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We've compiled the best of the best in Southwestern Coast and the Ålands - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
Completed in 1480, this church was a place of worship for both monks and nuns and operated under the aegis of the Catholic Church until it was dissolved by the Reformation in the 16th century. Buildings fell into disrepair, then were restored 1963–65 and again in 2011–12. The church is all that remains of the convent. It’s now the wonderful main venue for concerts during the Naantali Music Festival in June.
The Pommern is one of the last existing grain ships in the world and the only four-masted steel barque remaining anywhere. Once owned by the sailing fleet of the Mariehamn shipping magnate Gustaf Erikson, the ship carried wheat between Australia and England from 1923 to 1939. The ship has reopened after extensive restoration work at a new, more accessible dock just below the Åland Maritime Museum, where you'll find a fascinating collection of seafaring items and a great children's section. The Pommern includes interactive aspects that describe the hardships of life on board the ship as well as an audio tale for children by Karin Erlandsson called Ruby's Voyage.
Some of Finland's most famous paintings, including works by Akseli Gallen-Kallela, as well as a broad selection of turn-of-the-20th-century Finnish art and contemporary works, are housed in this imposing granite building. Situated on a hill above the city, the building was completed in 1904 and in itself is worth the visit. Call ahead for information on guided tours.
Where the Aura flows into the sea stands Turku Castle, one of the city's (and the country's) most important historical monuments. The oldest part of the fortress was built at the end of the 13th century; the newer part dates from the 16th century. The castle was damaged by bombing in 1941, and its restoration was completed in 1961. The vaulted chambers give you a sense of the domestic lives of the Swedish royals. Linger for a while in the decent gift shop and pleasant café on the castle grounds.
