Set in Helsinki’s Design District, the Hotel Indigo Helsinki – Boulevard doesn’t necessarily jump out at you from the street, but once inside the lobby makes it clear fun things are waiting. Modern shelving displays Finnish design goods. Colorful seating complete with patterned throw pillows and modern light fixtures, line the short walk to the front desk.
The hotel offers 120 rooms spread throughout eight floors. The bright paintings that line the hallways, offer a glimpse of what’s waiting in guest rooms. A majority of the rooms at Hotel Indigo Helsinki – Boulevard are considered standard rooms, but the hotel also has superior rooms (most have street views) and one Junior Suite. Amenities and the colorful décor are consistent throughout all of the room categories.
The first thing I noticed when I entered my standard room was the vivid mural on the wall. (And after a little exploring in Helsinki, I began to recognize the neighborhood spots that provided inspiration.) Spacious for a standard room, along with a nice size desk for working or spreading out and charging assorted travel gadgets, there was a corner sitting area, and two twin beds pushed together. The beds were made European style, with lightweight duvets, but no top sheet. Bedside electric plugs make it easy if your cell phone does double-duty as an alarm clock.
The bathroom had one sink, but the vanity provided plenty of room for the amount of toiletries that come with two guests. There’s no bathtub, but the walk-in shower is large with the option of a hand-held or rain-style shower head. Aveda toiletry products are provided.
In true Finnish fashion, the hotel offers complimentary sauna facilities. There are separate facilities for male and female guests. On weekdays, saunas are open in the evening. On weekends, the saunas are available to use in the morning as well. There’s also a small fitness center and yoga room fitted with a silk yoga trapeze hammock. For guests interested in pedaling around Helsinki, complimentary bikes are available, first come, first serve.
Breakfast is served just off the lobby at Bröd. The hearty buffet offers a number of selections including fruits, breads, pastries, cereals, cold cuts and a number of warm options like bacon, sausage, and eggs. It’s cheaper if paid for when booking the room, but purchased at the hotel the cost is $27. Bröd also serves lunch and dinner, and provides 24-hour room service.
Wi-Fi is complimentary.
Rates for a standard room range from $151 to $341. Book directly through the IHG website or try a booking site such as Expedia.
Review and photos by Dana Rebmann. Her stay was hosted by Visit Finland, but as always her thoughts and opinions are her own.