Best things to do in Turku

What is it? An adults-only luxury spa built on the grounds of the former prison complex on Turku’s Kakola Hill.

Why go? Ever wondered what a tropical storm feels like, or what it’s like to be blasted by icy mist or a snowy shower on your neck? Head up to Kakola Hill. Housed in the notorious former prison, Kakola Spa offers all that – plus the soothing scent of a spruce sauna, a saltwater plunge pool and an authentic Viking shower. There are four different pools and four saunas, but the real star is the swim-up bar, where you can order artisanal cocktails without ever leaving the water. Drinks are also allowed in the saunas, and if it’s quiet, the staff might even serve you directly in the smaller pools.

Don’t miss: The spa also serves dishes from Restaurant Ruben, located in the Kakola Hotel next door. Grab something tasty from the counter and enjoy it by the cosy electric fireplace.

Address: Graniittilinnankatu 2 F

Expect to pay: Mon–Thu €39, Fri–Sun €44

What is it? A tranquil winter swimming spot at Jellona’s lakeside sauna, on the Harjattula estate in the island of Kakskerta.

Why go? Winter swimming is booming in Turku, and at the most popular spots you might even have to queue for a seat in the sauna. Jellona’s beach sauna has stayed blissfully calm. It’s about a 45-minute bus ride from Turku Market Square, and there’s plenty of parking nearby if you’re driving. There are separate saunas for men and women, with winter swimming sessions from October to April on Wednesday and Thursday evenings and Thursday and Friday mornings. Note that the changing rooms don’t have lockers – valuables can be left safely with the staff. The sauna is also available for private hire, so it’s best to check the weekly opening hours online before heading out.

Don’t miss: Once a month, Jellona hosts candlelit swims, when the path from the sauna to the ice hole is illuminated with LED candles – a magical experience that draws a bigger crowd than usual.

Address: Harjattulanrannantie 44

Expect to pay: Entry to the sauna and swim €10

What is it? Vaarniemi recreational area, just outside Turku in neighbouring Kaarina – a perfect hike that can be done in an hour.

Why go? Two hundred and thirty-three steps. That’s what it takes to reach one of the region’s loveliest outdoor spots. At the top you’ll find Vaarniemi’s cliffside barbecue area and viewing tower. Make the short climb up the tower for panoramic views across Turku and Kaarina. A newly built hut with space for several people now stands near the firepit, replacing the old lean-to shelter. Be ready for a chat – this popular area attracts plenty of hikers, and you might have to wait a bit for your turn at the grill. Bring some toilet paper for the traditional outdoor loo. If you’re driving, park at Rauvolantie; the trail to the hill winds through ancient oak and maple trees, one of which is hollow enough to step inside. You can also take a local bus – it’s just over a kilometre’s walk from the nearest stop to the base of the hill.

Don’t miss: Pick up an armful of firewood at the foot of the stairs before you start climbing. On weekends, the fires are often already blazing when you arrive, but it’s always good to have your own supply.

Address: Rauvolantie

Expect to pay: Free

What is it? Beginner-friendly cooking classes in the centre of Turku.

Why go? Fancy mastering the secrets of Greek cuisine? Or perfecting cabbage rolls? Or maybe you just want some inspiration for easy, seasonal party dishes? Check out the class calendar from the Southwest Finland Martat (a Finnish organization teaching practical skills), which runs a wide range of themed cooking sessions throughout the year. Classes take place in the Martat office’s newly refurbished kitchen, which fits up to 16 participants. Each session begins with a short intro from the home economics instructors, followed by hands-on cooking in pairs. Questions are encouraged! At the end, everyone sits down to enjoy the dishes together – and you’ll leave with a recipe booklet so you can recreate the best ones at home. Book your spot via the online shop on their website.

Don’t miss: You’ll often make more food than you can eat, so bring containers – leftovers are yours to take with you.

Address: Yliopistonkatu 33 G

Expect to pay: Around €42 per person for a three-hour class

What is it? A charming brunch spot at the tip of Ruissalo island, in the Saaronniemi recreation area – possibly Turku’s most atmospheric brunch setting.

Why go? You can’t talk about Turku without mentioning Ruissalo. This unique outdoor island is easy to reach by car, local bus, bike or e-scooter. In summer, a ferry from the Aura riverside takes you straight to its hidden gems. With its grand oak forests and ornate wooden villas, Ruissalo is perfect for a day outdoors. At weekends, make your way to the island’s far end, where Villa Saaro serves up a delicious Saturday brunch that will leave you happily full. The menu is by local bakery MBakery, known for its incredible cakes – and there are always plenty on offer. The real magic, though, is the atmosphere: an elegant old tiled stove, vintage wooden furniture and tables filled with locals chatting over coffee. It’s a popular spot, so booking ahead is highly recommended.

Don’t miss: In autumn and winter, combine your visit with a dip at Saaronniemi’s winter swimming spot, just a short walk from Villa Saaro. The changing rooms and sauna are open from October to April on Tuesdays, Thursdays and weekends.

Address: Saarontie 59

Expect to pay: Brunch €30

What is it? A creative flower studio in the centre of Turku, where you can make your own wild bouquets and eye-catching wreaths.

Why go? If you’re after traditional roses or lilies, this isn’t the place. Florist Kristiina Suo-Kustaa’s quirky shop, Blomma Creatives, is all about bold ideas and unusual blooms. You’ll find striking cut flowers and contemporary dried plants – think pink elephant grass or lotus seed pods. In Blomma’s creative workshops, you can unleash your imagination and experiment with modern floral arrangements, wreaths, moss art and more. The most popular sessions are the ones where Kristiina shares tips on creating statement bouquets for iconic Finnish vases like Alvar Aalto’s or Marimekko’s Urna.

Don’t miss: Outside the shop, there’s a vintage armchair surrounded by flowers and greenery. Sit down and snap a photo – it’s practically made for Instagram.

Address: Hämeenkatu 22

Expect to pay: Courses cost around €38–€120 depending on content. 

What is it? A ceramics studio housed in a former lamp factory, offering guided pottery courses and open sessions for independent projects.

Why go? It’s worth venturing just beyond Turku, to Kaarina, to find one of the area’s newest creative spaces. Kippola was founded in 2024 by six ceramics enthusiasts who wanted a shared studio to knead clay in peace. The space once served as a photo studio, and the huge windows flood it with natural light – perfect for sparking inspiration. Alongside members’ own work, Kippola hosts workshops for anyone interested in ceramics. You can make bowls, cups, reliefs, candlesticks, pots, vases, Christmas ornaments or sculptures. If you’re already hooked, book an open studio slot and work independently at your own pace.

Don’t miss: Children are welcome too – family workshops focus on fun projects like creating animal figures together.

Address: Koristontie 1, Kaarina 

Expect to pay: Courses from €85

What is it? A joint store by two beloved Turku brands, Kui Design and Kaarnavilla, offering a wide range of locally made design and crafts.

Why go? Looking for the perfect Turku-themed souvenir? Whether it’s socks, a tea towel, a poster or a cushion cover, Kui Shop has you covered. Its shelves are filled with homewares and accessories featuring local landmarks – from the funicular and Föri ferry to the Turku Cathedral. Founded in 2008 by Anna Hormio and Rebekka Ketola, Kui Design started as a small studio shop, and most of its products are still handmade in Finland. Textiles are printed in small batches at their artisan workshop in Turku’s Manilla district. In autumn 2025, Kaarnavilla – a charming craft shop – joined forces with Kui Shop, bringing in work from more than 70 Finnish makers. It’s a lovely example of local collaboration, keeping Turku’s independent boutiques thriving.

Don’t miss: Downstairs, Kaarnavilla’s workshop space hosts craft classes where you can try your hand at making jewellery or dyeing candles.

Address: Kristiinankatu 6, 20100 Turku

What is it? A charming little art studio in the garden of artist Ulla Suonio’s home in the Pitkämäki district of Turku.

Why go? Step inside Ateljee Hellahuone and your creativity will start flowing immediately. The walls are covered with Ulla’s vibrant paintings, brushes rest temptingly on an old stove and rows of colourful acrylic paints invite you to start creating. The art school Ilo ja inspiraatio runs workshops and courses here, suitable for both beginners and more experienced painters. Ulla offers gentle guidance through different techniques – from acrylic painting and collage to ink work. You can join a single evening session or, if you’re lucky, get a spot in the weekly hobby group.

Don’t miss: Ulla also runs online courses covering various techniques such as creative painting and working with acrylic inks. The lessons are video-based, so you can revisit them any time that suits you.

Address: Villamäenpolku 4

Expect to pay: Art evenings from €40

What is it? An independent cinema and film lovers’ living room inside Turku’s Taiteen talo art centre.

Why go? Taiteen talo, housed in the former Rettig tobacco factory, is one of Turku’s coolest creative spaces – and few people realise it also screens films. Kino Kilta’s programme features new independent releases, beloved classics, special screenings and themed events, with a new line-up announced each week. The cinema is run by the Varsinais-Suomi Film Centre association, which promotes film culture, study and appreciation in the region. Some screenings even come with a drinks licence, so you can bring a glass of wine, beer or cider into the theatre.

Don’t miss: Follow @kinokilta on Instagram for updates on upcoming special nights. The ‘Kultti Kilta’ series curates cult classics that are perfect for those long autumn evenings.

Address: Nunnankatu 4

Expect to pay: Tickets €13 on weekdays, €14 on weekends. Daytime screenings before 16.00 include coffee or tea.