Both languages can be heard in the streets and this gives Turku an atmosphere typical of coastal towns in Finland. The castle and the cathedral in Turku are two of the oldest and most important historic buildings in Finland. In most towns and cities in Finland a student card allows concessionary tickets to museums, theatres, concert halls, and to various public events. Turku is one of the six Christmas cities in the world. The Christmas Declaration of Peace from Turku, a tradition from the 17th century, is proclaimed via satellite across the world.
Sports is a national pastime, both in winter and summer.