7 Design hotels in Helsinki for style, comfort and inspiration
What’s better than a good night’s sleep? A good night’s sleep surrounded by impeccable design, of course! Helsinki, a UNESCO City of Design, is home to a multitude of hotels that blend Nordic functionality with striking aesthetics. From cutting-edge modernism to historic grandeur, any of these seven design hotels in Helsinki guarantee an unforgettable stay.
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1. City life in a castle: GLO Hotel Art
One word to describe GLO Hotel Art in Lönnrotinkatu: authentic. Built inside an old castle in one of Helsinki’s best-known Art Nouveau buildings, the hotel blends history with modern elegance, creating a bohemian atmosphere. With a recently renovated gym, a cosy upstairs lounge bar, and event spaces, this boutique hotel invites you to experience Helsinki’s artistic heritage in the heart of the city.
Things to do nearby
- Stroll down to Helsinki Design District for museums, boutiques and dining.
- Enjoy a Helsinkian lunch at the Hietalahti Market Hall (5 min walk!)
- Take tram no 6 from Erottaja to one of Helsinki’s beloved public saunas, and a unique architectural piece, Löyly.
2. Industrial chic: The Folks Hotel
Love a hotel with an edge? The Folks Hotel in Konepaja, near Vallila, is one of the coolest hotels in Helsinki. Located in a former railway workshop, where industrial grit meets Nordic minimalism, the loft-style rooms brim with welcoming energy. The hotel’s sauna, gym and its highly rated neighbour restaurant Albina complete a relaxing stay.
Things to do nearby
- Check out Konepaja’s vibrant breweries, bars and restaurants.
- Stroll through the wooden housed area of Vallila and its local cafés.
- Explore the bohemian Kallio neighborhood for vintage shops and pubs.
3. Art Deco elegance: Lilla Roberts
Hotel Lilla Roberts is a treasure for lovers of style and glamour. Housed in a former 1930s power station, this hotel is all about Art Deco throwbacks with trendy amenities. Its spacious rooms, moody bar, and quiet courtyard offer a cosy retreat in the bustling Design District, while the interiors pay homage to rich history and modern Finnish aesthetics.
Things to do nearby
- Savour Finnish treats and buy souvenirs at the Old Market Hall a few minutes walk away.
- Walk up the hill of Tähtitorninvuori to admire the former observatory and views of the harbour.
- Take a leisurely walk to the Art Deco haven of Katajanokka.
4. Sky-high style: Solo Sokos Hotel Torni
Once Helsinki’s tallest building, Solo Sokos Hotel Torni is a central landmark where history and modern minimalism collide. This iconic Helsinki boutique hotel is renowned for its stylish rooms and rooftop bar Ateljee Bar with panoramic views of the city. Whether you’re admiring its interiors, enjoying a spa treatment, or soaking up the skyline, this hotel promises a memorable way to visit Helsinki.
Things to do nearby
- Visit innovative exhibitions at the modern museum Amos Rex.
- Go shopping in Finland’s largest – and oldest! – department store Stockmann: a true icon and an institution in its own right.
- Take a walk to the striking Oodi library and its peaceful Töölönlahti surroundings.
5. A cultural getaway: Hanaholmen
Tucked away in the scenic archipelago, a short drive or a metro and bus ride away from central Helsinki, Hanaholmen is a peaceful blend of art and nature; a unique take on Helsinki design hotels with ‘70s architecture and contemporary Nordic design. Its seaside rooms, retro sauna facilities, and art installations are a design lover’s dream, while the eco-friendly initiatives to protect the surrounding nature make it a haven for sustainable travel in Helsinki.
Things to do nearby
- In summer, find a rental bike and ride along the coastal pathways.
- Explore the neighbouring Lauttasaari, its historic houses and rocky seaside
- Visit the peaceful Lapinlahti and enjoy a locally ground coffee at Cafe Metsäpaahtimo.
6. Graceful wellness: Hotel St. George
Staying at Hotel St. George is like stepping into a gallery of contemporary Finnish design. Housed in a historic building by Old Church Park, central Helsinki, this hotel is all things luxurious. Its serene spa, curated art collection, and a living room-like Wintergarden bar make it a getaway that is as much relaxing as it is inspiring.
Things to do nearby
- Stop by Café Ekberg, Helsinki’s oldest bakery and iconic café, for a cinnamon bun.
- Explore the city’s design history at the long-standing Helsinki Design Museum.
- Walk to the cobble-stoned streets of Ullanlinna for beautiful architecture and dining.
7. Home away from home: Hotel F6
Hotel F6 is like your effortlessly stylish and charming friend. Known for its home-like feel and eco-conscious ethos, this family-owned hotel has a lush courtyard with a green house delivering fresh herbs to your breakfast, cosy interiors and a stylish bar. Located just steps away from Esplanadi Park, it’s a top choice for those looking to explore Helsinki in style.
Things to do nearby
- In summer, grab a free bicycle from the hotel and ride along the coast to Kaivopuisto.
- Stroll through Esplanade Park and its high-end boutiques.
- Take a ferry to Suomenlinna, a UNESCO World Heritage site, from the Market Square – any time of the year!