Turku Prison Museum - Old factory building in center of City of Oulu.
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Turku Prison Museum

4.5
·1k reviews·Turku, Finland

Step into an 1800s pharmacy and 1700s home in Turku. Engage your senses with historical remedies and daily life.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal

CrowdLow
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Turku Prison Museum - Old factory building in center of City of Oulu.

Turku Prison Museum

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into an 1800s pharmacy and 1700s home in Turku. Engage your senses with historical remedies and daily life.

4.5
(1k reviews)

"Like stepping into Diagon Alley, a magical world of spells and potions!"

Vertical photo
TIP

⏳ Allow 1-3 Hours

This charming museum is small but packed with history. Perfect for a focused visit without feeling rushed.

👃 Engage Your Senses

Don't miss the interactive scent tests and herb room – it's a unique way to experience history!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Old Pharmacy

The Old Pharmacy

Main exhibition hall

Discover the authentic 1800s pharmacy, complete with original items and a fascinating look at historical medicinal practices.

Pharmacist's Residence

Pharmacist's Residence

Upstairs living quarters

Step into the living spaces of the pharmacist's family and experience how they lived in the 1700s and 1800s.

Sensory Experience Room

Sensory Experience Room

Dedicated interactive area

Engage your sense of smell with historical herbs and participate in scent tests, bringing history to life.

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Planning Your Visit

Step Back in Time

Explore a 1700s wooden house showcasing a 1800s pharmacy and pharmacist's home. Perfect for a 1-3 hour visit, it offers a glimpse into local history and science. Ideal for families and those interested in historical remedies.

Engage Your Senses

This museum is highly interactive, allowing visitors to smell historical herbs and even participate in scent tests. It's a unique sensory experience that brings the past to life, making it engaging for all ages, especially children who love the 'magical' potion-making feel.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more personal
Crowd
Low
When
During holidays
Why
Special family activities
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Fun things to do?

⏳ Allow 1-3 Hours

This charming museum is small but packed with history. Perfect for a focused visit without feeling rushed. Reddit

👃 Engage Your Senses

Don't miss the interactive scent tests and herb room – it's a unique way to experience history! Reddit

reddit.com

Turku prison hotel

☕ Enjoy the Cafe

The on-site cafe offers authentic and delicious cakes, a perfect treat after your visit. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Kid-Friendly Fun

Children love the 'magical' potion-making feel and interactive elements, reminiscent of Harry Potter. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

⏳ Allow 1-3 Hours

This charming museum is small but packed with history. Perfect for a focused visit without feeling rushed. Reddit

👃 Engage Your Senses

Don't miss the interactive scent tests and herb room – it's a unique way to experience history! Reddit

☕ Enjoy the Cafe

The on-site cafe offers authentic and delicious cakes, a perfect treat after your visit. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Kid-Friendly Fun

Children love the 'magical' potion-making feel and interactive elements, reminiscent of Harry Potter. Reddit

💰 Affordable Entry

Tickets are very reasonably priced at around 7€, making it a great value for an enriching experience. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Turku Prison Museum for its fascinating historical exhibits, particularly the authentic 1800s pharmacy and pharmacist's home. The interactive sensory elements and family-friendly atmosphere are frequently highlighted as major draws, making it an engaging and educational experience for all ages. While small, its charm and affordability make it a highly recommended stop.

"A beautiful and fascinating historical museum located inside the historic Turku pharmacy building and the home of the old pharmacist family.
This is an opportunity to enter a chapter in local history. The exhibitions and activities at the place change throughout the year according to the holidays.
There is a cafe in the complex that is the most authentic and with the most delicious cakes in the city!
The museum is accessible and adapted for children who can see, smell, and touch the history of science. During the holidays there are lovely activities for the whole family.

For us, it has become a place to visit whenever the children want to feel like they are in Diagon Alley in the magical world of spells and potions of Harry Potter... 🗝🧙‍♂️👳‍♀️🪔🔮🫕🕯🧝‍♂️🧙‍♀️🪄✨️✨️"

Einat Schreibman Fainholtz

"Lovely little place, where you can learn a bit about past medicinal uses and how people lived in the past! I really liked the smelling test as well and the herb room 😁
Had a cafe closeby and ticket prices were good!"

Maraboop

"Smallish, but quite interesting! Worth a visit and not necessary to spend all day. If you have 1-3h to spare this is a good choice. Nice café too."

Wiley E. Coyote

What People Like

Authentic historical pharmacy
Interactive sensory exhibits
Family-friendly atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can be small for some

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is centrally located in Turku. Public transport options are readily available, and it's often within walking distance of other city attractions. Check local bus routes for the most convenient access. Reddit

Parking availability can vary in the city center. It's advisable to check for nearby public parking garages or street parking regulations before your visit. Reddit

The museum is described as accessible and adapted for children, suggesting good accessibility. However, it's always best to confirm specific details regarding wheelchair access with the museum directly. Reddit

The museum is a great addition to a day exploring Turku's historical center. Consider pairing it with nearby historical sites or enjoying lunch at one of the recommended local eateries. Reddit

Yes, the museum is located in a central area, making it easily accessible on foot from many points in Turku's city center. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry tickets are very affordable, typically around 7€, offering excellent value for the historical experience provided. Reddit

Advance booking is generally not required for this museum, but it's always a good idea to check their official website for any specific advisories, especially during peak seasons or holidays. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, especially with seasonal changes and holiday events. It's recommended to check the museum's official website for the most up-to-date information on their operating times. Reddit

While specific discount information isn't widely detailed, the general admission price is already very affordable. Check with the museum for potential group rates or special offers. Reddit

The museum is noted for being family-friendly with activities for children. Inquire directly with the museum about any family ticket options or packages. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore a 1700s wooden house, including an 1800s pharmacy and the pharmacist's family home. Interactive exhibits, scent tests, and historical displays offer a deep dive into local history and science. Reddit+1

Absolutely! Children often find the museum engaging, comparing it to a 'magical world' of potions and spells. Interactive elements and historical smells make it fun. Reddit

Most visitors find that 1 to 3 hours is sufficient to explore the museum thoroughly and enjoy the cafe. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended, especially if you can get a guide in English. They are knowledgeable and enhance the experience significantly. Reddit

The museum features many original items from the pharmacy and the pharmacist's home, offering an authentic glimpse into past life and practices. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is an authentic cafe on-site that is highly praised for its delicious cakes and pleasant atmosphere. Reddit+1

The cafe is particularly known for its cakes, offering a delightful treat for visitors. It's a great spot to relax after exploring the museum. Reddit

Turku has many excellent dining options. For recommendations on good lunch and dinner places, exploring the city center near the museum will yield many choices. Reddit

Typically, museums do not allow outside food in exhibition areas. It's best to enjoy your own food outside the museum or at the designated cafe. Reddit

Information on specific dietary options at the cafe is not widely available. It's advisable to inquire directly with the cafe staff upon arrival. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary. While some visitors have shared photos, it's always best to check for signage or ask staff about restrictions to ensure you're following museum guidelines. Reddit

The authentic pharmacy setup and the historical living quarters offer many visually interesting details. The overall atmosphere of the old building is very photogenic. Reddit

Visiting during quieter times, like weekday mornings, might offer better lighting and fewer people in your shots. Reddit

Generally, professional equipment and tripods are restricted in museums to protect exhibits and ensure visitor flow. Always confirm with the museum. Reddit

You can capture detailed shots of historical pharmacy items, period furniture, and the unique architecture of the old wooden house, offering a glimpse into the past. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Turku Prison Museum is a fantastic choice for families. Its interactive exhibits, especially the scent tests and the herb room, are designed to engage young minds and make learning fun. Children often compare the experience to a magical world of potions, making it feel like an adventure. Reddit+1

Consider visiting during holiday periods when special family activities are often organized. The museum is also noted for being accessible, ensuring a comfortable visit for everyone. Don't forget to enjoy the on-site cafe for a sweet treat after exploring the historical pharmacy and residence. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Turku Prison Museum offers exceptional value. With an entry ticket priced around 7€, it's an affordable way to immerse yourself in local history and culture. Reddit

The museum is also a great option for a shorter visit, typically requiring only 1-3 hours, which can save on time and potentially other activity costs. Combine your visit with a walk around the city center and a picnic lunch to maximize savings while still experiencing Turku's charm. Reddit

📚 History Enthusiasts

History buffs will appreciate the Turku Prison Museum for its authentic portrayal of 18th and 19th-century life in Turku. The museum's focus on a pharmacy and pharmacist's home provides a unique lens through which to view the past, highlighting the intersection of science, daily life, and domesticity. Reddit

Look for opportunities to join a guided tour, especially if an English-speaking guide is available, as they can offer deeper insights and answer specific historical questions. The presence of many original artifacts further enhances the historical authenticity of the experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through Turku's Past

The Turku Prison Museum is housed within a beautifully preserved 1700s wooden house, offering a unique portal into Turku's history. Originally a pharmacy in the 1800s, the museum now showcases not only the medicinal practices of the era but also the living quarters of the pharmacist's family. This dual focus provides a comprehensive look at daily life and the intersection of science and home in historical Turku. Visitors often remark on the authentic feel of the space, noting the presence of original items that contribute to its charm. Reddit

The museum's interactive nature is a significant draw. Unlike static displays, it encourages visitors to engage their senses, particularly through scent. The ability to smell historical herbs and participate in scent tests makes the experience remarkably immersive. This hands-on approach is especially appealing to families, with children often drawing comparisons to magical worlds of potions and spells, reminiscent of popular fantasy stories. Reddit+1

Beyond the historical exhibits, the museum complex includes a highly-rated cafe. This provides a perfect spot to relax and reflect on the historical journey, often complemented by delicious cakes. The overall experience is described as enriching, affordable, and a worthwhile stop for anyone interested in local history, science, or unique cultural experiences in Turku. Reddit+1

Engaging Young Minds with History

The Turku Prison Museum excels at making history accessible and exciting for children. The museum's design, featuring an old pharmacy and family home, naturally sparks curiosity. Visitors frequently mention how children are captivated by the interactive elements, such as the smelling tests and the herb room, which allow them to actively participate in discovering the past. Reddit+1

This interactive approach has led to comparisons with the magical world of Harry Potter, where children can imagine themselves as budding apothecaries or potion masters. The museum's staff, sometimes dressed in period clothing, further enhance this immersive atmosphere, making the historical context feel more tangible. The affordability of the entrance fee also makes it an attractive option for families looking for educational yet fun outings. Reddit

For families planning a visit, dedicating a few hours allows ample time for children to explore and engage with the exhibits without feeling rushed. The on-site cafe also offers a convenient break for snacks or a light meal, ensuring a comfortable experience for everyone. The museum's ability to blend education with entertainment makes it a standout attraction for families visiting Turku. Reddit

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