Less tourist-driven than its Scandinavian counterparts, Stockholm and Copenhagen,32 Helsinki’s appeal is the quiet kind. With architecture that blends the Brutalism and folk influences of Eastern Europe with the classicism of Western Europe, Finland is an understated design destination. The roots in furniture design and architecture run deep in this city: It’s the home to iconic design names like Alvar Aalto, Marimekko, and Eero Aarnio.
Continuing the Scandinavian stereotype, the Finnish community is similarly kind and welcoming to visitors. Rest is part of the daily routine, as is a dip in the sea or a sauna session. It’s even been said that the population consumes more coffee per capita than anywhere else in the world; they take their morning espressos and café proximity seriously. Whether you’re set on exploring the Finnish archipelago, or prefer to stick to the design district, there’s an AD-approved hotel in all corners of this capital. Here, a curated edit of the best hotels in Helsinki.
Perks: Spa and gym, meeting rooms, restaurant on-site
Located in Helsinki’s city center, directly across from the Old Church Park, the St. George hotel combines old-school luxury with modern amenities. The building’s oldest sections date back to the 1840s, but most of the historic details were restored and renovated at the turn of the century by Onni Tarjanne (the architect behind the Finnish National Theatre). The hotel’s rich history can be found throughout the different guest rooms, whether in a cozy studio-style apartment in the attic or a poetry-themed suite complete with a curated library (the building was once home to the Finnish Literary Society).
Seven spacious floors house 148 guest rooms, 5 suites, a wellness center (complete with spa and swimming pool), and the Wintergarden restaurant and bar. As a tribute to Helsinki’s rich culture of design, the St. George showcases fixtures and textiles from local artisans, like textiles from Klaus Haapaniemi and Artek furniture. From $356 per night.
Perks: Recently renovated, historic setting, wellness center, laundry service, parking on-site
Founded by restaurateur Carl Kämp, Hotel Kämp’s five-star hospitality has been dependable throughout its 130-year history. Located on Esplanade Park, just south of the main shopping district, the hotel leans into Gustavian design with its classical crown moldings, pastel color palette, and gilded lighting. There’s also a deeply romantic feeling to its interiors, exemplified by the lobby’s antique furnishings and tall windows that draw in light. Retreat here to escape from the bustle of the city center without being too far from the action. As part of the hotel’s ongoing renovations (scheduled to be completed in early 2026), 31 additional guest rooms and a new 12,000-square-foot, full-service wellness center are slated to open. From $350 per night.
Perks: Spa and fitness center, event ballroom, air-conditioning, Finnish sauna and steam room
Located in the heart of Helsinki, just off the main shopping street, the NH Collection Grand Hansa is a five-star hotel that’s beloved for its hospitality and Scandinavian design. Across the 224 guest rooms, you’ll find plenty of clean lines, crisp white bedding, and natural wood tones, an homage to the cozy yet minimal style this region is known for. This hotel is also pet-friendly and offers a number of different room configurations—from double bed studios to suites with a king bed and two twins—to suit solo travelers and groups alike.
Because of its central location, the NH Collection is equally popular for events and group gatherings, so don’t be surprised to come across a wedding party while you’re here. Nine meeting rooms and various common spaces (like the Kupoli cocktail bar located in the building’s historic dome) also offer flexibility and privacy for board meetings and the like. From $217 per night.
Perks: Waterfront views, fitness center, on-site restaurant
Hotel U14, a newer entry in Marriott’s Autograph Collection of boutique hotels, is located in the Market Square neighborhood of Helsinki, overlooking the city’s primary marina. Instead of ornate historical details that are more common among the more traditional stays on this list, the hotel takes a bolder, more modern approach to interior design: Think vibrant wallpaper, patterned tile, and energetic red accents (like the sofas and lumbar pillows) throughout each room. Choose from four different room styles, ranging from Comfort (the smallest) to Luxe rooms and suites that include a sitting area and larger bathroom space. When you’re not out enjoying the city, the hotel offers a fitness center and two on-site restaurants: Version, a Scandi take on Californian cuisine, and Version Breakfast, a daily buffet. Continuing the eclectic interior design, the dining areas feature playful, checkered floors and cozy fireplaces to warm those chilly Nordic nights. Sustainability is a main priority for the U14, so the property is both Green Leaf- and LEED-certified. From $341 per night.
Perks: On-site childcare, fitness center, cribs and cots available, pet-friendly
One of the newest additions to the Helsinki hospitality scene, Hotel Lilla Roberts opened its Art Deco–inspired doors in 2015. With a maximalist interior design scheme you’ll rarely find elsewhere in Scandinavia (we’re talking zebra-print sofas, striped drapes, and elephant lamps all in the same room—kind of maximal), this stay is for the bold. Upon entering the lobby, guests are greeted by a graphic black-and-white color palette layered throughout geometric upholstery patterns, checkered floor tiles, and oversized chess pieces. Situated between Helsinki’s business district and a bustling residential neighborhood, this hotel is tucked off the standard tourist tracks. Here you’ll find a more creative type of visitor, from business executives who prioritize aesthetics to younger travellers who prefer a slower pace during the day. But for those looking to be in the center of all the action, Hotel Lilla Roberts is close to a tram stop and transit station—but there are bike rentals in the lobby, if that’s more your speed. From $145 per night.
Perks: Swimming pool, fitness concierge, wellness spa
Just two years old, Hotel Maria is a new five-star luxury hotel part of the Hilton group. Located on the city’s harbor in the Kruununhaka neighborhood, known for its upscale dining and shopping, this hotel boasts gilded interiors and wellness-focused amenities. The Maria Spa was designed with a zen energy in mind. The walls are adorned with trailing vines, while plush, white chaises offer a place to lounge and drink tea between services. This hotel is best for the traveler who wants to spend their time relaxing, immersed in the Finnish culture of self-care and rejuvenation. Start your day on an energetic foot with a traditional cold bucket shower or lymphatic drainage treatment. If winding down is your goal, opt for an infrared sauna blanket or Nordic herbal massage. For those looking for some guidance, work with a concierge to curate your ideal stay, whether it’s a day spent in the sauna or a one-on-one fitness schedule. The well-informed staff can recommend plenty of excursions to suit your interests, from the best sites to see in the city or where to see the best of Finland’s coastline. From $489 per night.
Perks: Fitness center and sauna, meeting/event space, business center, pet-friendly rooms, bike rentals
Located on the Old Church Park in the city center (just across from Hotel St. George), the Scandi Helsinki Hub is an expansive hotel housed in a former 1920s printing house. The building’s history plays into the decor, with loft-style rooms, towering ceilings, and plenty of industrial finishes. As a tribute to the rich Scandinavian design history, the hotel is largely furnished with local brands like Artek and Hem. Even the conference spaces are filled with sculptural accent chairs and bold colored upholstery, a far cry from the more corporate hotel chains.
Throughout the 352 guest rooms, you’ll find pegboard storage, upgraded bathroom fixtures, and seating areas. The lobby’s colorful palette transitions to a more soothing, neutral scheme in the guest rooms and suites. In classic Finnish fashion, two dry saunas and a 24-hour fitness center are located on the ground floor for guests to enjoy. Upstairs, an Italian restaurant (where the breakfast buffet is also located), serves a Nordic take on Neapolitan pizzas and pasta dishes. From $170 per night.
Craving an escape? From colorful carry-ons to cleverly designed packing cubes (how did we ever travel without them?), shop everything you need to make the journey in style—and as streamlined and stress-free as possible.
