Turku Travel Guide: Top Things to See and Do
Turku, Finland’s oldest city, has been weaving stories since 1229 when it was officially granted city status. Rich in history and character, Turku offers a perfect glimpse into Nordic culture—and it’s compact enough for a relaxed, memorable visit. Whether you’re here for a few hours or a weekend, this Turku travel guide will point you toward the city’s must-see spots.
Turku Castle: A Step Back Into Medieval Finland
Your journey begins at Turku Castle, the largest surviving medieval building in Finland. It is also one of the country’s most significant historical sites.
Inside the castle, you’ll find a fascinating museum dedicated to the intertwined histories of Finland, Sweden, and the broader Nordic world. If you prefer to admire it from the outside, the charming courtyard hosts a cozy restaurant where you can grab a coffee — and yes, we can confirm, the coffee is worth it!
For current opening times and ticket prices, check the official site: Turku Castle Info.
☕ Tip: If you’re a coffee lover or fancy a second cup, there’s a unique next stop waiting for you—Turku’s former prison!
Kakola: From Prison Walls to Boutique Comfort
Not far from Turku Castle, an old prison has been reimagined into something truly special: the Kakola Hotel, alongside a brewery, restaurant, and souvenir shop.
Getting there is easy — here’s a link to the location: Kakola on Google Maps.
The Kakola Hotel is highly rated (currently 9.0!). It offers rooms starting at £242 for a weekend stay based on two adults. But don’t worry if it is too expensive – you don’t have to book a room to enjoy the facilities. The brewery, restaurant, and coffee spots are open to all visitors and located around the courtyard.
🚡 Insider Tip: There’s a free lift to take you up the hill! (We found it after climbing – so you don’t have to.)
Moomin World Adventure: A Fun Day Trip from Turku
If you’re a fan of the beloved Moomin characters, there’s a magical side trip waiting for you. From Turku, hop on bus number 6 to Moomin World in the charming seaside town of Naantali. The ride is easy, takes less than 40 minutes, and costs around $5.
Moomin World isn’t your typical amusement park – it’s a storybook come to life. Instead of noisy rides, you’ll wander through peaceful forests, colorful houses, and meet life-sized Moomin characters. Everything is based on the original books by Tove Jansson, making it a place where imagination and nature blend beautifully. It’s an especially heartwarming experience for families, but honestly, adults who grew up with Moomins will find it just as magical.
The main highlight is visiting the Moominhouse, a bright blue round house you can explore inside and out. There are also themed trails, cozy cafes, and even small performances happening throughout the day.
If you have the time, Moomin World offers a nostalgic escape from the busy city. It is a perfect way to slow down and relive childhood wonder, surrounded by the beautiful Finnish archipelago.
Turku Travel Guide Tip: Explore the Hidden Music Room at Turku City Library
One of the lesser-known highlights you’ll discover in this Turku travel guide is a visit to the Turku City Library. Beyond its excellent selection of books and music, the library offers a Music Room that’s completely free to use.
Inside the Music Room, you can play the piano, electric piano, or even bring your own instrument if you prefer. The system allows you to book a one-hour session, and the best part? You don’t need to be a Turku resident to enjoy it.
As someone currently on a piano-learning journey, finding a space to practice while traveling was such a gift. Fellow travelers who also play instruments will know how hard it can be to find a quiet practice spot—especially if you’re not confident enough to perform publicly. This Music Room offered a perfect solution!
Turku Travel Guide Tip: Experience the Magical White Nights
Another unforgettable experience and one of the more unique things to do in Turku Finland, is witnessing the famous white nights.
If you visit Turku in June, you’ll likely experience a phenomenon where the sun never fully sets, and the sky stays bright for 24 hours. It’s surreal and beautiful, but it can also play tricks on your sleep schedule if you’re not prepared!
TIP: Be sure to book accommodation with good blackout curtains, or bring a sleep mask to block the light. Otherwise, you might find yourself wide awake at 2 AM without realizing it.
Just to show you how bright it gets, the photos below were all taken in the middle of the night, only a few hours apart.
Final Thoughts on This Turku Travel Guide
Turku may not always make the top of travel bucket lists, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. From medieval castles to hidden music rooms and the pure magic of white nights, this city invites you to slow down, explore, and experience a different side of Finland. Whether you’re visiting Turku for a few hours or planning a full weekend, there’s always something meaningful to discover.
Have you already explored Turku or are you planning your trip soon?
What would you love to experience first – the history, the Moomin magic, or the midnight sun?
Share your thoughts and plans in the comments – We would love to hear where your journey is taking you!
Turku, Finland is one of the stops on our Eastern European journey, if you would like to see more stops here are the links: Helsinki, Finland: https://www.journeyjoy.org/2024/10/13/helsinki-finland-in-1-day/, Tallinn, Estonia: https://www.journeyjoy.org/2024/10/12/tallinn-estonia/, Latvia, Riga: https://www.journeyjoy.org/2024/09/29/the-best-pubs-in-riga-latvia/, Vilnius, Lithuania: https://www.journeyjoy.org/2024/09/24/vilnius-lithuania/, Trakai, Lithuania: https://www.journeyjoy.org/2024/09/17/trakai-lithuania/, Kaunas, Lithuania: https://www.journeyjoy.org/2024/09/05/kaunas-lithuania/