The Nordics • Stay • Stay by area: our top hotel picks in Kaartinkaupunki, Helsinki
Kaartinkaupunki, located between Helsinki’s bustling centre and the tranquil shores of the Baltic, is a district where history and modernity intertwine effortlessly. Once home to military barracks, it has evolved into one of the city’s most refined and eclectic neighbourhoods. Strolling its streets, you’ll discover a juxtaposition of elegant 19th-century architecture alongside contemporary galleries, chic cafés and boutique shops. Despite its polished exterior, Kaartinkaupunki retains an understated charm, where each corner reveals hidden courtyards, locally crafted goods and art-filled spaces.
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Designed by Finnish designer Jaakko Puro, Hotel F6 is a family-owned 76-room boutique hotel that is casual, fun and eclectic in style. The hotel bar Runar was awarded ‘best bar in Finland’ on multiple occasions and is named after Finnish architect Runar Finnilä. The herbs in the cocktails are grown by hotel owner Mia Saari in the small greenhouse found in the hotel’s courtyard. If you are in need of a convenient mode of transportation you are invited to use the hotel’s bicycles free of charge during your stay.
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Photography courtesy of Hotel F6
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Set in the Sundman building, the second oldest stone building in Helsinki is Hotel Haven. As its name implies, the elegant 137-room boutique property takes great pride in offering warm and relaxed service to make you feel right at home. Hotel Haven seems to be on to a winning concept as an estimated 30 percent are returning guests. There are two restaurants in the hotel’s courtyard, Ultima and Sue Ellen, and at Bar Haven the cocktails can be enjoyed in front of the fireplace. Hotel Haven was designed by Finnish designer Jaakko Puro.
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Photography courtesy of Hotel Haven
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You would never guess that Hotel Lilla Roberts occupies the premises of a former police station and an electrical substation. Named after its Swedish street name, the boutique hotel’s Art Deco decor is stylish, modern and sometimes a tad bit gaudy. The hotel lobby attracts a young clientele, while the restaurant Krog Roba is a bit more grownup and serves up casual Nordic fare.
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Photography courtesy of Hotel Lilla Roberts
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Hotel Fabian in Helsinki, a boutique gem with 58 rooms, stands as a paragon of understated, contemporary elegance. The hotel’s design ethos marries Scandi-chic minimalism with striking, bold accents, creating a milieu that is both modern and inviting. The room categories – Comfort, Style and Lux – cater to diverse needs, with Lux rooms offering kitchenettes for extended stays. The lobby doubles as Bar Fabian, serving an array of drinks and snacks, while the Fabbarium offers a creative space for meetings. Emphasising sustainability, Hotel Fabian proudly bears the Green Key eco-label.
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Photography courtesy of Hotel Fabian
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Bob W Kaarti is a modern accommodation located in Helsinki’s Kaartinkaupunki district. It offers 55 self catering studios and is a great way to stay if you plan to stay longer or want to prepare your own meals from time to time. It blends vintage charm with digital touches as part of its decor. The hotel emphasises sustainable design, with interiors reflecting local Helsinki architecture. Finnish artist-designed elements and vintage furniture bring unique flair to each space. Its peaceful courtyard location adds a layer of tranquillity.
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Photography courtesy of Bob W Kaarti
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Klaus K Hotel is a design-driven hotel located on Bulevardi in Helsinki. The hotel’s rooms are influenced by themes from the Finnish epic, Kalevala, such as Mystical and Desire. The interiors blend modern design with artistic elements, offering rooms like the stylish Sky Rooms and Art Suites. Dining includes Toscanini, a restaurant serving Tuscan-inspired cuisine and a rooftop Sky Terrace for drinks with views over Helsinki. The hotel also offers a private dining area for events and a gym for guests. Klaus K combines the artistic spirit of Finland with modern hospitality for a unique stay in the heart of the city.
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Photography courtesy of Klaus K Hotel
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Located near Helsinki’s vibrant Esplanadi Park and Market Square, Hotel U14 is a modern boutique hotel designed for both leisure and business travellers. Its thoughtfully curated rooms are all carefully designed and will accommodate you in great comfort. If you are so inclined, enjoy wellness amenities like a 24/7 gym and a relaxing sauna. The ground floor houses Restaurant Version, where chef Erno Kemi delivers Californian-inspired cuisine in a playful, social setting. The glass-roof garden adds a lush backdrop for meals or casual drinks.
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Photography courtesy of Hotel U14
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Bob W Koti Ullanlinna follows the Bob W koncept of providing a collection of stylish short-stay apartments, in this case located in a charming Art-Noveau building in Helsinki’s Ullanlinna district. The apartments offer a full range of amenities, making them ideal for stays from a few days to several months. Each unit features a fully equipped kitchen, washing machine, fast WiFi and smart TV. The interiors are thoughtfully designed with local art and secondhand furniture, aligning with the brand’s sustainability focus. During your stay you can enjoy added perks like yoga mats and discounted breakfasts at nearby cafés.
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Photography courtesy of Bob W Koti Ullanlinna
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