The Aurora Hotel is housed in somewhat unappealing modern red brick building typical of much of Helsinki’s post-war architecture. This drab exterior, however, belies a lovely interior. The modernised public areas are beautifully spacious and stylish, with a library of paperbacks for guests to browse. The small lobby adjoins both the restaurant and a small but comfortable seating area. Varying in size from compact to medium, the 70 guestrooms feature laminate floors, smart modern furniture and soothing décor in pale blue, green and peach tones. They are clean and well maintained, as are the en suite bathrooms. The hotel’s restaurant is an attractive bright venue with pale wood furnishings and serves Finnish specialities. This property is run by a charitable organisation that specialises in child welfare and runs a hospital behind the hotel. This ensures that cost of your room is going to a decent cause and also helps to explain the family-friendly atmosphere.