Hotel Katajanokka, Helsinki, a Tribute Portfolio HotelvsHotel Helka
Both hotels are rated very highly by experts. On balance, Hotel Katajanokka scores significantly better than Hotel Helka. Hotel Katajanokka comes in at 90 with accolades from 7 reviews including The Telegraph, Star Service and Insight Guides.
Hotel Katajanokka, Helsinki, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Merikasarminkatu 1a, Helsinki 00160, Finland
From $141/night
- Pet Friendly
- Bar/Lounge
- Free Internet
- Room Service
- Free Breakfast
- Laundry Service
Michelin Guide
"Pleasantly restored, late 19C former prison, with high ceilinged corridors and original staircases still in situ."
Insight Guides
"A fabulous choice with a unique history... the well-soundproofed rooms are done up in designer furnishings and linens."
Fodor's
"All in all, it's not a bad place to do time." Full review
Lonely Planet
Top Choice
"While it doesn’t miss a chance to have cheeky nudges at the former penal complex, it’s not at the expense of luxury, with large flatscreen TVs and a sumptuous sauna." Full review
Oyster
Upscale
"For guests who want to experience what it’s like to spend a night in the slammer without ever having to break the law, the upscale Hotel Katajanokka offers a unique experience." Full review
Star Service
"Probably one of the most unique hotels in the city, the Katajanokka is a former prison." Full review
i
Even though several cells have been combined to make guest rooms spacious and modern, and additional windows make sure that guests don’t feel claustrophobic, the prison feel is still very present, especially in the lobby area.
The Telegraph
8.0
"Having split from an international chain, this is now one of Helsinki’s few independent hotels and better for it." Full review
Michelin Guide
"The old cells are now comfortable, well-equipped bedrooms with modern bathrooms. The traditional cellar restaurant features a preserved prison cell and serves traditional Finnish cuisine." Full review
Hotel Helka
Pohjoinen Rautatiekatu 23, Helsinki 00100, Finland
From $84/night
- Pet Friendly
- Bar/Lounge
- Hot Tub
- Free Internet
- Room Service
- Free Breakfast
Michelin Guide
"Well-kept contemporary bedrooms have white walls and huge photos of flora and fauna on the ceilings."
Fodor's
"Owned by the Finnish YWCA, this is a pleasant, affordable alternative to the higher-price chain hotels." Full review
Oyster
Upper-middle-range
"The Hotel Helka is an upper-middle-range landmark property located in the center of Helsinki, and it's famed for being featured in the 1983 film "Gorky Park." Full review
Lonely Planet
Top choice
"One of the centre’s best midrange hotels – you can nearly always get a room cheaper than the listed price – the Helka has competent, friendly staff and excellent facilities." Full review