Turku is a city in the Southwest of Finland, founded in the 13th century, today with approximately 175 000 inhabitants.
Located at the mouth of the Aurajoki in the southwest of the country, it is the capital city of both the region of Finland Proper and the province of Western Finland.
Turku was the most important city in Finland until the early 19th century, when the Russians made Helsinki the capital city.
It also hosted the country's first university, the The Royal Academy of Turku. Due to its location, the Port of Turku is one of the busiest seaports in Finland.
Today, Turku is the third most significant city in Finland, after the Greater Helsinki metropolitan area and Tampere. Some of the main draws of Turku are its history and historical significance and the great natural beauty of the neighboring archipelago.
Turku is at its best during the summertime, and hosts a great number of festivals, including rock festivals, chamber music festivals and a renaissance faire.
Things to Do:
The mammoth Turku Castle - near the ferry terminals, is a must for everyone visiting the city and is one of the country's most popular tourist attractions. It founded in 1280 at the mouth of the Aurajoki.
Highlights include:
- The two dungeons and magnificent banquet halls
- A historical museum of medieval Turku in a maze of restored rooms in the castle's old bailey
Tours of the strong hold are taken hourly in English. They give a good account of the castle's history.
Turku Cathedral - Towers over the river and town and is one of Finland's most important Cathedrals.
Tours run 9am-7pm during mid September to mid April and 9am to 8pm mid April to mid September.