Where to Stay in Vilnius: 5 Best Areas and Hotels for First Timers

Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is a vibrant and historic city that makes for a perfect long weekend getaway in Europe.

While Vilnius may be a small city, it offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit a number of travellers. So whether you’re looking for luxury, a boutique hotel or somewhere budget-friendly to stay, I have you covered in this guide on where to stay in Vilnius.

I spent 3 nights in the city recently and whether you are spending one night or several, finding the right place to stay in Vilnius can have a big impact on your time there.

There is nothing worse than staying in the middle of nowhere on a short trip; isolated from the top sights, best restaurants and places you want to visit – particularly when you have limited time on your time away. You want to see and do as much as possible instead of spending lots of time travelling back and forth from your accommodation.

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Quick Guide on the Best Area to Stay in Vilnius at a glance

There are 5 areas to consider at when looking for where to stay in Vilnius.

If you just want the highlights on the best area to stay in Vilnius, then this is all you need to know.

Vilnius Old Town – this is close to all the major sights
Naujamiestis – if you are looking for a corporate stay or somewhere with a lot of nightlife \ an apartment or somewhere for a longer stay
Šnipiškės – if you are in Vilnius on business
Žvėrynas – if you are looking for a relaxing stay surrounded by nature
Vilkpėdė – if you are on a tight budget/backpacker
Užupis – is about as quirky as it gets in Vilnius if you are looking to stay somewhere unusual and interesting.

Keep reading to find out more about each area outlined above and the best places to stay in Vilnius..

Where to Stay in Vilnius

This guide will help you explore the best hotels and where to stay in Vilnius, highlighting specific areas and hotels based on your needs and preferences.

Vilnius Old Town | Senamiestis

Vilnius Old Town is one of the largest and best-preserved medieval old towns in Europe. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is full of narrow cobbled streets, historic churches, a number of museums and quaint cafes.

Staying in the Old Town is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in the historical charm and crucially, be within walking distance of the city’s most famous landmarks; Vilnius Cathedral, Gediminas Tower and the Gate of Dawn.

The Old Town is the best place to stay in Vilnius for history and culture lovers.

Best places to stay in Vilnius Old Town:

Luxury – Hotel Pacai is a luxurious 5-star hotel is located in a restored Baroque palace dating back to the 17th century. It combines historical elegance with modern amenities, offering high-end dining, a spa and beautifully designed rooms with rich historical details.
Mid range – Artagonist Art Hotel: If you’re looking for something more modern and artistic, Artagonist is a 4-star hotel that mixes contemporary art with traditional Vilnius architecture. Its quirky interior design and central location make it a perfect stay for art enthusiasts.
Boutique – Shakespeare Boutique Hotel, nestled in the heart of Old Town blends literary charm with comfort. Each room is themed around a famous writer, providing a cozy yet elegant atmosphere. Its central location means you’re just steps away from popular attractions like the Presidential Palace and Pilies Street.
Or find your own perfect accommodation here.

Pros:

Perfect proximity to all the major landmarks
Rich in history and culture; perfect place to stay in Vilnius for first timers
Great for walking and exploring
Many of the best restaurants in Vilnius can be found here

Cons:

Can be crowded during peak seasons
Higher accommodation prices compared to other parts of the city

Nishi sat outside a cafe in Vilnius old town

Some activities to do in The Old Town

Artis Centrum Hotel Vilnius review

I spent 3 nights at Artis Centrum Hotels, in the heart of Vilnius Old Town. The hotel is in a renovated 19th century building, which personally, I found a bit dated and dusty for my liking.

The rooms however are large with sufficient toiletries, robes and slippers provided. It is one of the best hotels in the area that doesn’t break the bank.

Location wise, this hotel was perfect for a short trip due to it’s close proximity to everywhere we wanted to visit. We walked everywhere during our time in the city and racked up a step count of around 15,000 on average every day.

I wouldn’t stay here again as I prefer to stay in hotels that look and feel more modern and luxurious, if not a boutique hotel. It was fine for a 3 night stay though, especially given that we didn’t spend much time in the room itself. Next time, I would love to stay at the Grand Hotel Vilnius Curio Collection By Hilton, which is just a short 10 minute walk away but still in the Old Town.

Breakfast at this hotel was great. I didn’t have high expectations as I had been forewarned that Lithuania is a difficult country to navigate as a vegan or a vegetarian, but to my surprise, almost everything was labelled and plenty of vegetarian options on offer which I was happy to see.

I am a sucker for a continental breakfast. Give me cheese, cucumber and some kind of bread every day!

There were some incredible vegetarian restaurants in Kaunas too.

CHECK OUT TRIPADVISOR REVIEWS HERE

Užupis

Užupis is a trendy, gritty, artsy neighbourhood in Vilnius, often compared to Montmartre in Paris or Freetown Christiania in Copenhagen. This area is a self-proclaimed independent republic and has its own constitution, coat of arms, own flag, own president and even their own currency.

It is filled with galleries, street art and creative spaces, making it the perfect area to stay in Vilnius for those who enjoy alternative culture, art, and an offbeat atmosphere.

Užupis is also a great place for those seeking independent, unique stays and here you will find a variety of lofts and artistically designed Airbnb apartments that reflect the neighbourhood’s eclectic charm. There aren’t any hotels in Užupis itself, but these are close enough to the area.

Best Places to stay near Užupis:

Mid range – Artagonist Art Hotel: If you’re looking for something more modern and artistic, Artagonist is a 4-star hotel that mixes contemporary art with traditional Vilnius architecture. Its quirky interior design and central location make it a perfect stay for art enthusiasts.
Budget – The house Vilnius: A hostel located right next to Uzupis bridge. Great central location for those on a budget, with many sights within easy walking distance.
Or find your own perfect accommodation in Uzupis here.

Pros:

Bohemian atmosphere
Close to art galleries, cafes and independent boutiques
Unique accommodation options

Cons:

Lack of luxury accommodation
Not as close to major tourist attractions as Old Town
May feel too gritty for some travellers

Some activities to do near Užupis

City Centre | Naujamiestis

Naujamiestis, also known as the Vilnius New Town, is a modern and bustling district. It offers a mix of business, commercial spaces and lively nightlife.

Here you will find sleek chain hotels, international restaurants and stylish cafes. It is also home to the main railway station and bus terminal, making it a convenient base for exploring the city and beyond.

Best Hotels in Naujamiestis:

Mid range – Hilton Garden Inn Vilnius City Centre: One of the top rates hotels in Naujamiestis, which is great for a corporate stay. They have a rooftop terrace and offer modern amenities including a small gym.
Mid range – Radisson Blu Hotel Lietuva: This is one of the tallest buildings in Vilnius and this hotel offers panoramic views of the city. It is perfect for business travellers and for those looking for modern amenities such as a rooftop bar, spa and gym.
Or find your own perfect accommodation in Naujamiestis here.

Pros:

Lots of nightlife and dining options
Modern hotels and amenities
Excellent transportation links

Cons:

Far less historical charm than Vilnius Old Town or Uzupis
Can feel quite corporate

Some activities to do near the City Centre

Žvėrynas

Žvėrynas is one of the greenest and most peaceful areas in Vilnius, located on the western side of the Neris River and it has a resort-like feel. This residential district is full of beautiful wooden houses, parks and tree-lined streets; offering a serene escape from the bustling city centre for travellers and locals alike.

While I don’t think Žvėrynas is the best place to stay for first timers, I would love experience a different side to Vilnius and stay here if I visit again.

The colourful wooden houses are a beautiful sight the bridge to Vingis Park is a short walk away and leads to the other side of the Neris River, where you will find forests filled with trails that are perfect for activities such as cycling, scooters and jogging.

Žvėrynas is perfect for nature lovers or anyone seeking a quiet and relaxing stay.

Best Places to Stay in Žvėrynas:

Apartments
Budget – Green Vilnius Hotel: A comfortable and eco-friendly 3 star hotel located just outside of Žvėrynas. Green Vilnius is ideal for those who want to enjoy the greenery of Žvėrynas while still having access to the city centre.
Or find your own perfect apartment in Žvėrynas here.

Pros:

Green, quiet and peaceful
Great for nature lovers
Family-friendly atmosphere
Not very touristy

Cons:

Fewer dining and entertainment options
Further out from main tourist attractions

Some activities to do near Žvėrynas

Šnipiškės

Šnipiškės is a modern and up-and-coming district on the other side of the Neris River, a 20 minute walk away from the Old Town of Vilnius.

It feels like a village inside a city due to the combination of business districts, residential streets and areas undergoing redevelopment. While this may not make Snipiskes attractive to first-timers in Vilnius, it is a great area to consider if you are in Vilnius on business as this area has transformed into one of the city’s major business hubs.

Along the river, you will find large, contemporary hotels and the major sights are a short bus ride away.

Beyond the modern side, Šnipiškės has a charming, almost village-like atmosphere, with quaint wooden houses on the streets offering a picturesque glimpse of old Vilnius.

Šnipiškės puts a bit of breathing room between you and the Vilnius sights, so it could be an option depending on your interests. If you are into shopping, here, you will be situated between two of the largest malls in Vilnius; PC Europa Shopping Mall and the Panorama Shopping Mall.

Best Places to Stay in Šnipiškės:

Mid range – Radisson Blu Hotel Lietuva: One of the tallest buildings in Vilnius, this 4 star hotel offers panoramic views of the city. It is perfect for business travellers and for those looking for modern amenities such as a rooftop bar, spa and gym.
Mid range –Courtyard by Marriott Vilnius City Center: a modern 4-star hotel with large rooms, bright interiors and a beautiful lobby. Lots of work space making it great for business travellers and families alike.
Small apartment – Place No. 2: A beautifully furnished room in a small hotel, complete with a kitchen and outdoor space. This is perfect for those on business or somebody on a longer stay wanting to cook some of their own meals
Budget – Calvary Hotel & Restaurant Vilnius: an elegant 3-star hotel, with restaurant and free parking
Or find your own perfect hotel in Šnipiškės here.

Pros:

Great for business travellers
Short bus ride away from the Old Town without being in the heart of it
Not massively touristy

Cons:

Not the best place to stay for first timers
Further out from main tourist attractions

Some activities to do near Šnipiškės

Vilkpėdė

If you are looking for where to stay in Vilnius on a budget, look no further. Vilkpėdė has seen significant redevelopment in recent years, transforming them from gritty to trendy.

This is a great option for budget-conscious travellers looking for somewhere affordable to stay in Vilnius that has easy access to public transport.

The area around the main train and bus station has also become a hub for alternative culture, with creative spaces and cool hipster bars popping up in recent years. So even if you aren’t necessarily staying here, it is worth exploring the area during your time in Vilnius.

Best Places to Stay in Vilkpėdė:

Budget – Hotel Zemaites: A 3 star hotel that is great for those on a budget who don’t want to stay in a hostel. The hotel boasts a sauna and billiard room, while offering basic amenities along with free car parking.
While I cannot personally recommend hostels, there are plenty to choose from in these areas, so you can find your own perfect accommodation in Vilkpėdė here.

Pros:

Very affordable accommodation
Easy access to public transport
Emerging area with cool bars and cafes

Cons:

Can be noisy and less polished
Almost no luxury options

Read more: Where to stay in Kaunas

3 Days In Vilnius Lithuania: What To Do, See And Vegan Food To Eat 🇱🇹

Vilnius offers an array of accommodations catering to a whole range of tastes and budgets.

Whether you prefer the historical charm of the Old Town, the creative buzz of Uzupis, the modern feel of Naujamiestis, the alternative feel of Snipiskes or the peaceful retreat of Zverynas, there is something for everybody.

Each area provides a unique experience, and the compact size of the city makes it easy to explore multiple areas in a short time, regardless of where you choose to stay.

I hope this guide for where to stay in Vilnius has helped you narrow your decision down.

FAQs about finding where to stay in Vilnius

Here are some of the questions people have asked me about where to stay in Vilnius..

What is the best area to stay in Vilnius?

I have to be really basic and honest here and say Vilnius Old Town is my top pick. While I generally try to avoid really touristy places, Lithuania isn’t massively touristy and Vilnius is no exception, so the Old Town does not feel crowded at all.

I adore the charming cobblestone streets (even though they are tricky to walk fast on without feeling like you might break an ankle), you don’t get the drunk tourists ruining the area like in many other places; Riga Latvia, for example and you can walk to everywhere easily from there.

Are hotels in Vilnius affordable?

Lithuania is the most affordable country in the Baltics and I noticed this when across the board when booking hotels, prices on a menu and going out for drinks. While prices will rise during peak times, I found luxury hotels to be cheaper than they would be in the rest of Europe without compromising on the quality.

Is breakfast included in the room rates?

Most of the luxury and mid-range hotels do have breakfast included, however you would need to check the individual hotel before you book. Links are added to each of the hotels I recommend above for ease.