Turku Archipelago: Island-hopping self-drive

Day by day itinerary

• Days 1-2 » UK/Turku

  Flying out Helsinki, pick up your hire car for the easy, two-hour drive to Turku and your central accommodation – a boutique, 1920s gem updated with contemporary Finnish design. Think gorgeous wood furnishings, the obligatory sauna and artisanal breakfasts, billed as the best in the city. Centrally located, you’ll also be perfectly positioned to explore. Although Finland’s second city, Turku was the country’s capital until 1812, something remembered by its magnificent medieval castle and cathedral, both dating to the 13th century. Moving towards the present, there’s then a vibrant arts scene and plenty of design boutiques. With two days here, you might also want to take in its glorious archipelago setting on cruises, island bike rides and walks through national-park forests.

  Stay: Sokos Hotel Turun Seurahuone 

  Meals: Breakfast

• Day 3 » Turku to Nauvo with archipelago safari

  Picking up your hire car, you’ll set off into the archipelago on your ultra-scenic drive, mapping the coast and perhaps pausing at the riverside town of Pargas to take in its idyllic clapboard houses. You’ll then arrive at your accommodation – a centuries-old farmhouse filled with timber-and-stone charm. From here, you’ll be treated to an included tour. Boat rides, guided nature walks and an island picnic will showcase the rural splendour of the archipelago’s skerries and islets. Then, on return, enjoy a complimentary soak in the traditional sauna or outdoor hot tub before an included two-course dinner. Expect local specialities served in a 19th-century cowshed.

  Stay: Hotel Stallbacken

  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

• Day 4 » Nauvo to Korpo

  Today’s short drive will see you hop over to the island of Korpo, where you’ll have plenty of time to relax on – or explore – its idyllic coast. There are some excellent biking and walking trails, taking in the gorgeous shoreline and a full range of outdoor art installations. You’ll also be staying in a chic barn conversion, surrounded by green meadows and woodlands. There’s even an art gallery in the slag-stone stable. Lastly, you’ll be treated to a full five-course tasting menu in its restaurant, showcasing the best seasonal ingredients the region has to offer.

  Stay: Hotel Nestor

  Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

• Day 5 » Korpo to Turku

  Looping back towards Turku, ferry hops and scenic roads will see you across the islands, with plenty of pauses along the way. The Kustavi Handicraft Village is excellent, the Louhisaari Manor a lesson in Baroque charm and the gorgeous Kultaranta Garden the president’s grand summer house and garden. The historic wooden towns of Naantali are a particular highlight, all fairy-tale gardens and colourful weatherboard houses. However, for the ultimate fantasy, look no further than Moomin World – a theme park dedicated to Tove Jansson’s creations. Whatever you choose, you’ll return to Turku for a final night, perhaps celebrating your trip with a meal at one of the city's superb restaurants.

  Stay: Sokos Hotel Turun Seurahuone 
  

  Meals: Breakfast

• Day 6 » Depart for UK

  After a last indulgent breakfast, drive back to Helsinki Airport where you'll drop your hire car in time for your flight home.
  

  Meals: Breakfast