Background

Forum Marinum: A Voyage Through Finnish Maritime History

Explore Finland's seafaring history at Turku's Forum Marinum: historic ships, interactive exhibits, and maritime heritage on the Aura River.

4.4

Forum Marinum in Turku is a maritime museum and center showcasing Finland's rich seafaring past. Located on the Aura River, it features historic ships, engaging exhibits, and insights into the nation's naval and shipbuilding heritage, offering an immersive experience for all ages.

A brief summary to Forum Marinum

  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the summer to explore the museum ships and experience life at sea firsthand.
  • Check the museum's website for information on special events, workshops, and guided tours.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum and its exhibits.
  • Enjoy a meal at Restaurant Göran, located within the Forum Marinum, for a maritime-themed dining experience.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Turku Market Square, walk east along Linnankatu for approximately 1.5 km (about 20 minutes). Forum Marinum will be on your right, past Turku Castle. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From Turku city center, take bus lines 1 or 1B towards the Turku harbor. The bus stops directly at Forum Marinum. A single ticket costs €3.15 and is valid for two hours on local buses. A night ticket (23:00 - 04:00) costs €4.15.

  • Taxi

    From Turku city center (e.g., Market Square), a taxi to Forum Marinum costs approximately €8-€10, depending on the time of day and traffic. The journey takes about 5-10 minutes.

Unlock the Best of Forum Marinum

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Forum Marinum

The Forum Marinum Maritime Centre in Turku is more than just a museum; it's a vibrant hub that brings Finland's maritime history to life. Situated on the banks of the Aura River, this extensive complex incorporates the National specialist museum for Maritime History and the Finnish Navy Museum. Founded in 1999 through the merger of the Turku Maritime Museum (est. 1977) and the Åbo Akademi University Museum of Maritime History (est. 1936), Forum Marinum is dedicated to preserving the maritime cultural heritage of Finland's southwest coast, the Archipelago Sea, and the Baltic Sea. The museum boasts a remarkable collection of vessels, including two tall ships: the Suomen Joutsen (Finnish Swan), a three-masted steel-hulled barque with a rich history, and the wooden barque Sigyn. Other notable ships include naval vessels, a steam tugboat, and various smaller crafts, offering visitors a glimpse into different eras of maritime technology and naval operations. Inside the museum, exhibits delve into various aspects of maritime life, from shipbuilding and navigation to naval warfare and the daily lives of seafarers. Interactive displays and detailed models complement the historic artifacts, providing an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages. The main exhibition was renewed in 2016 and is now called Work at Sea. Other permanent exhibitions include The Five Lives of our National Treasure, The Forum Marinum exhibition on board the Bore, At the Shipyard, and At the Engine Factory. During the summer months, visitors can explore the museum ships, stepping aboard these floating time capsules to experience firsthand the conditions and challenges faced by those who sailed them. The museum also hosts events, workshops, and lectures throughout the year, further enriching the visitor experience.

Popular Experiences near Forum Marinum

Popular Hotels near Forum Marinum

Select Currency