From the medieval Old Town to the trendy Užupis neighbourhood, the various faces of Vilnius make this European city a great place to discover. Here’s our pick of the top hotels in the Lithuanian capital.
Lithuania is not shy of its past. Napoleon came and went, so did the Russian Czars and Soviets, leaving behind a mish-mash of delightful architecture in its capital city. Delve into contemporary Vilnius where pints are cheap, hilltop views are plentiful and kibinai (similar to Cornish pasties) are scoffed by the dozen.
Hotel PACAI
Luxury
Located in the heart of Old Town Vilnius, Hotel PACAI is a perfect base from which to tour the city’s main sights. History buffs will spot architectural reminders of Vilnius’s changing eras in the rustic walls, while suites feature contemporary luxury touches, including Nespresso machines and king-sized beds. The mansion also has a spa complex, which offers over 10 types of massage, a dry air hammam and a fully equipped gym area.
15th Avenue Hotel
Hotel
If it’s modernity you seek, check in to the trendy 15th Avenue Hotel, ideal for couples or city breakers. Inside, there’s a contemporary New York City feel to the rooms, but the building’s exterior will remind you that you are still in Vilnius – it’s housed in a typical Lithuanian tenement building. With just 15 rooms, you can expect personalised service at this boutique hotel. Opt in for breakfast, too.
Hotel Vilnia
Hotel
Expect luxury furnishings and fresh flowers in your room on arrival at Hotel Vilnia. Solo travellers can enjoy a Classic Single, while the Superior Double offers a sunny balcony overlooking the quiet street below. The Upe restaurant merits a visit; it is popular with locals as well as tourists. Once you have checked in – walk across the river to explore the artistic Republic of Užupis – Vilnius’s most intriguing neighbourhood is almost on your doorstep.
Grotthuss Boutique Hotel
Boutique Hotel
The Grotthuss Boutique Hotel is on the periphery of Vilnius Old Town. Named after Theodor von Grotthuss, a Lithuanian–German chemist, this hotel echoes the Old Town streets of Vilnius with its decor. Authentic brick work creates a homely feel, and as a unique bonus, the hotel also has a separate dwelling place – an authentic fisherman’s house on the shores of the Curonian Lagoon. Book this cottage for a romantic getaway.
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Moon Garden Art Hotel
Hotel
Art buffs will enjoy a stay at Moon Garden Art Hotel. Original Lithuanian art graces the walls – and can be purchased. Each suite is original with patterned wallpaper and classical furniture – choose the Deluxe option for a balcony. Start the day with a rich buffet of fruit, meat and cheese, plus the chef will prepare you a custom-ordered dish. Step outside you’ll find yourself at the Gate of Dawn in Vilnius’s wonderful old town.
Shakespeare Boutique Hotel Vilnius
Boutique Hotel, Hotel
Located in the Old Town, Shakespeare Boutique Hotel Vilnius features 31 unique rooms, named after famous authors and literary characters. For example, the Hemingway room is equipped with a writing desk, hunting rifle and flask, while the luxury Oscar Wilde suite has a separate sitting room and claw-foot bath tub. Finish the day with a whiskey on the rocks from the hotel’s collection of over 100 bottles.
Europa Royale
Hotel
The Europa Royale is a four-star hotel located on the popular Ausros Vartu Street, home to the Gates of Dawn. Each of the 54 rooms features a large comfortable bed, heated bathroom floor and cosy bathrobe to curl up in. Opt for the Round Suite for a unique circular king-sized bed with city views. Downstairs, you’ll find one of the best traditional Lithuanian restaurants in town, Medininkai.
Artagonist Art Hotel
Hotel
One for the art fans, the Artagonist features murals and sculptures by local Lithuanian artists. Located on the central Pilies Street in the Old Town, it’s an ideal spot for a jam-packed 48-hour visit to Vilnius. Standard rooms feature a queen-sized bed and Chemex coffee maker, plus some with art installations mounted to the ceiling. While it isn’t the cheapest hotel in town, it certainly has one of the best breakfasts.
Grand Hotel Kempinski
Chain Hotel, Hotel
The Grand Hotel Kempinski sits in the nucleus of the city, boasting traditionally styled suites (some with city balcony views) and an impressive spa. The trademark Restaurant Telegrafas puts a modern twist on authentic Lithuanian cuisine in an elegant setting. Unwind in the intimate Le Salon Bar with an afternoon tea ritual or a bespoke cocktail in the evening, overlooking Vilnius cathedral.
Stikliai Hotel
Hotel
Lavish rooms await at the Stikliai Hotel. Standard rooms have a maximum occupancy of one – perfect for solo travellers – while there are also one- and two-bedroom apartments for longer stays, offering weekly housekeeping and breakfast. The hotel’s location on Gaono Street puts you near boutique shops, Jewish history, cafes and bars. The in-house restaurant also features a must-try home-made vodka ice cream.
Congress Avenue Hotel
Hotel
The four-star Congress Avenue Hotel has a great location for retail therapy, just across the street from the Gedimino 9 mall. Rooms are sleek and modern, ranging from standard doubles to the semi-deluxe suite. Book the latter for a balcony, courtyard views and blackout curtains for a good night’s sleep. Foodies should reserve a table at the hotel’s Room 12 restaurant, which serves French à la carte cuisine.
Comfort Hotel LT Rock 'N' Roll Vilnius
Hotel
A little off the tourist trail in the New Town, you’ll find Comfort Hotel LT Rock ‘N’ Roll. This up-and-coming neighbourhood is near grocery stores, restaurants and live music venues. Top amenities are the attraction here with a gym open 24/7, free wifi and a complimentary organic breakfast. Rooms are decorated with a music theme and feature queen-sized beds and 32-inch TVs.
Radisson Blu Royal Astorija Hotel
Hotel
A stay at the Radisson Blu Royal Astorija offers views onto Town Hall Square and the magnificent surrounding architecture. Inside, you’ll find 119 rooms – opt for the superior suite for its pillow menu, Nespresso machine and large windows. Make the most of the Royal Health Club, complete with indoor pool, Jacuzzi and state-of-the-art gym, plus pick up a local running map from reception for your morning jog.
Narutis Hotel
Hotel
This delightful five-star boutique hotel features 53 luxury rooms, complete with canopied beds, plush linen and Gilchrist & Soames toiletries. Head down to the 16th-century cellar and you’ll find a modern swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, Turkish bath and massage room, free for all guests each morning. Breakfast is also included – a hot buffet consisting of produce from local Lithuanian farms. Free parking is also available (a rarity in Central Vilnius).
Jonny Blair contributed additional reporting to this article.
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