Best venues from photographers perspective
TOP 12 Wedding Venues: Helsinki
Right from the start, it's important to note that the wedding venues listed below are not in any particular order but have been numbered for clarity.
Although I now mostly photograph smaller wedding experiences, I've become familiar with the best wedding venues in Helsinki over the past ten years. Therefore, I decided to update my original blog post from 2019 in honor of the new year. These wedding venues come with my wholehearted recommendation, both for their service and visual appeal.
When planning a traditional wedding, selecting the venue is one of the most important decisions. Few couples realize that the setting of the venue might enable experiences and activities that aren’t possible everywhere. When browsing venues, I recommend paying close attention to the surrounding environment: Could the ceremony take place outdoors in nature or indoors near the venue? Is there space for guests to spend time outside? Does the venue accommodate outdoor dancing or other entertainment? Is the venue centrally located amidst busy city life, or is it far enough from downtown Helsinki to allow you to enjoy the evening in a peaceful atmosphere?
Wedding venues also differ in their interiors. The most beautiful venues almost always feature large, tall windows. Although the ambiance of the venue itself is important, the natural light flooding in is, in my opinion, what truly sets the following venues apart from other wedding locations in Helsinki.
Helsinki Wedding Venues: Consider this first
Updated 17.04.2025
Built in 1900, Restaurant NJK is a unique villa-style restaurant located on Valkosaari island, not far from Helsinki’s city center. Although the restaurant offers beautiful views of maritime Helsinki through its windows, it still provides a suitably peaceful venue for weddings since the island is accessible only by boat. The same island is also home to another of Helsinki’s—and Finland’s—most stunning event venues, Valkosaari Dockyard (Valkosaaren telakka).
The main event space consists of one large hall surrounded by a corridor that can easily accommodate additional activities. It also provides guests with a pleasant area to relax without needing to step outside. A connecting ferry departs from the Valkosaari pier, located at Ehrenströmintie 13, just after the Olympia Terminal.
Why are weddings at Restaurant NJK so special?
Capacity: Seats up to 160 guests.
The main event space consists of one large hall surrounded by a corridor that can easily accommodate additional activities. It also provides guests with a pleasant area to relax without needing to step outside. A connecting ferry departs from the Valkosaari pier, located at Ehrenströmintie 13, just after the Olympia Terminal.
Why are weddings at Restaurant NJK so special?
- The event hall at Restaurant NJK is spacious and has a high ceiling, yet maintains an intimate atmosphere.
- Excellent location, close to the city but secluded enough for privacy.
- Magnificent natural light floods through large, tall glass windows.
- Exceptional service and catering.
Capacity: Seats up to 160 guests.
1.Elegant Restaurant NJK, Helsinki
Spoiler alert: Hirvihaaran Kartano isn't actually in Helsinki, but I wanted to include it anyway since it's only a 30-minute drive from the city. The manor’s standout feature is undoubtedly its unique Glass Pavilion, reminiscent of classic European manor estates. Additionally, the venue offers accommodations for the entire wedding party, and guests can also stay in the nearby center of Mäntsälä.
Hirvihaaran Kartano provides accommodation options for wedding guests in high-quality rooms reflecting the manor’s historical charm. Additional lodging is available at the Kartanon Meijeri hotel, Hirvihaaran Kartano’s sister hotel, situated in a beautifully renovated former dairy building. This hotel also offers small spa treatments such as facials, hand and foot treatments, and massages.
The manor is an ideal setting for couples who value historical ambiance, excellent cuisine, and versatile accommodation options for their celebrations. This historic estate, which has previously functioned as everything from a field hospital to a retirement home, has been carefully renovated and now serves guests as an exceptional venue for weddings, events, and meetings.
Why are weddings at Hirvihaaran Kartano so special?
Capacity: Seats up to 170 guests.
Hirvihaaran Kartano provides accommodation options for wedding guests in high-quality rooms reflecting the manor’s historical charm. Additional lodging is available at the Kartanon Meijeri hotel, Hirvihaaran Kartano’s sister hotel, situated in a beautifully renovated former dairy building. This hotel also offers small spa treatments such as facials, hand and foot treatments, and massages.
The manor is an ideal setting for couples who value historical ambiance, excellent cuisine, and versatile accommodation options for their celebrations. This historic estate, which has previously functioned as everything from a field hospital to a retirement home, has been carefully renovated and now serves guests as an exceptional venue for weddings, events, and meetings.
Why are weddings at Hirvihaaran Kartano so special?
- The Glass Pavilion at Hirvihaaran Kartano is unparalleled.
- Service at the manor has consistently been first-class, and the food is outstanding.
- Accommodation options at the manor and its sister hotel make it an ideal choice for both wedding guests and other event attendees.
Capacity: Seats up to 170 guests.
2. Unique Hirvihaaran kartano, Mantsala
HSS Restaurant Paviljong is located on Liuskasaari island, just off Kaivopuisto, with easy access via a pier to the neighboring island, Uunisaari. Home for more than a century to Helsingfors Segelsällskap, one of Finland’s oldest and largest sailing clubs, Liuskasaari accommodates around 300 boats. If you're a boater and familiar with Helsinki, chances are you already know Liuskasaari well.
HSS Restaurant took its current form in the 1940s after a fire, when architect Runar Finnilä designed a new functionalist-style pavilion to replace the original building. HSS Restaurant features a stunning, circular event space decorated with maritime-themed artwork. Its unique architecture provides panoramic views in nearly every direction. The main hall seats up to 250 guests, while cocktail events can accommodate up to 400 guests. The outdoor terrace facing the sea also offers seating for 80 guests and boasts one of Helsinki’s most spectacular views.
Why are weddings at HSS Paviljong so special?
Capacity: Seating for 250 guests.
HSS Restaurant took its current form in the 1940s after a fire, when architect Runar Finnilä designed a new functionalist-style pavilion to replace the original building. HSS Restaurant features a stunning, circular event space decorated with maritime-themed artwork. Its unique architecture provides panoramic views in nearly every direction. The main hall seats up to 250 guests, while cocktail events can accommodate up to 400 guests. The outdoor terrace facing the sea also offers seating for 80 guests and boasts one of Helsinki’s most spectacular views.
Why are weddings at HSS Paviljong so special?
- Spacious, circular event venue spread over two floors with bright windows all around.
- Central location in the heart of Helsinki, yet with an intimate island atmosphere.
- Liuskasaari and nearby Uunisaari are beautiful, charming settings ideal for wedding portraits.
Capacity: Seating for 250 guests.
3. Marine HSS Restaurant PAVILJONG, LIUSKASAARI
Valkosaaren Telakka, located on the same island as Restaurant NJK, is one of Helsinki’s most stunning venues for weddings and always leaves an unforgettable impression. The event space is large and open, yet not hall-like or cold. The natural light pouring in from both ends looks absolutely stunning, and particularly during sunset, the place is truly breathtaking. Situated only 500 meters from the Market Square (Kauppatori), it's hard to find a closer island atmosphere. With seating for up to 250 guests, the venue suits larger weddings but is equally wonderful for smaller gatherings.
Why are weddings at Valkosaaren Telakka so special?
Capacity: Seating for 250 guests.
Why are weddings at Valkosaaren Telakka so special?
- Large, unified space that maintains a cozy, inviting atmosphere—never cold or impersonal.
- Dark walls offer a striking contrast to white elements, such as decorations.
- Natural light streaming in from both ends creates a beautifully dramatic atmosphere, perfect for wedding celebrations.
- A very central location in Helsinki, yet secluded enough for privacy.
Capacity: Seating for 250 guests.
4. Unforgettable
VALKOSAAREN TELAKKA, VALKOSAARI
Särkänlinna, an island fortress built in the 18th century to defend Helsinki, is a truly unique wedding venue. Completed in 1924, Restaurant Särkänlinna stands out because of its remarkable setting. On this peaceful island, you can celebrate undisturbed apart from a few passing boaters.
This long, corridor-like venue features, among other things, the longest continuous dining table in Finland. Large windows on both sides of the upper-level dining hall fill the space beautifully with natural light.
Why are weddings at Särkänlinna so special?
Capacity: Seating for 150 guests.
This long, corridor-like venue features, among other things, the longest continuous dining table in Finland. Large windows on both sides of the upper-level dining hall fill the space beautifully with natural light.
Why are weddings at Särkänlinna so special?
- Särkänlinna is a genuinely unique venue located within a historic island fortress, making weddings here unforgettable.
- The tranquil island offers complete privacy, yet Helsinki and its amenities remain conveniently close.
- Abundant natural light fills the dining hall, thanks to windows on both sides.
- Two distinct spaces: the dining area upstairs and a separate downstairs space for evening entertainment.
Capacity: Seating for 150 guests.
5.Outstanding Restaurant Särkanlinna, Helsinki
6. Friendly and Bright Restaurant Story, Helsinki
Restaurant Story is located at the edge of the Market Square, in the central space of the Old Market Hall. While the hall isn’t particularly bright at its ends, the central area is filled with light, warmth, and an authentic market hall atmosphere. The terrace by the sea offers fantastic views of the water and the Ferris wheel across the bay. Story blends the spirit of Helsinki with that of traditional European market halls.
Weddings at Story can also be held outside the Market Hall’s opening hours. In the evenings, the Old Market Hall becomes a truly unique venue with an atmosphere that’s hard to find anywhere else.
Why are weddings at Restaurant Story so special?
Capacity: Seating for 60 guests
Weddings at Story can also be held outside the Market Hall’s opening hours. In the evenings, the Old Market Hall becomes a truly unique venue with an atmosphere that’s hard to find anywhere else.
Why are weddings at Restaurant Story so special?
- Prime location right by the sea
- The unique and authentic charm of the Market Hall
- High ceilings enhance the sense of space, and the windows near the roof let in plenty of natural light
Capacity: Seating for 60 guests
This venue isn’t located in Helsinki either, but it’s still a top choice for many people from the city. Espoo Manor is one of the most impressive historical venues in the Espoo region, and its stunning setting makes it an excellent choice for weddings and other important events.
What makes this place special is its rich history—Espoo Manor was founded in 1556 by none other than King Gustav Vasa, and the current main building dates back to 1797. The surroundings are truly enchanting and among the most inspiring places for photography.
The manor’s event spaces are managed by Chefs Gourmet Catering, known for their excellent food and friendly service backed by over 15 years of experience. The estate also offers flexibility for organizing various kinds of events, making it suitable for both celebrations and meetings.
Why are weddings at Espoo Manor so special?
Capacity: 120 seated guests.
What makes this place special is its rich history—Espoo Manor was founded in 1556 by none other than King Gustav Vasa, and the current main building dates back to 1797. The surroundings are truly enchanting and among the most inspiring places for photography.
The manor’s event spaces are managed by Chefs Gourmet Catering, known for their excellent food and friendly service backed by over 15 years of experience. The estate also offers flexibility for organizing various kinds of events, making it suitable for both celebrations and meetings.
Why are weddings at Espoo Manor so special?
- Historical buildings and deep heritage—the manor still carries the spirit of an old aristocratic estate.
- Possibly the most beautiful and expansive outdoor setting in Finland for wedding portraits.
- You can dance your first dance outside, with one stunning photo location after another all around!
Capacity: 120 seated guests.
7.WOnderful Espoon Kartano, Espoo
This venue is also located outside of Helsinki, but I still wanted to include it in this list because it’s a stunning and unique event space. Wanha Bäckby, built in the late 1800s, is a beautiful brick building that’s perfect for weddings as well as other celebrations.
Over the years, the Bäckby area has seen a colorful history, ranging from a tile factory to car body manufacturing.
Today, Wanha Bäckby is a peaceful venue where history meets modern service. The evening atmosphere at Bäckby is especially cozy, and the surroundings offer plenty of great options for wedding portraits—both indoors and outdoors.
Why are weddings at Wanha Bäckby so special?
Capacity: Seating for 150 guests.
Over the years, the Bäckby area has seen a colorful history, ranging from a tile factory to car body manufacturing.
Today, Wanha Bäckby is a peaceful venue where history meets modern service. The evening atmosphere at Bäckby is especially cozy, and the surroundings offer plenty of great options for wedding portraits—both indoors and outdoors.
Why are weddings at Wanha Bäckby so special?
- The large windows and light-colored walls reflect natural light beautifully.
- The historic building provides a one-of-a-kind setting that works wonderfully for portraits.
- A versatile planning service assists with decor, lighting, and event programming.
- Excellent food prepared from fresh, high-quality ingredients, with attention to the couple’s wishes.
Capacity: Seating for 150 guests.
8. Bright Wanha Bäckby, Vantaa
Krog Roba is one of Helsinki’s most respected restaurants, and its stylish setting makes it an excellent choice for weddings and other important events. The restaurant is located in a historic building that once served as a police station.
What makes Krog Roba special is its outstanding service, large windows, versatile layout, and Art Deco-inspired interior design. The North Wing provides an intimate space for gatherings of 25–40 guests, with direct access to a cozy summer terrace. The entire restaurant can also be booked for private use, accommodating up to 100 guests.
Krog Roba’s kitchen is known for its Nordic flavors, and menus are tailored to meet the couple’s wishes. Its location in the heart of Helsinki’s Design District makes it easy to reach, and direct access to Hotel Lilla Roberts allows for convenient accommodation options for the couple and their guests.
Why are weddings at Krog Roba so special?
Capacity: Seating for 100 guests.
What makes Krog Roba special is its outstanding service, large windows, versatile layout, and Art Deco-inspired interior design. The North Wing provides an intimate space for gatherings of 25–40 guests, with direct access to a cozy summer terrace. The entire restaurant can also be booked for private use, accommodating up to 100 guests.
Krog Roba’s kitchen is known for its Nordic flavors, and menus are tailored to meet the couple’s wishes. Its location in the heart of Helsinki’s Design District makes it easy to reach, and direct access to Hotel Lilla Roberts allows for convenient accommodation options for the couple and their guests.
Why are weddings at Krog Roba so special?
- Excellent location in Kaartinkaupunki, close to everything.
- Lilla Roberts’ rooms are photogenic, and the hallways offer absolutely STUNNING spots for photos (check the images!).
- The couple and their guests can get ready and stay in the same building.
- Versatile spaces: choose the right fit for your group—North Wing for 25–40 guests or the whole restaurant for up to 100 guests.
- A culinary experience: Nordic flavors and custom menus ensure an unforgettable dining experience.
Capacity: Seating for 100 guests.
9. Atmospheric Krog Roba, Helsinki
Kulosaaren Casino is located in an idyllic seaside setting just ten minutes from downtown Helsinki. This historic and elegant venue is known for its excellent food and unique atmosphere. Founded in 1915, the restaurant offers two distinct event spaces suitable for weddings of various sizes.
Merisali is a grand, neoclassical banquet hall perfect for weddings both large and small. The Kippari Cabinet features views from its terrace and windows of Mustikkamaa, Korkeasaari, and Suomenlinna.
Sun Marine, located to the left of the main Casino building and right on the shoreline, boasts a 180-degree panoramic view of the sea and Suomenlinna. This space includes its own bar, room for a band or DJ, restrooms, and a yard area that’s perfect for enjoying welcome drinks.
The Casino also offers comprehensive planning assistance for your wedding day. It is renowned not only for its breathtaking location but also for its high-quality service. The garden area is ideal for summer celebrations, and the entire venue is licensed to serve alcohol. The Casino is easily accessible by metro, bus, or car, and there is free parking nearby.
Why are weddings at Kulosaaren Casino so special?
Capacity: Up to 350 guests.
Merisali is a grand, neoclassical banquet hall perfect for weddings both large and small. The Kippari Cabinet features views from its terrace and windows of Mustikkamaa, Korkeasaari, and Suomenlinna.
Sun Marine, located to the left of the main Casino building and right on the shoreline, boasts a 180-degree panoramic view of the sea and Suomenlinna. This space includes its own bar, room for a band or DJ, restrooms, and a yard area that’s perfect for enjoying welcome drinks.
The Casino also offers comprehensive planning assistance for your wedding day. It is renowned not only for its breathtaking location but also for its high-quality service. The garden area is ideal for summer celebrations, and the entire venue is licensed to serve alcohol. The Casino is easily accessible by metro, bus, or car, and there is free parking nearby.
Why are weddings at Kulosaaren Casino so special?
- A historic building by the sea creates an unforgettable atmosphere.
- Two unique event spaces offer versatile options for different types of celebrations.
- Its close proximity to central Helsinki makes it easy to reach, while still offering a peaceful and private setting.
Capacity: Up to 350 guests.
10. Excellent Kulosaaren Casino, Helsinki
The legendary Tenalji von Fersen, built in 1775, was originally a grain storage facility for a bakery but is now a stunning wedding venue on Suomenlinna. Tenalji von Fersen is easily one of the most impressive places in Helsinki to host a wedding or other celebration.
In the summer, Suomenlinna is a popular destination for tourists, but most visitors don’t venture near Tenalji, which makes the area pleasantly quiet. In the evenings, the island becomes even more peaceful, making it an ideal setting for calm, beautiful sunset portraits.
Why are weddings at Tenalji von Fersen so special?
Capacity: Seating for 200 guests.
In the summer, Suomenlinna is a popular destination for tourists, but most visitors don’t venture near Tenalji, which makes the area pleasantly quiet. In the evenings, the island becomes even more peaceful, making it an ideal setting for calm, beautiful sunset portraits.
Why are weddings at Tenalji von Fersen so special?
- Although Suomenlinna is a major tourist destination, Tenalji’s location is very tranquil and truly unique—even on a national level.
- Tenalji von Fersen is a one-of-a-kind venue that your guests will definitely remember.
- The space is filled with historical charm, and the service is top-notch.
- Ceremonies can be held in the lovely garden right next to Tenalji.
Capacity: Seating for 200 guests.
11. Legendary Tenalji von Fersen, Helsinki
Spoiler alert: At the moment, Villa Andania cannot be booked for events, but I’m keeping it on the list because it might reopen—and because it’s one of my absolute favorites.
Built in 1919 as a summer residence for the family of commercial counselor Lars Schroderus, Villa Andania is a villa and wedding venue located on the shore of Kallvik Bay, on the eastern side of Helsinki. Today, it is owned by the City of Helsinki and has been restored under the supervision of the City Museum. Over the years, Villa Andania has also served as a filming location for movies and TV series.
The seaside setting and unique environment make Villa Andania an excellent year-round venue for weddings. The villa's main hall seats 70–80 guests, and the smaller rooms upstairs and on the veranda accommodate 5–20 people, depending on the space. There is also an outdoor terrace, completed in spring 2015, where 20–30 guests can be seated in good weather.
Why are weddings at Villa Andania so special?
Capacity: Seating for 84 guests.
Built in 1919 as a summer residence for the family of commercial counselor Lars Schroderus, Villa Andania is a villa and wedding venue located on the shore of Kallvik Bay, on the eastern side of Helsinki. Today, it is owned by the City of Helsinki and has been restored under the supervision of the City Museum. Over the years, Villa Andania has also served as a filming location for movies and TV series.
The seaside setting and unique environment make Villa Andania an excellent year-round venue for weddings. The villa's main hall seats 70–80 guests, and the smaller rooms upstairs and on the veranda accommodate 5–20 people, depending on the space. There is also an outdoor terrace, completed in spring 2015, where 20–30 guests can be seated in good weather.
Why are weddings at Villa Andania so special?
- Villa Andania is nestled in nature in complete privacy—yet still within Helsinki.
- Small in size, but incredibly atmospheric.
- A unique setting that outshines most other wedding venues.
- The charming courtyard and nearby sandy beach practically call for a first dance.
Capacity: Seating for 84 guests.
12. Stylish Villa Andania, Helsinki
Read more about me
Hi, my name is Jaakko. A few years ago, I got married to my wife—and honestly, I didn’t really know what to expect. I didn’t fully understand how emotional the day would be, or how hard it would be to be 100% myself.
We didn’t get to have a truly meaningful experience together on our wedding day, because we’re both pretty self-conscious in front of large crowds and care too much about how others are feeling.
Now, I want to help future couples learn from my experience and realize that they can design a wedding day that feels meaningful—one that centers around their own experience, whether they choose to invite two witnesses or a hundred of their closest people.
Wedding Photographer Helsinki
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Do you have any questions, ideas, or thoughts? Thinking about asking me to be your photographer? I only take on a limited number of weddings in Helsinki each year. Send me a message—let’s talk. I can’t wait to hear from you!
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