A unique gem with multiple layers and architectural wonders, Helsinki is one of the world’s most extraordinary cities. Finland’s beautiful and intriguing capital is filled with all the usual Nordic treasures such as contemporary architecture, a thriving art and culture scene, world-famous design, vibrant neighborhoods and restaurants specializing in locally sourced, seasonal and foraged ingredients.
Other reasons to visit include its lively bars and nightclubs, its very special sea-facing landscape, the incredible ‘Rock Church‘, its many independent boutique shops and craft workshops, interesting museums, its progressive eco and vegan scene, the Art Noveau buildings and very impressive food markets.
In such a city you know they’ll have some equally exceptional places to stay, from high-design boutiques to sleek and modern, here are the best cool and unusual hotels in Helsinki, Finland (in no particular order, they’re all very special!)…
1. The Folks Hotel Konepaja – an urban, hip and unique hotel perfect for partying Millenials and Gen Zs surrounded by trendy restaurants and bars
Emanating a sense of urban roughness courtesy of the surrounding area, the central location of the Folks Hotel is extremely popular amongst families with children, as well as business travellers.
Key to the hotel’s ethos, the staff are committed to being environmentally responsible, which manifests itself in the form of 100% renewable energy and a keen eye on the UN’s sustainable development goals.
The hotel boasts several unique paintings by Ville Leino, who is a strong part of Finnish folk culture. His works have been immortalized in the form of decorative pillows.
Laura Itkonen, a designer and artist who focuses on architectural ceramics and sculptural utility, has designed and executed ceramic murals for 47 rooms, inspired by both the urban architecture of the area, and the historical buildings in the Konepaja. Easily one of the coolest hotels in Helsinki!
2. Hotel F6 – a fun, quirky-chic, Instagrammable boutique hotel featuring a tranquil courtyard and located in the heart of the city center
Hotel F6, a converted government ministry building, sets a new standard for independent boutique hotels in Helsinki. The breezy feel of the tastefully furnished, spacious reception area puts guests at ease on arrival.
The outdoor terrace area in the hexagonal courtyard is decked out in a Moroccan riad style, and the 66 rooms all boast plush beds, elegant wooden floors, and complimentary bathrobes.
Some rooms are approached via the terrace, whilst others overlook the beautiful courtyard from French-style balconies. Cheerful greetings on arrival include an introduction to Runar, the hotel dog. Easy-going, amiable service is the successful aim of the hotel.
To book, check prices or availability for Hotel F6
3. Clarion Hotel Helsinki – a vibrant, modern and lively hotel featuring a rooftop pool and Skyroom Bar
This modern, chic hotel towers over the city from a refurbished warehouse. Its 16 floors boast 425 guestrooms, 15 meeting spaces, and a popular Kitchen & Table restaurant.
All guestrooms at this chic boutique hotel are stylishly decorated with designer furniture, and a huge emphasis on comfort. From floor-to-ceiling windows to a rich breakfast table, the modernized rooms are perfect for couples, whole families, and solo travellers.
At the top of the tower, breathtaking views can be enjoyed in all three directions. There is a swimming pool, heated all year round, next to two saunas and a gym. All topped with inspiring downtown views.
4. Scandic Paasi – a hip, quirky and Instagrammable hotel that is a favorite for a “home away from home” stay
The modern and brightly coloured local-history design theme of Scandic Paasi provides a distinctly cheerful and individual character, making the hotel stand out from the Scandic family to which it belongs.
Decorated in snazzy designs, the hotel pays homage to the colourful history of this salt-of-the-earth Helsinki district. The modernity of the interior, with brightly striped coloured ceilings in the lobby, is in perfect contrast with the neighbouring granite exteriors.
All rooms are furnished with modern Finnish design, with themes varying from ‘Leisure’ and ‘Conscious’ to ‘Spectacular’. Tucked away in a quiet leafy square within the working class districts of Hakaniemi and trendy Kallio, many tram lines and bus routes pass close by to the hotel, and the botanical gardens are just across the bay.
To book, check prices or availability for Scandic Paasi
5. Hotel U14, Autograph Collection – an eco-friendly, trendy boutique hotel providing complimentary bikes for guests to explore the city
Steps away from the beautiful Esplanadi Park and Market Square, Hotel U14 offers a contemporary, boutique experience, bolstered by its inspiring décor, cosy ambience, and upscale amenities.
Featuring 117 rooms, a joyous restaurant, a distinctive cocktail bar, a sauna and a gym, the hotel creates a truly social place to meet, mingle, experiment, and enjoy.
The restaurant, Version, is a lively all-day eatery and bar, with Californian-influenced dishes. The alluring interiors boast well-appointed details, and a lush glass roof garden setting, in which to wine and dine. The hotel is also a forerunner in Helsinki’s sustainability measures.
6. Hotel AX – a new, art and design hotel where guests can experience the Helsinki culture
A place for relaxing and taking inspiration from bespoke design, Hotel AX is a completely new kind of hotel. It is the gateway to a tremendous cultural experience, and a totally diverse world, suffused by gorgeous artwork.
The hotel’s restaurant is an urban meeting place which provides both classic and modern dishes, and boldly combines spices and flavours from across the globe.
Here, it is not just a place to tickle the taste buds, but also to get lost in the art that surprises, delights, and arouses emotions. The well-appointed guestrooms all contain an eclectic twist, through their tailored décor and furnishings.
To book, check prices or availability for Hotel AX
7. Marski by Scandic – a quirky and stylish lifestyle hotel filled with urban buzz partying perfect for Millennials and Gen Zs
Marski by Scandic crowns a perfect hotel vacation. It is an award-winning, vibrant city hotel featuring an eclectic Finnish twist in the heart of downtown Helsinki.
An experiential visit is guaranteed here, due to the hotel’s fascinating décor, the atmospheric restaurant and bar, and the versatile events spaces.
All guestrooms are uniquely decorated with a timeless interior and decked out with double-thick mattresses, and Marski’s own high-quality bath products.
The modern, bright lighting and well-appointed colour scheme make for a lush ambience to accompany a blissful night’s sleep. The hotel rooms can easily accommodate a larger group of friends or a family.
8. Solo Sokos Hotel Helsinki – a sleek, charming and urban hotel perfect for partying Millennials and Gen Zs
Exuding tremendous character, Solo Sokos was built in 1931 as Helsinki’s tallest building and retains many charming Art details.
These include a rotunda skylight in the reception, a tight spiral staircase to the tower-top Atelier bar and terrace, and an original ‘cage lift’.
The guestrooms are decorated in bright, light tones, and offer breathtaking city views. The Art Nouveau theme features in the wallpaper motifs and furniture of the Kylikki wing, which actually predates the main hotel.
In the clean-tiled bathrooms, you will find Thierry Mugler bath products, and the bedrooms feature memory foam mattresses and a selection of well-appointed pillows. Furthermore, the hotel’s bars are some of the best-known in Helsinki.
9. Hotel Mestari – a new, stylish and elegant hotel where guests can indulge in a unique dining experience
Boasting a cosy atmosphere, delicious Pinchas, and a welcome toast, Hotel Mestari will be opening in May. The tasteful décor and thoughtfully-appointed furnishings offer a masterful experience.
The hotel’s sauna exudes opulence and luxury, and is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The sauna menu is crowned by relaxation and is connected to a lounge where guests can cool off and enjoy delicious food and drinks.
In the fiery heart of Hotel Mestari, the Latin Bistro & Bar Maestro 51 combines the bewildering sophistication of the North with the courage and passion of the South.
To book, check prices or availability for Hotel Mestari
10. Hotel Haaga Central Park – a contemporary wellness hotel ideal for those who would enjoy a relaxing and refreshing stay
Designed for people who value the true art of urban exploration whilst wanting to relax and live comfortably, this independent and unique wellness hotel by the Central Park is the perfect spot of respite.
After a hard day at work, or hours exploring this wonderful, historic city, the hotel’s spa, Finnish sauna, and the longest hotel pool in the city are ready to serve guests. All guestrooms boast warm tones and extensive amenities, inviting guests to relax amongst the high-quality bedding.
The restaurant’s dining philosophy is based on Scandinavian pureness and freshness, whilst the menu includes international portions with a lovely Nordic twist. Outdoor maps, bikes, and Nordic walking poles are available at the hotel.
11. Scandic Simonkenttä – a trendy, cool and bright hotel with magnificent views overlooking the city center
Here we have a modern city centre hotel, located in Kampi, arguably the best location in Helsinki. The modern, commodious guestrooms have everything you need and want, including wonderful city views.
Guests can choose their room from a comprehensive selection, based on the amenities they desire, such as bathtubs, saunas, or cosy balconies.
The hotel’s restaurant ‘Más’ is a relaxed meeting place, serving both locally and internationally inspired dishes. The hotel further boasts two bars, including a rooftop bar and terrace.
The shopping centres of Kampi are located next to the hotel, with easy access via the inner corridor, and the city’s attractions, museums and theatres are only a short walk away.
12. Original Sokos Hotel Presidentti Helsinki – an upscale, themed and eco-friendly hotel steps away from the best shopping and cultural attractions
Showcasing Finnish phenomena in an innovative way, this wonderfully revamped hotel greets guests with a Kultaranta room, Midsummer flowers on pillowcases, to deer shelves in the lobby.
The hotel is also a very diverse event venue, perfect for exclusive weddings, meetings, and exhibitions. Tasty meals with Finnish ingredients feature at the hotel’s restaurant Bistro Manu, which serves guests with a masterly touch.
The hotel is located next to the Kamppi Shopping Centre, close to Parliament House, with quick access to local cultural events, shopping, and work meetings.
This hotel will be the perfect spot for those wishing to embark on an experience-rich holiday, a pleasant business trip, or an epic night of fine dining.
13. Hotel Klaus K – one of the first design hotels in Helsinki with a modern an upscale interior inspired by the national epic Kalevala
The aim to create an authentic, individual, modern living atmosphere with accommodating and discreet service is largely successful at Hotel Klaus K.
The design theme, combined with references to the Kalevala (Finland’s national epic poem), adds to the character. The beds in the sumptuous and imaginative Sky Lofts feature high-quality mattresses and iPhone-television links. All bathrooms are shiny, clean, and modern.
Fresh, healthy local ingredients, including juices, cheese, cold cuts and house-made bread, feature in an appetising breakfast served in the lounge restaurant area. Located on the edge of Helsinki’s design district at the eastern end of the Bulevardi, guests can enjoy beautiful walks to Helsinki’s top attractions.
To book, check prices or availability for Hotel Klaus K
14. VALO Hotel & Work Helsinki – a contemporary, chic and serene hotel that allows business guests to enjoy a rejuvenating stay
Connecting a hotel and office within the same premises, hotel VALO is an innovation of the world’s happiest nation, and takes real estate responsibility to a whole new level.
VALO is a warm and cosy hotel for both business travellers and tourists, and echoes an ethos surrounding both community spirit and responsibility.
Boasting a modern and stylish office and coworking space for companies with flexible space requirements, VALO invests in diversity, as well as sociality, strict focus, and cooperation.
Thanks to these innovative facilities and services, VALO solves huge social problems. Great meetings and events here are much more than just beautiful and versatile spaces, with easy booking, modern technology, and a great service to support your wellness expectations.
15. Hotel Helka – a unique, stylish and chic hotel offering guests complimentary Scandinavian-style buffet breakfasts
Founded by one of the oldest women’s organizations in Finland (YWCA of Finland) in the late 1920’s, Hotel Helka was originally a safe haven for women, boasting a bakery, shop, café, and laundry room. As the world changed, so did YWCA, and this women’s sanctuary became Hotel Helka.
The hotel has experienced a lot! Playing ‘Hotel Budapest’ in Gorky Park, and featuring on Finnish television in 2015, the hotel has taken inspiration from its past to form this modern masterpiece.
The stylish interior is decorated with carefully chosen Finnish design classics such as Alvar Aalto and Artek, to name a few. The hotel’s 151 rooms across 5 floors combine design and functionality in a discrimination-free zone.
This hotel strives for good on a larger scale, and continuously addresses profits from its operations, towards empowering girls and women of all ages around the world.
To book, check prices or availability for Hotel Helka
16. Lapland Hotels Bulevardi – an upscale and lavish hotel ideal for a couple’s romantic getaway
Lapland Hotels Bulevardi brings Nordic well-being to an urban environment. It creates a special harmony in the rooms, which recounts stories from the extremes and beauties of nature.
The interior is stylish, yet without futile fuss. Untouched nature and its clear, clean waters have always been the cornerstones of Nordic wellbeing – The soft steams of this hotel offer a novel relaxation, and are the source of purity of mind, body, and soul.
The hotel’s Kultá kitchen boasts a modern a la carte menu, bound by passion and northern roots. Beloved ingredients such as reindeer and elk meat, burn clearing turnips, and whitefish, are cooked on an open fire using a coal grill.
The majestic and beautiful north is deeply rooted into the core of the hotel’s restaurant.
17. Scandic Grand Central Helsinki – a classic, fancy and historic hotel where guests can enjoy a peaceful stay whilst admiring unique views of the city
Combined with a relaxed atmosphere, the décor of timeless elegance and the classic Art Nouveau style offers a first-class vacation experience.
This grand hotel has almost 500 timelessly stylish, charming rooms, each boasting unique views of either the National Theatre, the Ateneum Art Museum, the beautiful courtyard, or the green Kaisaniemi Park.
The hotel’s onsite restaurant evokes a warm, hospitable ambience, and the Grand Ballroom banquet hall offers a unique setting for both small and large events. Local and long-distance trains, as well as the metro, stop right next to the hotel, and the connections to the airport are top-notch.
18. Hotel Katajanokka, Helsinki, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel – a chic, historic and quirky hotel located near to the sea
Hotel Katajanokka is now a Tribute Portfolio hotel. It has a refreshingly authentic, welcoming character, belying its historic function as a 19th-century jail.
The prison theme layout, with the bars across room windows, and the original stairways, does not compromise on comfort. The ‘jail’ concept is unobtrusive and adds a genuine, quirky charm.
Peace and quiet are among the advantages of those thick prison walls! Katajanokka is a quiet but charming residential area, as the enchanting art nouveau Jugenstil buildings and the onion spires of the Orthodox cathedral are on your doorstep, and the sea is very close!
19. GLO Hotel Art – a charming and unique hotel hosted in a stone castle that perfectly blends history with modern day elegance
The carved granite arch and heavy ornate wooden main door are typical of the National Romantic style of the late 19th/early 20th centuries and rather unique for a Helsinki hotel.
GLO Hotel Art’s modern furnishings sit very well in the whimsical, mock-Medieval setting, so it is no surprise that this hotel has been tagged as Helsinki’s primary ‘Design Hotel’.
The guestrooms are in a modern annexe adjacent to the granite fortress at the main entrance, and all comprise smart, comfortable en-suite rooms and a cosy ambience, in keeping with the ‘design hotel’ tag.
The hotel’s bar, which also serves snacks, is nestled in the atmospheric Art Nouveau reception area, whereas the kitchen is located in the cellar and is open for a healthy buffet breakfast daily.
To book, check prices or availability for GLO Hotel Art
20. Hotel Rivoli Jardin – an elegant boutique hotel located in a quiet courtyard within walking distance of the city center
A pearl in the heart of Helsinki, Hotel Rivoli is tucked away in a quaint inner courtyard, within the elegant city centre. The refurnished rooms, and the suite which boasts a sauna, jacuzzi, and balcony, feature magnificent views over the Helsinki rooftops.
A mere block away from the classy shopping streets, the North and South Esplanades, and Market square, a short walk takes you directly to all of the city’s gems.
Hotel Rivoli combines a comfortable terrace with a relaxing sauna experience, which is covered by a liquor license. Drinks, snacks, and dishes can be pre-ordered, and the staff are always on hand to cater to guests’ needs.
My first true adventure began as a six month voyage around South East Asia as a fresh faced backpacker and ever since I’ve lived a semi nomadic existence, clocking up visits to over 40 countries. I’m a lover of US Road Trips, deserted beaches bathed in warm glow of a sunset, Cuban mojitos, travel destinations far away from the tourist crowds and all things Scandinavian – from cloudberry liquors to Nordic noirs. When not wandering the world and running Global Grasshopper, you’ll find me walking my rescued Greek street dog in leafy South West London, strolling around the Brighton Lanes on random day trips, hunting for photogenic landscapes or daydreaming about my favourite places; Havana, Copenhagen, Italy, Laos, California and the surreally beautiful landscapes of a wintry Iceland.
