Best Things About Turku

Turku Castle

What was built in the 1280s under Swedish rule is now one of Finland’s most prized landmarks. Parts of the castle have been used as a prison and even a granary over the past eight centuries, and, while it retains some of its medieval architecture, a great deal of construction transformed the castle into a renaissance structure in the 16th century. It’s certainly seen a lot of change over the years, and now its primary use is for the education and enjoyment of the public as a grand fortified museum.

Turku Christmas

Fir branches cushion the steps to the "Haus der Engel," (Angel House). Fragrances wafting from beeswax candles and red apples entice people to enter the establishment. The café and gallery carries its name deservedly. The waiters and waitresses masquerade as angels and are as seductive as the angel paintings decorating walls and chairs. The food is as tasty as the harpist's music is lyrical. Drinks are served from angel-shaped cups and glasses, and the names of sweets go right along with the venue's theme: cakes called "Seraphim, Armor's Arrow, Angel Kiss," and "Fallen Angel."

This 100-year-old frame house in the former capital Turku is merely one examples of the cozy Finnish Christmas atmosphere. The snow enveloping trees and roads in white makes the mood perfect.

According to their tradition, the Finn's Christmas season begins the first Sunday of Advent when worshippers in the churches sing G.J. Vogler's "Hosianna Hymn," an event no one wants to miss. Advent concerts are also popular. But long before that comes the Bazaar when women meet and organize the event, and employees organize the "Pikkijoulu" for their employers, the "Small Christmas," a special celebration.

With the onset of Advent, roads, streets, shops and stores dazzle with their light displays, as do the many evergreen trees set up everywhere. December 6 is a national holiday, and since 2008 is the 191st anniversary of Finland's independence from Russia, no Finn would be caught without candles in the window.

It’s no wonder that Turku markets itself as the Finnish Christmas City. For over a century, the Turku Cathedral has been the centre of Finnish Christmas culture. Every year a sparkling Christmas tree is lit during the opening day of the Christmas City ceremonies right outside the Cathedral doors. Nearby, in Old Great Square, the Old Time Christmas Market is bound to be buzzing with holiday spirit. The stalls are lit with lanterns and brimming with Finnish Christmas confections. Over the course of the holiday season, Turku hosts literally hundreds of events. From performances of Pinocchio to dozens of carol concerts to Christmas adventure tours of Turku Castle, it’s impossible to run out of holiday experiences.