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Europe Finland Helsinki Bars & Nightlife The Riff

Overview

The Riff

The guide was updated: 2025-06-10

A rock bar in Punavuori with a relaxed feel and a serious music pedigree. Founded by Jussi69 from The 69 Eyes, it’s packed with guitars, drum kits, and photos of rock icons—from Slash to Nightwish. The sound is great but not overpowering, so you can actually hold a conversation. In summer, the terrace is a good spot to hang out.

Useful Information

Address: Iso Roobertinkatu 3, Helsinki
Opening hours: Daily noon–4:30am
Website: theriff.fi/
Phone: +358 40 1583603

Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.

*this will be downloaded as a PDF.

Price

€4,95

Purchase

The Riff

The Riff

A rock bar in Punavuori with a relaxed feel and a serious music pedigree. Founded by Jussi69 from The 69 Eyes, it’s packed with guitars, drum kits, and photos of rock icons—from Slash to Nightwish. The sound is great but not overpowering, so you can actually hold a conversation. In summer, the terrace is a good spot to hang out.

Ateljee Bar

Ateljee Bar

Perched on the 14th floor of Hotel Torni, Ateljee Bar is all about the view. You’ll get a full sweep of the Helsinki skyline — even from the restrooms, which are a bit of a cult experience. The vibe is relaxed, with a slightly artsy feel (they rotate exhibitions), and the rooftop terrace is a solid choice for enjoying sunset drinks.

Siltanen

Siltanen

A lively bar-restaurant in the Kallio district that blends food, music, and a solid weekend crowd. Think brunch trays, Berlin-style or veggie-friendly, plus drinks and club tunes as the night rolls in. There’s a leafy terrace for summer hangs, and DJs or live gigs most evenings.

Tavastia

Tavastia

Tavastia is Helsinki’s legendary rock club—small in size, big in reputation. Opened in 1970, it’s hosted everyone from Tom Waits and Nick Cave to Nightwish and The 69 Eyes. The 700-capacity venue keeps things intimate, with great acoustics and a no-frills setup that puts the music front and centre.

Kitty's Public House

Kitty's Public House

Kitty's Public House is a cosy British-style pub smack in the middle of Helsinki, with dark wood interiors, booth seating, and a laid-back crowd. The beer list leans heavily toward the UK, with rotating taps, bottled imports, and even real ale poured straight from the cask. They’ve also got a decent selection of Finnish craft brews and ciders, plus classic pub grub, darts, and board games.

Sky Room

Sky Room

At the top of the Clarion Hotel, Sky Room offers panoramic views over Helsinki and a sleek, modern setting to match. It’s a great spot for cocktails — whether you're into signature creations or the classics. Come for the view, stay for the atmosphere. No need to be a hotel guest to enjoy it.

Storyville

Storyville

Tucked behind the Parliament, Storyville is Helsinki’s go-to for live jazz — from local trios to international acts, six nights a week. The upstairs bar is more laid-back, with early evening piano sets, while downstairs things get louder and livelier. The kitchen serves Cajun-Creole dishes late into the night, and in summer, the terrace is a local favourite. Feels like a slice of New Orleans in the north.

Apollo Live Club

Apollo Live Club

Located in the Forum shopping mall, Apollo hosts everything from live bands to stand-up comedy in a former cinema space. The tiered seating and private booths give it a theater vibe, and there's food and drinks if you want to make a night of it.

Musiikkitalo - The Helsinki Music Centre

Musiikkitalo - The Helsinki Music Centre

At the centre of it all in Helsinki, Musiikkitalo is where you go for live music of all kinds—classical, jazz, folk, pop. It’s home to the Helsinki Philharmonic, the Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, and the Sibelius Academy, but the lineup is broad and runs year-round.

Casino Helsinki

Casino Helsinki

Right in the city centre, Casino Helsinki is Finland’s only full-scale casino, open every day with free entry. Inside, you’ll find table games, slot machines, bars, a restaurant, and a show venue — all under one roof.

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