Hotel Katajanokka

Housed in a converted prison from 1837 on Katajanokka Island in central Helsinki is the unexpectedly lush Hotel Katajanokka. While the hotel proudly touts its prison theme (selling striped shirts and other jail-themed souvenirs at the reception shop) the theme is in no way tacky or obtrusive but instead adds to the quirky charm of Hotel Katajanokka. Because Hotel Katajanokka is a 10 minute tram ride into Helsinki’s city centre, the hotel is the perfect place for travellers looking to explore the city while having a peaceful retreat to return to.

Top Tips

1. While all the rooms in Hotel Katajanokka are equally well maintained and equipped, many previous guests have recommended booking one of the Junior Suites as they are larger and feature a private sauna and huge windows. Guests have also recommended to book rooms on higher floors to enjoy the views beyond the old prison walls.

2. If you find yourself staying at Hotel Katajanokka in the summer time, head to the hotel’s bar to enjoy a selection of beers and cocktails in the lovely sheltered courtyard terrace. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to enjoy the live music and a friendly vibe, as well as a variety of charcoal-barbequed delicacies served on the terrace.  

3. When you arrive in Helsinki airport, make sure to take a train to Hotel Katajanokka instead of a taxi as the taxi fare will be upwards of 50 euros versus the train fare of only 5.5 euros. Alternatively, if you drive to Hotel Katajanokka, public parking is available at either 21 euros a day or 3.50 euros an hour.

4. The suburb surrounding Hotel Katajanokka is quiet, charming and residential. While it is only a short stroll to Helsinki’s city centre, for those who aren’t keen on walking, there are trams that will take you into the city in no more than 10 minutes. These trams are a convenient and relatively inexpensive way to see Helsinki’s inner city.

5. The best way to get to know Helsinki is by foot and through a free guided walking tour. Head over to the main stairs of the White Cathedral in The Senate Square and look out for one of Green Cap Tours guides (wearing a green cap, of course). These tours will take approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes and will give you a more in depth understanding of Helsinki while covering places like Senate Square, Log Harbour, Market Square, and many more.