Hotel Arthur

The three-star Hotel Arthur sits in a century-old building located just north of Helsinki's central train station. Packed with amenities (including two Finnish saunas), it's a smart choice for Cheapos who are looking for more than just a room from their hotel.

Owned by a Finnish branch of the YMCA, the Hotel Arthur is more "old-fashioned hotel charm" than "would you like a Bible with your bed?" The hotel is popular with business travelers, and it shows in the professional yet personal design aesthetic. Take, for example, the Arthur's impressive lobby: The staff on duty perches attentively behind a glass window in the wooden reception box, and an elegant circular red sofa sits atop slick marble flooring.

The 167 rooms are simple and attractive, though some are more recently renovated than others. Regardless, rooms are comfy and clean. Five economy rooms share showers in the hall. (These, along with the slightly larger superior rooms, must be booked directly through the hotel.) All rooms have TV and free Wi-Fi access. Over half have mini-fridges.

Older bathrooms sport clean white tiles, and the recently refurbished ones have attractive touches such as mosaic detailing on the walls and black tile flooring. (We heard that a few rooms boast a "rainbow shower," which allows you to choose the color of your water. You'll have to report back if you try one of these.)

The saunas, which cost €10 per use, add a dose of national tradition to your stay. In addition to the hearty included breakfast, Hotel Arthur serves up a daily lunch buffet that's even popular with the locals.