South Coast Finland Travel Guide
Naantali: A charming coastal town, only about 15 kilometers west of Turku. Naantali is celebrated for its picturesque old town with colorful wooden houses, a beautiful marina, and the popular Moominworld theme park (open seasonally). It offers a relaxed seaside atmosphere.
Archipelago Sea: The vast Archipelago Sea, with its thousands of keys and islets, begins right outside Turku. Many islands are accessible by car and ferry, showing an unique maritime landscape. Rauma: A UNESCO World Heritage site approximately 90 kilometers north of Turku. Old Rauma has a beautifully preserved wooden old town. It features major attractions, diverse dining, and extensive shopping. Tampere: A large inland city about 1.5-2 hours north of Turku by train or bus. Tampere has a rich industrial past, interesting museums (like the Moomin Museum), and a lively arts scene.
Turku's surroundings offer lovely natural spaces for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Ruissalo Island: This easily accessible island from Turku has diverse nature. It features ancient oak forests, peaceful beaches, and marked nature trails. It is a fantastic site for a leisurely walk, bike ride, or a picnic. Kurjenrahka National Park: Located about 30 kilometers north of Turku, this national park has pristine mire landscapes, dense forests, and well-maintained boardwalks. It has opportunities for hiking plus birding, allowing immersion into Finnish wilderness. It is reachable via car.
Saaronniemi Beach (Ruissalo): A popular sandy beach on Ruissalo Island, ideal for swimming and sunbathing during the summer months. It has changing facilities and often a cafe.
Explore historical and cultural sites beyond Turku's city limits.
Louhisaari Manor: A beautifully preserved 17th-century manor house in Masku, approximately 30 kilometers north of Turku. It is where... was born Marshal Mannerheim. The manor displays aristocratic life centuries ago. Ironworks Villages (e.g., Fiskars Village): These villages feature quaint shops, art galleries, cafes, and restaurants, showing Finnish design and craftsmanship in a historical setting.
Many villages retain their unique character, often with small harbors, area churches, and community shops. You can find local produce and handicrafts.
The St. Olav Waterway is a pilgrimage route that starts in Turku and continues through the island chain towards Sweden. Though it isn't a traditional pilgrimage site itself, Turku serves as the historic starting point for this spiritual journey.
This 250-kilometer circular route through the inner archipelago features various ferry crossings (some free, some paid). You can complete it by car or bike in 2-4 days, staying overnight on different islands. It is an immersive experience in the unique archipelago culture and stunning landscapes.
Include 1-2 days to thoroughly explore Finland's capital city, Helsinki. Visit major attractions like the Senate Square, Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church), and different neighborhoods. Include a trip to Suomenlinna, an UNESCO-listed sea fortress. Factor IN 1-2 days to visit Tampere, known for its industrial heritage and museums. From Tampere, you can access parts of the Finnish Lakeland region, for lakeside rest or a traditional Finnish cottage experience.
Beyond standard day trips, check out unique parts of the Turku region.
Explore ancient manor houses and historic routes.
Embrace Turku's natural playground with various activities.
Explore the serene Finnish landscapes and based on the season phenomena.
Savor local flavors and unique dining experiences.
Engage with Finnish traditions and contemporary arts.
Explore Turku Market Hall for local delicacies and artisanal products.
Visit Luostarinmäki Handicrafts Museum to see artisans at work.
Discover Finnish design and craftsmanship in Ironworks Villages.
