Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
surprises in the marble bathrooms with their trademark rubber duck. Facilities include a
plush day spa, saunas and restaurants.
Sokos Hotel Torni
HOTEL
)
In 1931 this building became Finland's Empire State Building and although no longer the
country's tallest edifice, it still boasts excellent views, especially from its Ateljee Bar.
Today rooms have been stylishly renovated in keeping with the historic feel in art deco and
art nouveau styles, though modern rooms in rich red and black have hip decor.
You pay a little extra for rooms with views, but they're worth it. Still a great Helsinki
address.
Hotelli Seurahuone
HOTEL
(
MAP
GOOGLE MAP
;
09-69141;
www.hotelliseurahuone.fi
;
Kaivokatu 12;s/d €219/239;
)
This
seurahuone
(literally, 'club room') was a meeting place for high society, where visit-
ing officers, gentlemen and ladies came to stay, and a venue for concerts and ballroom
dances. The building remains a classic, with stately rooms in black and gold, and period
fittings including the smoking cabinet and ballroom. Sadly there's no sauna, but Rauta-
tientori views provide succour.
Greater Helsinki
Hostel Academica
HOSTEL
€28.50/63/75; Jun-Aug; )
Finnish students live well, so in summer take advantage of this residence, a clean busy
spot packed with features (pool and sauna) and cheery staff. The modern rooms are great,
and all come with bar fridges and their own bathrooms. Dorms have only two or three
berths so there's no crowding. It's also environmentally sound. Breakfast available. HI dis-
count.
