
Kakolanmäki
A former prison transformed into a unique destination with luxury apartments, a boutique hotel, and stunning river views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration

Kakolanmäki
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A former prison transformed into a unique destination with luxury apartments, a boutique hotel, and stunning river views.
"An excellent hotel conversion with beautiful architecture and a wonderful view facing the river."

🚀 Ride the Funikulaari
Take the free funicular for an exciting ride and great views! :rocket:
🏨 Unique Stays
Consider staying in a room that preserves original prison fittings for a unique experience. :bed:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Funicular Ride
Experience the thrill of the free funicular, offering exciting ascents and stunning river views.

Preserved Prison Atmosphere
Explore beautifully renovated spaces that retain elements of the former prison's unique character.

Panoramic River Views
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Aura River from the hilltop, especially captivating at sunset.

On-Site Playground
A delightful playground offers fun for children, making it a great spot for families.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Transformation
Getting Around is a Breeze
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚀 Ride the Funikulaari
Take the free funicular for an exciting ride and great views! :rocket:
🏨 Unique Stays
Consider staying in a room that preserves original prison fittings for a unique experience. :bed:
🍽️ Excellent Dining
Enjoy top-notch food at the restaurant and a great breakfast. :forkandknife:
📸 Capture the Views
The hilltop offers wonderful photo opportunities of the river. :camera:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚀 Ride the Funikulaari
Take the free funicular for an exciting ride and great views! :rocket:
🏨 Unique Stays
Consider staying in a room that preserves original prison fittings for a unique experience. :bed:
🍽️ Excellent Dining
Enjoy top-notch food at the restaurant and a great breakfast. :forkandknife:
📸 Capture the Views
The hilltop offers wonderful photo opportunities of the river. :camera:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Kakolanmäki's unique transformation from a prison to a luxurious destination. The excellent food, stylish bar, and preserved historical atmosphere are frequently praised. Some note the intriguing contrast between its past and present, while others highlight the funicular and river views as major draws.
"An excellent hotel conversion. You can select rooms that have some original fittings like the bars, or stay in completely renovated rooms. Walls are extra thick so there is no sound transfer. The bar has a good selection of cocktails and is a nice setting. The restaurant food is excellent as is the breakfast. Good location to walk around town."
Nilesh Tailor
"beautiful architecture. weird to think that it is one of the most luxurious apartments you can rent or buy but it was a prison in older times"
Yiğit Ömür
"A hill with a wonderful view facing the river. Going up/ down in a vertical train (free of charge) is exciting 🙃
The kids loved the playground on site."
Einat Schreibman Fainholtz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest and most exciting way is to use the free Funikulaari funicular, which connects the city center directly to Kakolanmäki. It's a quick and scenic ride offering great views of the Aura River.
While specific parking details can vary, the Funikulaari is highly recommended for easy access. If driving, check local parking regulations in the Turku city center before heading up.
Yes, you can walk to Kakolanmäki from the city center, but be prepared for an uphill climb. The Funikulaari offers a more effortless ascent.
The Funikulaari typically operates daily, but it's best to check the official Turku.fi website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
The Funikulaari is generally accessible. The renovated areas within Kakolanmäki are designed to be navigable, but it's always a good idea to check specific accessibility details if needed.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Visiting the public areas of Kakolanmäki, including the viewpoints and playground, is generally free. If you plan to stay at the hotel or dine at the restaurant, separate bookings are required.
Kakolanmäki is an area with apartments, a hotel, and restaurants. The public spaces are generally accessible, but specific venue hours (hotel, restaurant) should be checked individually.
While the historical prison buildings have been transformed, access to the public areas and the unique atmosphere is free.
Tours focusing on the former prison history might be available through local tourism operators or specific events. It's best to inquire with Visit Turku for current offerings.
Kakolanmäki occasionally hosts events. Keep an eye on local event listings or the Visit Turku website for any upcoming exhibitions or happenings.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views of the Aura River from the hilltop are spectacular. Also, capture the unique architecture that blends the old prison elements with modern design.
Photography for personal use is generally permitted in public areas. For private hotel rooms or apartments, it's best to respect privacy and ask for permission if unsure.
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the river and cityscape. Midday provides clear views, but can be harsher.
Drone usage is subject to Finnish aviation regulations. Always check local rules and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone in the area.
While the prison's atmosphere is preserved in some renovated areas, access to original, untouched cells might be limited. Focus on the architectural details and preserved elements.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Kakolanmäki boasts excellent dining options, including a highly-rated restaurant known for its quality food and a bar with a good cocktail selection. The breakfast is also praised.
It is highly recommended to make a reservation, especially for dinner or during peak times, to ensure you get a table at the popular restaurant.
The restaurant at Kakolanmäki is known for its excellent food, often featuring modern Finnish or European dishes prepared with high-quality ingredients.
While the main restaurant is a highlight, the bar area might offer lighter fare or snacks. It's worth checking their current offerings.
Most quality restaurants are accommodating. It's advisable to check the menu in advance or inform the staff of any dietary requirements when booking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the historical prison aspect might be more for adults, the overall atmosphere is welcoming. The excellent restaurant can cater to family dining needs, making it a convenient and enjoyable part of your Turku itinerary. It's a unique blend of history and modern amenities that can appeal to everyone.
💰 Budget Travelers
While the hotel and restaurant offer premium experiences, simply exploring the public areas, enjoying the panoramic river views, and letting children play at the free playground provides a rich experience without spending a euro. You can enjoy the atmosphere and the stunning vistas as a free activity.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Enjoy a cocktail at the stylish bar or indulge in an excellent dinner at the on-site restaurant, savoring the high-quality cuisine with stunning views over the Aura River. The combination of historical intrigue, modern luxury, and beautiful scenery makes it a memorable destination for a romantic escape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Fascinating History of Kakolanmäki
Preserving the Past, Embracing the Future
During the transition period between the prison's closure and its full renovation, there was a unique window of opportunity to experience the site in its raw, post-incarceration state. Today, the renovation has masterfully blended modern comfort with historical integrity. Some rooms still feature original fittings like bars, offering a tangible connection to the past, while others are completely modernized. This thoughtful approach ensures that the unique atmosphere of the former prison is not lost, but rather enhanced by its new purpose.
Key Takeaway: The historical significance of Kakolanmäki is a major draw, offering a unique narrative that sets it apart from typical tourist spots. Understanding this history enriches the visitor experience.
Experiencing Kakolanmäki with Family
The free funicular (Funikulaari) is another highlight for families. The ride itself is an exciting adventure for kids, and the panoramic views it offers are captivating for all ages. It's an easy and enjoyable way to reach the hilltop without strenuous walking, which is often a plus when traveling with children.
While the historical prison aspect might spark curiosity, the focus for families is on the accessible public spaces, the playground, and the funicular. The excellent restaurant also provides a pleasant dining experience for families, with high-quality food that appeals to various tastes.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit