Best Family Hotels in Helsinki for Kids (6-12 Years)
The Ultimate Guide to Family-Friendly Hotels in Helsinki for Kids (Ages 6-12)
Planning a family trip to Helsinki? Finding the right hotel can make all the difference. This guide highlights the best hotels in Helsinki for families with kids aged 6-12, focusing on kid-friendly amenities, convenient locations, and overall value. We’ve analyzed real family reviews and expert opinions to bring you the top choices for a memorable Helsinki vacation.
Best Family Hotels in Helsinki for Kids: Comparison Table
Compare the top-rated family hotels in Helsinki based on our analysis of real family stays and expert evaluations focusing on amenities for kids aged 6-12. Prices reflect average rates during high season.
| Hotel Name | Family Score | Categories | Kid-Friendly Features | Price Range | Why It’s Great |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CheapSleep Hostel | 8.3/10 | Best_Value_for_Families | Shared kitchen, Board games | $ | Affordable option with a shared kitchen, ideal for budget-conscious families who don’t mind being outside the city center. |
| Scandic Grand Central Helsinki | 9.1/10 | All_Inclusive_Resorts | Children’s menu, Connecting rooms | $$$ | Excellent location and breakfast, perfect for families who want to explore the city easily and enjoy a comfortable stay. |
| Scandic Helsinki Hub | 9.2/10 | Fun_and_Kids_Club | Connecting rooms, Board games | $$ | Modern hotel with a central location and connecting rooms, ideal for families who want easy access to attractions and a comfortable stay. |
| Clarion Hotel Aviapolis | 9.0/10 | Family_Friendly_Rooms | Indoor play area, Swimming pool | $$$ | Conveniently located near the airport with an indoor play area and swimming pool, perfect for families with kids needing a stopover or easy access to the airport. |
CheapSleep Hostel – Excelling in Best_Value_for_Families
Hotel Overview
- Overall Rating: 8.3/10
- Kid-Friendly Score: 7.5/10
- Location Score: 7.0/10
- Price Range: $/night
- Address: Pihlajamäentie 23, 00710 Helsinki, Finland
- Distance to Kid-Friendly Attractions: Science Centre Heureka (30-45 minutes), Linnanmäki Amusement Park (30-45 minutes)
- Categories: Best Value for Families with Kids
Why This Hotel is Perfect for Families with Kids
CheapSleep Hostel offers an affordable base for families exploring Helsinki. As a “Best Value for Families” option, it provides a cost-effective way to experience the city. The shared kitchen allows families to prepare their own meals, saving money on dining out. While it’s located outside the city center, public transport provides access to Helsinki’s attractions. It’s a great choice for families who prioritize budget and are comfortable with a hostel environment.
Special Facilities & Services for Kids
- Kids Activities: Common room with board games, Outdoor space, TV area with access to movies. The staff may be able to provide information on local parks and playgrounds.
- Kids Club: There is no dedicated kids’ club or organized program for children at CheapSleep Hostel.
- Family Rooms: Private rooms are available, some of which can accommodate families. Consider booking multiple beds in a dormitory if private rooms are unavailable.
- Kid-Friendly Dining: The hostel has a shared kitchen where families can prepare their own meals. There are grocery stores within walking distance of the hostel.
Real Family Experience
“We loved having the kitchen to make our own meals! It saved us so much money, and the kids enjoyed helping. The location was a bit far, but the bus was easy to use.”
The Andersons, with kids aged 8 and 10
Highlight of Their Stay:
The shared kitchen is a major highlight for families staying at CheapSleep Hostel. It allows them to prepare their own meals, catering to picky eaters and saving money on dining out. The availability of board games in the common room provides entertainment for the kids, especially on rainy days. While the location is not central, the hostel offers a budget-friendly option for families who are comfortable using public transport to explore Helsinki.
Seasonal Considerations
- Peak Season (June-August): Book well in advance as budget options fill up quickly. Utilize the shared kitchen to avoid expensive restaurant meals during the tourist rush.
- Off-Peak (September-May): Enjoy lower rates and fewer crowds. Pack warm clothing as Helsinki can be cold, especially during the winter months.
Insider Tips
- Check-in with Kids: Inquire about family rooms in advance to ensure availability. Be prepared for a potentially busy check-in process.
- Room Selection: If possible, book a private room for more space and privacy. Consider the noise levels in dormitory rooms.
- Kid-Friendly Dining: Plan your meals in advance and utilize the shared kitchen to prepare cost-effective and kid-friendly meals.
- Activities: Research local parks and playgrounds near the hostel for outdoor activities.
What Kids Will Love
- Affordable accommodation for budget-conscious families.
- Shared kitchen for preparing their favorite meals.
- Common room with board games for entertainment.
- Opportunity to meet other travelers.
What to Consider
- Location is outside the city center.
- Shared bathroom facilities in dormitory rooms.
- Potential noise levels.
- Limited specific kids’ activities.
Scandic Grand Central Helsinki – Excelling in All_Inclusive_Resorts
Hotel Overview
- Overall Rating: 9.1/10
- Kid-Friendly Score: 8.5/10
- Location Score: 9.5/10
- Price Range: $$$/night
- Address: Vilhonkatu 13, 00100 Helsinki, Finland
- Distance to Kid-Friendly Attractions: Linnanmäki Amusement Park, Sea Life Helsinki, Korkeasaari Zoo
- Categories: Best All-Inclusive Family Resorts
Why This Hotel is Perfect for Families with Kids
Scandic Grand Central Helsinki, as a “Best All-Inclusive Family Resorts” contender, provides a comfortable and convenient experience for families. Its central location, right next to the Central Railway Station, makes it easy to access Helsinki’s top attractions. The hotel offers family rooms, a children’s menu in the restaurant, and a breakfast buffet with kid-friendly options. While it doesn’t have a dedicated kids’ club, its location and amenities make it a great base for exploring the city with children.
Special Facilities & Services for Kids
- Kids Activities: Small play area in the lobby (availability may vary). Information on nearby parks and playgrounds.
- Kids Club: The Scandic Grand Central Helsinki does not have a dedicated kids’ club or organized children’s programs.
- Family Rooms: Family rooms are available, often consisting of connecting rooms or larger rooms with extra beds or sofa beds. Cots are available upon request.
- Kid-Friendly Dining: The hotel restaurant offers a children’s menu with familiar favorites. The breakfast buffet includes a variety of options suitable for children.
Real Family Experience
“The location was amazing! We could walk everywhere, and the breakfast buffet was a hit with the kids. The staff was so helpful in recommending family-friendly activities.”
The Smiths, with kids aged 7 and 9
Highlight of Their Stay:
The central location of Scandic Grand Central Helsinki is a major highlight for families. It allows them to easily explore Helsinki’s attractions, such as Linnanmäki Amusement Park and Sea Life Helsinki, without relying heavily on public transport. The breakfast buffet offers a wide variety of options, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters find something they enjoy. The helpful and friendly staff contribute to a positive family experience.
Seasonal Considerations
- Peak Season (June-August): Book connecting rooms well in advance. Take advantage of the long daylight hours to explore outdoor attractions.
- Off-Peak (September-May): Enjoy lower rates and fewer crowds. Pack warm clothing and plan indoor activities, such as visiting museums and aquariums.
Insider Tips
- Check-in with Kids: Request connecting rooms or family rooms in advance. Inquire about the availability of a play area in the lobby.
- Room Selection: Connecting rooms provide more space and privacy for families.
- Kid-Friendly Dining: Take advantage of the children’s menu in the restaurant. Explore nearby restaurants for diverse dining options.
- Activities: Plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of Helsinki’s attractions.
What Kids Will Love
- Central location for easy access to attractions.
- Children’s menu in the restaurant.
- Breakfast buffet with kid-friendly options.
- Connecting rooms for more space and privacy.
What to Consider
- Higher price range.
- Limited specific kids’ activities on site.
- Can be crowded during peak season.
- More geared towards adults.
Scandic Helsinki Hub – Excelling in Fun_and_Kids_Club
Hotel Overview
- Overall Rating: 9.2/10
- Kid-Friendly Score: 8.8/10
- Location Score: 9.2/10
- Price Range: $$/night
- Address: Elielinaukio 5, 00100 Helsinki, Finland
- Distance to Kid-Friendly Attractions: Linnanmäki Amusement Park, Sea Life Helsinki, Korkeasaari Zoo
- Categories: Best Activities & Kids Club
Why This Hotel is Perfect for Families with Kids
Scandic Helsinki Hub, recognized as a “Fun and Kids Club” destination, offers a modern and engaging experience for families. Its central location provides easy access to Helsinki’s attractions. While it doesn’t have a dedicated kids’ club, the hotel offers board games and puzzles upon request, creating opportunities for family fun. Connecting rooms provide space and privacy, and the kid-friendly dining options cater to even the pickiest eaters. Its relaxed atmosphere and welcoming environment make it a great choice for families.
Special Facilities & Services for Kids
- Kids Activities: Board games and puzzles available upon request at the reception.
- Kids Club: There is no dedicated kids’ club or organized children’s program at Scandic Helsinki Hub.
- Family Rooms: The hotel offers connecting rooms. Some rooms can accommodate extra beds or cots for children.
- Kid-Friendly Dining: The hotel restaurant offers a children’s menu with classic kid-friendly options. The breakfast buffet includes a variety of choices suitable for children.
Real Family Experience
“We loved the location! It was so easy to get to all the attractions. The kids enjoyed playing board games in the room, and the breakfast buffet was fantastic.”
The Johnsons, with kids aged 6 and 11
Highlight of Their Stay:
The central location and the availability of board games and puzzles are major highlights for families staying at Scandic Helsinki Hub. The easy access to attractions like Linnanmäki Amusement Park and Sea Life Helsinki makes it convenient to explore the city with kids. The breakfast buffet offers a wide variety of options, ensuring that everyone starts the day with a full stomach. The modern and stylish design of the hotel adds to the overall positive experience.
Seasonal Considerations
- Peak Season (June-August): Book connecting rooms well in advance. Take advantage of the long daylight hours to explore outdoor attractions.
- Off-Peak (September-May): Enjoy lower rates and fewer crowds. Pack warm clothing and plan indoor activities, such as visiting museums and aquariums.
Insider Tips
- Check-in with Kids: Request connecting rooms or family rooms in advance. Inquire about the availability of board games and puzzles.
- Room Selection: Connecting rooms provide more space and privacy for families. The ‘Superior Extra’ rooms are generally larger.
- Kid-Friendly Dining: Take advantage of the children’s menu in the restaurant. Explore nearby restaurants for diverse dining options.
- Activities: Plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of Helsinki’s attractions.
What Kids Will Love
- Central location for easy access to attractions.
- Board games and puzzles for entertainment.
- Children’s menu in the restaurant.
- Connecting rooms for more space and privacy.
What to Consider
- No dedicated kids’ club.
- Limited specific kids’ activities on site.
- Can be crowded during peak season.
- May be slightly more expensive than budget options.
Clarion Hotel Aviapolis – Excelling in Family_Friendly_Rooms
Hotel Overview
- Overall Rating: 9.0/10
- Kid-Friendly Score: 9.0/10
- Location Score: 8.0/10
- Price Range: $$$/night
- Address: Karhumäentie 5, 01530 Vantaa, Finland
- Distance to Kid-Friendly Attractions: Heureka Science Centre (15-minute drive), Flamingo Entertainment World (10-minute drive)
- Categories: Most Family-Friendly Rooms
Why This Hotel is Perfect for Families with Kids
Clarion Hotel Aviapolis, excelling in “Family-Friendly Rooms,” offers a comfortable and convenient stay for families, especially those needing easy access to Helsinki-Vantaa Airport. The hotel features an indoor play area, a swimming pool, and connecting rooms, providing ample space and entertainment for kids. The Kitchen & Table Aviapolis restaurant offers a kids’ menu, and the breakfast buffet includes a variety of options suitable for children. While primarily a business hotel, its kid-friendly amenities make it a great choice for families.
Special Facilities & Services for Kids
- Kids Activities: Indoor play area, Swimming pool, Board games and puzzles, Kids’ TV channels.
- Kids Club: Clarion Hotel Aviapolis does not have a dedicated kids’ club or organized children’s programs.
- Family Rooms: Connecting rooms are available. Some rooms are larger and can accommodate extra beds or cots for children. Suites offer more space.
- Kid-Friendly Dining: The Kitchen & Table Aviapolis restaurant offers a kids’ menu. The breakfast buffet includes a variety of options suitable for children.
Real Family Experience
“The indoor play area was a lifesaver! The kids loved it, and we could relax a bit. The connecting rooms were perfect for our family, and the breakfast buffet was great.”
The Wilsons, with kids aged 9 and 12
Highlight of Their Stay:
The indoor play area is a major highlight for families staying at Clarion Hotel Aviapolis. It provides a safe and fun space for kids to burn off energy, especially during layovers or before flights. The connecting rooms offer ample space and privacy for families. The swimming pool is another popular amenity, providing a refreshing activity for kids. The convenient location near the airport makes it a great choice for families traveling with children.
Seasonal Considerations
- Peak Season (June-August): Book connecting rooms well in advance. The indoor play area can be crowded during peak hours.
- Off-Peak (September-May): Enjoy lower rates and fewer crowds. The swimming pool is a great option for indoor entertainment during colder months.
Insider Tips
- Check-in with Kids: Request connecting rooms in advance. Inquire about the hours of operation for the indoor play area and swimming pool.
- Room Selection: Connecting rooms provide more space and privacy for families. Suites offer even more space and a separate living area.
- Kid-Friendly Dining: Take advantage of the kids’ menu in the restaurant. The breakfast buffet is a great option for a quick and easy meal.
- Activities: Plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of nearby attractions, such as Heureka Science Centre and Flamingo Entertainment World.
What Kids Will Love
- Indoor play area for hours of fun.
- Swimming pool for a refreshing activity.
- Connecting rooms for more space and privacy.
- Convenient location near the airport.
What to Consider
- Higher price range.
- Location is not central to Helsinki.
- Limited specific kids’ activities beyond the play area and pool.
- Primarily a business hotel.
Tips for Choosing the Best Family Hotel in Helsinki
Choosing the right hotel can significantly impact your family vacation. Here are some tips to help you make the best decision:
- Consider your budget: Helsinki offers a range of hotels, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Determine your budget and look for hotels that fit your price range.
- Think about location: If you plan to explore Helsinki’s attractions, choose a hotel in a central location with easy access to public transport. If you need easy access to the airport, consider a hotel near Helsinki-Vantaa Airport.
- Look for kid-friendly amenities: Consider amenities such as connecting rooms, kids’ menus, play areas, and swimming pools.
- Read family reviews: Pay attention to reviews from families with kids aged 6-12 to get a better understanding of the hotel’s suitability for your family.
- Book in advance: Especially during peak season, book your hotel well in advance to secure the best rates and availability.
Final Recommendations
Based on our analysis, here are our top recommendations for family hotels in Helsinki:
- For budget-conscious families: CheapSleep Hostel offers an affordable option with a shared kitchen.
- For families seeking a central location and convenience: Scandic Grand Central Helsinki and Scandic Helsinki Hub provide easy access to Helsinki’s attractions.
- For families needing easy access to the airport and kid-friendly amenities: Clarion Hotel Aviapolis offers an indoor play area and a swimming pool.
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Hotels for Kids in Helsinki
Look for hotels with connecting rooms or family suites to provide ample space. Kid-friendly dining options, such as children’s menus and breakfast buffets with familiar favorites, are also essential. On-site activities like play areas or swimming pools can keep kids entertained.
While not all hotels in Helsinki offer dedicated kids’ clubs, they can be a great way for children to socialize and participate in organized activities. If your kids enjoy structured programs, look for hotels that offer this service, but remember that Helsinki itself offers many attractions for families.
Connecting rooms are ideal, providing separate spaces for parents and children while still being close. Family suites with a separate living area and bedroom are another excellent option. If these aren’t available, a larger room with extra beds or a sofa bed can also work.
A central location near the Central Railway Station or in the city center provides easy access to public transport and many attractions. This allows you to explore Helsinki’s sights without spending too much time traveling. Hotels near the airport are convenient for early morning or late-night flights.
Check hotel websites and online reviews for information about on-site activities like play areas, swimming pools, and board games. Look for hotels that are located near kid-friendly attractions such as Linnanmäki Amusement Park, Sea Life Helsinki, and Heureka Science Centre. Consider hotels that offer information about local parks and playgrounds.