes about 30 minutes!), and once you’re there, it feels like you’ve totally escaped the city. But it’s not just some tiny island with a beach, Ruissalo has cozy cafés, the most gorgeous botanical garden, peaceful walking and biking trails, and even these cute old wooden villas that look like something out of a storybook. There’s also the Ruissalo Dockyard which serves heavenly artisan pizza and tender BBQ flavors.

One of the most unique experiences in Turku is definitely a sauna boat cruise. There’s nothing more Finnish than enjoying a sauna in the summer and on a boat! It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, gliding through the archipelago while relaxing like a local

Shopping

If you love a good thrifting moment, Turku has some gems such as Maanantai Market which is right in the center and also Puutorin Kirppis which is smaller but full of vintage finds.

Hansakortteli is your classic downtown mall. Skanssi, a bigger shopping center a little outside the city center. If you have access to a bus or car, it’s a solid spot to find more variety. Mylly is the largest shopping mall in the Turku region and honestly, it’s a bit of a destination in itself. Located about 10 kilometers from the city center in Raisio, but it’s easily reachable by bus or car.

If you’re after a bit more design and style, then head to Wiklund or Sokos. Both classic department stores right in the heart of Turku. You’ll find a great mix of Finnish and international brands there, but just a heads-up: prices tend to be a bit higher compared to smaller boutiques or markets.

Turku Market Square. The heart of the city and the perfect spot to soak up the local vibe. The Market Square is buzzing in summer with stalls selling fresh berries, handmade crafts, and souvenirs.

Some more unique spots are Kui Design which is full of local craftsmanship. In Luostarin Välikatu you can find Warehouse Shops. On the narrow street, local craftsmen sell their metal products, wood products, textiles, interior design products and jewelry.

Festivals & events

Turku’s summer calendar is packed with events that make the city come alive and honestly, there’s something for everyone. Two of the biggest highlights in the summer are Down By The Laituri (DBTL), a legendary music festival right on the Aura River and Ruisrock festival that is held in Ruissalo island.

The Archipelago Sea Jazz is a series of four festivals that bring top-notch music right to the heart of the Baltic Sea archipelago. It’s all about soaking up those cozy seaside vibes while listening to amazing live performances in the most beautiful surroundings.

If you’re into theatre, Turku is known for outdoor summer performances. These outdoor gigs add just the right bit of magic to long summer evenings. It’s the kind of thing that makes you want to grab friends and just chill.

And of course, you can’t talk about Turku summer without mentioning the Medieval Market. The Old Great Square transforms into a lively medieval village full of craftsmen, performers, and food stalls selling everything from handmade jewelry to giant turkey legs. It’s totally immersive—and if you want to feel like you’ve stepped back in time, this is the place to be. (Psst, I even made a little video from this year’s market, check it out!)

Unique landmarks you have to see in Turku

Okay, let’s be real, when people think of Turku, they usually picture Turku Castle or the Cathedral (which, don’t get me wrong, are both absolutely stunning and totally worth visiting). But Turku also has this playful, quirky side that not everyone talks about. You know what I mean, right? Those random, slightly weird spots that make you stop and go: wait… what?? And Turku definitely has those.

So, you know there’s a big pig-duck in the city center, right? The one that’s famous? (Yeah, I already made you say “wait… what?” didn’t I?) Her name is Posankka, and she’s probably Turku’s weirdest — but also one of the most iconic — statues. It’s a bright pink sculpture that’s half pig and half duck. You’ll find Posankka chilling in front of the University of Turku. Go say hi, snap a pic, and now you’re basically an honorary Turku local.

One of those random but oh awesome pieces of public art: Päiväkakkara, aka the Giant Daisy. It’s exactly what it sounds like: a huge daisy with a stem measuring about 25 metres, standing tall by the river. It’s cute, cheerful, and such a fun photo stop (especially in the golden hour light)

The Suomen Joutsen (“The Swan of Finland”) is a majestic old ship that’s basically a floating piece of Finnish history. You can tour the ship and learn all about its past as a training vessel. But even if you don’t go inside, just walking by it along the river is super impressive.

I don’t even know how to fully explain all the culture you find along Aura River, but there’s this whole quirky crew of bronze human figures reminding us to hit the brakes once in a while and enjoy the simple moments.

Day trips from Turku

Like I already mentioned, Turku is the gateway to the Archipelago—but that’s just the start. There are plenty of other amazing spots you can reach from Turku that make perfect summer day trips or even weekend getaways.

Just a short drive from Turku’s city center, Kuralan Kylämäki is a delightful open-air museum that brings the 1950s Finnish countryside to life. It’s not your average museum, this is a “living history village” where you can touch, try, and experience the past firsthand. Near Kaarina, you’ll find the tranquil ruins of Kuusisto Castle Ruins, a medieval bishop’s castle dating back to the late 1200s. Once a powerful fortress and residence, today, only the ground floor remains, but the site is rich in history and offers stunning views over Piikkiönlahti Bay

If you want to explore the archipelago, then the famous Archipelago Trail is a must! This route takes you through dozens of islands connected by bridgres and ferries such as Korppoo, Parainen and Nauvo. One unique spots to visit is Seili. t’s this peaceful little island with a fascinating history, as a former leper colony and mental hospital, but today it’s all about nature, hiking trails, and peaceful sea views.

There are also some beautiful summer towns close to Turku. Naantali is a cute little town (also called the official sunshine town of Finland) is just a quick bus or drive from Turku and totally worth a visit. And if you’re traveling with kids (or just a big kid at heart), Moominworld is a must-see. Uusikaupunki and Rauma are also 1-2 hour away from Turku and are very similar to Naantali. They are all seaside towns with old wooden houses, cobblestone streets and beautiful seaside views.

Have you already visited Turku? Or is this city now officially on your Finland bucket list? I’d love to hear what spot is calling your name the most!

There you have it, your ultimate guide to making the most of summer in Turku, from a local who’s been lucky enough to call this beautiful city home.

So pack your bags and get ready to fall in love with Turku in the summer time. Trust me, once you experience it, you’ll want to come back again and again.

Happy travels and see you in Turku!

Keep planning your trip to Finland

• Explore Finland on a budget: 15 free activities in Finland you can’t miss.
• Your ultimate summer bucket list for Finland.
• 13 traditional summer dishes you’ve got to taste in Finland.