Helsinki, Finland’s seaside capital, combines Nordic elegance with sea views, cutting-edge design, and a vibrant cultural pulse. This walkable city is perfect for hotel stays, offering everything from sleek luxury hotels and chic design boutiques to budget-friendly options and welcoming family stays. For a central base close to top sights, Kamppi and Kluuvi are ideal. For a more laid-back, creative atmosphere, Kallio delivers charm and value just a short tram ride from the centre.

Helsinki is a relaxed yet vibrant city that offers something for everyone, whether you’re into history, architecture, food, or the great outdoors. Its unique blend of Russian-influenced buildings, Art Nouveau flourishes, and sleek Finnish design creates a fascinating backdrop for exploration. Highlights like the grand Helsinki Cathedral, the striking Uspenski Cathedral, and the extraordinary Church in the Rock are must-sees, while the city’s saunas and stylish boutiques offer a chance to unwind in true Finnish style.

Food lovers will be in their element here, thanks to Helsinki’s thriving culinary scene, where fresh local ingredients, craft brews, and rich coffee culture take centre stage. With a packed calendar of festivals and easy access to over 300 nearby islands, the city is alive with energy all year round. Whether you're strolling through museums or sipping artisanal coffee by the sea, Helsinki makes for an unforgettable 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.
• Scandic Simonkentta- Sleek Scandinavian design, a rooftop bar, and floor-to-ceiling windows make this a chic Helsinki base. Located in the heart of the city, it’s ideal for style lovers, culture seekers, and urban explorers alike.
• Classic meets contemporary at the elegant Solo Sokos Hotel Helsinki, with spacious rooms, private saunas, and standout dining—all steps from Helsinki’s top sights and shopping streets.

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 luxury

• The Hotel Maria dazzles with history and high design. Housed in restored 19th-century buildings, it’s now a stylish sanctuary with a ballroom, bar, spa, and boutique—all infused with modern art, lighting, and architectural flair.

For a boutique hotel

• Hotel Indigo Helsinki Boulevard- Hidden on lively Bulevardi, this design-led boutique hotel blends bold murals with sleek Scandinavian style. Expect a cool gym, buzzing bar, and Bröd, the standout bistro. It’s creative, cosy, and right where Helsinki happens.

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.
• GLO Hotel Art- Step into stylish serenity in Helsinki’s Design District. This historic hotel fuses bold art, Scandi design, and cosy comforts. With a gym, standout breakfasts, and vibrant culture at your doorstep, it’s a perfect urban escape.
• Industrial cool meets Nordic comfort at The Folks Hotel, a hip hangout in buzzing Konepaja. Think rooftop cocktails, sleek rooms, and a wellness focus—all set in a converted red-brick space near galleries, bars, and excellent transport. Ideal for modern explorers.
• Stay somewhere unforgettable at Hotel Katajanokka —this former prison is now a sleek design hotel with vaulted ceilings, cosy rooms, and a lush courtyard. Just minutes from major sights, it’s history, charm, and comfort all wrapped into one unique city base.
• Solo Sokos Hotel Torni, an icon in central Helsinki, this hotel dazzles with Art Deco elegance, skyline views, and three lively bars. Moments from top sights, galleries, and green parks—this is your stylish gateway to city life, culture, and nightlife.

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!

Still not sure?

• See our list of all the best places to stay in Lapland.
• Expand your search to include all our recommendations for the best places to stay in Finland.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.