Best Hotels in Finland is a land of contrasts: long summer days and polar nights, pristine nature, modern Nordic design, warm sauna culture, and increasingly stylish hospitality. For many travelers, the hotel experience in Finland is just as important as where you go or what you see—it can be immersive, atmospheric, close to nature, and often uniquely Finnish.
In this article I’ll explore what makes a “best hotel” in Finland, highlight standout properties across different regions (from Helsinki to Lapland), suggest what to look for, offer tips on selecting the right hotel for your journey, and propose some sample itineraries.
What Makes a Hotel Exceptional in Best Hotels in Finland
To decide which hotels are “the best,” it helps to consider Finland-specific factors as well as universal luxury/hospitality criteria. Here are what I believe are key:
- Connection to Nature & Setting
Finland is famed for its forests, lakes, northern wilderness, and Lapland landscapes. Hotels that make the most of their surroundings—views of forest or lake, proximity to wilderness, or opportunities for northern lights viewing—often offer more than just a comfortable bed. - Seasonality & Finnish Character
Finnish winters are dark and cold; summers are bright and long. Hotels that embrace the seasonality via architecture, lighting, sauna / spa offerings, design that reflects Finnish aesthetics (wood, minimalism, light), or regional traditions (sauna culture, local food, Arctic experiences) gain a special character. - Design & Architecture
Finland is world-famous for design. Whether in Helsinki or remote Lapland, hotels that show thoughtful architecture, clean Scandinavian aesthetics, high-quality materials, and local craftsmanship (woodwork, glass, textiles) often stand out. - Wellness & Sauna Culture
Almost all luxury / premium hotels in Finland integrate wellness in some way—whether it’s a public or private sauna, spa facilities, thermal pools, hot tubs, or treatments that draw on local elements (forest aromatics, berries, local herbs). A hotel that does wellness well tends to rank high. - Unique / Boutique Experience
Because Finland is less densely urbanised than many other European nations, there is room for boutique-scale luxury: wilderness lodges, glass-igloo / aurora-view suites, tree-house style cabins, private wilderness chalets. These off-beat stays are often among the most memorable. - Heritage, History & Urban Luxury
In Helsinki or other Finnish cities (Tampere, Turku etc.), historic hotels or premium luxury hotels are judged by architecture, service standards, location, and how well they integrate local culture with cosmopolitan standards. - Accessibility & Sustainability
Because many of Finland’s top hotels are in remote regions (Lapland, archipelagos, etc.), ease of access (by car, regional flight, train + local transport) needs to be considered. Also increasingly, guests expect hotels to be sustainable (energy use, materials, food-sourcing, minimal-impact design). - Service, Culinary Quality & Reputation
Reviews, awards, guest feedback (e.g. via TripAdvisor, boutique/luxury hotel guides, “best hotel” lists) remain important. As Finland competes increasingly in the luxury hospitality market, newer high-end properties often aim to earn recognition for culinary excellence, design, or “unique experience” status.
Notable Hotels & Regions in Finland
Below are examples of hotels that are often listed among Finland’s best—each with strengths in different areas (urban luxury, wilderness, design-boutique, Lapland experience).
Helsinki & Southern Finland
In Helsinki and its surrounding region, you’ll find modern luxury hotels that combine design, convenience, and city-comfort.
- Klaus K Hotel (Helsinki)
This is a boutique / luxury hotel in central Helsinki known for its design character. According to a listing of luxury hotels in Finland, Klaus K is among those with artistic / imaginative suites. - Hotel Kämp (Helsinki)
One of Finland’s classic luxury hotels. Located in Kluuvi, Helsinki, it has a heritage name and is recognized among high-tier hotels. - Waldorf Astoria Helsinki
Recently opened / re-opened under that brand. It is part of the ultra-luxury offerings in central Helsinki. - NH Collection Helsinki Grand Hansa
A relatively new / renovated luxury hotel in Helsinki. Listed among “new must-visit places to stay in Finland”. - Solo Sokos Hotel Pier 4 (Helsinki Region)
Also in that “10 new must-visit places” guide. Not necessarily ultra-luxury in every case but noted for its design & location appeal.
These hotels are strong choices if you’re visiting Helsinki for culture, business, or as a base before moving north or into forest / lake country.
Lapland & Northern / Wilderness Region
Much of what makes Finland special is in its northern reaches: Lapland—remote, magical, full of winter wonders (northern lights, snow, husky sleds, reindeer), and in summer, endless sunlight and hiking.
Here are some standout hotels / lodges in Lapland or wilderness-style settings:
- Arctic TreeHouse Hotel (Rovaniemi / Lapland)
This is one of the best-known boutique / luxury lodgings in Finnish Lapland. Its design suites / “treehouse-nest” aesthetic and excellent location make it a go-to for visitors wanting both comfort and proximity to nature / Northern Lights. - Octola Private Wilderness (Lapland)
A luxury “private wilderness lodge / chalet-scale” property in Lapland. According to luxury hotel guides, it is considered among top boutique / design lodgings in Finnish wilderness. - Arctic-style boutique / remote lodges
Other entries such as in Scott Dunn’s curated list include Beana Laponia in Lapland, or wilderness hotel options near Lake Inari / other remote northern areas.
These properties are ideal for travellers willing to venture north, and seeking immersive winter or summer nature-focused experiences with premium comfort and design.
Boutique / Design & Unique Stays Elsewhere
Beyond the city / wilderness divide, Finland has boutique / design-led hotels elsewhere that combine character and high standards:
- Runo Hotel (Porvoo)
Listed among boutique / luxury hotels in Finland by Mr & Mrs Smith, located in Porvoo (a historic small town / countryside setting). - Scandic Paasi (Helsinki area)
A hotel with distinctive design character, located in Helsinki’s Hakaniemi district. - Scandic Grand Marina (Helsinki)
Also mentioned in a luxury-hotel listing as offering refined amenities and waterfront views. - Original Sokos Hotel Vaakuna (Helsinki central / near Railway Station)
Included in that same list of luxury hotels in Finland. - Hotel Ilves (Tampere)
While possibly more mid-premium than ultra-luxury, it has character and recognition in the city of Tampere.
These hotels are good if you want boutique luxury without necessarily being in Lapland or remote settings.
Comparing Hotel Types & What Might Suit You
Because Finland offers such variety, here’s some comparative thinking on how to choose a hotel that fits your style:
| Hotel Type | Best For | Considerations |
| Urban Luxury (Helsinki / major cities) | Travellers who want culture / museums / city-dining / business or transit base | Pros: easy transport, high service standards, many amenities. Cons: less wilderness feel, less “remote”. |
| ** boutique design hotels** | Travellers who value character, architecture, local design, smaller-scale stays | Pros: distinctive style, quieter, more personal. Cons: Might have fewer facilities than large chain-luxury hotels, might need to plan ahead. |
| ** Wilderness / Lapland Luxury Lodges** | Ideal for northern lights watchers, winter / snow activities, husky / reindeer tours, or summer polar-region hiking / wildlife | Pros: unforgettable scenery & experience, exclusive feeling. Cons: remote access / may require travel time, potentially higher cost for food & transport, seasonal limitations. |
| Mid-Premium or Boutique-Plus Hotels in Smaller Towns / Countryside | Good compromise for travellers exploring Finland’s lakes / smaller towns, wanting charm + quality | Pros: more relaxed pace, local character. Cons: fewer big-name amenities; transport or access may be slower than for city hotels. |
You’ll want to balance season, accessibility, amenities (wellness / spa / sauna / food), and budget when choosing which category fits you best.
Tips for Choosing & Booking Hotels in Finland
Here are some practical tips to help you pick & book the best hotel in Finland for your trip:
- Review the season(s) of your travel
- Winter (November to March): great for northern lights, snow-activities, ski / snowmobile / husky safaris; but roads & daylight are limited, and some amenities may have shorter hours.
- Summer (June to August): Midnight Sun in the north, hiking / boating / lakeside access; but some remote lodges may have reduced service or different pricing structures.
- Shoulder seasons (spring / early autumn) may offer quieter stays and better rates, but weather may be less predictable (e.g. early snow or late-spring ice).
- Check Access & Transport Logistics
- If staying in Lapland or remote lodges, consider how you reach them (via regional airport flight to Rovaniemi / Ivalo / Kittilä etc., car rental, or chartered transfer).
- For Helsinki / city-area hotels, check proximity to airport / train stations / tram / bus connections.
- Sauna / Wellness Amenities
- Confirm that your hotel offers the style of wellness you expect (private or shared sauna, pool or spa treatments, hot tub cabins, etc.).
- Some properties include private-sauna suites; others have only communal spa. Consider whether having extremely local-flavor wellness matters (forest view sauna, ice-dip pool, etc.).
- Design & Experience Preferences
- Do you prefer modern Scandinavian-style interiors? Rustic cabin / lodge aesthetics? Boutique-artistic touches?
- Check photos & guest reviews for lighting, view / window orientation, comfort of beds & bedding, whether rooms are well insulated (important in cold climates), whether heating / climate control is up to standard.
- Dining & Local Cuisine
- Some hotels include excellent on-site restaurants that source local ingredients (berries, fish, game, reindeer, local forests). Others may require you to travel out for dinner / lunch.
- If you plan to stay remote / wilderness, investigate whether the meals are included or optional, and whether dietary options / special requests are available.
- Look at Guest Reviews & Awards
- Use sources like TripAdvisor “Best Hotels in Finland”, boutique-hotel directories, luxury-hotel review sites, or Finland’s tourism board listings.
- Also check for any recent renovations or service-upgrades (some hotels re-open with refreshed rooms or brand-new suites).
- Booking & Cancellation Policy
- Remote lodges may require advance-booking, deposits, or have stricter cancellation rules.
- During busy seasons (holiday periods, Christmas / New Year, Finnish public holidays), hotels may fill quickly.
- Ask about inclusions: breakfast, transfers, tax / service fees, wellness / spa access, etc.
- Budgeting & Value
- Finland (especially remote or luxury lodges) can be expensive for food / services; comparing total cost including meals / spa access + transport is wise.
- If you’re spending multiple nights, consider splitting between one high-end lodge + one boutique-city-hotel to balance splurge vs comfort.
Sample Itinerary Ideas Incorporating Best Hotels in Finland
Here are two sample itineraries (around 7–9 nights) that mix luxury / boutique / wilderness stays in Finland:
Itinerary A: Design, Wilderness & Aurora (Winter Focus)
| Day | Location | Suggested Hotel Stay |
| Day 1 | Arrive in Helsinki | Stay at a premium luxury hotel in Helsinki (e.g. Hotel Kämp or NH Collection Helsinki Grand Hansa) |
| Day 2 | Helsinki exploration (design / museums / food) | same hotel or boutique-luxury option |
| Day 3 | Fly / transfer to Lapland (e.g. Rovaniemi) | Stay at Arctic TreeHouse Hotel for immersive wilderness experience |
| Day 4–5 | Move deeper into wilderness lodge or boutique chalet (e.g. Octola Private Wilderness) for aurora watching / snow-activities / nature experience | |
| Day 6 | Return to city / mid-town or transfer back (perhaps via another small town or boutique property) | Overnight in Helsinki (or on route) |
| Day 7 | Departure / relax final day in Helsinki | Final night at urban boutique luxury hotel before flying home |
Itinerary B: Summer / Mixed Experience (City + Countryside + Wilderness)
| Day | Location | Suggested Hotel Stay |
| Day 1 | Arrive Helsinki | Stay in a design / boutique-luxury hotel in Helsinki |
| Day 2 | Explore Helsinki, day-trips by lake or archipelago | Stay second night in Helsinki area |
| Day 3 | Travel northwards to Lapland or lake-region wilderness | Stay in boutique lodge such as Octola or similar private-wilderness chalet |
| Day 4–5 | Wilderness base: outdoor activities (hiking, sauna / spa / lake excursions) | Continue at lodge / boutique wilderness hotel |
| Day 6 | Travel back south or to an intermediate stop (smaller town or scenic lakeside property) | Boutique countryside-region hotel or lakeside lodge |
| Day 7 | Return to Helsinki for final night | Stay last night in city-luxury / boutique hotel |
| Day 8 | Departure |
The focus of this itinerary is balance: experience Nordic-design city life + wilderness immersion + relaxed conclusion.
Challenges & Things to Watch Out For
Even with the best hotels in Finland, there are practical caveats to keep in mind:
- Weather & daylight extremes
In winter, northern Finland has very short daylight hours; travel / activities may be impacted by snow / road conditions. In summer, the Midnight Sun may affect sleep or comfort if rooms are not well-blocked for light. - Remote-area logistics
Air connections to Lapland / remote areas may be limited; transfers (car rental, snowmobile transfer, shuttle) may require extra planning. Seasonal changes may affect how easy or difficult the transfer is. - Cost & inclusions
Meals / spa services / sauna access may not always be included in standard room rates. Prices may peak during holiday seasons (Christmas / New Year in Lapland, mid-summer in Helsinki-area or festivals). - Renovations & Availability
Boutique or design-led hotels sometimes have seasonal maintenance or limited rooms; check whether the room type you want is available and whether any parts of the hotel (spa / pool / restaurant) are under refurbishment. - Cultural expectations
Finnish hospitality often emphasizes calm, nature, and design-led minimalism rather than overt opulence. Some luxury hotels are “quietly elegant” rather than flashy. It’s good to read guest feedback to ensure amenities / service level match your expectations (e.g. whether staff speak your language / offer guided excursions / special requests). - Health & Wellness Norms
Sauna culture is integral: often complimentary or included; but check rules (for example time slots, mixed or gender-separated saunas, whether you need to bring your own robe or towel, etc.). - Sustainability / Environmental Policies
Many high-end hotels in Finland place value on sustainability; if that is important to you, check whether the hotel has certifications, sustainable-food sourcing, renewable-energy features, or responsible design practices.
Conclusion
Finland is a destination where the hotel can become part of the adventure. Whether you choose to stay in the vibrancy of Helsinki’s luxury and design-driven hotels, or venture into Lapland for immersive, boutique wilderness lodges under the northern lights, or somewhere in between—a lakeside or smaller-town boutique property—there is a wide range of “best hotels” tuned to different styles.
The best hotel for you in Finland will depend on your travel season (winter / summer / shoulder), your preferred balance of comfort vs wilderness, your interest in design / architecture / sauna / wellness, and how willing you are to journey beyond major cities into remote or scenic locations.
