4 Best Hotels in Helsinki, Finland

The Marski has always been favored for its absolutely central location, on the main Mannerheimintie artery and opposite the Stockmann department store. It was unveiled again after extensive renovations as Scandic's first signature hotel in Finland in spring 2019. The suites are the last word in modern luxury, and all rooms are soundproof, shutting out the traffic, and have double-thick mattresses. The name of the new Kuusi Palaa (Six Pieces) restaurant refers to the menu concept, whereby diners can choose six items to create their own meal, enjoyed alone or shared. Access to the nearby Namina wellness spa is also an option for guests.

The 1950s functionalist architecture and interior design of the Vaakuna date back to the 1952 Helsinki Olympics. Recently renovated rooms are spacious, with simple but elegant furnishings that also echo the functionalist theme. The rooftop restaurant, 10th Floor, offers great views of the central area, both from within and from the outdoor summer terrace. The hotel is above the Sokos department store, with the lobby on the ground floor opposite the train station.

Housed in an early-19th-century customs warehouse in the well-heeled Katajanokka promontory residential neighborhood, the Grand Marina has one of the best convention centers in Finland. Its central, if slightly subdued location, friendly service, modern facilities, and reasonable prices have made this hotel a favorite, and it is also popular with tour groups, with the Viking Line ferry terminal further along the same quay. The sunny bar terrace is reputed to be the longest in Helsinki, and the Market Square and Senate Square are a 10-minute stroll away, although there are also nearby tram stops. Ask for a room with a view of the South Harbour. The restaurant menu features Finnish delights such as salmon, elk, and reindeer as well as more standard club sandwiches and burgers.

One of the most popular hotels in Helsinki, this local institution is modern, central, and particularly popular with business travelers from the United States. It has hosted superpower summits and various diplomatic guests and has a comprehensive range of business services, but it's just as welcoming to the leisure traveler and families. The hotel is close to Finlandia Hall and the Finnish National Opera. The hotel loans bicycles to guests, but trams (including one that goes straight to Central) stop right outside. The hotel's excellent Famu restaurant serves Scandinavian and European dishes, and there's a separate bar.