Spring has finally arrived in Turku! And after that last takatalvi I wasn’t sure when it was going to come.
Now that it’s spring you can expect the city center to be buzzing alive and the beaches seeing new life again as people begin to shake off their talviturkki after the long winter.
Thankfully, that means there’s a wider range of exciting activities and attractions to explore!!
Whether you’re a local or a visitor to this charming city, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the Spring.
Here are some of the best things to do and see in Turku this spring!
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9 Things to Do to Celebrate Spring in Turku, Finland
Embrace the Arrival of Spring at Turku’s Teatterisilta
The Teatterisilta, an iconic landmark in Turku, never fails to offer breathtaking views of the city and the mesmerizing Aura River throughout the year.
But let me tell you, my absolute favorite time to visit is when spring makes its grand entrance at the Teatterisilta.
As the first hints of spring emerge, you’ll notice a delightful sight—a burst of daffodils planted around Pääsiäinen or Easter, serving as Turku’s unmistakable signal that the long-awaited season has finally arrived.
These vibrant blooms bring a splash of color and a sense of renewal to the bridge, creating a truly enchanting ambiance.
Taking a leisurely stroll across the Teatterisilta during this time allows you to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of springtime in Turku.
Breathe in the fresh air, listen to the gentle whispers of the river, and witness nature awakening all around you.
It’s a truly magical experience that fills your heart with joy and anticipation for the warmer days ahead.
But that’s not all—while exploring the Teatterisilta, keep an eye out for Turku’s love lock collection.
Among the symbols of eternal love and heartfelt connections, you may just stumble upon our very own love lock. 🥰
Tuomas and I placed it on the bridge when I moved to Finland, a special moment to celebrate our new lives together. If, by chance, you happen to discover our lock, don’t hesitate to share the news with us on Instagram!
So, mark the arrival of spring by visiting the Teatterisilta, and let its charm captivate you. Lose yourself in the breathtaking views, embrace the vibrant daffodils, and feel the warmth of new beginnings all around.
The Teatterisilta invites you to be a part of this beautiful season, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Relax on the Thawed-Out Benches Along the Aurajoki in Turku
As the sun starts to warm up the city, the once chilly benches along the picturesque Aurajoki come alive. It’s time to grab a seat, sit back, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking views of Turku and the flowing river.
The Aurajoki is the perfect spot to relax and unwind in the midst of your day.
Picture yourself sipping a warm cup of coffee, basking in the gentle breeze, and losing yourself in the pages of a captivating book. Whether it’s a peaceful midday break or a leisurely stroll home from work, the Aurajoki provides an inviting atmosphere that beckons you to pause and take in its beauty.
You’ll find people of all ages along the riverbank, creating an enchanting tapestry of stories and connections.
Friends gather, their laughter filling the air, while new romances bloom under the warm spring sun.
Some may be reminiscing, nostalgically recounting the cherished memories they’ve made along these very banks in years gone by. The Aurajoki is a place where moments are shared, stories are woven, and the essence of Turku comes alive.
So, find your favorite spot on these thawed-out benches, let the tranquility of the Aurajoki wash over you, and allow yourself to be captivated by the vibrant energy of the city and its beautiful river.
The Aurajoki is your invitation to slow down, to savor the present moment, and to create new memories along its serene and inviting shores.
Catch a Glimpse of the Stunning Cherry Blossoms in Turku
Prepare to be mesmerized as the enchanting cherry blossoms grace the shores of the Aurajoki, typically arriving in the first week of May and reaching their peak bloom during the middle of the month. These delicate blooms paint a breathtaking picture against the backdrop of Turku’s landscape.
While you can find cherry blossom trees scattered throughout the city, it is along the Aurajoki where the magic truly unfolds.
The riverbanks become a symphony of vibrant pink hues, stretching from the heart of the city near the iconic Turku Library and extending all the way down to the harbor on both sides of the river.
To fully immerse yourself in this experience, gather a picnic blanket and make a trip to your closest Alko to grab a bottle of champagne or your favorite refreshments.
Still can’t get over the fact that it’s legal to drink along the Aurajoki in Finland 😅
Find a cozy spot under the cherry blossom canopy, bask in the warmth of the sun, and let the stunning views of the blossoms transport you to a world of tranquility and natural wonder.
Spring may be fleeting in Turku, making the cherry blossom season all the more precious. It is during this time that nature unveils its most captivating display, reminding us to embrace the fleeting moments and cherish the beauty that surrounds us.
So, make the most of this season, and venture along the Aurajoki to witness the cherry blossoms in all their splendor.
Let their delicate petals and gentle fragrance create a sense of tranquility, infusing your soul with the essence of springtime in Turku.
Grab Some Haalarimerkki from Kui and Posankka in Turku’s Keskusta
Spend some time browsing through their new shops and discovering hidden gems to take home. Because Turku is a university city it has a huge haalarimerkki culture.
But don’t worry you can still take part in this fun pastime even without being a student.
In 2023 I decided to create my own take on this pastime by gluing the merkit (patches) on an old jean vest that I had. My sister-in-law and I bonded over what spot would be best to place the merkit.
Now on Vappu I can feel like I am part of the celebrations and the community. 🥳
If you are looking for a great travel souvenir or wanting to start your own Haalarimerkki collection then you don’t want to miss these shops!
Celebrate Vappu with the Students
Vappu is one of the biggest celebrations in Finland, and in my opinion Turku is the best place to celebrate.
On April 30th the center will be filled with people young and old wearing their college’s haalarit (overalls) or the ylioppilaslakki (high school graduation cap).
Then on May 1st you can find people soaking up the sun and continuing the party along the Aurajoki and at Vartiovuori.
Come to Turku and celebrate one of the biggest parties of the year and experience the best of springtime in this beautiful city.
Join a Beach Clean Up with Pidä Saaristo Siistinä
Turku and its enchanting archipelago in southwest Finland are renowned for their beauty and rich history.
Additionally Turku is home to organizations like Siisti Biitsi which encourages everyone to keep the beaches clean in the Archipelago.
In 2023 Tuomas and I hosted our first beach clean up event in Saaronniemi, Ruissalo. Our volunteers consisted of people from Finland, as well as visitors and foreigners living in Finland.
It was truly amazing seeing everyone come together in order to preserve nature and build a sense of community spirit and pride in the archipelago.
We are hoping to continue hosting beach clean ups in the upcoming years as well!!
Indulge in a Sweet Treat at Turku’s Iconic Jäätelökioski Ice Cream Cart
It’s time to grab your first ice cream of the season and what better place to do it than at the iconic jäätelokioski in the center.
Indulge in a delicious frozen treat and soak up the sunny weather. You can taste your favorite classic flavors or even dare to try the liquorice ice cream.
This spring I tried the raspberry liquorice ice cream and was completely surprised that I liked it!
It only took living in Finland for a few years and getting used to the delicious combination. 😆
No springtime visit to Turku is complete without a stop at the iconic Jäätelökioski ice cream truck so make sure to add it to your list when visiting Turku.
Meet Some Friends and Enjoy the Start of Turku’s Terrace Season at Blanko
Get ready to soak up the sun and good vibes at Blanko as they kick off the terrace season! When the weather warms up, their outdoor terrace becomes the ultimate spot to chill and sip on a refreshing glass of wine.
But hey, don’t worry if the weather suddenly drops and takatalvi pays a surprise visit. Blanko’s got you covered with cozy indoor spaces where you can still have a blast.
Blanko isn’t just about the awesome terrace and delicious food. They know how to throw down with some seriously cool live music and DJs in the evenings.
It’s the perfect place to book a table and celebrate your birthday or have an epic night out with your crew. Trust me, the vibes here are immaculate!
So, grab your friends, make a reservation, and get ready for some unforgettable times at Blanko. Terrace or indoors, you’re in for a treat.
This is where memories are made, my friend. Let the terrace season at Blanko be the start of countless amazing evenings with your favorite people.
Buy Some Local Flowers to Get Into Spring Feeling
Embrace the vibrant spirit of spring by indulging in the delightful experience of purchasing fresh and beautiful outdoor flowers in the heart of the city at Kauppatori.
Known for its lively atmosphere and bustling market, Kauppatori offers a wide array of stunning flowers that cater to all your floral needs.
Whether you are looking to surprise a loved one with a thoughtful bouquet or simply want to brighten up your own space, this vibrant marketplace is sure to have exactly what you’re searching for.
Immerse yourself in the fragrance and colors of the season as you explore the enchanting displays.
As you navigate through the bustling stalls, you’ll find that the friendly vendors are eager to assist you in your search for the perfect flowers, even if Finnish isn’t your primary language.
Their warm hospitality extends to providing helpful advice and suggestions, ensuring that you can make the perfect choice.
Discover Urban Charm and Chic Comfort at Seurahuone in Turku
Immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of Turun Seurahuone, a meticulously restored 19th-century building just a block away from the heart of Turku.
Discover a harmonious blend of timeless elegance and contemporary amenities, where the allure of Finnish 1920s aesthetics intertwines seamlessly with modern-day comforts.
Indulge in culinary delights at Ravintola Gunnar, our renowned hotel restaurant. Delight in a culinary journey that will awaken your senses and satisfy your cravings with their spring menu.
I was able to satisfy all my spring seasonal cravings, and will be dreaming of their perfectly grilled asparagus all summer long. 🤤
We went to the hotel for my birthday in collaboration with Seurahuone and were able to unwind and rejuvenate in their oh-so-comfortable king-size beds.
I especially enjoyed their thermostat within the room that I could adjust to make the room the perfect temperature for me, as I am a hot sleeper.
Don’t worry about Tuomas, he was able to get warm after I made the room freezing cold. 🥶
The next day we went downstairs to enjoy a delightful breakfast experience, which featured a variety of options designed to cater to every taste.
Tuomas and I went in on their bread pudding, leipävanukas, the flavors were really comforting as it reminded me of home (Virginia, USA).
Not to mention their special breakfast makkara, it was the closest thing to breakfast sausage I have eaten since I moved to Finland.
While at the hotel I couldn’t help but think of our family in Finland and in the US and how amazing it would be if we could all meet there one day for dinner.
Have any other spring recommendations in Turku? Let me know below!
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