Best bars in Helsinki

Whether you’re looking for a rooftop bar for the summer months when the daylight never ends, or a cosy pub in the cold, dark winter, we’ve rounded up the very best watering holes in Helsinki. From creative cocktails to locally brewed craft beer, this is one city where you won’t be going thirsty…

Best bars in Helsinki:

1. GOLDFISH

One of the most stunningly designed bars you will ever walk into and things don’t change once you start with the drinks. Incredibly, they taste even better than they look, which is hard to believe.

2.PULMU BAARI

This small bar in Kallio has a retro airplane-style interior where you’ll always find the regulars chatting to the bartenders. It gets super busy on weekends as people flock to this comforting joint, but if you’re lucky you’ll nab a seat. Our tip? Just get up and dance.

3.TORNI ATELJEE BAAR

To get to the top of the “Tower” you have to ride the elevator up to the 13th floor of the Torni hotel and then climb the narrow spiral staircase up to the rooftop bar. There you will find terraces on both sides with spectacular views over the city. The Ateljee Bar is a true Helsinki classic.

4.CHIHUAHUA JULEP

This hidden bar is hard to find – you’ll just a doormat and a tiny sign. To enter, ring the doorbell and step inside to discover vintage sofas and dark window. Phones are supposed to be left in pockets and bags, so no scrolling here.

As for the drinks? It takes inspiration from Latin America: a world of quality tequila, mescal, pisco and rum. FYI, no gin, vodka or scotch are stocked here.

5,WAY BAKARY & WINE BARA 

A bakery by day and an cosy wine bar by night, Way specialises in natural wines. The compact wine list has some bubbles, four whites and reds, two orange wines and speciality bottles according to whatever is opened. The small space fills up fast but you can usually always grab a seat at the counter.

6. PANEMA

Panema has 18 distinct tap beers (both Finnish and imported), and the bottle selection is even wider. It hosts regular “brewery tap take overs”, so you can constantly try new things in this friendly bar. Plus, you can even bring your own food or have it delivered to enjoy with your drinks.

7.LIBERTY OR DEATH

Liberty Or Death is an innovative cocktail bar, where the monthly changing cocktail menu includes twisted classics and new trends from around the world. The bartenders are smartly dressed in 1920s-era uniforms and are true experts at mixing up delicious drinks.