Fast pick by trip type
First visit or short weekend
Choose Old Town. You pay more, but you save time every morning and evening because the main sights and restaurants are already outside the door.
Best value or longer stay
Choose Naujamiestis. Rooms are usually larger, parking is easier, airport access is better, and the Old Town is still walkable.
Quiet or second visit
Choose Užupis or the riverside if you already know the centre and want slower mornings, cafés and less hotel-corridor energy.
Old Town: best for first-time visitors
Stay here if you want major sights, restaurants, and atmospheric evening walks right outside your door.
Naujamiestis: best value for city breaks
This area often gives you more space, newer hotels, and easy access to both the centre and the airport.
Užupis and riverside stays
Choose these areas if you want a more local, creative atmosphere and a slightly slower pace after sightseeing.
Frequently asked questions
Where should I stay in Vilnius for the first time?
The Old Town (Senamiestis) is the standard answer for a first trip. Most major sights, restaurants, and evening walks are within ten minutes on foot, so you can walk to dinner without thinking about transport. Naujamiestis is a strong second choice if you want better value and slightly more space, with the Old Town still a 15-minute walk away.
How much does a hotel in Vilnius cost?
A comfortable 3-star double room runs around €70-100 per night, mid-range and 4-star options €100-150, and the top boutique and 5-star properties €170-250. Prices are noticeably higher around the Christmas market period (mid-December) and major festivals (Užgavėnės in February, the Vilnius Marathon in spring).
Is Old Town or Naujamiestis better?
Old Town is best for atmosphere and walkability - choose it for a first trip or a romantic break. Naujamiestis (the New Town just west of the Old Town) typically offers larger rooms, easier parking, more contemporary hotels and a strong restaurant scene, often at €20-30 less per night for a similar standard. Both are walkable to each other.
When should I book a Vilnius hotel?
Two to three weeks ahead is enough for most weekends. Book one to two months out for the Christmas market period (mid-December to early January), Užgavėnės (late February or early March), the Vilnius Marathon (early September) and major conference dates. Outside those windows, walk-in availability is usually fine.
Is there a tourist tax in Vilnius?
Yes, €2 per adult per night since January 2024, collected at check-in or added to the booking total. Children under 18 are exempt; students and persons with disabilities are also exempt. Most international chains include it in the displayed booking total; smaller hotels may charge it separately at check-in.
Are Vilnius hotels accessible for wheelchair users?
International chain hotels in the Old Town and around the conference district generally have accessible rooms, lifts and step-free access. Older boutique conversions in the Old Town can be more variable - some occupy 16th-century buildings without lifts. Confirm specific accessibility needs with the hotel before booking.