Katajanokka – a Charming Art Nouveau District
Katajanokka delights with its sturdy and decorative stone buildings, maritime location, and numerous trendy restaurants. This island has been home to many artists and notable figures over the centuries. From Katajanokka, you can walk to the center of Helsinki in no time.
Goods Traffic and Artists
Until the early 20th century, Katajanokka was primarily inhabited by sailors. In the 19th century, barracks and large warehouses began to rise on the island. Katajanokka gained a reputation as an efficient cargo port: ships brought goods to the island, and with freight trains reaching Katajanokka, products from around the world could be easily distributed from Helsinki.
In the early 20th century, the western part of Katajanokka saw the construction of ornate stone buildings designed by esteemed architects, turning it into a residential area for the affluent. These impressive Art Nouveau stone buildings also attracted artists, including Albert Edelfelt, Hugo Simberg, and Viktor Jansson. Tove Jansson, too, spent her childhood in Katajanokka, and there is a park named after her in the area. Go and explore!
Katajanokka’s Art Nouveau section is still one of the most representative ensembles of its era, even on a European scale. It remains one of the most desirable residential areas in Helsinki.
Pioneer of Passenger Traffic
Katajanokka has also played an important role in enabling Finnish international travel. Domestic passenger air traffic began in 1924 when Finnair’s predecessor, Aero Oy, started flights from Katajanokka, Helsinki, to Tallinn and Stockholm.
Viking Line began operating from Katajanokka to Stockholm in 1974. Its ships still arrive and depart from the island daily. You can watch the ships dock from our hotel café terrace, rooftop terrace, or some of the hotel rooms.
Favorite Sights on Skatta
You can cross bridges over the Katajanokka canal to reach the city center in no time. But the maritime Katajanokka itself is also a pleasant place to stay. The waterfront area has developed into a popular meeting place for city dwellers, thanks to trendy restaurants and summer terraces.
Fancy a swim? From the Solo Sokos Hotel Pier 4, you can walk to Allas Sea Pool in no time, where you can swim in seawater pools year-round. There are several panoramic saunas with views of Helsinki’s seascape. Nearby, you’ll find the SkyWheel Helsinki Ferris wheel. Hop on and admire the capital from above!
On the highest rock of Katajanokka stands the red-brick Uspenski Cathedral, built in the 19th century, one of Helsinki’s landmarks with its gilded domes. Inside, you can admire impressive icons and learn about Orthodox tradition. Katajanokka’s beloved residents also include the brave icebreakers Urho, Otso, Kontio, Voima, and Sisu. Take a walk and get to know these friends!
Future of Tourism
Solo Sokos Hotel Pier 4 continues Katajanokka’s fascinating tourism story by bringing new offerings to its lively waterfront area. “We look to the future and offer travelers an eco-friendly hotel option with a serene atmosphere and nature-inspired interiors. And in a superb location by the sea,” says hotel manager Petra Wikström, with pride in her voice.
Image: Beatrice Bucht / City of Helsinki