“Acceptable for the price”
Helsinki is a very expensive city and this hostel is less so. That being the case, you will certainly have to adjust your expectations. Eurohostel is clean, though definitely no frills -- in fact, it looks like it used to be a prison and it still feels that way today. There is no free internet, breakfast is not included in the rate, there is no soap in the showers, the sauna was not operational, and there was no television. The staff were helpful in that they answered my questions but they were not particularly friendly. There is a restaurant in the hostel but the quality is poor and the prices high. The safe and residential location of Eurohostel is good if you're going to be taking the Viking Line because it's right by their dock, but otherwise it's rather far from all the sights in the city center. It is close to a lightrail stop (line 4), however. Despite these downsides, I recommend this hostel because it was clean, quiet, and cheap.
Area recommendations
I would recommend the port area around the two cathedrals in the central core. You can take a public transport ferry to Suomenlinna Fortress inexpensively and it is not to be missed.
When to go
May through August is high season in Helsinki because of the great weather and long days of sunshine.
Getting around
Most of the attractions in Helsinki are within walking distance from one another. Their public transportation system which consists primarily of light rail is modern and efficient.
Must see
Suomenlinna Fortress was fascinating historically and visually stunning. The boat ride to the fortress was all part of the fun.
Dining
If you are on a budget, it is important to note that there are many buffets and set meals for a relatively low cost during the lunch hour during the week because most Helsinki office workers are given a stipend of roughly the same amount for lunch. There were a surprising number of Nepalese restaurants in the city that were quite good.
Family-friendly activities
Suomenlinna Fortress is great for kids. There were several Finnish school groups visiting the fortress when I was there and they seemed to be having a great time. The kids would love the boat ride as well I'm sure.
