Explore the Charm of The Old Great Square
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Old Great Square in Turku, Finland, where history, culture, and local flavors come together in a picturesque market setting.
A brief summary to The Old Great Square
- Vanha Suurtori 3, Turku, 20500, FI
- +358406614778
The Old Great Square, known as Vanha Suurtori, is a historical market square that embodies the essence of Turku's vibrant culture and rich heritage. This picturesque plaza serves as a hub for both locals and tourists, offering a unique blend of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. As you stroll through the square, you'll be captivated by the charming architecture that surrounds the area, showcasing Turku's historical significance dating back to the Middle Ages. The square is home to a variety of market stalls where visitors can sample local delicacies, handmade crafts, and traditional Finnish products. The ambiance of The Old Great Square is truly enchanting, especially during weekends when the market comes alive with local vendors, artisans, and performers. Here, you can indulge in culinary delights such as fresh berries, artisanal bread, and mouth-watering pastries. The square also hosts seasonal events and festivals that celebrate Finnish culture, providing an excellent opportunity for tourists to engage with the local community. Whether you're looking to pick up souvenirs, enjoy a leisurely coffee at one of the nearby cafes, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere, The Old Great Square is a must-visit destination in Turku. Its central location makes it easy to explore other nearby attractions, making your visit to this historical market square a perfect addition to your travel itinerary.
Local tips
- Visit during the weekend for the liveliest market atmosphere with local vendors.
- Try the local pastries and fresh produce from the market stalls for an authentic taste.
- Take time to explore the surrounding historical buildings for a complete cultural experience.
- Check for seasonal festivals and events that may be happening during your visit.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start by navigating to the center of Turku. From the Turku Archipelago, follow signs for Turku city center. Use Route 1 (E18) or Route 8, depending on your starting point. Upon reaching Turku, continue towards the city center, and follow signs for 'Vanha Suurtori' or 'Old Great Square'. Once you arrive at the square, you can park your car at nearby parking facilities, such as the Turku City Parking Garage, which typically charges around €2 per hour.
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Public Transportation
To reach The Old Great Square using public transportation, start by locating the nearest bus stop in the Turku Archipelago. Buses run frequently to Turku from various islands. Take a bus heading to 'Turku City Center'. Once you arrive at the Turku Central Bus Station, walk approximately 10 minutes towards the Old Great Square. Follow the signs to 'Vanha Suurtori' or use a navigation app for assistance. Please note that a single bus ticket may cost around €4-€6, depending on your location.
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Ferry
If you are coming from one of the islands, you may need to take a ferry to Turku. Check the ferry schedule and routes to find the nearest departure point. Ferries from popular islands like Naantali or Kaarina typically arrive at the Turku harbor. From the ferry terminal, you can either walk to The Old Great Square, which takes about 15-20 minutes, or catch a local bus that connects the harbor with the city center. Ferry tickets vary in price, but expect to pay around €10-€20 for a single journey, depending on the route.
Attractions Nearby to The Old Great Square
- Brinkkala Mansion
- Medieval Turku
- Porthan’s Park
- Brahe’s Park / Braheskvären
- Aboa Vetus Ars Nova
- Eiders
- Fredrika Runeberg and the Dot
- Vartiovuorenpuisto/Vårdbergsparken
- Turku Cathedral
- Lönnrot’s Park / Lönnrotinpuisto / Lönnrotsskvären
- Sibeliusmuseum
- Author Volter Kilpi Memorial Plaque
- Ett Hem Museum
- Aurajokiranta
- Aurajoki Riverside
Landmarks nearby to The Old Great Square
- Old Town Hall
- Monastery Avenue
- The statue of H. G. Porthan
- The Turku Cathedral Block in 1756
- The Per Brahe statue
- Bibliotheca
- Meeting in Turku 1812
- Mikael Agricola Statue
- Library Bridge / Kirjastosilta / Biblioteksbron
- Turku City Library, Main Library
- Tanssiteatteri Erin Kannatusyhdistys R.Y.
- Kauppatorin Treffilamppu
- Tourist Information | Visit Turku
- Åbo Svenska Teater
- Pidä Saaristo Siistinä