2 Best Hotels in Helsinki, Finland

Situated opposite the Esplanade, this luxurious, late-19th-century cultural landmark has long been the meeting point for Finland's most prominent politicians, artists, and celebrities in accordance with its unofficial status as Finland's ritziest hotel. Famous guests have included Carl Gustaf Mannerheim, Eliel Saarinen, Akseli Gallen-Kallela, and Sibelius, who dedicated a song to it. More recently it has been the luxury refuge of visiting legends such as Bruce Springsteen and the Rolling Stones. Take the beautiful, sweeping staircase up to the grand ballroom, known as the Mirror Room. When not unwinding in one of the spa's three different saunas or its 10 treatment rooms, guests can borrow iPods, stereos, and video game systems from the lobby. A sumptuous breakfast, also available for nonresidents by reservation, is served in the Brasserie, which also has a gourmet menu combining French and Finnish cuisines. A Classic Afternoon Tea is available and the Upper Lounge provides discreet and quiet relaxation. The Kämp Bar is very elegant venue for aperitifs, digestifs, and rendezvous. 

Competing with the Hotel Kämp at the pinnacle of Finnish luxury, the St. George opened in 2018 in converted apartment buildings on one corner of the Vanha Kirkkopuisto (Old Church Park). Atelier rooms, suites, and studios are tastefully furnished in subtle colors, with and without balconies, and have park and city rooftop views on the upper floors. The St. George Care Spa and Playground Gym includes a huge and stylish pool, cleansing treatments for body and soul, and even a sleep consultation service. Afternoon tea and signature cocktails are served in the Wintergarden lounge, decorated with top Finnish design and artworks, including the Learning to Fly sculpture by Pekka Jylhä on the ceiling. The dragon sculpture as one enters the main door is by Chinese artist Ai Weiwei. The adjacent Thai restaurant Boon Nam is probably the best venue for this cuisine in Finland, and is also the breakfast room. That alluring aroma of fresh bread is emanating from the hotel's own bakery shop, which provides part of a fabulous breakfast spread.