Hilton and M&L Group to Debut First Waldorf Astoria in the Nordics
The Waldorf Astoria brand comes to Finland with a reimagined heritage hotel in Helsinki’s Kruununhaka district.
Photo: Courtesy of Hilton
Hilton and M&L Group have announced the launch of Waldorf Astoria Helsinki, the first Nordic property under the brand’s flag. Set in the city’s Kruununhaka district, the existing Hotel Maria will be reimagined under the Waldorf Astoria name later this year, marking a milestone for both Hilton’s luxury portfolio and Finland’s hospitality landscape.
Once reflagged, the 116-room hotel, housed in a stately 1885 building designed by architect Magnus Lagerspetz, will blend historic grandeur and contemporary luxury. Plans include a signature restaurant, sophisticated bar, state-of-the-art fitness studio, and a Nordic wellness spa featuring a traditional Finnish sauna. Suites will offer elevated interiors with silver accents, marble finishes, and bespoke leather furnishings, some with penthouse layouts and integrated entertainment systems.
“The Finnish capital has seen growing travel demand in recent years,” said Patrick Fitzgibbon, Hilton’s senior vice president of development for the region. “As we near 300 luxury hotels in EMEA, it’s fantastic to have signed our first in the Nordics.”
The move reflects the broader demand for high-end accommodations in Finland, particularly as Helsinki gains increased attention for its architecture, design culture, and access to nature. In April 2025 alone, the city welcomed 1.47 million visitors—a 14% rise over the previous year—underscoring its growing appeal among both leisure and business travelers.
M&L Group executive director Jocelyn Kum underscored the strategic timing of the partnership: “Waldorf Astoria Helsinki marks our eighth hotel partnership, and we’re excited to introduce this iconic luxury brand to the city and contribute to its growing appeal as a destination for discerning global travelers.”
Waldorf Astoria Helsinki will join a growing portfolio of 67 trading and pipeline hotels across five continents. Recent additions include Waldorf Astoria Osaka and Costa Rica Punta Cacique, with future openings planned for London, New York, and Rabat.
