TurkuFinland · Ferry Destinations

All About Turku

The oldest city in Finland is called Turku, and it dates back to 1229. It was the country’s capital up until 1812 and is a bi-lingual city often mentioned by its Swedish name, Åbo. Turku’s location at the start of the 4000-island archipelago and alongside river Aura has forever placed it in an advantageous position. While blessed with idyllic surroundings, Turku, unfortunately, was dramatically destroyed in the Great Fire of 1827. Staying true to its name, which means ‘place of trade’, Turku quickly re-emerged from the destruction to become a pivotal Finish trading port. In the 21st century, Turku is a thriving business city and an all-year-round tourist destination, attracting travelers from across the globe. Taking a ferry to Turku is easy, just use Ferryscanner to compare ferry companies and book ferry tickets.
 

Routes and Ferries to Turku

A journey through the visually spectacular Turku Archipelago is an unforgettable experience and the reason why many tourists prefer to reach the city by boat. Ferry tickets to Turku are available via Ferryscanner with vessels coming in from Stockholm, Tallinn, Mariehamn, and Långnäs. Viking Line and Tallink are the two companies operating these routes. Sailing time ranges from 16 hours for boats from Tallinn to 4 hours from Långnäs. The long-distance ferries to Turku are top of the line, allowing passengers to indulge in dancing, shopping, and dining during their trip. Turku also has a guest harbor for enthusiasts who prefer to arrive in their own yachts.

Landing at Turku Airport is the next best alternative. Finnair has flights from Helsinki and Mariehamn, Scandinavian Airlines from Stockholm, and WizzAir regularly flies into Turku from various cities in Poland. The airport is 8km from the center. Within Finland, Turku has direct buses and trains coming in from Helsinki, which is then further connected to various European cities.
 

Port of Turku

The Port of Turku has played a meaningful role in the overall development of southwest Finland for centuries. It has, as a result, helped transform the city into a major trade, tourism, and transportation hub. Moreover, there is a constant motivation to merge the port with the city, creating a valuable space for everyone. Regular events like Open Port Day and Tall Ship Races are a move to further involve locals with port activities.

Catering to over 4 million passengers annually, the Port of Turku has outstanding on-land connections via road. Travelers landing with ferry tickets to Turku and going elsewhere can take the Ring Road from the port, thus avoiding city traffic. If not self-driving, all ferry and cruise passengers have quick access to bus, train, and taxi services outside the terminal exits.
 

Best Beaches of Turku

With a river dissecting the city, tourists in Turku are always close to the refreshing nature of flowing water. However, the beaches in Turku present locals and visitors with the unique chance to replace the city’s bustle for a day of sunbathing and swimming in the salty waters of the Baltic Sea.

Kansanpuisto Beach

When traveling with ferry tickets to Turku, passengers sail by Kansanpuisto towards the end of their journey. Situated 15 minutes from the center, the small sandy beach is next to a Föli waterbus stop. The sea near the beach is shallow, resulting in it being a favorite with families. However, it is not advisable to go deep into the water because the ferry crossing is only a few meters further out. Due to its outstanding location, Kansanpuisto plays host to several music events during the summers. Whereas in the winters, the next-door sauna has locals coming in all the time.

Ispoinen Beach

Last-minute planning is all you need to spend a sunny day out at Ispoinen. The beach is a short 20-minute drive from Turku. Before jumping into the water here, hike up to the higher ground around the sandy stretch to appreciate panoramic views of the beach’s natural surroundings. Changing rooms, a WC, café, sauna, and playground on top of calm waters keep the area busy with visitors during summers. Families often come here in the wintertime to walk and play on the frozen water.

Saaronniemen Beach

Although there is plenty of parking at Saaronniemen, the 30-minute bus connection from the city is direct and comfortable. Situated on Ruissalo island, the beach has a sauna open 365 days, providing the perfect excuse for a brave winter swim. Other amenities on the beach include barbeque areas, playground, volleyball court, and nature trails. Music and sailing events are frequent occurrences on this coast, from where you can often watch the ferries to Naantali go by.

Ekvalla Beach

Ekvalla is another popular seaside spot near Turku owing to the direct 25-minute bus from the city center to the beach. Situated on the north-eastern shore of Satava island, the beach is disability-friendly and has a wheelchair ramp. Lifeguards keep a watch on the swimmers during the summers. While kiosks, playgrounds, an open gym, and volleyball nets provide an abundance of possibilities other than swimming in the cool and calm water.

Sorttamäen Beach

Although there are several beaches in Turku and the neighboring islands, Sorttamäen is one of the four EU beaches in the city’s vicinity. Water quality at Sorttamäen is under continuous observation throughout the summer. The beach is thus perfectly safe for families with little children. Moreover, it is a vast dog-friendly sandy shore only 15-minutes by car from the town.
 

Places To Visit Around Turku

Holidaying in Turku is an occasion to be a part of a pulsating city where travelers are regularly spoilt with choice. Sights and activities include both traditional and contemporary options, from visits to century-old castles and delectable gastronomic adventures to romantic walks along the river.

Turku Market Hall

An explosion of colors, tastes, and smells welcome keen gourmands at the second oldest market hall in all of Finland. The Turku Market Hall started operations in 1896. An essential institution of the city ever since its inception, the market is of much significance now as Turku tries to rebrand itself as a culinary destination. Inside is an array of stalls selling delicious local products. You can purchase fresh produce or pick up a tasty bite from specialty restaurants serving sushi, gourmet hotdogs, vegan dishes, and baked goods. Turku Market Hall opens from morning till evening but remains closed on Sundays.

Aboa Vetus Ars Nova Museum

A remarkable confluence of the old and new is visible in Turku at the Aboa Vetus Ars Nova Museum. Aboa Vetus refers to the ancient town and features relics from an old street, cannonballs, a water well, and bones discovered through excavations done in the area. However, the history of Turku is presented in a fun manner with educational and interactive displays to involve and excite children. Ars Nova is the museum of contemporary art with over 650 permanent art pieces and various touring exhibits. A combined ticket for both museums costs €12.

Turku Castle

Built-in 1280, Turku Castle is one of the oldest medieval buildings in the country and a must-visit attraction. The on-site museum is full of interesting displays that speak of Turku’s dramatic history. Permanent exhibits include the King’s State Room and a collection of wooden religious sculptures. The Bailey has artifacts that grant insight into the daily life of the people who once lived in the castle. Temporary exhibitions cover various other aspects such as design and manufacturing.

River Aura

The 4km stretch from Turku Castle to Turku Cathedral is a pleasant riverside walk that everyone should take during their stay. Along the way, one can spot the City Hall, the KissMyTurku sign, and the Harmonia sculpture that resembles a mermaid’s tail. Cafés and bars line the streets, acting as perfect pit spots, adding a flavourful break in between the walk. If not in the mood to saunter, relish the magic of a dinner cruise instead. However, admiring the 13th-century Turku Cathedral requires time. Originally built-in wood, the cathedral went through numerous renovations in later centuries, during which time it was reinforced with stone. Today, the cathedral and its 102-meter-high tower is an integral part of Turku, shining a spotlight on the city’s rise from its darkest hour after the Great Fire.

Hesburger

Slight quirky, but when in Turku, it is obligatory to eat at Hesburger. The fast-food chain has its headquarters in the city along with 20 separate outlets. Founded in 1980, Hesburger is now the ‘largest hamburger chain in Finland, Estonia, Lithuania, and Latvia’. Offering an assortment of burgers, milkshakes, and salads, there is something here for meat-lovers, vegetarians, and vegans. The giant bacon burger, soy veggie burger, and gluten-free burger are among the top favorites.
 

Transportation Around Turku

The picturesque setting of Turku on both sides of river Aura encourages visitors to walk and discover its fascinating sights. Several must-see places in Turku are near the port, easily accessible to day-trippers on foot. For slightly more flexibility, renting a bike is an excellent option. Taxis in Turku can be expensive, thus reserved for emergencies.

Ideally, for tourists staying in the city, taking the bus works best. The Föli bus pass is available in 1 to 7-day denominations or for two weeks. It includes unlimited bus travel in Turku, Kaarina, Raisio, Lieto, Naantali, and Rusko. The 24-hour card costs €7.50, whereas a single ticket valid for two hours costs €3. Buses in Turku have a flat rate system.

If you’re planning a day to the bustling redeveloped Kakola prison, use the free funicular service going up the hill. Furthermore, Turku has three railway stations with a few trains connecting different neighborhoods.

When arriving with ferry tickets to Turku, most travelers get an idea of the region’s maritime past. However, to best experience its significance in daily life, tourists can use waterbuses and archipelago cruises as a means to travel from one point to another.