Turku
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The European Culture Capital 2011
In the course of time, the banks of the River Aurajoki, which flows through the city, have witnessed the growth of a unique combination of attractions and vibrant urban atmosphere - almost 800 years of history, river boats, museums and galleries.
The venerable Turku Cathedral, Finland’ s national shrine, provides an excellent starting point for a tour of the attractions of the riverside. The 90-metre-tall bell tower of the Cathedral and the museum inside the church have many stories to tell about the history of the city. The next leg of our tour takes us the Old Great Square to view the balcony from where Christmas Peace is proclaimed every Christmas Eve. At the turn of June and July the square adopts quite a different look when it serves as the venue of the Medieval Market. Some of the more modern events include Ruisrock and Down By The Laituri. The former is the oldest rock festival in Europe held without a break while the latter is Finland’ s oldest city festival.
If you want to view underground Turku you should visit the archeologiacal museum Aboa Vetus which displays medieval cellars with their rich collection of artefacts in an authentic milieu. To those who prefer staying above ground we recommend a visit to Forum Marinum, the museum of navigation and the history of the Finnish Marine. And don’t forget the Turku Castle Museum, which is an absolute must! The whole museum scene of Turku is available at: www.turunmuseot.fi
The banks of the River Aurajoki also provide good facilities for physical exercise. There is also a large variety of restaurants, cafés and restaurant boats so that everyone can choose his or her favourite whether it’ s for a quick snack or a four- course dinner.
And don’ t forget: some of the boats on the river are there for you to step on board - to visit the archipelago or to sail all the way to Stockholm. 
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