3 Best Nightlife in Helsinki, Finland

Perched atop the historical Solo Sokos Hotel Torni, the Ateljee Bar is a modest space, accessed by means of elevator and narrow spiral straircase, that's big enough to serve its purpose: serving cocktails and other drinks. Though the drinks are expensive, the views of the city from its balconies—and famously, from its bathrooms—are second to none. Art exhibitions are an added attraction.

Steeped in history, this bar was first opened in 1906 by the Helsinki Workers' Association. If that gives a staid impression, don't be deterred: Juttutupa hosts great jazz, blues, and other music nights (admission is free) and has a convivial, authentically Helsinki atmosphere, making it one of the city's best live music venues. At the bar's "revolutionary table," Vladimir Lenin met with fellow conspirators and plotted Russia's revolution, just one element of a fascinating and eventful history. The bar is inside the Graniittilinna restaurant, behind the Scandic Paasi hotel, a magnificent National Romantic–style stone fortress overlooking an inlet from the sea. The menu includes good pizzas and salads, and there is an outdoor terrace that catches the evening sun.

Helsinki's most popular jazz club has live jazz, blues, rock and roll, and dancing Monday–Saturday.