Explore a renewed space for architecture, culture, dining, and design in the heart of the city.
Finlandia Hall, one of Helsinki’s most iconic architectural landmarks, has reopened its doors after an extensive renovation that began in 2022. Designed by the world-renowned architect Alvar Aalto, the building now welcomes visitors with a fresh look, new public spaces, and an expanded range of services that go far beyond its original role as a venue for concerts and conferences.
For the first time, the northern side of Finlandia Hall, facing Hesperia Park and Töölönlahti Bay, is open to the public. This newly accessible area forms the heart of the Finlandia Experience, a concept that transforms the building into a vibrant, multi-use destination. With restaurants, design shops, art exhibitions, and even accommodation, Finlandia Hall has become a place to spend time, relax, and discover Finnish creativity and culture in an immersive way.
Finlandia Exhibition – A Journey into Aalto’s Creativity and Finnish Identity
Now open at Finlandia Hall, the Finlandia Exhibition invites visitors on an immersive journey into the creative world of Alvar, Aino, and Elissa Aalto—and into the very essence of Finnishness. This permanent exhibition offers a rich, narrative-driven experience exploring the Aaltos’ design philosophy, Finnish identity, and our deep connection to nature.
Set within the newly restored spaces of Finlandia Hall, the exhibition brings the Aalto legacy to life through light, space, stories, and emotion. The Finlandia Exhibition consists of five immersive spaces. Through sound, light, materials, and storytelling, guests are encouraged to pause, reflect, and engage with the ideas that shaped both the iconic building and modern Finland.
The experience begins with the Prelude, where the iconic melody of the Finlandia Hymn sets the tone and introduces the intertwined stories of the Aaltos and Finnish cultural identity. In Power of Light, visitors discover the role of light as a central element in Aalto’s architecture—both functional and poetic. Land of Forests draws guests into a forest-inspired environment, where Finnish nature and wood emerge as core sources of inspiration for Aalto’s work. Together explores the Aaltos’ international networks, friendships, and collaborations. Personal stories and global connections reveal the human side of their design legacy. Finally, MyAalto invites visitors to interact, reflect, and contribute. This participatory space offers the chance to explore materials and leave a personal mark on the exhibition.
To enhance the experience, visitors can enjoy coffee or lunch at Finlandia Cafe&Wine or dinner at Finlandia Bistro, both located within Finlandia Hall. Just next door, the Little Finlandia Café and terrace offers a relaxed atmosphere and scenic views of Töölönlahti Bay—perfect for a peaceful break or afterwork drink surrounded by nature.
Finlandia Cafe&Wine – A New Favourite for Locals and Visitors
Finlandia Cafe&Wine offers a relaxed and stylish setting where guests can enjoy high-quality, seasonal food and drink throughout the day. Open Monday to Saturday, the café serves breakfast in the mornings, a rotating lunch menu on weekdays, and small savory and sweet treats from its all-day menu.
The interior reflects the timeless style of Finlandia Hall, with views over Töölönlahti Bay that invite guests to slow down and enjoy the atmosphere. Whether you’re visiting the hall for an event or just looking for a peaceful moment in the city, Finlandia Cafe&Wine is a welcoming stop.
Finlandia Bistro – Dinner in a Legendary Setting
Finlandia Hall now hosts an à la carte restaurant open for dinner. Finlandia Bistro is a refined yet approachable dining venue where Finnish ingredients are paired with Mediterranean influences. The menu evolves with the seasons and is built around local produce, echoing the natural harmony found in Aalto’s architecture.
The setting itself is extraordinary: the restaurant retains Alvar Aalto’s original interior design, from lighting fixtures to furniture, creating a space where history and innovation coexist. Open from Thursday to Saturday, the bistro also welcomes walk-in guests in its lounge area, and families are warmly invited. With elegant service and a curated drink selection, Finlandia Bistro is a memorable culinary experience in a setting unlike any other.
Little Finlandia – A Wooden Pavilion of Culture and Celebration
Next to the main building, Little Finlandia continues to thrive as a venue for events, exhibitions, and casual encounters. Originally constructed as a temporary space during Finlandia Hall’s renovation, this wooden pavilion has established itself as a permanent part of the cultural scene.
Little Finlandia Cafe&Wine – A Scenic Stop by Töölönlahti
Little Finlandia Cafe&Wine is one of the most charming cafés in Helsinki. Its laid-back style and natural surroundings make it a favourite among locals looking to enjoy a peaceful lunch or a sparkling glass of Alvar, Finlandia Hall’s signature wine. The lunch menu is available on weekdays, and in the early evenings, the café comes alive with an afterwork atmosphere, offering sweet and savoury bites along with champagne and other refreshments.
What makes this café especially delightful in summer is its spacious terrace overlooking the scenic Töölönlahti. Just steps from the city centre, it offers a peaceful spot to enjoy brunch, a glass of wine, or a quiet break surrounded by nature. Inside Little Finlandia, the Finlandia Gallery hosts rotating exhibitions of paintings, drawings, and photography.
Finlandia Shop – Design to Take Home
Located next to Finlandia Cafe&Wine, the Finlandia Shop brings together classic and contemporary Finnish design. The shop’s selection includes the exclusive Finlandia Collection, timeless Aalto pieces, and high-quality products from small Finnish brands. It’s a destination in itself for those looking to bring home a piece of Finnish creativity, whether as a meaningful souvenir or a design object for everyday life. The shop also features seasonal items and gift ideas, making it a popular stop before or after enjoying the café or a cultural event.
Finlandia Homes – Stay Inside a Design Icon
A truly unique experience is offered to guests who choose to stay at Finlandia Homes, two restored apartments located within Finlandia Hall. Originally built as staff housing, these apartments have been carefully renovated in line with Alvar Aalto’s original design principles, combining functional aesthetics with modern comfort.
Each apartment has its own character. The Aino apartment offers a calm and harmonious atmosphere in cool blues, while the Elissa apartment embraces a bold palette with red tones and dynamic energy. Guests will find classic Artek lighting, original furnishings, and artwork from the Helsinki Art Museum collection. For travelers who appreciate architecture, design, and authenticity, Finlandia Homes offers a rare opportunity to live inside a landmark.
Discover Finlandia Hall
Whether you’re stopping in for coffee, attending a performance, browsing Finnish design, or spending the night in a beautifully restored apartment, the renewed Finlandia Hall offers more than just a glimpse into Finnish culture—it invites you to truly experience it. With enhanced accessibility, expanded public spaces, and a deep commitment to sustainability, Finlandia Hall is once again a beating heart of Helsinki—ready to inspire, surprise, and welcome visitors from around the world.
