If you’re looking for accommodation in Vilnius Lithuania and planning a trip to the Baltics, here’s a lovely surprise that catches many travellers off guard. Vilnius has one of the largest surviving old towns in Eastern Europe, rightly listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, yet prices are in a completely different league from those of more popular capitals. Accommodation here costs far less than in Prague, is even cheaper than some places in Kraków, and is much more affordable than in neighbouring Tallinn.
For your budget, that means something wonderful: for the price of an ordinary three-star hotel on the outskirts of a major European city, you can easily book a boutique room in a genuine Baroque palace right in the historic centre. You can enjoy a serious dose of luxury, sleep beneath eighteenth-century vaulted ceilings and still stay in a prime location. Lithuania has used the euro for years, too, so there’s no need to look for a reliable exchange office or worry about poor card conversion rates.
Choosing the right base isn’t always easy, so let’s look at the neighbourhoods where it’s worth prioritising location and 17 specific hotel and hostel recommendations—including places I wouldn’t recommend even for free. I’ll also share what to watch out for in historic buildings and why a wheeled suitcase could become your worst enemy on Vilnius’s cobblestones.
TL;DR
If you don’t have time to read every detail right now, here’s a quick overview of the best options for your trip:
- Best overall hotel: For top-notch service and a memorable historic setting, book Hotel PACAI. This restored Baroque palace has excellent reviews and its own spa.
- Best for romance and couples: Art-focused Artagonist hotel, right on the main pedestrian street, is a treat for design lovers. Each room was designed by a different Lithuanian artist.
- Best classic luxury: For traditional elegance and outstanding service, Stikliai Hotel in the former Jewish quarter is a safe bet.
- Best value and location in the centre: Domus Maria Hotel is a great choice, set in the atmospheric surroundings of a former monastery right beside the famous Gate of Dawn.
- Best reliable international chain: If you value international standards and generous buffet breakfasts, Radisson Collection Astorija Hotel on Town Hall Square won’t disappoint.
- Best budget option: For backpackers and travellers looking for an inexpensive bed right in the centre, Jimmy Jumps House is hard to beat—and it’s famous for its morning pancakes.
- Places to avoid: Don’t be tempted by low prices at places such as Green Vilnius Hotel or Fortuna Hostel. They have poor reviews and would leave you commuting from unattractive outlying areas.
💡 Compare what’s currently available on this map—you can also see how much cheaper accommodation can be just a few stops from the centre.
Which area should you choose?
Old Town (Senamiestis) is hands down the best choice for your first visit to Lithuania’s capital. It has the highest concentration of wonderful boutique hotels tucked inside historic buildings, and you’ll be close to the magnificent cathedral and famous Pilies Street. You can comfortably explore the entire Old Town on foot in a day, so there’s no need to worry about complicated public transport. Do keep in mind, though, that the historic centre is hilly and full of very rough cobblestones. From the central cathedral, most routes involve a noticeable uphill walk, which can be quite a workout with a heavy suitcase 😅. In summer, outdoor dining areas and bars can also make the neighbourhood noisy late into the night.
Užupis is a unique arts district that declared itself an independent republic. It lies just across the small Vilnia River. It’s about a five-minute walk across the bridge from the main cathedral, but you’ll immediately notice the peaceful atmosphere, little galleries and some of the city’s best independent cafés. The downside is that there are very few traditional hotels, so you’ll mostly need to choose from smaller private apartments.
The New Centre (Naujamiestis) spreads out around the main Gedimino Avenue. This area has broad, level boulevards lined with shops, excellent modern restaurants and, above all, more contemporary luxury hotels. It’s about a ten-minute walk to the historic Old Town, and at night it’s much quieter than the streets around Town Hall. It’s ideal if you prefer modern buildings, reliable air conditioning and flat terrain that’s easier to navigate with luggage.
Šnipiškės lies on the other side of the Neris River, and locals often call it Vilnius’s Manhattan. Modern glass skyscrapers rise above large shopping centres and some of the city’s newest business hotels. From the modern footbridge, it’s about a 15-minute walk to the historic centre. If you’re looking for a strategic location with a good balance of price, modern facilities and a quiet night’s sleep, this is a smart choice.
Žvėrynas is a peaceful, mostly residential neighbourhood full of greenery and known for its old wooden houses. It sits beside a large riverside park and offers very reasonable accommodation prices in a quiet setting. It takes about 20 minutes to walk to the centre, which may feel like a long way after a full day of sightseeing, but the reward is an authentic glimpse of local life.
The Naujininkai area and the airport surroundings may look tempting because of their lower prices, but they lack tourist atmosphere and charm. Since Vilnius Airport is genuinely close to the city centre, there’s little reason to book a hotel right by the terminal. Even if you have a very early flight, it’s better to spend a few extra euros on a central stay and take the train or Bolt to the airport—it only takes a few minutes.
When to visit and when to book
Vilnius has clearly defined tourist seasons, and they have a noticeable effect on accommodation prices. The most expensive period is naturally from May to the end of September, when the city comes alive, outdoor terraces fill up and the weather is perfect for long sightseeing walks. December is another major price peak because Vilnius’s Christmas markets are among the most beautiful in Europe, attracting visitors from across the region. For these dates, I recommend booking at least three months in advance, as the best boutique rooms disappear quickly.
If you want to save as much as possible on accommodation and don’t mind colder weather, January, February and March are by far the cheapest months. During this period, luxury boutique hotels drop to appealingly low prices, and you can enjoy five-star standards for a fraction of summer rates. Lithuania has used the euro since 2015, so it’s easy to compare prices with other European destinations—and you’ll see that accommodation here is much more affordable than in many other capitals, even in high season.
As you plan your travel budget, consider whether it’s worth paying extra for hotel breakfast. Honestly, I’d skip breakfast at the hotel; you’ll get much better value elsewhere. In the morning, head to artsy Užupis for speciality coffee or visit a local market. You’ll eat for less, try more local food and enjoy a memorable atmosphere.
Where to stay in Vilnius: 17 best hotels and areas
Let’s take a closer look at specific places to stay. I’ve arranged the hotels logically, from the most luxurious historic palaces to excellent mid-range options and budget hostels. At the end, I’ve included important warnings about places that look cheap but could end up spoiling your trip. All ratings and review counts reflect the current listings, so you can make an informed choice.
1. Hotel PACAI (Old Town)
Hotel PACAI is one of the city’s highest-rated hotels, at the prestigious address of Didžioji gatvė 7. This magnificent Baroque palace once belonged to the powerful Pac family and has been transformed into an exceptionally elegant hotel. You’ll probably notice straight away how cleverly the original vaulted ceilings and old frescoes have been paired with clean Nordic design. Guests love the spacious rooms, as well as the beautiful courtyard with views of the church and Old Town streets. In summer, it’s a wonderfully peaceful place to enjoy a coffee.
The generous breakfast, with a huge selection of healthy and classic favourites, is a real highlight. So is the exceptionally warm welcome from the staff, who greet you right in the courtyard. After a day of sightseeing, you may want to unwind in the spa, tucked away in the historic basement. Just note that not every room has period features, and some feel more ordinary, so ask in advance if that matters to you. The Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania is a short walk away; admission is around €10–12, and it’s well worth a visit.
💡 Tip: If you’re celebrating an anniversary or simply want to treat yourself to one of the best stays in the Baltics, Hotel PACAI’s stunning Baroque architecture is sure to impress.
2. Stikliai Hotel (Old Town)
Stikliai Hotel, at Gaono gatvė 7 in the charming former Jewish quarter, is a delight for anyone who loves old-world elegance. This historic hotel has occupied the same building since the 1980s, in a neighbourhood where local glassmakers once worked. Instead of cool minimalism, you’ll find classic wallpaper, heavy curtains and antique furniture. Reviews rave about the incredibly kind staff and generous breakfasts served in a beautiful glass-roofed conservatory. Despite being just steps from the main tourist streets, the hotel is wonderfully peaceful, especially in its cosy attic rooms. There’s also an indoor pool and spa for relaxing in the evening.
The romance of the narrow streets does come with a few practical drawbacks. The area is paved with rough cobblestones, so dragging a heavy wheeled suitcase around isn’t much fun. Ask reception in advance where a taxi can drop you off. Once you’ve checked in, though, you’ll be rewarded with impeccable service and an excellent restaurant, one of the city’s most renowned.
💡 Tip: Choose this hotel if you prefer traditional luxury to modern trends. It’s a place where time seems to have stood still, and you can soak up the atmosphere of old Vilnius.
3. Artagonist hotel (Old Town)
If you love art and want somewhere a little different, Artagonist hotel is sure to delight. It’s at Pilies gatvė 34, the main pedestrian street connecting the cathedral with Town Hall Square. Step out of this historic building and you’re right in the middle of the action, surrounded by cafés and street musicians. Guests love its creative concept: each room was designed by a different Lithuanian artist, so expect contemporary murals, bold sculptures and a beautiful contrast between old walls and modern design. The excellent breakfast is a frequent favourite, as are the surprisingly quiet rooms with great showers and heated floors.
That bold design can come with a few quirks. Some rooms have glass bathrooms, which look very stylish but may take a little getting used to. Guests also report that check-in can be slow on busy days, and staff may be rather inflexible when dealing with air-conditioning issues. Overall, though, it’s a lovely find. You can walk here from the railway station or have a taxi drop you right outside, and there’s often a sweet pastry waiting in your room.
💡 Tip: Since the hotel is on a very busy street, ask for a room facing the courtyard when you book. This is especially helpful in summer if you’re a light sleeper and like to keep the windows open—it’ll help you avoid the noise from the late-night bars.
4. Hotel Vilnia (Old Town / edge of Užupis)
Hotel Vilnia is in a classic nineteenth-century building at Maironio gatvė 1, and I think it may have the best location in the city. It stands right opposite the red-brick Church of St Anne, probably one of the first sights you’ll photograph, and it’s only a few dozen metres across the bridge to the artsy republic of Užupis. Rooms have tasteful, timeless decor, and although the busier Pilies Street is nearby, it’s lovely and quiet at night. Guests particularly praise the views over the Old Town, comfortable beds and modern bathrooms with powerful showers.
Breakfast is generous, with plenty to choose from, though the hot food isn’t always hot and fresh sliced fruit can occasionally be missing. I should also mention that although the hotel is kept clean, reception staff are sometimes said to be slow to resolve minor problems, and the hotel bar can feel a little soulless. Still, it’s a great base for a morning walk to one of the independent cafés nearby.
💡 Tip: Hotel Vilnia is an excellent middle ground if you want to be close to both the historic centre and cafés. If it’s fully booked, Downtown Forest Hostel & Camping has a relaxed, bohemian vibe and an outdoor grill—just be aware that its curtains may not block out much light.
5. Imperial Hotel & Restaurant (Old Town)
Imperial Hotel & Restaurant, at Subačiaus gatvė 2, is one of the city’s highest-rated hotels and sits in the quieter southern part of the Old Town. The famous Gate of Dawn (Aušros Vartai) is just a few steps away. Life moves at a slower pace here than around the cathedral, and the streets are lined with smaller local shops. Guests love the contrast between the lively historic centre outside and the calm, understated elegance inside. The helpful staff will also gladly arrange train tickets and entry to local attractions.
Expect opulent, traditional interiors with plenty of rugs and decorative details. Minimalists may not be won over, but the style suits the building’s history. The hotel’s biggest draw, though, is its excellent food. The restaurant is well known throughout the city, and the California Bar is a great spot for a drink. Treat yourself to the generous breakfast buffet; the full breakfast costs €28 per person. After a day exploring, you can also unwind in the spa area or use the gym.
💡 Tip: If you like combining a comfortable stay with excellent food and don’t want to go back out after a great dinner, Imperial Hotel & Restaurant won’t disappoint. Everything you need is under one roof.
6. NARUTIS Hotel (Old Town)
NARUTIS Hotel is at Pilies gatvė 24, where you’ll be staying in one of the oldest surviving houses on the Old Town’s main street. Reviews highlight the incredible atmosphere, with original historic frescoes preserved in some rooms and corridors. The building looks formal from the street, but inside it feels very welcoming. The attentive staff and fantastic breakfast are particular strengths. Breakfast is served in a vaulted cellar, and guests describe it as a real culinary treat, although some have found the eggs underseasoned. There are also two restaurants in the hotel.
The famous Gediminas Hill is just a short walk away. If you don’t feel like walking uphill, take the local funicular. After a long day exploring Vilnius’s streets, the small wellness centre, cleverly tucked into another old cellar, is a welcome treat. It’s a relaxing place, and guests also praise the comfortable beds. Just bear in mind that the building’s age means some standard rooms have unusual layouts and older utilities. It’s part of the trade-off for staying somewhere with so much history.
💡 Tip: Before booking, check that your specific room has reliable air conditioning. It’s not always a given in old historic buildings, and summer nights can otherwise be uncomfortable.
7. Radisson Collection Astorija Hotel (Old Town)
In the handsome building at Didžioji gatvė 35, you’ll find Radisson Collection Astorija Hotel, one of the city’s highest-rated hotels. Its windows face the expansive Town Hall Square, right in the heart of the action, and some rooms also offer wonderful views of the Church of St Casimir. Although it’s part of a large international chain, this Baroque beauty retains plenty of local character. Guests particularly love the excellent staff and generous international buffet breakfast, with fresh ingredients and classics like baked beans alongside chia pudding. There’s also a French restaurant, a bar and an indoor pool with spa facilities.
A recent major renovation brought the hotel into Radisson’s premium Collection range, so the rooms are spacious, clean and, most importantly, have reliable air conditioning. Believe me, that’s far from guaranteed in Vilnius’s historic buildings. Just be aware that rooms facing the street may pick up some outside noise, including early-morning cleaning vehicles—a small price to pay for staying right on the square. The main sights in the Old Town are all just a few minutes’ walk away.
💡 Tip: Thanks to its professional service, Astorija is ideal for business travellers or anyone who wants dependable standards and doesn’t want to risk surprises at a smaller family-run guesthouse.
8. Shakespeare Boutique Hotel (Old Town)
Shakespeare Boutique Hotel (Old Town) is tucked away at Bernardinų gatvė 8. It feels made for fans of old English clubs filled with books, sturdy leather armchairs and antiques. The whole concept is literary: rooms are named after great writers such as Hemingway, Shakespeare and Dostoevsky. Guests particularly praise the peaceful location beside the large Bernardine Garden. Step outside and you’re close to St Anne’s Church and the picturesque Užupis district in one direction, and Pilies Street, the cathedral and shopping streets in the other.
The historic building has seen better days, and some areas could use a little renovation. Guests sometimes mention that reception staff can be a bit reserved, though that’s more a matter of Baltic manner than outright unfriendliness. The beautiful rooms of the former noble residence on the second floor more than make up for it, and that’s where the generous breakfast is served. There’s also a rooftop terrace and a cosy library. If you’re travelling by car, the private parking right by the building is a major bonus in these narrow streets.
💡 Tip: If you love literature, peace and antique furniture, this place will win you over straight away. You may find it hard to leave those comfortable armchairs with a good book in hand.
9. Domus Maria Hotel (Old Town)
Domus Maria Hotel, at Aušros Vartų gatvė 12, occupies a former monastery right beside the famous Gate of Dawn and has an incredibly peaceful atmosphere. Guests particularly love the quiet setting, with vaulted corridors and inner courtyards where street noise can’t reach. The rooms are simple and practical, allowing the historic building to take centre stage. The friendly staff are another highlight; if it’s your first visit, they’ll happily recommend the best routes to local sights, the market and nearby bohemian Užupis.
The older building does have a few drawbacks, so expect thin walls and limited soundproofing. If you get an attic room, the sloping ceilings can be tricky for taller guests, and it can get quite hot in summer because there’s no air conditioning. Rooms also lack a safe and fridge. Even so, it’s a lovely place to stay, with a very decent breakfast, secure parking and a chance to experience the spiritual atmosphere of old Vilnius.
💡 Tip: This accommodation is a good fit if you want the magic of a historic building but are working with a tighter budget. You’ll get a lovely experience without paying extra for unnecessary luxury.
10. City Gate Hotel (Old Town)
Right beside one of the historic city gates, at Bazilijonų gatvė 3, you’ll find City Gate Hotel, a great base for exploring the southern part of the Old Town. From the outside, it’s a nineteenth-century building, but don’t expect a Baroque palace inside—the interiors are modern and clean. Guests praise the generous, fresh breakfasts and the exceptionally friendly staff at the 24-hour reception. If you get a room on a higher floor, you’ll also enjoy lovely views over the red rooftops of old Vilnius.
Arriving here is refreshingly easy: the street outside is wide enough for a taxi or airport bus 88 to stop right by the entrance, so you won’t need to drag heavy luggage over bumpy cobblestones. The rooms are bright and surprisingly spacious, and the bathrooms have heated floors. Just note that although there’s a kettle by the bed, tea and coffee aren’t provided. Prices remain very reasonable even in peak summer, and free parking may also be available.
💡 Tip: Choose this hotel if you’re a practical traveller who doesn’t need historic vaulted ceilings but does want a comfortable bed, reliable Wi-Fi and quick access to the centre.
11. Mikalo House (Old Town)
Mikalo House is a small, unassuming guesthouse at Šv. Mikalojaus gatvė 3, on what I think is one of the quietest, most tucked-away streets in the Old Town. Guests particularly praise the incredibly helpful staff, who are happy to share tips on places most visitors never find. The house has a wonderful atmosphere, with exposed brick walls and solid timber beams. It’s peaceful throughout, so if you’re looking for a hideaway where trams and bars won’t wake you in the morning, you’ll sleep soundly here. There are pleasant cafés next door, a supermarket nearby and bus stops with easy airport connections.
The homely atmosphere does mean there’s no lift and reception hours are limited. Staff aren’t on site in the evening, so if you arrive late, arrange in advance to collect the keys from a lockbox. There’s a well-equipped shared kitchenette and several shared bathrooms along the corridors, so you won’t have to wait long. The rooms are homely and cosy; outside the peak season, things may be quieter than at a typical backpacker hostel, but it’s still an excellent base for exploring the centre on foot.
💡 Tip: If it’s full and you just need a quick overnight stay before a flight, Capsule Hostel is nearby. The rooms are tiny and some guests have mentioned poor cleaning, but it’ll do for one night—and there’s a great pizza place next door.
12. Solo Society Hybrid Hotel Vilnius (New Centre)
Solo Society Hybrid Hotel Vilnius, at Šv. Stepono gatvė 33, sits somewhere between a traditional hotel and apartments for longer stays. Guest reviews describe a youthful, industrial atmosphere, and it feels a little like an upscale student residence. People particularly appreciate the location between the main railway station and the historic centre, which is about a 15-minute walk through the streets. On the ground floor, there are large shared coworking spaces with clever tech features, making it a great fit if you sometimes need to sit down with your laptop while travelling.
Bear in mind, though, that the lively atmosphere has its downsides: you may occasionally hear noise from neighbouring rooms at night. Most rooms have a small kitchenette, which is handy if you want to cook and save on restaurant meals, but some travellers warn that there’s very little actual cookware—so a microwave and kettle may be all you can count on. Watch out for extra charges if you arrive to check in before 3 p.m. Staying near the station is handy for trips beyond the city, too; it’s easy to set off for the water castle at Trakai.
💡 Tip: This place makes the most sense for digital nomads or anyone planning to stay in Vilnius longer than a long weekend. It’s a great place to meet other travellers, but pack earplugs.
13. Vilnius City Hotel (New Centre)
If you’re looking for somewhere in the New Centre at Švitrigailos gatvė 11D, you’ll come across Vilnius City Hotel. It attracts guests with low prices, but I’d advise a little caution. It’s often used by large tour groups and school trips. The rooms are fairly spacious, but guests often say the furnishings feel tired. Reports mention worn carpets with an unpleasant smell, occasional stains on the bedding and shower enclosures that leak. It’s also a fairly long walk to the historic sights—around 30 minutes—although the railway and bus stations are easy to reach.
Soundproofing is another weak point, so you may hear every step in the corridor and noise from neighbouring rooms. The buffet breakfast can also be disappointing: when large groups arrive, staff sometimes struggle to keep everything stocked. There’s no air conditioning, so you’ll need to open the window, which isn’t ideal beside a busy road. This place may do the job if you need a quick overnight stay before an early train, but I’d look elsewhere for a longer or romantic trip.
💡 Tip: If you find accommodation closer to the historic centre with a better reputation for just a few euros more, I’d definitely pay the difference. The savings aren’t worth the potential discomfort.
14. Green Vilnius Hotel (Outskirts)
Green Vilnius Hotel (Outskirts), at Pilaitės prospektas 20, may initially tempt you with its very low price, but I’d think twice. It’s a long way out, between residential estates and busy highways, so you can forget about romantic evening strolls through the streets. Guests sometimes praise the free parking and friendly staff, but the overall atmosphere feels more like an impersonal dormitory. Other complaints include very thin walls, so you can hear everything from neighbouring rooms, and an unpleasant chill in autumn because there’s no heating.
The biggest trap is the apparent saving. Breakfast is included, but don’t expect a feast—the selection is limited. More importantly, getting to all the sights will eat up a lot of precious holiday time. Once you add in taxi rides to the city, which cost around €15 each way, this cheap stay can quickly become expensive. It might work if you’re just passing through by car and need somewhere to sleep, but for a regular city break, I’d look elsewhere.
💡 Tip: The price difference between the outskirts and the centre in Vilnius is surprisingly small. Saving €10 a night only to spend an hour a day on a bus doesn’t make sense, so I’d avoid this place altogether.
15. Jimmy Jumps House (Old Town)
Dedicated backpackers shouldn’t miss Jimmy Jumps House (Old Town), at Savičiaus gatvė 12. This photogenic street full of bistros is just a short walk from Town Hall, so an affordable bed in such a great location feels like a small miracle. People come for the atmosphere, which is a bit like a big family home full of friends. The cosy common room and comfortable sofa invite late-night conversations, while staff are happy to organise pub crawls and alternative city tours. Shoes-off rules add to the homely feel, as do the famous fresh pancakes served every morning, which are a great way to meet fellow travellers.
Keep in mind that this is a lively party hostel, so look elsewhere if you need a quiet place to read. Guests also mention that the rooms are a little cramped, the beds creak and there are no privacy curtains. Some lockers are falling apart, and there are plenty of strict signs warning about fines. Given the historic streets, I honestly recommend leaving your large wheeled suitcase at home and travelling with a backpack—you’ll save yourself a lot of effort.
💡 Tip: This is a great base for solo travellers who want to meet people and don’t mind basic facilities. Between movie nights, karaoke and evening drinks, you won’t be bored.
16. Rock’n’hostel (New Centre)
Rock’n’hostel is in the New Centre at A. Vivulskio gatvė 19, and its music theme is immediately apparent. The atmosphere is relaxed, and it’s much quieter at night than the popular Jimmy Jumps House. Guests praise the helpful staff, who can store your luggage or lend you an iron in the morning, as well as the shared kitchen, which is a good place to meet other travellers. It’s suited to no-frills backpackers who are happy with a basic bed in a dorm or private twin room. Book here: Rock’n’hostel (New Centre).
I should be honest about the frequent complaints regarding cleanliness. Guests say the bathrooms are quite worn, with no towels or lockable lockers, and pigeons sometimes wander into the kitchen from the courtyard. The rooms are also very small, so you may struggle to find space for larger suitcases. A night in a four-bed room costs around €55. It’s a 15-minute walk to the Old Town’s historic streets, but you’ll be closer to the airport and have plenty of restaurants and supermarkets nearby.
💡 Tip: This is a good option if you’d rather stay a little away from the noisiest bars in the centre. Bring your own towel, though—you may find it hard to get one here.
17. Fortuna Hostel and Stoties Hostelis (Station area)
Fortuna Hostel and Stoties Hostelis are right beside the railway and bus stations, and advertise some of the lowest prices in the city. I think it’s only fair to warn you that these places are really for travellers who can handle a lot. Guests say a private room may be bearable, but there are frequent complaints about questionable cleanliness, mould and unpleasant smells in the corridors. The overall atmosphere is unusual, too: some guests report that long-term residents create an unsettling environment, so don’t expect a friendly welcome. A private room can cost more than €50, which hardly seems worth the risk.
Fortunately, Vilnius is a paradise for vegetarians, with plenty of places to turn your day around. Near the cathedral and the luxurious PACAI, try RoseHip Vegan Bistro; by the Gate of Dawn, look for the Indian restaurant Radharanė. For coffee, pop into PAN on Šv. Mikalojaus Street or head to Sweet Love Caffe. Make sure you try traditional cepelinai—potato dumplings with filling—or the bright pink cold beetroot soup Šaltibarščiai. For pancakes with a purpose, visit Pirmas Blynas, which employs people with disabilities. In the morning, I recommend speciality coffee at The Urban Garden in artsy Užupis or soaking up the atmosphere at Halės Market.
💡 Tip: Take my word for it and avoid both station-area hostels, even if your budget is tight. Skip a beer at the bar and spend a few extra euros on a clean, safe bed at Jimmy Jumps House right in the centre.
How to choose the right hotel
When choosing accommodation in Vilnius, the map doesn’t tell you everything. The city has a few quirks worth considering before you confirm your booking. The most important thing to bear in mind is the city’s hills and the rough cobblestones found throughout the centre. From the central cathedral, most routes involve a noticeable uphill walk, whether you’re heading towards Užupis or the Gate of Dawn.
Dragging a heavy wheeled suitcase over these uneven stones is no fun, and after ten minutes you may wish you’d brought a backpack. If you’re staying in the heart of the historic streets, ask the hotel in advance whether a car or taxi can get to the entrance. For small guesthouses in Baroque buildings, it’s also important to check whether there’s a lift, as heritage restrictions often mean there isn’t one. Carrying your luggage up narrow spiral stairs to the fourth floor can be exhausting.
If you’re visiting in July or August, always check whether cheaper rooms in historic buildings have air conditioning. Baroque houses often have wonderfully thick walls that retain the cool, but older buildings can have ventilation and electrical issues. If your room faces a main street such as Pilies gatvė or Vokiečių gatvė, expect noise from outdoor dining areas and bars to continue past midnight.
One final thing to consider is whether it’s worth paying extra for hotel breakfast. Breakfast at smaller hotels can be expensive and repetitive, while Vilnius has a fantastic café scene. You’ll get better value by heading to artsy Užupis for speciality coffee or visiting the city market mentioned above, where you can eat for less and start the day in a much better mood.
Where to go next
- Vilnius, Lithuania (22 things to see and do): Our detailed guide to all the sights, attractions and places you shouldn’t miss in the city.
- 10 days in the Baltics (itinerary): Planning a bigger road trip? Take a look at our complete route through Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia.
Frequently asked questions
I’ve answered some of the most common questions I get about accommodation and services in Lithuania’s capital.
Is accommodation in Vilnius expensive?
Vilnius is a pleasant surprise for international travelers, because hotel prices here are noticeably lower than in Prague or Krakow. Even in the very center you can find a beautiful boutique room in a historic palace for prices that would only get you an average hotel on the outskirts in other capital cities.
What currency is used in Lithuania?
Lithuania has used the euro as its official currency since 2015. This means you don’t have to deal with any currency exchange offices, complicated exchange rate calculations, or annoying foreign currency card payment fees, which makes planning your travel budget incredibly easy.
Does it make sense to book a hotel near the airport?
It definitely doesn’t make any sense and you’d unnecessarily miss out on the atmosphere. Vilnius airport is located just a short distance from the city center, the journey by train or Bolt takes barely a few minutes. Stay in the historic core instead, even if you have an early morning flight, it will work out much better for you.
Are there good vegetarian restaurants near the hotels?
Vilnius is a true paradise for vegetarians. Definitely try Šaltibarščiai, which is an iconic cold beetroot soup that is naturally meat-free. You’ll find excellent plant-based menus at places like RoseHip Vegan Bistro or Pirmas Blynas, while as a vegetarian you should avoid traditional meat dishes like skilandis or vėdarai and leave them to others.
How do you get to Gediminas Hill if you don’t want to walk?
If you want to avoid the steep climb with tired legs, you can use the funicular to Gediminas Hill. A return ticket costs €3, a one-way costs €2, and the funicular runs every day from 10:00 to 20:00. Entry to the tower itself costs €8, but you get that fantastic view from the top of the hill completely free.
Why should you be careful with old baroque houses in the center?
Although sleeping in a historic palace is incredibly romantic, old houses tend to have very thick walls and often lack elevators or reliable modern air conditioning. They’re also located on streets with very rough cobblestones, which makes it difficult to pull heavy luggage, so always ask whether a car can drive right up to the hotel.
When is the best time to book a cheap stay?
You’ll find the cheapest accommodation in the winter months from January to March, when luxury hotel prices drop to absolute minimums. The most expensive period is the main summer season from May to September and also in December, because Vilnius Christmas markets are extremely popular and hotels tend to be packed to bursting.
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
Find the Best Experiences
Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!
