Best hotels in Helsinki

Hotel Kämp, Helsinki

Hotel Kämp is the undisputed grand dame of Helsinki. First opening its doors in 1887, it was designed by the acclaimed architect Theodor Höijer and quickly became the cultural heart of the city. It holds the distinction of being the first hotel in Finland to feature an elevator, marking the arrival of modern continental luxury in the capital.

“The local Kamp hotel group has a property to suit most design-minded travelers, from the flagship Hotel Kamp, with 179 luxurious rooms and suites beside the grand Esplanadi park, to the Hotel Fabian, with 58 cozy rooms and a more contemporary style.”

Featured in 36 Hours in Helsinki by The New York Times.

Klaus K Hotel, Helsinki

Klaus K Hotel, located on Bulevardi in central Helsinki, is widely celebrated as Finland’s first true design hotel. Opened in 2005, it resides within a historic building that originally served as the Hotel Klaus Kurki in 1938. The hotel’s distinct character is deeply rooted in the *Kalevala*, Finland’s national epic, with interior themes exploring emotional contrasts like passion, desire, and envy.

“Independent design hotel Klaus K has a theme of Finnish national epic Kalevala quotes throughout, and space-conscious architecture. Contemporary ‘Sky Loft’ rooms offer access to the roof terrace; some also come with balconies.”

Hotel St. George, Helsinki

Hotel St. George is a stunning luxury hotel in central Helsinki, situated right across from the tranquil Old Church Park. Housed in a majestic building with roots dating back to the 1840s, the property is a masterpiece of Nordic architecture. The iconic section was completed in 1890 by architect Onni Tarjanne, who is perhaps best known for designing the Finnish National Theatre.

“The building is magnificent: a former printing and publishing house from the 1920s. It was reborn as a hotel in 2018, thanks to the homegrown Kamp group, which has a collection of smart hotels in the city.”

Hotel Haven, Helsinki

Hotel Haven is a sophisticated boutique retreat overlooking Helsinki’s South Harbour. It famously occupies the historic Sundman’s building, which dates back to the 1820s and stands as the second-oldest stone structure in the city. Originally built by Captain G.W. Sundman, the property still preserves five protected living spaces that offer a rare glimpse into the life of a 19th-century Helsinki merchant.

“Haven’s prime harborside location and luxury amenities place it among Helsinki’s finest hotels, and prominent guests have included Kylie Minogue and the Dalai Lama. Even Superior rooms have a second TV in the bathroom, in addition to the larger Bang & Olufsen set with nearly 100 channels in the bedroom, and stylish-yet-cozy furnishings.”

Hotel Fabian, Helsinki

Hotel Fabian is a charming boutique hotel tucked away on a quiet street in the heart of Helsinki. Originally built in 1936 and designed by architect Bertel Liljeqvist, the building has a varied past; it once served as a home for seamen and later as an office building before being transformed into the cozy 58-room sanctuary it is today.

“Fabian Hotel, tucked into a courtyard in the heart of Helsinki, is a little place with a big heart which is all about service and details. What it lacks in views, it makes up for in snug, elegant interiors.”

Hotel F6, Helsinki

Hotel F6 is a delightful family-owned boutique property tucked away on Fabianinkatu, just steps from Helsinki’s famous Esplanadi Park. Its name is a simple nod to its address at Fabianinkatu 6, yet the hotel is anything but ordinary. Formerly home to the Ministry of the Environment, the building was transformed into a hotel in 2016, with Puroplan leading the design to cleverly repurpose the historic structure into a warm, inviting space.

“Stunningly designed, this 2016 hotel ranges around an internal courtyard (some rooms have direct access and patios); superior rooms come with French balconies. All 66 rooms are spacious (even the smallest are 27 sq metres) and stylishly furnished with cushion-strewn sofas.”

Hilton Hotel Kalastajatorppa, Helsinki

Hilton Helsinki Kalastajatorppa, known affectionately as "Fisherman’s Croft," has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. What began as a humble fishing hut and later a summer restaurant grew into a prestigious coastal landmark. The hotel’s architecture evolved over decades, with the main buildings completed in 1969 and 1975 by architects Markus Tavio and Einari Teräsvirta. It has served as a prestigious stage for global diplomacy, hosting numerous world leaders and historic international conferences.

“From a location in the plush western Munkkiniemi neighborhood, a 15- to 25-minute taxi ride from the city center, this hotel routinely hosts statesmen and celebrities. The best rooms are in the seaside annex, but all are large and airy, with clear pine and birch-wood paneling.”

Featured as Fodor’s Choice in Helsinki.

Hilton Hotel Strand, Helsinki

The Hilton Helsinki Strand is a striking waterfront hotel that has been a landmark in the city since its completion in 1988. Built with elegant terra-cotta marble and granite, the structure is defined by its impressive central atrium, which links every floor into a cohesive, light-filled space. Its unique architectural design allows the building to open up toward the sea, offering guests spectacular views of the Gulf of Finland and the surrounding historic skyline.

“With tastefully furnished rooftop saunas; large, crisply decorated rooms; bathrooms with heated floors; and even a car-wash service in the basement garage, this hotel pampers you.”

Featured as Fodor’s Choice in Helsinki.

Hotel Indigo Boulevard, Helsinki

Hotel Indigo Helsinki-Boulevard is a stylish boutique hotel that opened in 2015, perfectly capturing the spirit of the Finnish capital. Located on the historic Bulevardi street, it acts as a bridge between the elegant Esplanadi district and the western industrial area, reflecting the city’s dual nature. The building itself is an impressive example of modern, eco-conscious conversion, holding a gold-level LEED certification.

“Opened in 2015, the 120-room Hotel Indigo Helsinki is in the central Design District and features made-in-Helsinki details ranging from decorative murals painted by local artists to the Pelago bikes available for guests to ride around town.”

Featured in 36 Hours in Helsinki by The New York Times.

GLO Hotel Art, Helsinki

GLO Hotel Art is a fascinating blend of history and modernity, housed within a striking Art Nouveau "castle" that dates back to 1903. Originally built for an architecture competition, this majestic stone building stands out in the heart of Helsinki with its bold central tower and intricate details, making it one of the most distinctive structures in the area.

“On a quiet side street, this small luxury hotel distinguishes itself through a rare combination of character, consistency, and service. The front section is a handsome 1903 stone castle with wood-beam, medieval-style restaurants, lounges, conference rooms, and a cavernous banquet hall.”

Featured as Fodor’s Choice in Helsinki.