In which quarter house in Vilnius?

Cap on Baltic States for holidays? Discover the Lithuanian capital and the best areas to stay in Vilnius!

Vilnius is the most populous city of Lithuania with 554 192 Vilnois spread over 401 km2 and is located southeast of the country, a few kilometers from Belarus. Founded under the reign of Gediminas (1275-1341), Vilnius has suffered numerous invasions over the centuries, which makes many architectural styles blend today, both gothic and baroque as well as classical or renaissance. Its historic centre – very preserved – dating from the 13th century is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Staying in Vilnius can be expensive despite the low cost of living, but the offer of accommodation remains abundant: the hotel industry is expensive but hostels and hostels will fill you if your budget is tight.

Vilnius is a true window over seven centuries of history, a territory having been under the yoke of multiple influences. If you are looking for a place to sleep in Vilnius, here is a brief description of the areas where to stay.

The historic centre of Vilnius

A jewel of the capital of Lithuania, the old centre is symbolized by the ruins of the castle of Gediminas, built between the 14th and 15th century on its eponymous hill. This historical part is extremely well preserved and really worth the detour. The old town was built in a range around the castle, like most medieval cities. It is one of the best preserved in Europe. There you will find many historical buildings – Lithuania having been in its history a major centre of influence in Eastern Europe – as well as multicenterary churches such as the church of the Holy Spirit (orthodox), the church of Saint-Casimir, the Catholic cathedral of Vilnius, the church of St. Peter Paul (baroque) and the famous gate of the Catholic Aurora, a place of pilgrimage.

Also, green spaces can be found in parks, squares and public gardens. The Pavilni Regional Park, for example, covers the entire area of the city's heart! And of course, museums to discover Lithuanian culture: KGB Museum, Genocide Museum, Gediminas Tower, Palace of the Great Dukes of Lithuania, National Museum of Lithuania. The bars and restaurants to relax are in large quantities throughout the city. The historic centre is a beautiful place to stay in Vilnius if you enjoy historical and cultural stays.

The Republic of Uzupis

An unofficial republic populated by 7,000 souls inside Vilnius – a micro-nation in the state – the district is an old abandoned area of the Soviet era, where the Bohemian artists of the capital of Lithuania settled. They even went to create their own Constitution in 1995 with its anthem, its flag, its citizens, its laws, and its leaders. It is a festive, artistic district, a theatre of great warm and cosmopolitan festivals.

There is no legitimate diplomatic or consular authority, but a visa is issued to enter the neighbourhood at annual holidays. If you like alternatives, self-management or forms of irredentism of populations wishing to administer otherwise, you must go to Uzupis. If you're looking to sleep in Vilnius, don't hesitate to find a room.

Main photo credit: Flickr – Hanna Eliasson