Aura River Run: Heart of Turku

In the heart of Turku, the best running is on paths along the Aura River, with good add-ons on trails in the numerous parks lining the east bank. This route is focused on the central paths. See our  Aurajoenrannan path route on the northern section of the river for a longer run. Lit at night! Note: Silta=Bridge, Puisto=Park

The main paths along the river in central Turku run from the Martinsilta Bridge to just north of the Cathedral Bridge (Tuomiokirkkosilta). A loop is just shy of 5 km, with dedicated paths along both banks of the river. There are great views of the water and historic sections of Turku along the way.

Longer Options:

• More Along the River. You can extend the run south of Martinsilta Bridge for 1 km on either bank of the river, but note there’s no bridge to cross (there is the Föri). Also, just north of the Cathedral bridge, connect to the Aurajoenrannan path, which is a 6 km loop in riverside parks on both sides of the river, connected by the Hallisbron Bridge (Halistensilta).
• Park Paths On East Bank. Just across the Itäinen Rantakatu road, there are numerous parks with additional paths. See our route.
• Explore the central city. Just off the river path, explore the area around the Old Great Square and the Turku Cathedral (and three small parks around it). On the western side of the Cathedral Bridge is a more ‘recent’ historic centre and main commercial area.