Vilnius is a compact capital built around one of Europe's largest and best-preserved old towns, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994. The historic core sits at the confluence of the Vilnia and Neris rivers, and much of what you will want to see on a first visit is packed into that walkable centre.
For a visitor, the city divides fairly simply. The Old Town holds the cathedral, the university, the town square and the castle complex. North of the Neris lies the New City Centre, the main administrative and business district, with modern residential and retail space. Užupis, across the river from the Old Town, is its own small quarter. This guide covers which of these areas to base yourself in, and what kind of accommodation you will find at each price level.
Best areas to stay in Vilnius
1. Old Town
The Old Town is the historic heart of the city, home to the cathedral, Cathedral Square, the university, the town square and the Palace of the Grand Dukes. It is the obvious base for first-time visitors who want the sights on foot and the widest choice of places to eat and drink in the evening.
Accommodation here ranges from small budget hostels to upmarket places in converted historic buildings, including a former convent and an old glassworks. Expect some street noise in the busier lanes, and note that parts of the quarter sit on or near Castle Hill.
2. New City Centre (Business District)
The New City Centre is the main administrative and business district, on the north side of the river Neris, with modern residential and retail space and the municipal building. It suits business travellers and anyone who prefers a quieter, more contemporary setting while still being within walking distance of the Old Town across the river.
This is where you find the large modern chain hotels, including high-rise properties by the river with conference facilities; some rooms on the upper floors look back over the Old Town. It is a practical base if you are arriving for work rather than sightseeing.
3. Užupis
Užupis is the quarter across the river from the Old Town, described in the source material as the "Republic of Užupis". It is a small, distinct area with a relaxed character, and it suits budget travellers and those who want to be close to the centre without staying in its busiest streets.
Accommodation here is mainly at the budget end, with hostel-style places offering self-service kitchens and shared sitting rooms. It connects to the Old Town on foot, and buses serve the area.
4. Gedimino prospektas and the Parliament area
The stretch along Gedimino prospektas, close to the parliament and the Opera House, sits between the Old Town and the business district. It suits visitors who want a central, well-connected base with a mix of mid-range and upmarket hotels, including larger modern properties.
Several hotels here are within easy walking distance of both Cathedral Square and the river, though some rooms face busy streets and pick up traffic noise.
5. Near the airport
If you have an early flight or a long layover, basing yourself by Vilnius Airport is a sensible option rather than a sightseeing one. The airport hotel is a short walk from the terminal, so you trade proximity to the centre for an easy departure.
This area suits short-stay and transit travellers. You will need transport to reach the Old Town and the rest of the city.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: hostels with four- to eight-bed dorms and a few private or twin rooms, often with shared kitchens and sitting rooms; also simple, small hotels in the centre and near the airport, some with free parking.
- Mid-range: reliable chain hotels and independent properties, typically with a sauna, fitness centre or meeting rooms, close to the parliament, the river or the main avenue.
- Splurge: stylish upmarket hotels in the Old Town and along Gedimino prospektas, some in converted historic buildings, with spas, pools, restaurants and conference facilities; high-rise rooms with views over the Old Town are available.
Best area for a first visit
Stay in the Old Town. It puts the cathedral, the university, the town square and the castle complex within walking distance, and it gives you the widest choice of accommodation across every price level. You can cross the river to the New City Centre or Užupis on foot when you want a change of scene.
Frequently asked questions
Which area is best for first-time visitors?
The Old Town, because the main historic sights are concentrated there and it is walkable. It also has the broadest range of places to stay, from hostels to upmarket hotels.
Where should I stay if I am on a budget?
Look at Užupis and the Old Town for hostel-style accommodation with dorms and shared facilities, and at simple small hotels in the centre. Užupis is a short walk from the Old Town.
Which area is quietest?
The New City Centre, on the north side of the river, is the business and administrative district and is generally calmer than the busiest Old Town lanes. Note that street noise is mentioned for some hotels along the main avenue and by the river.
Where should I stay for an early flight?
The area around Vilnius Airport, where a modern hotel sits within a short walk of the terminal. You will need transport to reach the centre from there.
Compare live prices for your dates with the booking tools on this page before you decide.