About Helsinki

One of the world’s northernmost capital cities, Helsinki is a lovely, lively metropolis, brimming with history, cultural attractions and stacks of superb food — whilst the natural marvels for which Finland is famed remain within easy reach. A hugely popular destination, accommodation options in the city are wide-ranging, with everything from simple hostels to elegant hotels fit for a host of budgets. Our pick of the best places to stay in Helsinki are clustered around the city centre, ideal for exploring on foot, by bicycle or using the city’s single metro line, before retreating to your groovy design hotel or indulgent heritage spot for some restorative relaxation.

Helsinki is a wonderfully attractive city to explore, with a laid-back vibe and no end of things to see and do. History buffs and culture aficionados will adore the city’s 72 museums, as well as its fascinating fusion of Russian-built architecture — reputedly influenced by that of St Petersburg — Art Nouveau detailing and classic Finnish design. There are churches aplenty to visit, with the vast domed Helsinki Cathedral on Senate Square being a particular highlight, as well as the Otherodox Uspenski Cathedral and the amazing minimalist ‘Church in the Rock’, built in the 1960s. Alternatively, unwind in a stellar sauna or shop at the city’s many chic boutiques.

Foodies will delight in the fabulously fresh fare on offer at the city’s excellent restaurants, bars and cafes, too. Think craft beers and spirits from micro-distilleries, artisanal coffees and Finnish specialties aplenty. Helsinki’s coffee culture is impressive in itself, with Finns consuming an average of 12kgs of coffee per year!

There’s also a buzzing programme of annual cultural events, from music to food festivals, and with 300 islands to discover near Helsinki, outdoor enthusiasts, foodies and culture seekers will be absolutely spoilt for choice. To top it all off, choose wisely and you’ll have one of the best places to stay in Helsinki to come back to at the end of the day. The ideal city break!

The Best Places to Stay in Helsinki

For a city break

  • Hotel Haven overlooks Helsinki harbour, whilst remaining super close to the Market Place and main sights. Sumptuous rooms blend classic elegance with contemporary Nordic touches. There’s an excellent Finnish restaurant, too.
  • Hotel Fabian offers 58 luxurious rooms decorated in soothing, monochrome tones. A trendy, cosmopolitan choice with parquet floors, great modern bathrooms and a cosy, characterful bar, just moments from the Design Museum and some of the city’s hottest restaurants.
  • Hotel F6 is a chic, family-run hotel in the heart of the city, with 66 beautifully designed rooms and suites. A hearty breakfast is served in the central courtyard during the summer months. Pick this spot for a central location and a quirky, boutique feel.
  • Original Sokos Hotel is right in the centre of town, with 206 spacious rooms decorated in a pared-back Scandinavian style. There are two trendy restaurants, a sauna and a gym. Inter-connecting rooms are great for families or groups, the location is superb and the vibe relaxed.

For a romantic stay

  • Hotel Kamp is an opulent, 19th-century property with 179 sumptuous guest rooms and suites. There’s a spa, a sauna, top-notch bars and restaurants and a classically luxurious feel. Perfect for an indulgent five-star break for two.
  • Hotel St. George is a beautifully elegant hotel in the city centre. Lovely rooms have a chic Scandinavian aesthetic, whilst there are two restaurants serving innovative Nordic cuisine, plus a fabulous spa and a great wine bar. Soothing and romantic!

For a design hotel

  • Klaus K is a 171 room design hotel with opulent interiors, a gym, a spa, an Italian restaurant and a groovy nightclub-bar. Special Rooms are extra funky, whilst Sky Suites offer sumptuous space-themed chic at the top of the hotel. Also in a great location!
  • Hotel Lilla Roberts is a trendy, Art Deco-inspired hotel in Helsinki's Design District. Stylish interiors are ultra hip and there's a fabulous restaurant specialising in Nordic cuisine. Pick this place for 1920s charm.

Prefer An Apartment Or Holiday Home?

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Visitors can fly into Helsinki Airport, located 18km north of the city, before taking the train to the centre. The city is also accessible by boat for visitors from neighbouring countries.
  • Finland is a brilliant country to discover by road. Simply contact our partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Helsinki has long, dark winters — something to consider when planning your trip! Time your visit for the summer months (June to August) to enjoy long days of sunshine, perfect for exploring the city and further afield. Visit in May or September to avoid the crowds and make the most of special accommodation offers. Book your stay well in advance if travelling during peak season, as accommodation fills up fast!

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The best hotels in Helsinki

GLO Hotel Art

Helsinki

Tucked away in Helsinki's Design District, this striking castle-like hotel blends historic charm with modern flair. Inside, guests will find stylish rooms featuring bold art and chic Scandinavian design. There's a cosy bar, delightful breakfasts, and well-equipped gym. Ideal for culture and comfort.

  • Great walks - Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of Helsinki’s picturesque parks, perfect for a peaceful afternoon stroll or a summer picnic
  • Museums - Discover Helsinki’s captivating art scene with a guided tour of the city’s vibrant galleries and contemporary art museums
  • Local exploring - In Helsinki's Design District, this Art Nouveau gem places you steps from vibrant galleries, boutiques, and buzzing cafés
  • City Style - With vaulted ceilings and sleek interiors, this historic haven melds old-world charm with modern flair
from AU$197 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Scandic Simonkentta

Helsinki

This modern Helsinki hotel blends sleek Scandinavian design with earthy tones and natural light. The spacious interiors feature minimalist décor with warm wooden accents and large windows. Guests can enjoy a rooftop bar, fitness centre, and delicious on-site dining. Perfect for a stylish city break.

  • Museums - Explore contemporary art at Amos Rex Museum, just a short walk from the hotel’s doorstep, offering immersive exhibits year-round
  • City Style - Sleek modern design, panoramic city views, and proximity to trendy boutiques and cafés make it perfect for a chic urban escape
  • Local exploring - Stay in the heart of Helsinki, just steps from Kamppi and Esplanadi, ideal for walking to cultural hotspots and hidden gems
  • Sights nearby - Experience Helsinki’s iconic Temppeliaukio Church, a short journey away, carved directly into the natural rock
from AU$199 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Hotel Fabian

Helsinki

Small, cosy and impeccably run boutique hotel in the heart of Helsinki. Luxury rooms feature clean designs, monochrome details and uber modern bathrooms. A chic bar is the ideal spot to unwind with a drink in the evening and a Finnish breakfast to die for.

  • City Style - An oh-so chic hotel just steps from Helsinki's Market Square.
  • Local exploring - Walking distance to many of the city's sights.
  • Great walks - In winter, walk, skate or ski out on the frozen Baltic.
  • Local markets - Wander through the stalls at the iconic Market Square.
from AU$227 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Folks Hotel

Helsinki

A hip lifestyle hotel located in Helsinki’s up-and-coming Konepaja district. Set amongst former industrial buildings, this 146-room property boasts stylish contemporary rooms, friendly service, an excellent restaurant and a noteworthy cocktail bar on the rooftop. Made for the young and trendy.

  • Self catering - The Common Kitchen is equipped with Smeg’s appliances, Fiskars’ utensils, and Bang & Olufsen’s Bluetooth speakers
  • City Style - Expect a hip rooftop cocktail, contemporary design, and a buzzy restaurant all in a happening part of town
  • Close to nightlife - Konepaja is filled with some of the city's most trendy bars and restaurants
  • Restaurant - Local and sustainable produce is used in the hotel's restaurant and wine bar, Albina
from AU$233 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Hotel F6

Helsinki

A chic, family-run, modern property in the heart of the city. Beautifully designed rooms are contemporary and cleanly styled yet still have a distinctly Nordic feel. A central courtyard is a little oasis during the summer months and the breakfasts are organic, plentiful and superb.

  • Local exploring - Ideally located to access many of Helsinki's main attractions.
  • Local markets - Get a sense of the city at the vibrant Market Square offering everything from fresh fish to reindeer horns.
  • Sights nearby - The Senate Square and landmark Lutheran Cathedral are just a short walk from the property.
  • Romantic
from AU$293 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Hotel Indigo Helsinki Boulevard

Helsinki

Tucked away on Helsinki's vibrant Bulevardi, this stylish boutique hotel is a hidden gem. Guests can expect modern, Scandinavian interiors with striking murals and quirky design touches. There's a well-equipped gym, chic bar, and the delightful Bröd restaurant. Comfort, creativity, and convenience.

  • Local markets - Delight in the local culinary scene with a visit to the renowned Hietalahti Market Hall, offering authentic Finnish flavours
  • Other Activities - Look inward at the stunning Kamppi Chapel of Silence, a peaceful urban sanctuary just minutes from the hotel’s doorstep
  • Sights nearby - Take a leisurely ferry ride to Suomenlinna, a UNESCO World Heritage site with historic fortresses and scenic landscapes
  • Museums - Explore the rich cultural heritage of Helsinki by visiting the nearby Museum of Finnish Architecture and Design Museum
from AU$246 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Hotel Katajanokka

Helsinki

This unique hotel is a former prison with a modern twist, in the vibrant Katajanokka district. Interiors boast exposed brick, arched windows, and Scandinavian chic decor that marries history with contemporary style. There's a lush courtyard, cosy bar, and top-notch restaurant. A sleek city stay.

  • Local exploring - Steps from the tram, with easy access to Helsinki’s vibrant city life, from the Market Square to the majestic Uspenski Cathedral
  • Weddings - Celebrate special moments in the historic red-brick chapel, with tailored events and bespoke menus ensuring an unforgettable day
  • Learning - Discover the history of a former prison on an exclusive guided house tour, exploring its original cells & intriguing stories
  • Total relaxation - Unwind in the unique, underground sauna, surrounded by the historic prison walls, offering a truly rejuvenating experience
from AU$251 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Hotel Lilla Roberts

Helsinki

A sleek Art Deco-inspired hotel in Helsinki's vibrant design district. The cool contemporary rooms and suites are black on black with bold splashes of animal print and luxurious en suites. Downstairs the restaurant serves up fantastic Nordic cuisine in a stylish setting. An achingly hip hotel.

  • Foodies - Krog Roba has gained a reputuation for excellence in pan-Nordic cuisine, and Lilla Robert's cocktails will not disappoint.
  • City Style - A chic and sophisticated hotel with innovative interiors, nestled into Helsinki’s uber cool design district.
  • Great walks - Wander the hip design district and soak up the range of galleries and museums in this vibrant creative city.
  • Romantic
from AU$252 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Solo Sokos Hotel Helsinki

Helsinki (Eteläinen Suurpiiri, 00100 )

A stylish 4-star hotel in the centre of Helsinki, offering rooms that blend Scandinavian and classic decor with balconies facing a courtyard. Boasting two fabulous restaurants, a sauna and gym. Well located near the Esplanadi Market Square; ideal for exploring Helsinki.

  • Local exploring - Set in the heart of this historic city with many of its attractions within walking distance.
  • Restaurant - Two restaurants, including a French Bistro.
  • Sights nearby - Visit the majestic Helsinki Cathedral.
  • Lively area
from AU$259 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Klaus K

Helsinki

Design hotel in central city. Rooms modelled on themes offer opulent, warm fabrics, splendid bathrooms and sitting areas. Gym and spa treatments available, modern public areas with fireplaces. Nouveau Italian cuisine in restaurant and cool nightclub. Superbly chic at good value.

  • City Style - Hailed as city's first design hotel, it's a hop and a skip to public transport routes, with nightclub and chic restaurant inside
  • Local markets - Market Square for food, handicrafts and souvenirs
  • Sights nearby - Helsinki Cathedral
  • Designer
from AU$268 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Solo Sokos Hotel Torni

Helsinki

An iconic hotel blending historic charm with modern elegance, in the heart of Helsinki. Art Deco interiors meet contemporary design, featuring original works and rich detailing throughout. There are 3 bars ranging from terrace views, to Irish pub vibes and an American Sports bar. A chic city stay.

  • Local exploring - Perfectly situated near Helsinki's top sights, this hotel offers easy access to the Design District and vibrant market squares
  • City Style - Stay amidst Art Deco elegance with panoramic city views from the iconic Ateljee Bar, blending history with contemporary flair
  • Museums - Explore Helsinki's rich history with a visit to the nearby National Museum, just a short stroll from your doorstep
  • Great walks - Take a walk to Esplanadi Park, a verdant oasis perfect for picnics and people-watching in the heart of the city
from AU$320 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Hotel Haven

Helsinki

5* hotel overlooking Helsinki harbour. Sumptuous rooms have big beds, plush fabrics and elegant writing desks. Romantic bar lounge with fireplace and good restaurant includes a definitively Finnish menu. Excellent service, central location and good value. A great stay.

  • City Style - Haven is a 10 minute walk from the historic heart of the city, and hotel itself is set inside one of the city's oldest buildings
  • Sights nearby - Take a trip to Suomenlinna, the ‘fortress of Finland' and UNSECO World Heritage Site
  • Local markets - Hotel is very close to Kauppatori Market Square
  • Views - Market Square and harbour of Helsinki
from AU$342 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Hotel St George

Helsinki

An elegant hotel offering guests chic design and wellbeing in the city centre. Impeccably designed throughout rooms are the epitome of minimalist scandi-style. The two restaurants serve innovative Nordic and produce based dishes, there's a fabulous spa and wine bar too.

  • Local exploring - Ideally located in the heart of the city with many of its attractions within walking distance.
  • Local markets - Search for hand made jewellery, reindeer horns or even fresh fish at the Market Square.
  • Great walks - Stroll through the beautiful Helsinki University Botanical Gardens.
  • Designer
from AU$405 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Hotel Kamp

Helsinki

Opulent 5* hotel in central Helsinki. Stunning guestrooms have 19th century style furniture and Imprimo Collections prints; many have lounges too. Spa, sauna and elegant lounge. Chic restaurant and brasserie offering Finnish menu. A luxurious step back in time.

  • City Style - Located near best shops, sights and restaurants in the city, the opulent hotel offers a chic and memorable Helsinki experience
  • Sights nearby - The city museum, the presidential palace, and the central rail station are all walking distance
  • Great walks - Esplanadi Park is opposite for a stroll
  • Romantic
from AU$510 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Hotel Maria

Helsinki

Helsinki’s most glamorous new addition, set on the outskirts of the city. Elegantly designed, the interiors feature opulent chandeliers, plush furnishings, and rich, warm tones. Guests can enjoy fine dining, a wellness spa, and stylish bars. The perfect blend of sophistication and comfort.

  • Spa breaks - Discover the enchanting Maria Spa, offering a traditional Finnish sauna experience combined with luxurious wellness treatments
  • City Style - Indulge yourself with sumptuously designed suites, opulent Maria Spa, & bespoke city tours that elevate luxury to an art form
  • Sights nearby - Explore the waterfront, where you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the Baltic Sea after a rejuvenating sauna session at Löyly
  • Foodies - Feast on a hyper-local, seven-course tasting menu at Lilja, featuring reindeer sirloin and cloudberry desserts
from AU$628 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia