The (b)oldest city in Finland

I am pleased to welcome you to Turku - the oldest and boldest city in Finland.

A historic, yet innovative city

History is ever present in Turku. Yet new things are built in our city all the time. Our brand new, great Market Square is a good example of this. In addition to the market trade and local and fresh products, it also provides a relaxed venue for events and meetings in the heart of the city.

As a city, Turku is also an internationally recognised pioneer in climate matters. Our ambitious goal is to be a carbon-positive city in 2029 when our city will celebrate its 800th anniversary. We will also enhance biodiversity and promote the circular economy with the aim of being a resource-wise and waste-free city by 2040.

Turku – a city of students and excellence

With a total of six universities and universities of applied sciences and their about 40,000 students, our city is guaranteed to be brimming with energy, intelligence, creativity and the ability to renew. All our universities are international. The unique status of Åbo Akademi, the only Swedish-speaking university in Finland, is a significant part of the identity of our bilingual city.

The success of Turku is also guaranteed by the long-term, regional cooperation between higher education institutions, companies and the city. This cooperation provides a strong starting point for business and innovation. We are an internationally renowned centre of expertise in fields such as bioeconomy, circular economy, pharmaceutical development and the maritime industry. As an international city of science and culture, we often serve as the stage for international congresses and encounters of experts in different fields.

Culture for all senses

Those interested in culture can visit plenty of interesting events in our city, such as concerts, theatre, fairs, art exhibitions and festivals all year round. We call our riverbank the Cultural Riverside because you can find all forms of culture along the river. The city is an experience centre throughout the year.

Turku is also known for its high-quality and versatile food and café culture. A lunch made with local producers’ fresh ingredients or a Michelin-level dinner – our city has much to offer! The milieus in our eating and drinking places are also interesting – in Turku, you can eat on a riverboat, in a former prison or admire the city from a bird's-eye view from one of the city's many roof terraces. You should also visit a traditional market hall to taste local delicacies and specialities, at least the piispanmunkki doughnut!

A city where nature is always present

River Aurajoki is the heart and soul of Turku. That is why you can get to know Turku easily by walking or cycling along the riverbank. The path from the Cathedral to Turku Castle is teeming with history and life. Along the river, you can find beautiful landscapes, museums and art, as well as cosy and high-quality cafés and restaurants where you take a break from walking.

The sea and nature are also an integral part of Turku. You could say that this is the capital city of the world’s most beautiful archipelago. You can sense this maritime atmosphere already a few kilometres away from the city centre on Ruissalo Island. Ruissalo is known for its magnificent villas with wood carvings, oak forests and nature trails. For the bold, it provides the opportunity to swim even in autumn and winter.

As a city, Turku is an attractive combination of history, modern urban culture and maritime experiences. For me, however, Turku is above all a matter of heart. I hope it conquers your heart during your visit and makes you come back to our city again and again.

Minna Arve mAyor of turku

Christmas Season

❄ Turku has a special atmosphere for Christmas. Before the season of Advent, the City’s Christmas tree is placed in front of the Cathedral. Its hundreds of lights are lit to bring joy to Turku city dwellers. Ecumenical Christmas in Turku

❄ This wonderful ceremony with bishops, church leaders and glorious Christmas music will take place on Thursday, 15th Dec 6 pm in Turku Cathedral.

Winter in Turku Cathedral

Turku Cathedral

❄ Finland’s only medieval cathedral and national shrine was consecrated in 1300. When you visit this wonderful shrine, you step into Finland’s long history as a part of Sweden and later of the Russian Empire (1809–1917). The Roman Catholic era ended with a Protestant Reformation in the 16th Century. During Finland’s 105 years of independence the Evangelical Lutheran Church has been a folk church. ❄ Turku Cathedral is the central church of the Lutheran Archdiocese of Turku and the seat of the Lutheran Archbishop of Finland, Tapio Luoma. ❄ Guide booklets and QR code information about chapels and tombs. ❄ Open daily, 9 am.–6 pm. Services in English

❄ Turku Cathedral International Congregation (TCIC), see Facebook group tcicmembers or www.turunseurakunnat.fi / international-congregation