Experience Nordic luxury and culture at this five-star haven in the heart of Finland’s vibrant capital.
If you’re looking to escape Europe’s heat and bustling tourist spots, head north to the cool, cultural paradise of Helsinki, Finland. This city isn’t just the birthplace of saunas and the famed Lonkero drink; it’s also home to the new, five-star Grand Hansa Hotel, part of the prestigious NH Collection. Here, you’ll find opulent Scandinavian design, premium amenities, and easy access to Helsinki’s iconic landmarks.
The Grand Hansa is situated in a historic corner of Helsinki, near Eliel Saarinen’s Art Deco train station and Helsinki University’s classic student buildings. Formerly known as Hotel Seurahuone, it has been revitalized into a luxurious getaway while retaining its old-world charm. With 224 beautifully designed rooms, the hotel’s accommodations range from comfortable standard rooms starting at €230 ($258) to the lavish Presidential Suite, priced at over €5,000 ($5,480) per night. The suite offers 1,722 square feet of luxury, a separate sitting area, and access to the spa.
The hotel blends contemporary Nordic design with cozy touches, ensuring a serene yet stylish atmosphere. Step outside your room, and you’ll find unparalleled views of Helsinki landmarks like The Three Smiths sculpture or the busy Aleksanterinkatu, lined with shops and trams.
No luxury experience is complete without exquisite dining, and the Grand Hansa offers just that. Head to Hansa Café Bar & Brasserie to savor traditional Finnish flavors. Start with the rich lobster soup with hints of vanilla and tomato, or, if you’re vegetarian, try the grilled hispi cabbage with a Jerusalem artichoke puree. For those seeking heartier fare, the grilled beef entrecôte with mushroom purée, Madeira sauce, and fries is a crowd-pleaser.
After a day of sightseeing, unwind at the Kupoli Bar, perched in the hotel’s historic dome tower. This spot isn’t just about impressive views; it’s a nod to Finland’s famed cocktails. Try the classic Lonkero with its refreshing gin and grapefruit base, or branch out with a Plumhattan, crafted from a local sour plum cordial, Noilly Prat vermouth, and Japanese whiskey. The Apple & Brown Butter Whiskey Sour is another favorite, with a mix of local Applejack, brown butter-washed rye, and fresh sour apple juice.
The Grand Hansa’s prime location places you within walking distance of Helsinki’s architectural treasures. Check out the Oodi Library, a striking glass and wood structure by ALA Architects. This serene spot offers a quiet respite and a unique look at modern Finnish design. A few blocks down is the historic Glass Palace, a 1930s Bauhaus-inspired marvel that houses restaurants, offices, and the Bio Rex arthouse cinema.
For a more traditional experience, visit the Uspenski Cathedral. Constructed in 1868 in the Russian Revival style, this Orthodox church is an architectural gem with a fascinating backstory, including the mysterious recovery of a stolen religious icon.
The National Gallery, known as the Art Museum Ateneum, is another nearby gem. Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of art by global masters like Picasso and Cézanne alongside Finnish icons like Albert Edelfelt and Ellen Thesleff, whose works beautifully capture the Finnish landscape.
After a full day of exploration, treat yourself to the hotel’s Usva Spa. “Usva” means “mist” in Finnish, and the spa experience here feels like being enveloped in a calming fog. Indulge in massages, aromatherapy, and facials, or opt for one of the three saunas: traditional Finnish, infrared, and steam. Each sauna offers unique health benefits, from respiratory wellness to improved circulation.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, try out the traditional birch branches for a gentle “whipping.” This centuries-old practice exfoliates the skin, improves circulation, and offers a uniquely Finnish touch to the spa experience. It might even give you a taste of the elusive Finnish happiness—Finland has topped the UN’s World Happiness Report for a reason.
The Grand Hansa Hotel isn’t just a place to stay; it’s an invitation to experience Helsinki’s blend of old and new, traditional and contemporary. From luxe rooms and fine dining to cultural landmarks and a reinvigorating spa, this hotel is designed for travelers seeking a refined getaway in Europe’s northernmost capital. So, pack your bags, book your room, and let Helsinki’s Grand Hansa show you a new side of luxury in the heart of Finland.
