Southwest Finland

Southwest Finland is a region in the country's south with diverse landscapes of lakes, forests, and a rocky coastline. The area is crossed by rivers and offers a mix of green forest spaces and waterways that shape daily life.

The region was the first settlement area for Swedish colonists in Finland during the 12th and 13th centuries. Turku became their principal center and seat of power.

The region maintains bilingual traditions, with both Finnish and Swedish as official languages in many communities. This linguistic diversity shapes daily life and local customs across the territory.

The region is easily accessible from Turku and has well-developed road connections and ferry services to Sweden. Visitors should prepare for changeable weather and bring appropriate clothing.

The Turku archipelago contains over 20,000 islands, making it the world's largest island group by number of islands. This fragmented landscape creates hundreds of sheltered harbors and hidden coves that appeal especially to sailors and boaters.

Location: South-Western Finland Regional State Administrative Agency

Inception: January 1, 1994

Capital city: Turku

Shares border with: Satakunta, Kanta-Häme, Åland, Uusimaa, Pirkanmaa, international waters

Website: https://varsinais-suomi.fi/en

GPS coordinates: 60.50000,22.75000

Latest update: December 6, 2025 21:25