Gay Turku City Guide

Discover the Charm of Turku: A Vibrant, Gay-Friendly Destination in Finland

<p>Nestled on Finland's southwest coast along the Aura River, Turku exudes old-world charm with its cobbled streets and medieval castle while also embracing modern diversity. Finland's former capital and oldest city has seen a vibrant LGBTQ nightlife scene emerge in recent years.</p>
<p>Spend your days enjoying the quaint riverside cafes and restaurants, before experiencing the energetic nightlife as the Turku adopts Helsinki's famous club culture. From traditional pubs to proudly gay event venues, Turku welcomes gay visitors to discover its laidback seaside energy and close-knit queer community.</p>

Gay Turku

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<h2 class="zw-line-content"><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="8">Shopping</span><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="1">&nbsp;</span><span class="EOP-readonly EOP">&nbsp;</span></h2>
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<div class="zw-line-content"><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="1">T</span><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="37">he centre of Turku is compact</span><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="42">, so it's easy to visit all the great shopping</span><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="7">&nbsp;spots!</span><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="7">&nbsp;Within</span><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="1">&nbsp;</span></div>
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<div class="zw-line-content"><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="8">walking&nbsp;</span><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="8">distance</span><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="80">&nbsp;you&nbsp;can&nbsp;find&nbsp;everything&nbsp;from&nbsp;fashion&nbsp;to&nbsp;souvenirs&nbsp;and&nbsp;from&nbsp;department&nbsp;stores&nbsp;to</span><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="1">&nbsp;</span></div>
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<div class="zw-line-content"><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="16">small&nbsp;boutiques.</span><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="1">&nbsp;</span><span class="EOP-readonly EOP">&nbsp;</span></div>
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<div class="zw-line-content"><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="3">It's</span><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="11">&nbsp;also&nbsp;easy&nbsp;</span><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="18">to be a responsible&nbsp;</span><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="16">shopper&nbsp;in&nbsp;Turku</span><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="2">.&nbsp;</span><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="2">Th</span><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="2">is</span><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="1">&nbsp;</span><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="5">cute&nbsp;</span><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="36">city&nbsp;teems&nbsp;with&nbsp;ethical&nbsp;and&nbsp;personal</span><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="1">&nbsp;</span></div>
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<div class="zw-line-content"><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="15">design,&nbsp;and&nbsp;the</span><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="4">re`s</span><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="34"> a nice&nbsp;range&nbsp;of&nbsp;second-hand&nbsp;stores&nbsp;</span><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="18">and&nbsp;vintage&nbsp;shops.</span><span class="zw-portion zw-text-portion" data-text-len="1">&nbsp;</span><span class="EOP-readonly EOP">&nbsp;</span></div>
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Why Visit Turku  

The ability for same-sex couples to legally adopt a child.

Only able to adopt child of the other partner

The age of consent of <b>16 years</b> is equal for everyone.

The difference between legal age of consent for homosexual sex and heterosexual sex.

Finland lifted the restrictions on MSMs donating blood on December 4th 2023.<br />
<br />
"As a result of the change, deferral period practices related to sexual behaviour will be made consistent in blood donation and will be the same for everyone regardless of sex."

The ability for MSMs (men who have sex with men) to donate blood or tissue for organ transplants. A deferral period refers to a waiting time before a man can donate after having sex.

Since May 3, 2021, the deferral period has been reduced to four months.

Before May 3, 2021, Finland had a one year deferral period.

In Finland, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics.

Censorship or prohibition of discussing, promoting, or teaching LGBTQ+ topics in media, schools, and in the general public.

A new legislation lifted the former requirements for gender-affirming surgery and sterilization in order to legally change one’s gender.<br />
Recognition will be available for adults upon written application after a mandatory 30-day "period of reflection".<br />
Minors under the age of 18 are not allowed to change their gender status.<br />
The new law comes in effect on April 3rd 2023.

Legal recognition of sex reassignment by permitting a change of legal gender on an individual's birth certificate.

The authorities shall recognise a person as belonging to the opposite sex to that recorded on the population register, provided they:<br />
• Provides a medical report testifying that they permanently experience being a member of the opposite sex and that they live in the gender roles of those and that they have been sterilized or are otherwise incapable of having children<br />
• They are an adult<br />
• They are not married or in a registered partnership; unless the spouse or partner gives their consent in which case a marriage become a registered partnership and a registered partnership becomes a marriage<br />
• They are a Finnish citizen or is resident in Finland

Conversion therapy ban pending. Many of the general public have demanded and protested to ban it.

Legal status of conducting sexual orientation changing therapy ("ex-gay" therapy)

Lgbtq+ from Finland are protected from all types of discrimination 

Prohibition of discrimination based on sexual orientation and/or gender identity.

Prohibition of discrimination based on sexual orientation and/or gender identity in employment, including hiring, promotion, termination, harassment, etc.

Medical and psychological support designed to help individuals transition to the gender they identify with, including hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and surgeries.

Finland decriminalised gay sex in 1971, although it was not until the 1980s that homosexuality was declassified as an illness.

Consensual sexual activity between individuals of the same sex.

Before 1971, homosexuality was illegal and punished by prison

Prohibition of discrimination based on sexual orientation and/or gender identity when applying for housing or discrimination by landlords / property owners.

Medical interventions performed on intersex infants to alter their genital appearance to conform to typical male or female standards, often without the informed consent of the child who is too young to participate in the decision-making process.

Finland voted to legalize full marriage for same-sex couples on November 28, 2014, but it went into effect on March 1, 2017. It was the last Nordic sovereign state to approve gay marriage.

Marriage and marriage recognition between two people of the same biological sex and/or gender identity.

After various referendums that asked the Finnish public on gay marriage, they finally cleared the last referendum in the 22nd of February, and gay marriage was finally allowed since this date. 

Same-sex couples are legally able to form registered partnerships

The ability for homosexuals to serve in the military and be open about their sexuality.

Finland does not currently recognize non-binary identities.

Legal recognition of non-binary, genderqueer, or third gender identities.

Finland

Turku

Gay Turku Hotels

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Gay Turku Bars & Dance Clubs

Turku Restaurants and Cafes

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Gay Turku Restaurants & Cafes

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Turku Gay Culture

Turku is Finland's oldest city, but far from stuck in the past—it has a vibrant spirit that shines through its charming buildings and thriving local culture. Just a couple hours from the capital, Helsinki, Turku radiates an infectious energy. Most of the city was devastated by a massive fire in 1827, but Turku pulled itself up and kept going. The restored architecture still has old-world appeal while pulsating with modern life.
Beyond Turku lies the breathtaking Turku Archipelago, a chain of some 20,000 islands dotting the Baltic Sea. With so much natural beauty at its doorstep, Turku has become a gateway to outdoor adventure. Hop on a ferry to nearby islands where each has its own personality—some bustle as tourist destinations while others remain quiet hideaways. Breathe the crisp sea air, roam the forests, stop at little island cafés, explore tiny fishing villages seemingly lost in time. Or just find a bare rock to plant your picnic, dipping your toes in the bracing Baltic as boats glide calmly by in the distance.

Exploring Turku and the Enchanting Archipelago

kesarauha

Kesärauha

Alternative and indie music festival in Turku

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Turku Sea Jazz

Spend a jazzy summer in Turku!

turku pride

Turku Pride 2024

Celebrate Turku Pride in 2024!

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Vinokino Turku

Annual LGBTQ Film Festival in Turku

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Sokos Kupittaa

Original Sokos Hotel Kupittaa

Original Sokos Hotel Wiklund

Solo Sokos Hotel Turun Seurahuone

Radisson Blu Marina Palace Hotel

Hotel Hyppeis

Turku's Latest Hotel Discounts

Grab a Drink!

Where to Stay?

Hotels

Bars & Clubs

Cafes & Restaurants

Wellness

Services

Culture

Shopping

City Guide

Discover Turku's best gay bars, dance clubs, cafes, gay-rated hotels, and more. Check out reviews, photos, and more info on TravelGay.com.

Gay Turku Guide 2024 - gay bars, clubs, restaurants & more

Discover an exciting mix of ancient and contemporary culture in Turku, Finland's oldest city

<p>Kakola Spa offers a luxurious and unique adult-only relaxation experience. With a variety of pools, saunas, and exclusive treatments including a rare snow-shower, it's the perfect escape for a pamper-filled day. Guests can enjoy alcoholic beverages throughout the spa. Located in Turku, it's open year-round with varying hours. Kakola Spa, part of Hotel Kakola, holds the Sustainable Travel Finland certification, offering a serene and eco-conscious retreat.</p>

Kakola Spa

Indulge in Serenity at Kakola Spa: Your Luxury Escape

<p>The Old Turku Shop, nestled in Turku's Market Hall, is a charming destination for tourists seeking local Finnish souvenirs. It offers an array of items like postcards, stamps, magnets, T-shirts, caps, and traditional candy. This quaint shop is a treasure trove for anyone looking to take a piece of Turku home.</p>

The Old Turku Shop

Discover Local Charms at The Old Turku Shop

<p>The Moomin Shop Hansa in Turku, Finland, is a whimsical destination for all Moomin fans. Located in the Kauppakeskus Hansa in the city center, this store offers a wide array of Moomin merchandise. From charming souvenirs to unique collectibles, it's a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the world of the beloved Finnish characters. The shop's inviting atmosphere makes it the perfect place to find special Moomin-themed gifts and memorabilia.</p>

Moomin Shop Hansa

Step into the Enchanting World of Moomin at Moomin Shop Hansa

<p>Moominworld, inspired by Tove Jansson's beloved Moomin characters, is a unique theme park in Naantali, Finland. Jansson, a progressive queer artist, created these enchanting characters that continue to delight fans of all ages. The park offers a range of attractions and activities, immersing visitors in the whimsical world of the Moomins. Reopening on June 11, 2024, it's a must-visit destination for families and Moomin enthusiasts.</p>

Moominworld (Reopening 11th of June 2024)

Step Into the Enchanting World of Moominworld - Inspired by Tove Jansson's Legacy

<p>On the lookout for a fab yet feel-good feast in Finland's culture capital? Make your reservation at Kuori, a retro-chic vegan restaurant in Turku with more to love than its dreamy '60s style and scrumptious plant-based plates!</p>
<p>Step inside and instantly chill amid earthy tones and leafy potted greens that evoke the coolest indoor garden this side of the Baltic. The menu celebrates the seasons, spinning regional produce into globally inspired shareable works of art&mdash;all concocted with care for the planet and its people. From texture-rich salads to stick-to-your-ribs stacked burgers, every vibrant bite delights.</p>
<p>And the drinks match the eats, with a creative cocktail lineup blending botanicals, fruits, and flair. And the friendly staff gladly accommodates special diets and allergies, ensuring every guest feels welcome. So whether sharing small plates with friends or savoring a quiet meal solo, Kuori's inclusive vibe and scrumptious vegan options offer the perfect recipe for recharging the mind, body, and spirit</p>

Kuori

Vegan restaurant in Turku

<p>Turku Book Caf&eacute; (Turun Kirjakahvila) is where books, brews, and banter collide in the heart of Old Turku. This quirky, volunteer-run vegan oasis is more than a caf&eacute;; it's a cultural hub hosting everything from reading circles to uncommercial queer parties.</p>
<p>Located in the Brinkkala courtyard, this non-profit haven defies the normative capitalist culture. Explore a library of zines and books from indie publishers, sip coffee sourced directly from Zapatista co-ops, and revel in a space that champions diversity. Forget commercial norms&mdash;here, water's on the house, and so are enlightening events. Step into a caffeine-fueled, bookish haven where discussions flow as freely as the coffee.</p>

Turku Book Cafe

Non-profit vegan cafe in Turku

<p>Bar Suxes is a gay bar that has been a refuge of equality and self-expression in Turku's nightlife scene since 2004. Within its walls, patrons can truly be themselves while enjoying friendly and welcoming restaurant behaviour.</p>
<p>On Thursdays and Sundays, Bar Suxes rings with karaoke tunes. Fridays and Saturdays bring a pulsing dance floor and fabulous DJ sets. During the day, it serves as a chill cafe to read magazines, play board games with friends, or access the free WiFi over coffee.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Visit their Facebook page for updated opening hours.</p>

Bar Suxes

Gay bar in Turku operating for almost 2 decades!

<p>Sitting beside the Turku library, Bar &Ouml; is the ultimate blend of cool and cosy. This carbon-neutral haven boasts a laid-back vibe with smooth drinks, tapas, and artsy delights. From DJs spinning tunes to live gigs, it's the town's smoothest spot.</p>
<p>Decked out with comfy sofas and a summer terrace, Bar &Ouml; is a chill, gay-friendly bar that feels like your coolest friend's living room.</p>

Bar Ö

Cosy bar serving excellent beers and wines in Turku

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