Victoria Lupascu 
I don’t want to get ahead of myself but I’m pretty sure that even though it is really small compared to other European cities, Helsinki (the capital of Finland), is one of the coolest cities ever! It just has so many things to do, amazing accommodations and I just love the nightlife here! Also known as the “Daughter of the Baltic” or the “White City of the North” because of its white-colored buildings, Helsinki will give you the chance to experience the northern way of living.
I’m sure you’re already wondering where to stay in Helsinki, where’s the best area to stay, what are the top budget accommodations, and which restaurant to hit first. Don’t worry, I’ve got so many options that by the time you finish reading this article you’ll have 0 questions. I’ve looked through hundreds of hotel lists to find you the absolute best one for each price range, and I only recommend the best-rated hotels that I would choose for myself!
Do make sure you book the hotels in advance, they sell out so quickly as this is a top tourist destination!
Let’s see what Helsinki has in store for us!
Contents
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Here’s a shortlist of all the best accommodations in Punavuori, Helsinki, that will help you decide quickly
Here’s a map of all the areas in Helsinki that I’m going to talk about in this post
- Punavuori: for first-timers
- Kamppi: for nightlife
- Kallio: for budget
- Etu-Töölö: for nature lovers
- City Center (Kluuvi): for easy access
- Kaartinkaupunki: for families
Located south of the city center, Punavuori meaning “red rock” in Finnish, is one of the best places to stay in Helsinki if you’re traveling here for the first time. It’s a trendy and hip neighborhood, filled with high-end shops great for shopping, cafes, and restaurants where you can eat their amazing local dishes. Most of them are located on the main streets near the center of the city so they are easy to spot.
Part of the Design District, you’ll find a gallery and museum at every corner! I love the atmosphere here, it’s like breathing in pure art! Not to mention the amazing and unique architecture.
A long time ago this neighborhood was home to the most Finnish factories in Helsinki so you’ll probably spot a lot of industrial sites that are now stylish and modern commercial spaces. However, I feel like they managed to keep that old cool vibe here so you’ll feel like you’re traveling back in time.
I suggest taking a walk in the oldest park in town, named Kaivopuisto. If you’re traveling here during the fall season you’ll fall in love with the pretty color palette and unique trees. Punavuori is filled with luxury boutique hotels but you’ll find some nice on-budget apartments as well, don’t worry I’ve got you covered!
With a great location, this hotel in Punavuori has the best view of Helsinki city! You can have your coffee on the little balconies in the rooms. I just love that some of them have a sauna as well (how Finnish), so you can relax after a day of shopping and museum visiting! There’s also a bar, so make sure you have a drink there.
Other accommodation options in Punavuori
One of the best hotels in Helsinki that has stylish rooms, free wifi, a restaurant, and a bar
A nice place to stay in the district that has all amenities, the rooms are really spacious and there’s free wifi
A lovely apartment designed in the Finnish style with all amenities located near the trendy bars and restaurants
Things to do in Punavuori
- Visit the Sinebrychoff Art Museum
- Take a long walk in the Sinebrychoff Park located near the city center
- Catch a play at the Aleksanterin Theatre in Helsinki
- See some cool Finnish architecture at the Pelastusarmeijan Museum
- Admire some beautiful art at Sinne Gallery
- Explore all the local designer shops in Helsinki
2. Kamppi – best place to stay in Helsinki for nightlife
I love the lively vibe of this central part of Kamppi! Everyone is so friendly and always ready to party. Located in the heart of the city, this neighborhood, which is also a business district, perfectly combines the traditional historic side full of museums with contemporary bars and restaurants.
Kamppi is perfect for you if you want to party all night and then visit a cathedral or a church the next day!
If you’re in the mood for some shopping then I highly recommend going to the largest complex in the region, Kamppi center which is also the biggest building ever constructed in the history of Finland! I love how diverse this part of town is! Everyone who is looking for where to stay in Helsinki loves this area so I highly recommend booking your Kamppi hotel in advance as all the options sell out super quickly!
Are you still wondering where to stay in Helsinki to enjoy the amazing nightlife? Kamppi will offer you the most amazing experience! After you hit the shops, maybe go and visit the Natural Museum of Helsinki, which apparently has been infested with a venomous type of spider since the 1960s! So better be careful here! And stop by the art museum to see some amazing paintings!
A luxurious eco-friendly hotel in central Kamppi that has cool Finnish décor! Spend a relaxing time in the sauna or hit the fitness center if you’re in the mood after exploring the city! The rooms are very modern and spacious and make sure you have their breakfast the – restaurant is amazing!
Other accommodation options in Kamppi
A nice place to stay for families, located near all the attractions and it has all the amenities, like free wifi
One of the best budget accommodations that has all the amenities and it’s with access to most attractions
This trendy elegant private apartment is located in the center of Kampi is near many restaurants and bars
Things to do in Kamppi
- Visit the HAM Helsinki Art Museum in Kamppi
- Have a fun night at Tavastia nightclub
- Take a picture of the contemporary Kamppi Chapel
- Enjoy a relaxing walk in the Barnlunden Park
- Visit the Helsinki Jewish Congregation in Kamppi
- Try the street food in the Plaza Narinkka
- Have a drink at the Hercules club
- Go shopping at Kamppi Helsinki center
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3. Kallio – where to stay in Helsinki on a budget
Located east of the Helsinki city center, Kallio is a trendy district perfect for backpackers or people who are traveling on a budget. It’s definitely my favorite as it has that bohemian spirit and is full of artists! Kallio is a residential area, however, most local people choose to move out because the neighborhood became so full of tourists and students, you’ll probably run into them in most bars.
This is one of the best areas to stay in as there’s always something to do in Kallio.
With access to the waterfront, the atmosphere is very laid back here and everyone is super friendly in Kallio! You’ll find many cafes, bars, and restaurants, and if you’re lucky you might find someone doing a poetry reading in one of the bars! I love it, everyone sounds so free-spirited here like they don’t have a care in the world.
If you’re a foodie looking for where to stay in Helsinki I recommend staying in Kallio because you’ll find tons of small cute markets on the street that have really good dishes. Make sure you also hit the flea markets and get some cool souvenirs!
You won’t get a better view of the city than in this luxurious hotel in Kallio, Helsinki. You can enjoy a cocktail at the elegant bar in this waterfront accommodation and then hit the pool and swim until you’re ready for bed! Make sure you grab breakfast here, it’s so delicious!
Other accommodation options in Kallio
One of the best hotels in this price range, I love the style of the rooms here, they offer free wifi and a nice breakfast
Stay in Helsinki, Kallio in this budget-friendly hotel that has all amenities, free wifi, and a lovely terrace
With cool Finnish style decor, this apartment is one of the best places to stay in Kallio it has spacious rooms
Things to do in Kallio
- Get some goods at Hakaniemi Market Hall in Kallio
- Enjoy a poetry reading in one of the bars
- Admire the Art Nouveau at Kallio Church
- Walk on the lively streets of Kallio Helsinki
- Have a Finnish experience at the Kotiharjun Public Sauna
- Mingle with all the friendly students of Kallio
4. Etu-Töölö – for nature lovers
Located to the northwest of the city center, this is the best area to stay in if you want to escape the city and the urban atmosphere. It’s actually super big and it’s divided into smaller sections. Stay in Helsinki in this quiet neighborhood and enjoy all the green spaces! Here you’ll find many restaurants and you can try Finnish cuisine! I highly recommend doing that, it’s so delicious!
Although it’s a peaceful area you’ll find many tourist attractions like museums and art galleries. While you might not be super close to the city center, Etu-Töölö has its own unique places, like the Olympic Stadium, the beautiful Opera House, and Finlandia Hall.
You’ll learn a lot of new things about their culture in these places! And if you love history as much as I do then start exploring the town, stop by the Parliament House then just behind it you’ll find an array of huge streets with traditional houses from the 1920s and 1930! I love this site, make sure you grab your camera and snap a pic!
Walk on the streets and admire the amazing architecture and then head to other attractions like the Sibelius Monument, which was made in honor of the Finnish composer, Jean Sibelius!
One of the best places to stay in the area, you’ll love the view of Finlandia Park! The rooms are really spacious and great for families. Maybe hit the sauna at night, and you can spend the nights barbecuing with the whole family and plan your next day of visiting the best attractions!
Other accommodation options in Etu-Töölö
Stay in Helsinki in this hotel that has a great style, free wifi, a bar, a delicious breakfast, and private rooms
Located in one of the best apartments, this modern studio has all the amenities and a lovely backyard
Located in a historic Finland building, this amazing studio has a kitchen where you can cook breakfast and free wifi
Things to do in Etu-Töölö
- Walk around in the Hesperia Park
- Take a picture of the Sibelius Monument in Helsinki
- Admire the amazing architecture of Temppeliaukio Church
- See the incredible art collection at Kirpilä
- Visit the Stiftung Reitz Museum in Helsinki
- See the amazing St. Nicholas Church in Helsinki Finland
- Take a break from the urban atmosphere and walk in the Hesperia Esplanade Park
5. City center (Kluuvi) – where to stay for easy access
Welcome to the heart of Helsinki! This central location is great if you want to get around on foot as all the main attractions are located one near another. The main attraction in the City center district is the Helsinki Cathedral, which is located in Senate Square. The sight is so unique here, as the cathedral, painted all white, is set on a couple of stairs and looks so amazing!
The City center area has great traveling connections, as the Central Station is located here and you can take day trips to other parts of Finland and you can also take a direct train to Saint Petersburg!
The Kaisaniemi Park and the Kaisaniemi Botanic Garden are also known as the lungs of Kluuvi. If you want to breathe in some fresh air then make sure you explore the outdoor area of the garden. Plant enthusiasts will feel in their natural habitat here, plus if you are visiting in the winter you don’t have to worry, there are ten greenhouses that are open for tourists!
One of the best places to stay in the City center of Helsinki, this hotel offers free wifi and you have free access to the sauna. I just love how the sunset looks from the rooftop terrace here, it’s such a unique view of the city. Get a cocktail and spend a wonderful night here!
Other accommodation options in City center Kluuvi
One of the best hotels that has rooms designed in the Scandinavian-style, with access to a sauna and gym
Stay in Helsinki in a hotel located in the city near the trendy restaurants, that has a lovely outdoor terrace
One of the best places to stay in the city center that has a kitchen, private rooms, and free wifi
Things to do in the City center (Kluuvi)
- Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art in the city center
- Walk around the Cathedral of Helsinki
- Take a relaxing walk in Park Esplanadi
- Admire the art nouveau architecture of the Central Station
- See how a Finnish library looks like at Oodi
- Breath in some fresh air Kaisaniemi Botanic Garden
- Watch the sunset Kansalaistori Square in the city
- Head to the Central Station and take a day trip from Helsinki
- Go shopping at Stockmann Department Store and Kluuvi Shopping center
6. Kaartinkaupunki – best place to stay in Helsinki for families
Kaartinkaupunki (not to be confused with nearby Katajanokka) is situated south of the Helsinki City center and east of Punavuori, this district is quite small but really tranquil and perfect for families who travel to Helsinki because this residential area is super safe and there are many things to explore! You’ll find many parks, a market square, green spaces, shops, and a few office buildings.
Take the family on a long walk around the harbor and visit all the cute markets here. I’m sure the kids will love getting some cool souvenirs from Helsinki! Plus you’ll love the local Finnish products that you’ll find.
One market that I love here is the Old Hall. It’s so authentic and the foodie in me adores all the different types of dishes. I highly recommend trying the fresh baked bread and shellfish. Admire the beautiful architecture of Helsinki and have fun exploring the Kaartinkaupunki area.
One of the best hotels in Helsinki that has free wifi and a bar on site! I love the style of the luxury rooms and you can relax during those hot summer days in the courtyard terrace and have a nice cold cocktail before you go visit other museums or the Cathedral!
Other accommodation options in Kaartinkaupunki
Stay in Helsinki in this amazing hotel that has a sauna, a bar, and many museums near its location
Located in the Katajanokka area nearby Kaartinkaupunki, this place has views of Helsinki city and a restaurant
Stay in Helsinki in one of the best apartments that has a simple style decor, nice rooms, and a kitchen
Things to do in Kaartinkaupunki
- Eat some delicious food at Old Market Square Hall
- Visit the Päivälehti Newspaper Museum
- Admire the architecture of the German Church of Helsinki
- See some art at AMA Oy
- Walk around the harbor in Kaartinkaupunki
- Have family fun in the parks of Helsinki
- Head across the channel to Katajanokka to see the art nouveau buildings
| 👑 Luxury price: | €250 |
| 💵 Mid-range hotel: | €160 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | €80 |
| 🏠 Airbnb: | €80 |
| 💰 Accommodation prices: | Medium |
| 📍 Best Area: | Punavuori |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Lapland Hotels Bulevardi |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Hostel Diana Park |
Frequently asked questions about Helsinki
🚶♀️ Is Helsinki walkable?
Yes! Definitely one of the most walkable cities in Finland, as there are tons of attractions and most of them are near one another. The Design District is one of the best areas for walking on foot!
🏡 What neighborhood to stay in Helsinki?
If you’re wondering where to stay in Helsinki then I highly recommend the Punavuori neighborhood, it has amazing accommodations like the Lapland Hotels Bulevardi hotel and if you’re coming here for the first time Punavuori will give you a taste of the Finnish culture.
🌃 What is the best place to stay in Helsinki for one night?
Hotel Vaakuna is a great choice for where to stay in Helsinki for one night because of its central location!
🏨 Which is the best hotel in Helsinki?
Radisson Blu Royal Hotel has to one of the best hotels to stay in Helsinki, this luxury place has the most amazing rooms, a sauna, and one of the best breakfasts.
👪 Where to stay for families in Helsinki?
If you’re wondering where to stay in Helsinki with the whole family then I recommend the Kaartinkaupunki area, and the Hotel Lilla Roberts it’s a really nice choice for you and the whole crew.
Conclusion
Are you already picturing yourself walking around the cool Design District, as I’m doing right now? I had so much fun! I hope this article will help you decide where to stay in Helsinki, Finland!
I know I’ve given you tons of luxury, budget, and mid-range options to stay in Helsinki Finland but here are my top two choices both located in Punavuori. I highly recommend booking these hotels in advance as Helsinki Finland is a top tourist destination for most travelers!
- Lapland Hotels Bulevardi – A luxury hotel with a bar on site
- Indigo Helsinki-Boulevard – A mid-range hotel in a trendy location
Make sure you visit every district and you have fun exploring the market square. I’m sure that by the time you leave you’ll love Helsinki city as much as I do!
Do leave a comment if you have any questions about where to stay in Helsinki, Finland!
Safe travels,
Victoria
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