Turku Castle, a medieval castle in Turku, Finland, in summer

Turku – Finland’s Oldest City

Turku is Finland’s oldest city — a place where medieval history meets a relaxed, riverside way of life. Set at the mouth of the Aura River on the country’s southwest coast, it was the capital of Finland until 1812 and remains one of its most charming destinations.

Why visit Turku

  • Turku Castle — one of the largest medieval castles in the Nordic countries.
  • Turku Cathedral — the national shrine of Finland.
  • The Aura River — riverboats, cafes and museums along the water.
  • The Archipelago Sea — gateway to tens of thousands of islands.

A European Capital of Culture in 2011 and a lively university town, Turku blends centuries of heritage with a modern food, arts and events scene.