Turku, the oldest city in Finland, is also the country's second-largest city. Getty Images
Turku, Finland's first capital and oldest city, often goes unnoticed compared to its more famous Nordic neighbours like Stockholm and Copenhagen. With a rich history dating back to its founding in 1229 along the beautiful banks of the River Aura, Turku captures the charm and vibrancy of Scandinavian culture without overwhelming crowds.
This picturesque city of about 200,000 people, located on Finland's southwestern coast, serves as the gateway to the stunning Finnish archipelago, a labyrinth of 40,000 islands—the largest in the world. Known as Åbo among its Swedish-speaking residents, Turku has a historical significance that adds to its appeal. It was part of Sweden during the Middle Ages and later became an autonomous Grand Duchy under the Russian Empire in 1809. Since Finland gained independence in 1917, Turku has continued to thrive as Finland's second city. Its inviting café culture and riverside atmosphere have earned it the nickname "the Paris of Finland."
As you stroll through the city, tree-lined streets lead you to charming 19th-century theatres, cozy coffee shops, and vibrant market halls, many of which emphasize sustainable practices. The lively town center offers unique shopping opportunities, from exploring three floors of CDs and vinyl at 8raita Record Store to hunting for vintage clothing and jewelry at Boutique Minne. For book lovers, the nonprofit Turku Kirjakahvila combines a café and bookstore, offering local and international literature alongside delicious vegan pastries. Meanwhile, Televisio Lifestyle Store showcases an array of colourful clothing, jewelry, and gifts from Finnish and Nordic brands.
Finland's second city is famous for its food culture and serves as the entry point to the largest archipelago in the world, making it a destination worth visiting. Getty Images
Despite the Great Fire of Turku in 1827 that devastated 70% of the city's buildings, visitors can explore remnants of its medieval past at the Museum of Archaeology and Contemporary Art. This museum displays findings from the archaeological site of Aboa Vetus, once part of Turku's historical quarter.
Above ground, the impressive 13th-century Turku Castle watches over the river and serves as a Finnish history museum. Nearby, the Kakolanmäki Hill Museum sheds light on more recent history, particularly the Kakola Prison, which housed some of Finland’s most notorious criminals until 2007. Today, the area has transformed, offering unique accommodations at the former psychiatric hospital and Hotel Kakola, where guests can stay in modern rooms or even the old prison cells.
A leisurely walk along the river leads to Turku's Art Museum, which features over 7,600 works representing various eras of Finnish art, including surrealism and pop art. For coffee enthusiasts, Café Art stands out as a celebrated establishment, having received the national Barista of the Year award multiple times.
Turku is often referred to as "the Paris of Finland" due to its vibrant food and café culture. BBC
During summer, outdoor concerts flourish around the Turku Cathedral, where vendors showcase locally sourced food and wine. Since joining the EU in 1995, Finland has navigated wine production regulations, with homegrown grape wines now labelled as "mild alcoholic beverages." However, local entrepreneurs are innovating with unique beverages made from lingonberries and cloudberries, gradually capturing the attention of wine connoisseurs worldwide.
Turku's culinary scene has also gained international recognition. The city welcomed its first Michelin star in 2022 with Kaskis, a restaurant known for its creative tasting menus. Here, chefs Simo Raisio and Erik Mansikka expertly pair locally caught fish with foraged ingredients, served on handcrafted ceramics. As a testament to the thriving food culture, the Turku Market Hall buzzes with activity, where locals and visitors alike enjoy fresh produce and meals from stalls like Herkkunuotta, which offers delicious dishes prepared from the freshest catch.
Local, seasonal ingredients are at the heart of Turku's food scene, with many sourced from nearby islands. The Finnish archipelago, accessible from Turku, invites adventurers to explore its beauty and indulge in culinary delights. Ruissalo Island, a quick bus ride away, is perfect for a relaxing Sunday filled with spa treatments and sauna sessions.
Recently, Turku's culinary scene has gained significant interest from around the world. BBC
Turku serves as a perfect launching point to explore Finland’s islands, including Åland, known for its sunny weather and vibrant summer tourism. The region hosts various activities, including the popular Harvest Festival, showcasing local farms and artisanal products.
With Finland's Everyman's Right law allowing visitors to camp in most areas, including public parks, adventure seekers can explore the natural beauty of the archipelago. For those who prefer warmer months, the Archipelago Trail, a 250-kilometer route connected by free ferries, offers a unique opportunity to discover the islands at a leisurely pace.
In recent visits, cozy accommodations like Hotel Hyppeis on Houtskär Island offer simple yet charming stays, featuring local flavours in multi-course dinners prepared by visiting chefs. Dining experiences blend the beauty of local ingredients with innovative cooking, providing a delightful experience.
Turku stands out as a hidden gem in Finland, offering a mix of rich history, vibrant culture, and culinary excellence—all within a tranquil setting.
