Ruissalo is the most well-known island in Turku (and my favorite as a local) and it truly has everything! Lush forests, picturesque beaches, scenic walking trails, a hotel, cozy cafés and restaurants, a botanical garden, camping areas, and even saunas. You could easily spend an entire day here, because there’s so much to explore.

This place is loved by locals, and during sunny summer weekends, it can get busy.

COST & ACCESS: Ruissalo is completely free and open year-round. Unlike some other islands, you don’t need a ferry, just take a bus from Turku city centre (about 20 minutes) and cross the bridge to reach the island. The parking spots here can fill up pretty fast, so taking the bus is the easiest and stress free way to get here.

Try not to visit in early July, when the biggest rock festival is held in this island. that’s when the island’s biggest rock festival takes place. The festival happens in the Kansanpuisto area, which is honestly one of the most beautiful spots on the island and totally worth seeing. So if you want to enjoy the peaceful island and explore freely, plan your visit before or after the festival.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: This island is open year-round, so there’s always something to do. My favorite season is summer, the beaches are lively, the cafés are open, flowers are in full bloom, and the forests and trails are at their most beautiful.

WHAT TO DO: You can do so much here! In the winter, enjoy ice swimming, cross-country skiing, or sliding on the snow, while in the summer, you can go cycling, fishing, kayaking, or have a relaxing picnic. You can also camp on Ruissalo, whether with an RV or a tent. There’s a proper RV area with facilities.

You can also enjoy public saunas, which come with a small fee. (best public sauna is at Saaronniemi Beach. It has a beautiful view of the sea and direct access for a swim, making it the perfect spot to relax after exploring the island)

MY RECOMMENDATIONS:

• Cafés: Visit Honkapirtti and Villa Kuuva, both cozy, charming spots perfect for coffee, lunch, or a sweet treat.

• Botanical Garden: Stunning, especially in summer, with colorful flowers, walking paths, and quiet corners to relax.

• Kuuvannokka: Walk all the way here for breathtaking sea views and a peaceful escape from the crowds.

• See the pastel-colored villas along the walking path in the Kansanpuisto area, acharming route with old villas tucked into the greenery, perfect for a leisurely stroll and some photos.

• Nature & Trails: Wander the forests and beaches, listen to the birds, and enjoy the fresh, salty sea breeze.