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Finnish sense of luxury is a reflection of the national spirit. Instead of ostentatious displays of gold, glitter, and brands, Finns valuate high quality and unique experiences. Here you can find a list of the best destinations to enjoy luxury holidays all around Finland.
If you are looking for a luxurious get-away that includes unique experiences, high quality service, great comfort, as well as the combination of nature retreats with urban encounters, Finland is the place for you. Whether you prefer an urban boutique hotel or a remote 5-star cabin in the woods, we have the best choices for you.
Helsinki – urban luxury
It isn’t hard to find five-star experiences in Helsinki. The capital has plenty of new hotels are more traditional luxury establishments, ranging from hotels to boutiques and Michelin-starred restaurants.
One of the newest hotels are Hotel St. George, which offer includes a luxurious spa and pool on the same building, and Lilla Roberts, located in a historic 1920’s building where the declaration of independence of Finland was signed.
Hotel St. George is filled with world-class art from famous artists, like contemporary Chinese artist Ai Wei Wei. On the other hand, Lilla Roberts boasts a magnificent art-deco architecture and also offers a 1920’s Glamour package that includes story-based adventure and a mystery that takes you straight into the atmosphere of the 1920’s.
If sea views are your thing, you can choose between the timeless elegance of Hotel Haven or the modern design of Clarion Hotel Helsinki. Hotel Haven offers boutique hotel view with wonderful views to the Orthodox Uspenski cathedral, the Market Square or the Harbour. At Clarion Hotel Helsinki you can enjoy the breathtaking views from its 16th floor cocktail bar and terrace or delight yourself with a finger-licking dinner prepared by top chef Marcus Samuelsonn at their restaurant.
Last but not least, if you are looking for the true icon of Helsinki’s luxury landscape you must choose Hotel Kämp. Located right in the center of the city, this luxury hotel is the accommodation of choice for international celebrities, diplomats and politicians when they visit the city. Maybe you can even spot one of them during check-in!
If luxury shopping is your sport, in Helsinki you will have plenty of chances to practice. Right in the city center Kämp Galleria offers a large variety of International and Finnish fashion brands as well as the most important names and emerging talent of Finnish design on the 2nd floor of the shopping mall. You can also head towards the nearby Design District, and get lost in its array of small streets filled with alternative boutiques, art galleries and museums, charming cafes and designer studios. The district covers the neighbourhoods of Punavuori, Kaartinkaupunki, Kamppi and Ullanlinna.
After all the shopping, maybe you feel like taking a break and treating yourself. You can then visit the most traditional café of the city, Ekberg, which has been serving the sweet-toothed Finns since 1852. Or head towards Hakaniemi to discover Patisserie Teemu Aura, the latest hip place which combines Finnish traditional pastries with French inspired delicacies. Their cardamom and salted caramel macaron is to die for.
Porvoo – historic charm
Less than 50 kilometres Helsinki, those travellers looking for a cozy and charming village away from the busy streets of the capital will find in the medieval city of Porvoo its perfect destination. In summertime, we suggest arriving to the village in style onboard the M/S J. L. Runeberg, a 1912 ship named after the Finnish national poet, who lived Porvoo until his death. This historic ship will take you on a stunning journey through the Finnish Southern archipelago, where you can enjoy the landscape and a cup of coffee and a Runeberg cake, the poet’s favourite treat.
Despite its small town charm Porvoo has plenty to offer to the most demanding travellers. The village is a foodie’s paradise full of top-quality restaurants. One local favourite is Sicapelle, which offers a fusion of Italian and local cuisine. The head chef Simona Milazzo is rumoured to be the next Michelin star awarded chef in Finland. If you are looking for a more relaxed option, head to Sinne. This easy-going restaurant is located only five minutes walk from Porvoo city center and offers both brunch, a la carte and set menus. At the Sinne Chef´s Table you have a unique opportunity to follow the restaurant chefs´ work at close distance and enjoy an exclusive dinner experience.
Porvoo also offers interesting shopping spots among its charming narrow streets. Vintage and antique shops, design boutiques, artisan chocolatiers, natural cosmetics…everything is within reach in the Porvoo Old Town.
After a day full of extenuating activities, we all need a good night’s rest. If you are looking for a room in style go to Pariisin Ville, an elegant boutique hotel named after the XIXth century local sculptor Ville Vallgren who designed some of the most iconic landmark of the country like the Avis Amanda statue or the façade of the Ateneum museum.
Or head to Hotel Onni, a beautifully renovated 18th century manor house located directly across from the Porvoo Cathedral in the heart of Old Town. Onni offers exquisitely decorated rooms in different styles and a comfortable, intimate atmosphere.
If your are looking for manorial elegance and full pampering head to the Hotel Haikko Manor & Spa. The hotel enjoys a seafront location, 6 km from Porvoo city centre, and functions in 2 separate buildings: the modern Spa hotel and the traditional Manor house.
Tampere – industrial vintage
Tampere is an old industrial city famous for its red brick factory buildings facing the Tammer River in the center of the city. Being the third biggest city of Finland, Tampere will provide plenty of options for the traveller seeking for luxury with a Finnish twist.
Located on the city center and by the Tammer River you can find the Radisson Blu Grand Hotel Tammer, a gorgeous Art Deco hotel built in 1929 which will make you fell like you have entered an Agatha Christie’s mystery novel. From the gorgeous interior of hotel, make sure not to miss the spectacular dining room, where impeccable service offers locally sourced delicacies under sparkling crystal chandeliers.
If you are looking for a simpler yet charming accommodation, Lillian Hotel Café Butik is the perfect place. Located in a 1928 wooden house, the hotel combines nordic design with rustic charm. The hotel guests’ can enjoy a warm cafe and freshly in-house made pastry in the property patio or dine in the in-house restaurant, Lillian Kök, which offers 5 course Scandinavian menus with Gluten-free and Vegetarian options.
Tampere is well-known for its popular auditorium, Tampere Talo, where world class artists often perform. The building is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2021-2022, and offers a comprehensive program that includes opera, philharmonic concerts, musical theatre, rock concerts and much more. Tampere Talo also host the world’s one and only Moomin Museum, which features the famous Tove Janson’s characters and is specially beloved by fans of all ages.
Tampere is a paradise for design and vintage enthusiasts. In Vintage Garden you can find feminine dresses and statement jewelry. Design of Tampere is a local association of artists and designers founded in 2010 that promotes the local cultural and design scene. In their map, you can find a list of members’ boutiques, art galleries and cafes around the city.
When hunger strikes, you can treat yourself in one of the many fabulous restaurants in the city, like the all-time local favourite, Ravinteli Bertha, a fine dining restaurant that has been in Finland’s top 50 best restaurant listings for several years. Bertha is top-notch restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere offering four and six course menus that change almost daily based on the fresh ingredients available at the kitchen.
With a more conceptual cuisine and cozy feeling, Restaurant C is also enjoys regarded as one of the best restaurants in the country. The restaurant focuses in offering excellent wine pairings and in using only organic, biodynamic and ethical ingredients.
Savonlinna – opera capital
Savonlinna, a medieval town located in the Lake Region area of Eastern Finland, becomes the opera capital of the country every summer thanks to the Savonlinna Opera Festival held in the XVth century Oivanlinna Castle in July.
The castle provides a uniquely breathtaking background for the performances since the beginning of the festival in 1912. If you want to attend, we recommend you to book both your ticket and accommodation well in advance as they are always sold out.
In order to cater for the demands of the opera visitors during these days, many grand designers, such as Jukka Rintala, open pop up shops during the duration of festival. If you are looking for some knitwear to shelter from the chilly Finnish summer nights, the national brand Muotikuu has a shop in Savonlinna where you can find elegant designs in silk, merino and cashmere.
If you are looking for a full day of pampering after a night in the opera, Hotel and Spa Resort Järvisydän will provide with all that you are looking for. Located just 40 km away from Savonlinna, the complex offers full sauna and spa treatments in the unique location of the shores of Lake Saimaa.
If you are looking for the most elegant hotel around the area, then Hotel Punkaharju is the place for you. Located in the village of Punkaharju, 30 km away from Savonlinna, this hotel is the oldest in Finland, stablished in 1845. Its stunning scenery, Tsar-like stylish elegance and delicious food have delighted locals as well as presidents of the nation. The state is currently owned by national ex-supermodel Saimi Hoyer.
Turku – gourmet paradise
Nested in the West Coast of Finland, barely two hours away from Helsinki, Turku welcomes the most exigent travellers. The old capital and oldest city in Helsinki is a haven for those interested in culture and history, with its old cathedral and medieval castle, but also a treat for the gourmet traveller.
Turku is particularly well-known for its fabulous gastronomy scene, and the city restaurants as outstanding. The most popular one is Kaskis, a small restaurant that earned his place among the most prestigious restaurants in Finland in just a few years. They only serve seasonal and locally sourced set menus and, due to its popularity, we recommend you to book your table well in advance!
Another local favourite is Smör. Located by the banks of the Aura River, the restaurant chefs declare themselves as “Ambassadors of local food” and strive to keep their menu as fresh and seasonal as possible, which means it is completely changed every 8 weeks. They also offer outstanding wine pairings with the menus, as well as some unique off-carte options.
When looking for a more relaxed and easy-going experience, go to Tintå. This down-to-earth and cozy restaurant by the River Aura serves excellent street food suitable for all tastes.
If all you need is just a coffein fix to keep going with your day, CaféArt is your place. Also located by the River banks, this cafeteria has perfected the art of in-house roasting beans. Besides, the café works as an art gallery with temporary exhibitions that change often and whose works you can buy on the spot.
Turku is also an excellent city for luxury. Many internationally known brands are present in the city, but if you are looking for local design you cannot miss Televisio LifeStyle Store, a boutique specialised in Finnish and Nordic design. There you can find goodies by exclusive Finnish designers like Minna Parikka, Katri Niskanen, Miia Halmesmaa or Ivana Helsinki. The store even sells its own statement jewelry collection, for the boldest fashionistas.
After so much activity, you deserve to rest. At Turku Park Hotel you will find charming hospitable service, a cosy atmosphere, and inimitable style. Located in an Art Nouveau dated from 1902, the centrally located boutique hotel offers just 20 rooms each furbished in a different yet elegant style.
In Hotel Kakola you will not only find a top quality hotel but also a very unique experience. The hotel is located in a former prison, built in 1858 and recently refurbished. You can choose to sleep in a traditional suite or maybe you want to spend the night in a former detention cell, a cell room not suitable for those suffering from claustrophobia.
Hotel Turun Seurahuone is an elegant boutique hotel in the centre of Turku that has been hosting guests for nearly a century. Dating from the 1920s, the walls of the hotel capture a piece of the history of Turku. From businessmen to shipbuilders and city leaders, many honorable guests have enjoyed its unique atmosphere and magnificent location right in the center of Turku.
Ahvenanmaa – island life
Located between Finland and Sweden, the beautiful Åland archipelago is a paradise for sailing and cycling enthusiasts. The flat landscape of the dozens of islands makes it perfect to cycle and sail among them.
After a long day of cycling or sailing, the most exclusive place to relax is the Havsvidden Resort. Here, you can choose between a traditional hotel room or a luxury villa located on a cliff overlooking the sea. The complex also offers sauna and spa treatments, a private harbour for guests with capacity for 20 boats and a restaurant and lounge bar.
Despite its small size, Ahvenanmaa islands are also full of surprises for beer enthusiasts. In Smakbyn you will find a resort to feast your senses, with a restaurant, distillery, bakery, and shop all in one location. Founded by chef Michael Björklund, it favors local and seasonal ingredients.
Stallhagen is the best choice of the beer connoisseur who appreciates great taste and hand made feeling. Their business concept is to develop and market creative hand-made premium beer products as well as beer and food combinations, always being on the look-out for new and exciting taste experiences. In their premises you will find the brewery, a bar, a shop and a restaurant.
When it comes to shopping, the most well-known fashion brand in Åland is Labelled, a sustainable luxury brand that uses exclusively recyclable material for their creations. The owner and designer Linda Karlsson worked with Hussein Chalayan and Alexander McQueen before deciding to move back home to slow down and focus on creating sustainable fashion.
Lapland – artic magic
The calm, untouched nature and scenic landscape are the greatest luxuries that Lapland offers to its visitors. For travelers wishing to witness the magic of the Nordic lights a glass igloo or cabin in the middle of the wilderness with transparent ceiling, Lapland is a dream come true.
Lapland is one of the best places in Finland that offers the widest array of extraordinary accommodation ranging from cozy cabins to glamping. For a truly unique accommodation experience, try Luxury Action’s Teepee Wilderness Camp. These are heated luxury tents, that take clamping one step beyond. With a design based on traditional Sámi kota tents, they provide five-star comfort, including hotel-quality bed linen and private chef and butler services. Each Teepee can also be tailored to best suit the needs of the customer.
For a unique blend of luxury comfort, Arctic nature, local Lappish traditions and modern Scandinavian design head to Arctic TreeHouse Hotel. This new hotel in Rovaniemi offers cosy, nest-like accommodation with a panoramic glass wall. Some of the suites have their own private sauna, and sit in a steep wooded hill slope to maximise the panoramic view.
If you want to have the best seat in the house for earth’s most spectacular light show, Levi Igloo Hotel is the place for you. These 12 very luxurious igloos with full glass walls and ceiling are situated a height of 340 metres on Utsuvaara fell, just 10 kilometres from the all the services of the extremely popular Levi Ski Resort. The distance from the lights of the centre and the unobstructed view of the sky from the slope make this igloos an ideal place for admiring the Northern Lights.
If you wish to take a piece of Lapland back home with you, Hálo designs can be a good choice. Hálo makes elegant clothing out of high-quality materials, always sourced and produced in Europe. The brand enjoys exclusive rights over the use of the colourful Reidar Särestöniemi’s paintings in their collections. Besides, all the other prints found in their clothes are designed exclusively by Hálo.
The bags and purses of Ságat are accessories that will surely make you stand out. Created by Sámi designer Seija Ranttila, the collection is inspired by the traditional Sámi artwork, duodji, with a modern twist.
In Rovaniemi, you can find many products by Finnish designers and entrepreneurs at the Korundi Shop.
