Where to stay in Vilnius: best areas and neighborhoods

Vilnius is divided into 21 districts. The central district is Senamiestis, the Old Town. From a tourist point of view, the best option is definitely to stay as close to the center as possible, choosing one of the neighborhoods bordering the Old Town, such as Žvėrynas, Šnipiškės, and Naujamiestis. Here’s everything you need to know about where to stay in Vilnius.

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In a hurry? Here's our recommended accommodation

Useful tips: the best neighborhoods to stay in

Areas to avoid: Vilnius is a safe city, with no dangerous districts. Of course, you should always stay alert, as you would in any capital or major city, especially in very crowded areas. From a tourist perspective, it's better to avoid neighborhoods that are too far from the center.

Vilnius, still off the radar of mass tourism, is an affordable destination. Without a doubt, the best area to stay is the Old Town, or Senamiestis. It’s a district suitable for everyone: those seeking peace can choose the Jewish Quarter in the western part of the Old Town, while those looking for nightlife should head to the area around Pilies gatvė. The district of Užupis deserves special mention—hipster, lively, and perfect for young travelers.

If you’re looking for large green areas, Žvėrynas and Šnipiškės are great options. Located north of the Old Town, across the Neris River, these two neighborhoods are ideal for families.

Finally, Naujamiestis is perfect for saving even more. West of the Old Town, stretching from the banks of the Neris to the train station, it has a trendy vibe full of bars and is especially popular with young people.

Best accommodations: we’ve selected the top hotels, B&Bs, and hostels in Vilnius. Check out our recommendations and book on Booking

Senamiestis: best for first-timers

Foto di Ben Bender.

• Pros: central location, UNESCO World Heritage site, lively atmosphere
• Cons: noisy and crowded, more expensive accommodation and dining options.
• Main attractions: Vilnius Cathedral, Gediminas' Tower, Gates of Dawn, Presidential Palace
• Average prices: from €60,00 per night - find top stays on Booking

Recommended Accommodation

Senamiestis is the Old Town of Vilnius, a uniquely charming area with architecture ranging from Baroque to Renaissance, from Gothic to Neoclassical. This is also where you’ll find the city’s most important attractions, such as Vilnius Cathedral, Gediminas Tower, St. Anne’s Church, and the Hill of Three Crosses.

The Old Town is a neighborhood truly suitable for everyone, and it’s definitely the best area to stay in if it's your first time in Vilnius. Specifically, the entire area around the famous Pilies gatvė is recommended for young travelers, thanks to the many pubs and bars and its lively atmosphere, especially in the evening. The Jewish Quarter area, on the other hand, is recommended for those seeking peace and quiet: it’s largely pedestrian and stretches from Didžioji Street to the Dominikonų and Vokiečių boulevards.

Staying here allows you to get around on foot and easily reach the city’s main attractions. For example, the Jewish Quarter is just a 10-minute walk from Vilnius Cathedral.

Average prices in the district start at around €60,00 per night — compare the selection of the best accommodations on Booking

Užupis: best for bohemian vibes and art enthusiasts

Foto di Lee Fenner.

• Pros: Unique, independent, and artistic 'republic,' quiet and picturesque
• Cons: Fewer accommodation options than the Old Town, can feel less central.
• Main attractions: Užupis Angel Statue, Užupis Constitution, Republic of Užupis Art Incubator
• Average prices: from €55,00 per night - find top stays on Booking

Recommended Accommodation

Užupis is a district that belongs to Senamiestis but deserves special attention. It is, in fact, a neighborhood completely different from the rest of the Old Town: it’s Vilnius’s hipster, colorful, and cheerful area. Here you’ll meet artists, musicians, and find plenty of workshops, art galleries, pubs, and cafés. There aren’t major attractions, but the neighborhood itself is an attraction. And there’s more: Užupis even declared itself an independent republic in 1997 and is often compared to Paris’s Montmartre or Copenhagen’s Christiania.

Given its artistic soul, Užupis is definitely recommended for young travelers and those looking for nightlife. The area is full of services of all kinds, from local cuisine restaurants to cozy cafés. It also hosts exhibitions, festivals, and cultural events that are always well attended.

Staying here allows you to get around on foot, as it’s part of the Old Town. The district is just a 10-minute walk from Vilnius Cathedral and 5 minutes from Pilies gatvė.

Average prices in the district start at around €55,00 per night — compare the selection of the best accommodations on Booking

Žvėrynas: best for nature lovers

Foto di genevieveromier.

• Pros: Greenest district in the city, peaceful and residential
• Cons: far from Old Town, fewer dining and nightlife options.
• Main attractions: Karaite Kenesa, Russian Orthodox Church of Our Lady of the Sign
• Average prices: from €60,00 per night - find top stays on Booking

Recommended Accommodation

Žvėrynas is one of the greenest districts in Vilnius, as well as one of the most elegant. There aren’t any major attractions, but it’s a neighborhood full of parks and amenities: you’ll find several large shopping centers, restaurants, and cafés here.

Thanks to its peaceful atmosphere and numerous green areas, such as the nearby Vingio Parkas, this district is especially recommended for families with children, as well as for anyone looking for a quiet area close to the center but with plenty of services nearby. You will mainly find apartments here, ideal for greater independence.

If you stay here, you’ll need to use public transportation. The district is about 3 km from Vilnius Cathedral, and the most convenient way to reach the center is by taking bus 1, 3, or 7 (8 minutes).

Average prices in the district start at around €60,00 per night — compare the selection of the best accommodations on Booking

Šnipiškės: best for modern infrastructure and business travelers

• Pros: Modern skyscrapers and business centers, excellent transport links
• Cons: Lacks the historical charm of the Old Town, dominated by commercial architecture
• Main attractions: Europa Tower, Panorama Shopping Mall, National Gallery of Art
• Average prices: from €70,00 per night - find top stays on Booking

Recommended Accommodation

Next to Žvėrynas and on the opposite bank of the Neris River from the Old Town lies Šnipiškės, the new financial district of Vilnius. It’s an area of contrasts: along the riverbank you’ll find skyscrapers and office buildings, while heading north you’ll see traditional wooden houses and charming narrow streets. Also, this is where you’ll find Sakurų Parkas, famous for its cherry blossom.

Given its characteristics, this district is recommended especially for families and those seeking peace and quiet, while still wanting all services within easy reach. There’s no shortage of shopping centers, restaurants, and stores. It can also be a good area for business travelers visiting the capital.

Staying here allows you to get around on foot or by public transport, depending on the exact area you choose. For example, Sakurų Parkas is only a 20-minute walk from Vilnius Cathedral. Alternatively, the district is well served by several bus lines.

Average prices in the district start at around €70,00 per night — compare the selection of the best accommodations on Booking

Naujamiestis: best for local life and affordability

Foto di Žemėpatis.

• Pros: Blend of Soviet-era and modern buildings, more authentic local feel
• Cons: Architecture is less uniform than the Old Town, some parts can feel industrial
• Main attractions: Lukishkiu Square, Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights (KGB Museum)
• Average prices: from €50,00 per night - find top stays on Booking

Recommended Accommodation

Naujamiestis is a district in constant transformation, becoming increasingly trendy thanks to various redevelopment projects. It stretches from the riverbank to the railway station and borders the Old Town. It is home to several important attractions, including the Museum of Genocide Victims.

Naujamiestis is gradually filling up with all kinds of venues, including trendy and fashionable bars. For this reason, it’s a district recommended for young people and those looking for nightlife. But above all, this area is ideal for saving money and for travelers on a budget.

We recommend looking for accommodations in the eastern part, the area that borders the Old Town. Staying here allows you to get around on foot; otherwise, you’ll need to rely on public transport.

Average prices in the district start at around €50,00 per night — compare the selection of the best accommodations on Booking

Places to stay near Vilnius

Vilnius is usually chosen as a destination for a weekend getaway, meaning most visitors stay in the city for a relatively short time. For this reason, the best option is to stay in the city itself. As we’ve seen, there are several neighborhoods and options suitable for every budget, keeping in mind that Vilnius is an affordable destination.

Another reason that makes staying in the city almost “necessary” is that there aren’t many nearby towns where staying is truly convenient. The Lithuanian capital is surrounded by large parks and small rural areas. An exception could be Trakai, a beautiful town immersed in nature among forests, lakes, and hills, located about 26 km from Vilnius. Accommodation options here are limited, but the atmosphere is truly unique — compare the best accommodations on Booking

Travel tips

• Explore on Foot: Vilnius’ Old Town (Senamiestis) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is perfectly walkable. Wear comfortable shoes to explore its cobblestone streets.
• Visit the Republic of Užupis: Don’t miss the artistic district of Užupis, which has declared itself an independent “republic” with its own constitution. It’s an ideal place for art, cafés, and a unique atmosphere.
• Use Public Transportation: To reach farther districts like Žvėrynas or Šnipiškės, rely on the efficient buses and trolleybuses. You can conveniently purchase tickets through the Trafi app.
• Bring an Umbrella/Rain Jacket: Lithuania’s weather can be unpredictable. It’s wise to dress in layers and be prepared for sudden changes, including rain.
• Try the Local Cuisine: Taste Lithuanian specialties such as Cepelinai (potato dumplings with filling), the cold beet soup Šaltibarščiai (especially in summer), and dark rye bread.
• Learn About the History: Visit the Museum of Genocide Victims (former KGB headquarters) in Naujamiestis to understand the complex history of Lithuania’s occupation.
• Consider a Day Trip: If you have time, Trakai—with its stunning island castle—is easily reachable by train or bus and is perfect for a half-day or full-day trip.

Map of accommodation prices in Vilnius

 Without internet when you need it the most? Don't take the risk! With Saily's eSIMs, you can connect instantly, anywhere, and stress-free! Use the code "Gigaspecial" to get your exclusive 5% discount! Find out more