Welcome to Vilnius, Lithuania’s captivating capital! Whether you’re visiting Vilnius for the first time or returning to explore more, finding the best location to stay is crucial for an unforgettable experience. From the charming Old Town to the modern district of Šnipiškės, this guide will help you choose the best area that suits your needs.
We’ll explore Vilnius’ best neighborhoods, including those close to Vilnius Old Town and areas with good public transport connections like Vilniaus and Islandijos streets. Whether you’re looking for a modern hotel, many cheap options, or want to stay close to the station area, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into the best places for visitors to Vilnius to stay!
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Vilnius 🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Radisson Collection Astorija Hotel, Vilnius
- ✨ 5-Star: Grand Hotel Kempinski Vilnius
- 🏨 4-Star: Radisson Blu Hotel Lietuva
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Grata by Centrum Hotels
- 💸 Cheap: Ecotel Vilnius
- 🏢 Apartment: ROOMA Apartments
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Park Inn by Radisson Vilnius Airport Hotel & Conference Centre
- 🏩 For Couples: Artagonist Art Hotel
Quick Guide on Best Area to Stay in Vilnius 🚩
- 🏛️ For History Buffs: Senamiestis (Old Town)
- 🏙️ For Modern Urban Living: Naujamiestis
- 🎨 For Bohemian Vibes: Užupis
- 🌳 For Nature Lovers: Žvėrynas
- 💼 For Business Travelers: Šnipiškės
- 🏡 For Local Living Experience: Žirmūnai
1. Old Town (Senamiestis): Vilnius’ Medieval Heart 🏰
🏰 Medieval Charm: Stepping into Vilnius Old Town (Senamiestis) feels like walking through a fairytale. As I stroll down the cobblestone streets, I’m surrounded by a mesmerizing blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. It’s no wonder this area is a UNESCO World Heritage site! I always recommend starting your exploration at Cathedral Square, the heart of the city. From there, you can easily walk to Gediminas Avenue, the main artery of Vilnius.
Insider Tip: To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning. The soft light on the medieval buildings is simply magical, and you’ll have the streets almost to yourself!
⛪ Baroque Splendor: Vilnius is often called the city of churches, and for good reason. The Old Town boasts an impressive collection of Baroque masterpieces. St. Anne’s Church is a must-see with its intricate red brick facade. Legend has it that Napoleon was so enamored with it, he wanted to take it back to Paris in the palm of his hand! Don’t miss the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul either – its interior is adorned with over 2,000 stucco figures.
🎭 Cultural Hub: The Old Town is a treasure trove for culture vultures. Here are some of my favorite spot Vilnius University. One of the oldest in Eastern Europe, its courtyards are simply stunning.
🏛️ Historical Landmarks: History buffs will be in heaven in the Old Town. Some must-visit sites include:
- Gediminas Tower: Climb up for panoramic views of the city.
- Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania: A beautifully reconstructed Renaissance palace.
- Gate of Dawn: The only surviving gate of the city wall, with a chapel housing a sacred painting.
🖼️ Artistic Treasures: The Old Town is a living canvas, with art at every turn. Don’t miss the street art in the Republic of Užupis, just a short walk from the Old Town center. This self-proclaimed “independent republic” is a haven for artists and creatives. The Užupis Constitution, displayed on a wall in multiple languages, is a quirky must-read!
Best hotels to stay in Vilnius Old Town 🏨
⭐ Best hotels in Senamiestis
- German 18-3B Apartment – A cozy apartment in the heart of Vilnius Old Town, offering a home-away-from-home experience.
- Luxury Old Town Apartment – An elegant apartment combining modern amenities with Old Town charm.
- Hotel Pacai, Vilnius, a Member of Design Hotels – A luxurious 5-star hotel in a historic palace, offering spa facilities and gourmet dining.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- Radisson Blu Royal Astorija Hotel – A well-established hotel with a blend of history and modern comfort in the Old Town.
- Vokieciu g. Apartments – Comfortable apartments in a central location, ideal for both short and long stays.
- Mai Ram Yoga House – A unique hotel offering a tranquil atmosphere and yoga facilities in the heart of the city.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Jimmy Jumps House – A lively hostel known for its social atmosphere and great location in the Old Town.
- Mikalo House – A cozy hostel offering comfortable accommodations at budget-friendly prices.
- Mikalo House
2. New Town (Naujamiestis): Where Modern Vilnius Thrives 🌃
🏙️ Modern Urban Living: Welcome to Naujamiestis, Vilnius’ New Town! Don’t let the name fool you – this vibrant neighborhood is one of the oldest districts in the capital of Lithuania. It’s where the city’s past and present collide in the most exciting way.
Insider Tip: For the best view of Naujamiestis’ skyline, head to the rooftop bar of the Radisson Blu Hotel. It’s a great spot to watch the sunset over the city!
🍻 Trendy Bars and Cafes: Naujamiestis is the beating heart of Vilnius’ nightlife and cafe culture. I always recommend starting your day at Crooked Nose & Coffee Stories – their pour-over coffee is simply divine. My personal favorite is Alchemikas, where mixologists whip up creative cocktails that are as much a feast for the eyes as they are for the taste buds.
🎨 Contemporary Art Scene: Art lovers, rejoice! Naujamiestis is a treasure trove of contemporary art. Here are some must-visit spots:
- MO Museum: A striking modern building housing an impressive collection of Lithuanian art
- Contemporary Art Centre: Always pushing boundaries with its innovative exhibitions
- Open Gallery: An outdoor street art gallery that’s transformed old factory walls into canvases
Time Saver: Many of these art venues offer combined tickets. It’s a great way to save money and time if you’re planning to visit multiple sites.
🛒 Shopping Centers: Whether you’re a shopaholic or just looking for souvenirs, Naujamiestis has you covered. The Gedimino 9 shopping center is a personal favorite – it’s housed in a beautiful historic building but offers all the modern brands you could want.
🍳 International Cuisine: Foodies, get ready for a treat! Naujamiestis is a melting pot of flavors. From traditional Lithuanian fare to exotic international dishes, there’s something for every palate. Many restaurants offer great value lunch menus. It’s a perfect way to sample high-end cuisine without breaking the bank.
Best place to stay in Vilnius New Town 🏨
⭐ Best hotels in Naujamiestis
- Helios 19 Luxury Vilnius Apartment – A luxurious apartment with a balcony, offering panoramic city views and excellent amenities in the heart of Naujamiestis.
- Bossa Nova - modern 2 bedroom apartment in the center – A modern, spacious apartment with free parking and excellent facilities, located close to the city center.
- Luxury Apartments Close to City Center – Upscale apartments offering comfort and convenience near Vilnius’ main attractions.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- Algirdas City Hotels – A comfortable hotel with good amenities, situated in the Naujamiestis district.
- Centrum Unique Stay Hotel – A stylish hotel offering a unique stay experience in the heart of Naujamiestis.
- Gile Hotel – A cozy hotel providing a pleasant stay with easy access to Vilnius’ attractions.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Teatro Studio Apartment – A budget-friendly studio apartment offering basic amenities for a comfortable stay.
- Svitrigailos Studio – A compact studio apartment ideal for budget travelers in Naujamiestis.
- Svitrigailos Studio
3. Užupis: The Bohemian Republic 🏙️
🎨 Bohemian Republic: Welcome to Uzupis, the quirky heart of Vilniaus! This neighborhood is one of the best places to stay in Vilnius for travelers seeking a unique experience. As I stroll down Paupio Street, I’m always struck by the creative energy buzzing in this part of the city. It’s a great place to stay if you want to immerse yourself in Vilnius’ artistic side.
Insider Tip: Don’t forget to get your passport stamped at the “border” – it’s a fun souvenir and makes you an honorary citizen of the Republic of Uzupis!
🖼️ Street Art Haven: Užupis is a canvas come to life, making it one of Vilniaus’ best neighborhoods for art lovers. Every corner, every street in Vilnius tells a story here. The Uzupis Art Incubator is a must-visit attraction. Don’t miss the Užupis Constitution Wall, a quirky set of rules translated into multiple languages.
Time Saver: Check the Uzupis Facebook page for upcoming events. It’s the best way to find unique performances and art installations in this area of Vilnius.
🏞️ Riverside Relaxation: The Vilnelė River is the lifeblood of Uzupis. On sunny days, I love grabbing the best coffee and finding a spot along the riverbank. The Užupis Bridge, with its quirky mermaid statue, is perfect for people-watching. It’s close to the Old Town of Vilnius, making it a convenient place to stay for first-time visitors.
📸 Instagram-Worthy Spots: Užupis is a photographer’s dream and one of the most beautiful areas in this small city. Here are some spots you can’t miss:
- The Užupis Angel statue in the main square
- The colorful steps leading up to Užupis Gymnasium
- The quirky street signs and art installations scattered throughout the neighborhood
Best hotels to stay in Uzupis 🏨
⭐ Best hotels in Užupis
- Brand New Flat Heart of Vilnius – A modern apartment offering a comfortable stay in the heart of Užupis, Vilnius’ artistic district.
- Jono Meko Skersvėjis Executive Apartments – Luxurious executive apartments providing a high-end experience in the unique Užupis area.
- Angel House Vilnius – A charming accommodation option offering a cozy and authentic stay in Užupis.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- Paupio Loftai – Stylish loft apartments in the trendy Užupis neighborhood, perfect for those seeking a unique stay.
- Prie Angelo Apartamentai – Comfortable apartments offering a home-away-from-home experience in the artistic heart of Vilnius.
- Užupis Apartments Old Town – Well-located apartments providing easy access to both Užupis and Vilnius Old Town.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Paupys Central Apartments – Budget-friendly apartments in a central location, ideal for travelers looking to explore Užupis.
- Stylish & Cozy Užupis Apartment – A stylish yet affordable apartment option in the heart of Užupis.
- Dora Apartment Užupis – A cozy and economical apartment choice for those wanting to experience the unique atmosphere of Užupis.
4. Žvėrynas: Green Residential Haven 🌳
🌳 Green Oasis: Welcome to Žvėrynas, one of Vilnius’ best-kept secrets! This neighborhood is a breath of fresh air, quite literally. As I stroll down the tree-lined streets, I’m struck by how this area feels like a world apart from the bustling city center. It’s one of the best areas to stay in Vilnius if you’re looking for a peaceful retreat that’s still close to all the action.
Insider Tip: Visit Vingis Park, the largest green space in Vilnius, located right in Žvėrynas. It’s perfect for morning jogs or afternoon picnics!
🏡 Local Living: Žvėrynas offers a unique glimpse into local life in Vilnius. This residential area is dotted with beautiful wooden houses, a rarity in the city. I love wandering the streets, admiring these architectural gems that have stood the test of time. It’s like stepping back in time while still being in a modern, vibrant city.
🚶♀️ Peaceful Walks: One of the best things about staying in Žvėrynas is the abundance of peaceful walking routes. Here are some of my favorites:
- The Neris River promenade: A beautiful riverside walk with views of the city
- Vingis Park trails: Miles of paths through lush forests
- Architectural walking tour: Admire the mix of wooden houses and modern buildings
Time Saver: Rent a bike to cover more ground and explore both Žvėrynas and the nearby Old Town in one day.
🍳 Cozy Cafes: Žvėrynas might not have the concentration of cafes you’ll find in the Old Town, but what it lacks in quantity, it makes up for in quality. My personal favorite is Pinavija Cafe & Bakery. Their cinnamon rolls are to die for, and the cozy atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to plan your day’s adventures.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Area: If you’re traveling with a furry friend, Žvėrynas is one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Vilnius. The abundance of green spaces and pet-friendly cafes make it a paradise for both you and your pet.
Money Saver: Many accommodations in Žvėrynas are pet-friendly without extra charges, unlike some hotels in the city center.
Best hotels to stay in Žvėrynas 🏨
⭐ Best hotels in Žvėrynas
- Žvėryno Guest House – A charming guest house offering a cozy stay in the green Žvėrynas district of Vilnius.
- Cosy Apartment in Žvėrynas – A comfortable apartment providing a home-like atmosphere in the peaceful Žvėrynas area.
- Stylish Apartment Vilnius – A modern and stylish apartment option for those seeking a trendy stay in Žvėrynas.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- New Studio Apartment in Žvėrynas – A newly renovated studio apartment offering contemporary comfort in Žvėrynas.
- Stylish Studio in Central Vilnius – A chic studio apartment providing a perfect blend of style and convenience.
- Guesthouse Ameda – A welcoming guesthouse offering comfortable accommodations in the Žvėrynas district.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- River to the City Studio 7 Apartment – A budget-friendly studio apartment with river views in Žvėrynas.
- River to the City Studio 8 Apartment – Another affordable studio option offering riverside accommodation in Žvėrynas.
- Cozy Apartments in Žvėrynas – Comfortable and economical apartments ideal for budget travelers in the Žvėrynas area.
5. Šnipiškės: Vilnius’ Manhattan on the Neris 🏢
🏙️ Skyscraper Central: Welcome to Šnipiškės, the new centre of Vilnius that’s giving the old town a run for its money! As I stand on the Baltas Tiltas footbridge, I’m struck by how this part of Vilnius city contrasts with the quaint streets of Užupis or the heart of the old town.
Insider Tip: For the best views of Šnipiškės’ skyline, head to the rooftop bar of the Radisson Blu Hotel Lietuva, one of the best hotels in the area.
🏢 Corporate Hub: Šnipiškės is where Vilnius means business. This neighborhood in Vilnius is the financial heartbeat of the city, home to numerous corporate headquarters and government buildings. It’s a stark contrast to the Republic of Užupis or the old town, making it an interesting area in Vilnius to explore.
🌉 River Views: One of the best things about Šnipiškės is its location along the Neris River. The riverside promenade is perfect for a stroll, offering views of both the modern skyline and Vilnius Cathedral in the distance.
🏪 Convenience Shopping: For those wondering where to stay in Vilnius that offers modern conveniences, Šnipiškės is your answer. The area is home to several shopping centers, including:
- Panorama: The largest shopping mall in Vilnius
- Europa: A more upscale shopping experience
- VCUP: Great for both shopping and entertainment
Money Saver: Many of these malls offer tourist discount cards. Don’t forget to ask at the information desk!
Best hotels to stay in Snipiskes 🏨
⭐ Best hotels in Šnipiškės
- Europa Dream Apartment – A modern apartment offering a comfortable stay in the heart of Šnipiškės, close to business centers and shopping areas.
- Radisson Blu Hotel Lietuva – A 4-star hotel with excellent amenities, including a fitness center and panoramic views of Vilnius from its upper floors.
- Ibis Vilnius Centre – A reliable choice offering comfortable rooms and good value in a convenient location.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- Place No. 2 – A cozy hotel offering a home-like atmosphere in the Šnipiškės area.
- Holiday Inn Vilnius – A modern 4-star hotel with comfortable rooms, a stylish restaurant, and bar, located in the business district.
- Best Western Vilnius – A well-located hotel offering good amenities and easy access to the city center.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Svečių namai Marija – A budget-friendly guesthouse offering basic accommodations in Šnipiškės.
- StudioApart23 – New apartments offering a comfortable stay at affordable prices in the city center.
- 9010 Apartments – Modern apartments providing a home-away-from-home experience for budget-conscious travelers.
6. Žirmūnai: The Local’s Vilnius Experience 🏘️
🏘️ Residential Charm: Welcome to Žirmūnai, a hidden gem for travelers looking to experience the local side of Vilnius! As I stroll down the tree-lined streets, I’m struck by the mix of Soviet-era apartment blocks and modern developments. It’s like walking through a living history book of Vilnius’ architecture.
Insider Tip: For the best views of Žirmūnai’s unique skyline, head to the Šilo Bridge. It’s a great spot to watch the sunset over the beautiful city!
🏞️ Neris River Promenade: One of the best things about Žirmūnai is its location along the Neris River, on the opposite side of the city from Snipiškės. The riverside promenade is perfect for a morning jog or an evening stroll. It’s a side of Vilnius that many first-time visitors miss out on, but it’s well worth exploring.
🏊 Sports Facilities: For those who want to stay active during their travels, Žirmūnai has you covered. The neighborhood boasts several sports facilities, including:
- Lazdynai Swimming Pool: Perfect for a refreshing swim
- Žirmūnai Rowing Base: Try your hand at rowing on the Neris River
- Outdoor fitness equipment along the river promenade
🎓 University Area: Žirmūnai is home to several university campuses, giving the area a youthful, vibrant energy. It’s a great area to stay if you’re looking for cheap accommodation options in Vilnius, different from the more expensive hotels in Vilnius city center.
🚌 Well-Connected Suburb: One of the best things about choosing to stay in Žirmūnai is its excellent public transport connections. You’re just a short bus or trolleybus ride away from the center of the city, Vilnius Old Town, and even the train and bus stations. It’s the perfect base for exploring all the places to visit in Lithuania, including Vilnius New Town.
Best hotels to stay in Žirmūnai 🏨
⭐ Best hotels in Žirmūnai
- BDSM Red Apartments – A unique themed apartment offering an adults-only experience in Žirmūnai, with strict age restrictions and privacy policies.
- Apartment in Vilnius – A comfortable apartment option in the Žirmūnai area, providing a home-like atmosphere for visitors.
- Calvary Apartments – Modern apartments offering a convenient stay in the Žirmūnai district of Vilnius.
🏨 Best middle-range hotels
- Jauki Erdvė – A cozy accommodation option providing a comfortable stay in Žirmūnai.
- Jaukus butas ant Neries skardžio – A charming apartment with views of the Neris River, offering a pleasant stay in Žirmūnai.
- Neris Inn Terraces – A hotel with terrace views, providing a relaxing atmosphere in the Žirmūnai area.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Vilnius Tiny Apartments – Compact and affordable apartments ideal for budget travelers in Žirmūnai.
- Silvana – A budget-friendly hotel offering basic amenities and free parking in a quiet neighborhood of Žirmūnai.
- Apartment in Vilnius – Another affordable apartment option for those looking for a economical stay in Žirmūnai.
FAQs About Best Area to Stay in Vilnius, Lithuania❔
Is Šnipiškės a good neighborhood to stay in for first-time visitors to Vilnius, Lithuania?
Šnipiškės can be a good choice for first-time visitors, offering modern amenities and good connections to the Old Town, though it lacks the historical charm of staying in the Old Town itself.
How close is Šnipiškės to the city center and Cathedral Square compared to other neighborhoods to stay in Vilnius?
Šnipiškės is relatively close to the city center and Cathedral Square, just across the river from the Old Town, making it convenient for exploring Vilnius’ main attractions.
What are the best neighbourhoods in Vilnius for travelers who want to stay close to the Old Town?
The best neighbourhoods for staying close to the Old Town are Senamiestis (Old Town itself) and Užupis, though Šnipiškės offers a good balance of proximity and modern conveniences.
