Hotel Katajanokka, Helsinki, a Tribute Portfolio HotelvsScandic Simonkentta
Both hotels are highly recommended by expert writers. On balance, Hotel Katajanokka ranks significantly higher than Scandic Simonkentta. Hotel Katajanokka comes in at 90 with praise from 7 reviews such as Star Service, Lonely Planet 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
Scandic Simonkentta
Simonkatu 9, Helsinki 00100, Finland
From $95/night
- Pet Friendly
- Bar/Lounge
- Free Internet
- Room Service
- Free Breakfast
- Laundry Service
Lonely Planet
"This giant sleek überhotel towers over the comings and goings in the new Kamppi Square." Full review
i
Some rooms even have a sauna for no extra cost, so it's worth requesting one of these on the off chance.
Travel + Leisure
"Smack dab in the center of Helsinki, the new-millennium Simonkenttä is a gleaming example of what a big urban hotel can do for the environment." Full review
Star Service
"A five-minute uphill walk from the main train station, this property is one block from the main shopping street and right on Kamppi Square." Full review
i
The large room count keeps staffers busy and unable to respond quickly to special requests.
Fodor's
"Located next to the bus station and the Forum shopping center, this hotel was specially designed to be environmentally friendly and to fulfill hypoallergenic standards." Full review