Helsinki, Finland
The 15 best boutique and luxury hotels in Helsinki
Helsinki’s most stylish and personal hotel stays
Ask a dozen people about their favourite hotel, and you’ll likely get a dozen different responses. A favourite hotel is as much of a personal preference as your favourite movie, book or singer. But in our opinion, the best hotels have a few things in common: they feel intimate and personal (regardless of size or number of rooms), they have a distinctive vibe, the staff offers superb service and the architecture and interior design are unique and full of character. We love them even more when they are deeply ingrained in the local neighbourhood and culture. Here’s our list of ten carefully crafted Helsinki boutique and luxury hotels that tell a strong story.
Overview: Helsinki’s top 15 hotels
What are the best areas to stay in Helsinki?
Helsinki, the vibrant capital of Finland, is a city of diverse neighbourhoods each offering a unique charm and character. Here are our favourite Helsinki areas – and why each holds a special place in our hearts.
Kluuvi – the urban convenience
Kluuvi, or the Central Business District, captures our love for convenience and vibrancy. We choose to stay here for the seamless blend of work and play, where coffee breaks might lead to unexpected gallery visits or historic sight explorations. It’s the pulse of Helsinki that keeps us connected and engaged, right in the heart of the action.
Kamppi – the social crossroad
We stay in Kamppi for its unbeatable mix of social and cultural encounters. The central transportation hub makes it easy to explore further afield, but it’s the unexpected joy of community events and the Kamppi Chapel’s tranquillity that make every day here unique. Kamppi is our choice for spontaneous adventures and eclectic nightlife.
Kallio – the bohemian charm
Kallio draws us with its bohemian allure and community warmth. We stay here for the vibrant life that pulses through its streets – from the eclectic bars to the bustling markets. This neighbourhood feels like a close-knit community where art and diversity are celebrated, making it a magnetic spot for creative spirits.
Kaartinkaupunki – the stylish retreat
In Kaartinkaupunki, we find ourselves surrounded by Helsinki’s finest in design and cuisine, making it our stylish retreat. We choose this area for its architectural beauty and the refined atmosphere that sweeps through the trendy cafes and boutiques. It’s where we indulge in the quieter, more stylish side of city life.
Katajanokka – the quiet haven
Katajanokka offers a peaceful escape with its historic charm and scenic waterfront views. We choose to stay here for the tranquillity that the sea brings and the stunning architecture of places like Uspenski Cathedral. It’s our serene getaway within the city, perfect for reflective walks and relaxing evenings.
Punavuori – the creative heart
Punavuori is where we immerse ourselves in Helsinki’s artistic scene. Known as the Design District, it’s our destination for inspiration and vibrant cultural engagement. We choose Punavuori for its dynamic energy, where every corner offers something new – from art galleries to fashion boutiques, ensuring a stimulating stay.
Etu-Töölö – the cultural base
Etu-Töölö attracts us with its cultural richness, hosting the National Museum and Helsinki Music Centre. We stay here to be close to Helsinki’s artistic offerings, enjoying easy access to concerts, exhibitions, and historic architecture. It’s our cultural base, where each day is an opportunity to learn and experience more of what Helsinki has to offer.
01
Hotel St. George
Although beige is the colour of choice both for its facade and in its rooms, Helsinki’s Hotel St. George is anything but, well, beige. A sophisticated, grown-up yet never boring bolthole, this luxury property, housed in a former printing and publishing house from the 1920s, captures the Finnish capital’s stylish side. Teaming up with Finnish doctor and coach Aki Hintsa, it offers St. George Care, a range of holistic services that centre around wellbeing.
Read the full article on Hotel St. George.
Hotel St. George
Yrjönkatu 13 C
Helsinki
Finland
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Photography courtesy of Hotel St. George
02
The Hotel Maria
The Hotel Maria in Helsinki, conceived by Samppa Lajunen, an illustrious former Nordic combined skier and Olympic champion, stands as a testament to luxury and elegance. Located within four historic buildings, the hotel showcases a fusion of Finnish and American design. It features 117 rooms, including 38 suites, each a sanctuary of sophistication. The culinary experiences range from the French-inspired finesse of Lilja to the relaxed ambience of the Garden Terrace. Bar Maria adds a swish of sophistication with its curated cocktails and live music. At the heart of the hotel, the Maria Spa, rooted in Finnish wellness culture, offers bespoke treatments, exemplifying Lajunen‘s commitment to excellence in every aspect of luxury hospitality.
The Hotel Maria
Mariankatu 23
Helsinki
Finland
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Photography courtesy of The Hotel Maria
03
Radisson Red Helsinki
Radisson Red Helsinki, a collaboration between Fyra design team and Anttinen Oiva Architects, brings a fresh narrative to Helsinki‘s design scene. Situated at the edge of Kaisaniemi Park, this architectural gem marries nature‘s tranquillity with urban flair. Its modernist exterior by Anttinen Oiva Architects is a standout feature, complemented by Fyra‘s masterful interior design, blending Nordic elements with the Radisson Red brand‘s global identity. The hotel‘s raw elegance is balanced with warm, dark woods, creating an inviting atmosphere. Each guest room reflects this design ethos, offering a unique blend of style and functionality; this hotel is truly a fusion of bold architecture and understated Nordic elegance.
Radisson Red Helsinki
Vuorikatu 24
Helsinki
Finland
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Photography courtesy of Radisson Red Helsinki
04
Mestari Hotel
Enjoy a masterful stay at the hip Mestari Hotel (‘mestari’ is Finnish for master) housed in the former Finnish Builders Foundations’ building in downtown Helsinki. Since its opening in 2022, the entire block has sprung to life thanks to this 237-room property and Maestro 51, its lively Latin-inspired restaurant and bar, located in the glass atrium. As this is Finland, one of the hotel’s main draws is the sauna, which can be booked for groups of six to eight people.
Mestari Hotel
Fredrikinkatu 51
Helsinki
Finland
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Photography courtesy of Mestari Hotel
05
Solo Sokos Hotel Torni
Solo Sokos Hotel Torni, built in 1931, was a pioneering hotel in many aspects. Housed in Helsinki’s first skyscraper, a rooftop bar, as well as an American-style cocktail bar with round bar counters, the hotel was a happening spot. In 2022, Hotel Torni completed a two-year revamp and enlisted the help of design studios Joanna Laajisto and Fyra to restore some of the historic property’s former pizzas and understated luxury.
Read the full article on Solo Sokos Hotel Torni.
Solo Sokos Hotel Torni
Yrjönkatu 26
Helsinki
Finland
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Photography courtesy of Solo Sokos Hotel Torni
06
Hotel Kämp
To live out your wildest princess (or prince) fantasies, check yourself into Hotel Kämp, located on Helsinki’s chicest street alongside Esplanadi park. Established in 1887, the hotel is Finland’s first and only Grand Hôtel and was originally designed by Finnish architect Carl Theodor Höijer. Hotel Kämp quickly established itself as the centre stage of the political and cultural scene of Helsinki, and historical figures such as Gustaf Mannerheim and Jean Sibelius would frequent the hotel. In 1996, the hotel went through a major restoration project to dust the hotel off and bring it back to its former glory.
Read the full article on Hotel Kämp.
Hotel Kämp
Pohjoisesplanadi 29
Helsinki
Finland
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Photography courtesy of Hotel Kämp
07
Noli Katajanokka II
In the heart of Helsinki, Noli Katajanokka II, a chic aparthotel housed in a revitalised 1929 warehouse, redefines urban hospitality. Its 226 studios, elegantly crafted by Studio Joanna Laajisto, span seven floors, each radiating contemporary style. The rooftop boasts a sauna and a terrace with captivating city views. Culinary adventures await with Mikko and Andrea‘s Noli Icons Coffee, showcasing sustainable, Finnish-Colombian coffee expertise. The wine bar, managed by the discerning Czech connoisseur Radim, features select wines from boutique producers. This spot, steps away from Helsinki‘s lively centre, merges luxury with the vibrancy of local culture, making it an unmissable destination for discerning travellers.
Noli Katajanokka II
Kanavakatu 3
Helsinki
Finland
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Photography courtesy of Noli Katajanokka
08
Hobo Helsinki
Hobo Helsinki, located in the heart of Helsinki, offers a unique blend of community, culture and urban design. Crafted by the innovative Studio Aisslinger, the hotel stands out with its edgy and vibrant interiors, reflecting the city’s dynamic spirit. With 184 rooms, each space in Hobo Helsinki is a canvas of local creativity and style. The hotel’s restaurant and bar pulse with energy, serving as a gathering spot for both guests and locals. Live concerts and pop-up clubs replace traditional hotel amenities, transforming the space into an urban cultural arena. Hobo Helsinki is a lively, ever-evolving hub of creativity and connection in the heart of the city.
Hobo Helsinki
Kluuvikatu 4
Helsinki
Finland
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Photography courtesy of Hobo Helsinki
09
Noli Katajanokka
Enjoy the comforts of home with the services of a hotel. A stylish alternative for both short and long-term stays, Noli Katajanokka lets you decide how you’d like your stay: choose a fully furnished studio or customise a lightly furnished studio with a few favourite things. Onsite, there are shared spaces for coworking, cooking, lounging, working out and even gaming. With an unbeatable location close to the waterfront and downtown Helsinki, Noli is located in a historically significant modernist and Art Nouveau building that was once the former headquarters of grocery giant Kesko.
Noli Katajanokka
Kanavakatu 1
Helsinki
Finland
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Photography courtesy of Noli Studios
10
Hotel F6
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. Guests are invited to use the hotel’s four bicycles free of charge during their stay.
Hotel F6
Fabianinkatu 6
Helsinki
Finland
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Photography courtesy of Hotel F6
11
Hotel Haven
Set in the Sundman building, the second oldest stone building in Helsinki is Hotel Haven. As its name implied, the elegant 137-room boutique property takes great pride in offering warm and relaxed service to make guests feel right at home, estimating that 30 per cent of them 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.
Hotel Haven
Unioninkatu 17
Helsinki
Finland
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Photography courtesy of Hotel Haven
12
Hotel Lilla Roberts
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.
Hotel Lilla Roberts
Pieni Roobertinkatu 1
Helsinki
Finland
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Photography courtesy of Hotel Lilla Roberts
13
Hotel Ax
Hotel Ax is like stepping into a piece of street art – lounging in it, dining in it and sleeping in it. In fact, Ax is short for ‘art experience’, and the hotel has worked closely with a number of Finnish modern artists: Stefan Lindfors, who’s been the head honcho, and Jarmo Mäkilä and Hanna Vihriälä, to name but a few. The result is bold, colourful and slightly moody and, as with any piece of expressive art, you’re bound to either love it or hate it.
Hotel Ax
Välimerenkatu 18
Helsinki
Finland
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Photography courtesy of Hotel Ax
14
Glo Hotel Art
Set in a dramatic 1900s Art Nouveau castle is Glo Hotel Art, a property with 171 rooms. If it weren’t for the contemporary furniture, Glo feels like walking onto the set of an episode of House of the Dragon with its granite walls, arches and columns. This is a prime example of the Finnish National Romantic style during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The hotel is located in the heart of Helsinki’s Design District, and the bar is a hangout for its creatives.
Glo Hotel Art
Lönnrotinkatu 29
Helsinki
Finland
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Photography courtesy of Glo Hotel Art
15
Hotel Fabian
Hotel Fabian in Helsinki, a boutique gem with 58 rooms, stands as a paragon of understated, contemporary elegance. The hotel’s design ethos marries Scandic-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, showcasing its commitment to the environment.
Hotel Fabian
Fabianinkatu 7
Helsinki
Finland
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Photography courtesy of Hotel Fabian
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