The Botanical Garden of the University of Turku on Ruissalo Island is one of Finland’s most diverse living collections, home to more than 5,000 plant species displayed across expansive outdoor areas and six atmospheric greenhouses. The garden offers a journey through the Earth’s climate zones, from lush tropical rainforests to Mediterranean landscapes and arid succulent habitats, creating an immersive experience in every season. Outdoors, the 23‑hectare grounds unfold in changing colours from spring blossoms to autumn foliage, shaped by Ruissalo’s historic oak forests and coastal setting. Founded in 1924 and moved to its current location in 1956, the garden combines research, conservation, and public education, serving both scientists and visitors. Its modern greenhouse complex, completed in 1998, enhances the experience with carefully curated environments that reveal the adaptability and beauty of global plant life. As a peaceful island retreat, the Botanical Garden invites exploration, learning, and a deeper appreciation of nature’s diversity.
Turku FinlandBotanical Garden of the University of Turku is located at Ruissalon puistotie 215, 20100 Turku, on the scenic island of Ruissalo, about 7 km southwest of the city center via the Ruissalo Bridge. Accessible by bus line 8 from the center (nearest stop Rauhalantie), car with main parking 200m before the entrance, bike paths along the main road, or 20-30 minute walks within the island, it features over 5,000 plant species in outdoor gardens, greenhouses, and ponds, open daily with a café. Nearby attractions include lush Ruissalo forests and trails for hiking and birdwatching, the historic Ruissalo Manor estate with its parklands, Adventure Park for treetop adventures, serene seaside spots like Uto island by ferry, and Tähkäpuisto rose garden back on the mainland—all blending botanical wonders with island nature escapes reachable by foot, bike, or short drives across this green archipelago gem.
Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova
Turku
Turku Art Museum
Turku
Wäinö Aaltonen Museum of Art
Turku
Luostarinmäki Handicrafts Museum
Turku
Turku Biological Museum
Turku
Forum Marinum
Turku
Ett Hem Museum
Turku
Sibelius Museum
Turku
Pharmacy Museum and Qwensel House
Turku
Kylämäki Village of Living History
Turku
Turku Castle
Turku
Turku Cathedral
Turku
Finnish Scout Museum
Turku
Turku Health Care Museum
Turku
St. Michael’s Church
Turku
St. Catherine’s Church Turku
Turku
St. Mary's Church Turku
Turku
Turku Orthodox Church
Turku
Turku City Theatre
Turku
Åbo Svenska Teater
Turku
Vartiovuori Observatory
Turku
Iso-Heikkilä Observatory
Turku
Turun Kauppatori
Turku
Brinkkala House
Turku