As to hotels, if you are elite with IHG, you should consider Crowne Plaza who upgrades consistently Plats to Club or Junior Suite rooms. Check also the newly opened Indigo Helsinki which is ideally situated in great neighborhood.

Sokos hotels are not bad either, and no better than Scandic or holiday inns on a more inexpensive scale. Usually Scandic and Sokos have free buffet breakfast.

Radisson BLUs: Royal is centrally situated as well as Plaza, and for a ferry trip to Tallinn with Tallink, Radisson Seaside is a great option as it is walking distance to the ferry terminal. If you are Gold/Concierge, Radisson usually delivers decen upgrade rooms. Breakie included.

Hilton Strand and Kalastajatorppa are a bit further away but not too far and easily connected with public transport