Heading to Lithuania for holidays? Lithuania is one of the smaller EU states in terms of population, and Vilnius is a fascinating and compact European capital. Most probably you will start your trip there. If you are wondering where to stay in Vilnius, let’s find out the best areas to stay in Lithuanian capital.
The capital of Lithuania, Vilnius, is the ideal European paradise if you want to experience a different atmosphere, where the East meets the West. In fact, there are many cool places to see in Lithuania and it is well worth visiting. The city is also a perfect stop if you are taking a trip to explore the Baltic region and Eastern Europe.
Vilnius’ best areas to stay are presented below and it should give you an idea of what to expect in each of them. Here you can choose the area and then go to the next step to choose the best hotel to stay in Vilnius.
We recommend doing a research and booking your hotel in advance, especially when traveling during peak season, to save time and nerves during your trip. The best websites to book hotels in Vilnius, Lithuania are Booking.com and Agoda.com that always offer great deals.
1. Vilnius Old Town (Senamiestis)
The historical center of the city is also known as Vilniaus Senamiestis or Vilnius Old Town. Vilnius Old Town is one of the oldest surviving historic centers in Northern Europe. Since 1994 it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its originality and worldwide value. Like most Baltic capitals, many of its attractions are located precisely in its old town so if you want to be close to everything, there is no better area to stay in Vilnius than this. Besides from many attractions, there is also a great offer of restaurants, bars and shops where you can find the precious Lithuanian amber.
Vilnius Old Town in fact is quite compact and you can easily walk among the main monuments and attractions of Vilnius that are within a short distance, but buses and taxis are also an option.
Vilnius Old Town has a wide range of accommodations to offer so you can make the most of your nights here. There are options for all tastes and budgets available, from simple to luxurious hotels. Our recommendation would be to stay in the area around Pilies Street, the oldest street in Vilnius, which leads to Vilnius Castle. This Lithuania's most famous street reveals all the beauty of the expressive architecture of the Old Town and is full of small shops with a variety of Lithuanian souvenirs, ornaments, clothes, cafes and restaurants. Alternatively, you can also consider Vokieciu Street (Vokiečių gatvė), Gediminas Avenue (Gedimino prospektas) and Vilniaus Street (Vilniaus gatvė) to stay in the area with more lively nightlife in Vilnius.
Some of the best rated hotels around Vilnius Old Town:
Relais & Châteaux Stikliai Hotel
2. Uzupis (Užupis)
Uzupis is one of the best areas to stay in Vilnius for those seeking to discover the most alternative side of the city. Uzupis is precisely located east of the River Vilnele, so technically it is part of the historical center of Vilnius.
Uzupis is a small neighborhood in Vilnius that is considered an unofficial independent republic. Uzupis can be compared to Monmartre in Paris or Christiania in Copenhagen. The Republic of Uzupis has its own constitution, its president, flag, currency, seven bridges and two churches, and even a small army. Before, the neighborhood was dirty, dangerous and much neglected but it was improving until it became the colorful and lively artistic and bohemian area with art galleries, artist workshops, restaurants and cafes, becoming an attractive area for tourists. The center of Uzupis is a small square decorated with a statue of an angel playing the horn.
In Uzupis, there are no big scale hotels, only several apartments. Some of the best rated accommodations in Uzupis are listed below:
Classic Old Town apartment by URBAN RENT
3. Vilnius New Town (Naujamiestis)
Naujamiestis (New Town) neighborhood is located to the west of the historic center on the left bank of the Neris River. Naujamiestis is located fairly centrally in the city. In fact, it is still within a walking distance from most of the attractions of the Old Town.
In recent years, the neighborhood was developed from being an industrial district to an attractive new residential area with businesses constantly growing in the area. Naujamiestis is a modern and exclusive district with good public transport connections and also houses the train station and bus station. There is Lukiskes Square, Taurus Hill, many embassies, consulates, banks, offices, nightclubs, bars, and youth gathering places.
Gediminas Avenue itself continues through this district and is an ideal area to stay in Vilnius. As it is the New Town, the buildings are very different from those in the Old Town and their style can be compared to that of cities such as Vienna and Budapest. The accommodations in this area tend to be cheaper than those in the heart of the Old Town.
Some of the best rated hotels in Vilnius New Town (Naujamiestis):
Cherry Tree apartment Old town Vilnius
4. Snipiskes (Šnipiškės)
Snipiskes is one of the most interesting areas to stay in Vilnius. This neighborhood has a favorable location in the northern part of Vilnius, on the other side of the Neris River. Snipiskes is often referred to be the new center of the capital, due to the luxury buildings, numerous shopping centers, supermarkets, restaurants, high-rise business centers, and modern skyscrapers.
Apart from the large skyscrapers, another of the neighborhood's attractions is small wooden one-story houses so this area is a good contrast that became a valuable place where the past and present come together.
Although it seems a little separated from the historic center, Snipiskes neighborhood is well served by bus routes and taxi, and it can also be explored on foot, as the area is only 15-20 minutes away from the heart of Vilnius' historic center and its attractions.
Snipiskes is one of the best areas to stay in Vilnius, especially for business travelers and travelers who are looking for a modern hotel near shopping malls. There are a number of apartments and hotels offering accommodation for different price to travelers of various kinds.
Some of the best rated hotels in Snipiskes area:
Courtyard by Marriott Vilnius City Center
Tips
Lithuania is one of our favorite European destinations for many reasons. In this blog post we share the reasons why you should travel to Lithuania.