Vilnius is a compact city with distinct neighborhoods, each offering something unique for travelers. The great news is that all the areas we’ve selected here are safe and enjoyable – they’re simply suited to different preferences. The city layout is easy to grasp: the Old Town sits at the heart on the south side of the Neris River, while modern business districts lie just across the water. A ring of green parks surrounds the center (Vilnius has over 60% green space, earning it Europe’s Green Capital 2025 title). Thanks to the city’s size, even if you stay outside the Old Town, you’re never far from the action. Walking bridges, short bus rides, or inexpensive taxis connect these areas, so you can explore multiple neighborhoods no matter where you base yourself.

Below we highlight the top 5 areas in Vilnius for visitors. Each is among the best – we’ve excluded any mediocre or far-flung districts. Read on to see which area matches your travel style, from medieval streets to hip modern hubs.

Old Town (Senamiestis)

Vilnius Old Town is the city’s historic core and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famed for its well-preserved medieval layout and diverse architecture. Wandering its cobbled streets, you’ll find Gothic churches, Baroque facades, charming courtyards, and lively squares. This area is extremely central – most of Vilnius’s major sights (the Cathedral, Town Hall Square, Gediminas Castle Tower, Vilnius University, etc.) are within a 5–15 minute walk. The atmosphere is both romantic and vibrant: by day you can explore museums and boutiques, and by night the area buzzes with restaurants and bars in tucked-away alleys. In short, Old Town is the beating heart of Vilnius, perfect for immersing yourself in history and local cafe culture at the same time.

Best Suited For:

• First-time visitors who want to be close to all the main attractions
• History and architecture lovers
• Travelers who prefer to walk everywhere (central, no car needed)
• Nightlife enthusiasts who enjoy having pubs and eateries on the doorstep

Best Areas to Stay In:

• Near Cathedral Square (northwest Old Town) – Steps from iconic landmarks like the Cathedral & Bell Tower and the start of Gediminas Avenue, plus easy access to the riverbank.
• Around Town Hall Square (central Old Town) – Lively area filled with restaurants, bars, and street events; you’ll be in the middle of the action on Pilies and Didžioji streets.
• Near the Gate of Dawn (southern Old Town) – A bit quieter historic area by the famous city gate and Orthodox church, with authentic charm and easier street parking on the outskirts.

Areas to Avoid Staying In:

• Immediate train/bus station vicinity – The main Vilnius Station (Stotis) is just beyond the Old Town’s southeastern edge, and while it’s not as bad as it used to be, the streets right around the station can feel sketchy at night. It’s fine for transit, but not the nicest place to stay overnight.
• Noisy nightclub streets – If you want peace and quiet, avoid lodging directly on Vilniaus Street or Islandijos Street (western Old Town). These lanes have popular bars and clubs, so nights can be loud especially on weekends.
• Far outskirts marketed as “Old Town” – Double-check the location of any accommodation labeled “Old Town.” A few budget places on the perimeter (beyond Pylimo Street or across busy roads) might be less convenient for sightseeing.

Pros:

• Unbeatable central location – You’re within a 5–10 minute walk of virtually all major sights, dining, and entertainment. No transport needed.
• Historic beauty and atmosphere – Gorgeous streets and architecture everywhere (the Old Town is one of Europe’s largest surviving medieval old towns). Great for photography and culture.
• Endless cafes, restaurants, shops – The area is packed with eateries, coffee shops, bars, and boutiques catering to all tastes, so you’ll never run out of options.
• Wide range of stays – Plenty of accommodation from hostels to high-end boutique hotels, as well as many apartment rentals (Vilnius actually has about 3 apartments for every hotel, giving you lots of choice).

Cons:

• Tourist crowds and noise – In peak summer, main streets can get crowded with tour groups. Popular spots and nightlife hubs can be noisy late at night – something to consider if you’re a light sleeper.
• Higher prices – You pay a premium to stay in Old Town. Hotels and food here tend to be pricier than in more local neighborhoods.
• Limited driving/parking – Narrow one-way streets and scarce parking make having a car inconvenient. If you’re self-driving, you may need to park outside the center and pay fees.
• Older buildings – Many lodgings are in historic buildings with no elevators or thinner walls. While full of character, some may find the facilities less modern (e.g. no big chain hotels with pools here).

Average Prices (per night, for 2 people):

• Budget: ~€40 (≈ $44) – In this area, budget options include hostel private rooms or simple guesthouses.
• Mid-range: ~€70 (≈ $77) – Expect a nice 3★ or small 4★ hotel or a well-reviewed apartment with modern comforts.
• Luxury: ~€130 (≈ $143) – High-end boutique hotels or 5★ options in Old Town are around this range, offering premium service and possibly spa facilities.

Užupis

Užupis is Vilnius’s artistic bohemian quarter, famed for declaring itself an independent “Republic” in 1997 complete with its own whimsical constitution and flag. Tucked just across the small Vilnelė River on the east side of Old Town, Užupis offers a quirky, creative vibe in a compact neighborhood. Here you’ll find colorful street art, galleries, artisan workshops, and hip cafes in converted old buildings. Stroll along Paupio Street to see the constitution plaques on a wall, or find the iconic Uzupis Angel statue watching over a cozy square. Despite its alternative spirit, Užupis is very accessible – it’s only a 5-minute walk from the Old Town’s hustle, yet feels like a different world. The atmosphere is relaxed and community-oriented, and there’s a sense of fun (keep an eye out for the Mermaid statue by the river, and don’t forget you can get your passport stamped at the “border” for laughs). Staying here means enjoying an artsy retreat with the city center at your doorstep.

Best Suited For:

• Art lovers, creatives, and hipster-at-heart travelers looking for an offbeat experience
• Couples seeking a romantic, alternative stay close to main sights but away from big crowds
• Repeat visitors to Vilnius who have seen the Old Town and want a different perspective
• Anyone who enjoys café culture, galleries, and a strong local community vibe

Best Areas to Stay In:

• Paupis Street & Main Square area: This is the heart of Užupis, where you’ll be near the Angel statue, constitution wall, and several cafes and galleries. It’s also the flattest part – convenient for walking directly into Old Town via Užupis Bridge.
• Along the Vilnelė River: Staying by the riverbank (e.g. on Užupio or Krivių streets) offers scenic views and a peaceful ambiance at night, while still just across a bridge from Old Town’s edge.
• Border of Old Town and Užupis: Some accommodations sit right at the edge of Užupis, near Bernadine Garden or Literatų Street. These give you the charm of Užupis but with super quick access to Old Town parks and restaurants.

Areas to Avoid Staying In:

• Steep Upper Užupis: Užupis extends up a hill to the east. If you book a place too far up (near Polocko or Filaretų streets), be aware it’s a bit of a hike back from the center. It’s a safe area, but less convenient if you’re on foot and not used to inclines.
• Limited amenities zones: The district is very small, so there aren’t really “bad” parts, but note that the farther end of Užupis has almost no shops or eateries. Unless you seek solitude, you might avoid lodging deep in residential streets where you’d always walk 10+ minutes for a café.
• Overpriced listings claiming Užupis: Because Užupis is trendy, a few rentals just outside it may use it as a selling point. Check the map – if it’s beyond walking distance from the main Užupis attractions, it’s not worth paying a premium.

Pros:

• Unique artistic atmosphere – Nowhere else in Vilnius has the same bohemian charm. Murals, sculptures, and creative touches are around every corner, making it a delight to explore.
• Close to Old Town – You get a quieter base but remain just a short stroll from Old Town (literally one bridge crossing away). It’s the best of both worlds for location.
• Community feel – Užupis has a tiny neighborhood feel. Locals often greet each other, and there are community events and markets, giving visitors a friendly welcome.
• Scenic and romantic – The mix of river views, narrow streets, and tucked-away courtyards makes it great for those seeking a picturesque, romantic setting.

Cons:

• Very limited accommodations – This area has few hotels or hostels. Most stays are apartments and they fill up fast. Because of high demand and low supply, prices here run higher (sometimes nearly double other areas). You might have fewer choices, especially for budget travelers.
• Daytime tourist influx – Užupis itself is a tourist attraction. By midday, the main spots can get busy with walking tours. While nights are quiet, expect some crowds and noise during the day in peak season.
• Fewer conveniences – There are some cafes and a couple of bars, but it’s not packed with restaurants or supermarkets. For variety in dining or bigger shops, you’ll likely cross into the Old Town or nearby center.
• Accessibility – As mentioned, parts of Užupis are hilly with cobblestones. Not a big issue for most, but those with mobility issues or heavy luggage should pick lodging on the lower part of the district.

Average Prices (per night, for 2 people):

• Budget: ~€50 (≈ $55) – It’s hard to find true budget options in Užupis. You might get a small studio or a hostel bed just on the border of Užupis at this price.
• Mid-range: ~€100 (≈ $110) – Many apartments in Užupis fall around this range. This should get you a comfortable, nicely furnished private apartment or B&B.
• Luxury: ~€170 (≈ $187) – There are only a handful of high-end, larger apartments or boutique stays here, and they charge a premium. Expect to pay this or more for a top-of-the-line apartment with terrace or unique design in Užupis.

Naujamiestis (New Town & Station District)

Naujamiestis (meaning “New Town”) is a broad central district west and south of the Old Town that showcases the dynamic side of Vilnius. It’s an eclectic mix: once a neglected area of old factories and Soviet-era buildings, it has been rapidly revitalized in recent years. These days, former industrial spaces host trendy loft apartments, third-wave coffee shops, art centers, and craft breweries. The district includes the area around Gediminas Avenue (the city’s main boulevard of shops, museums, and government buildings) and extends down to the train and bus station at its southern end. In Naujamiestis you’ll see a blend of historical and modern – from the MO Museum of modern art, to gritty street art in hidden courtyards, to beloved local markets. It’s also the nightlife hub of Vilnius: many popular bars and clubs frequented by locals are located here, especially along Vilniaus, Islandijos, and Kašno streets near the Old Town border. Staying in Naujamiestis offers a convenient base just outside the tourist epicenter, often with better hotel deals and a chance to experience contemporary local life in Vilnius.

Best Suited For:

• Travelers who want to enjoy Vilnius’s nightlife – clubs, bars, and late-night hangouts are concentrated in this area
• Those looking for a central location but on a slightly lower budget than Old Town (more mid-range and budget options here)
• Second-time visitors or anyone keen to see a local side of Vilnius beyond the historic sights
• Business travelers or train travelers (easy access to the station and city business centers)

Best Areas to Stay In:

• Along Gedimino Avenue (north Naujamiestis): The section of Naujamiestis near Gediminas Ave and Lukiškės (V. Kudirka) Square is excellent. You’re next to shops, cafes, and museums like the KGB Museum, and a short walk into Old Town. This is a lively yet safe part of New Town.
• Near MO Museum / Pylimo Street: This pocket has cool cultural spots (MO modern art museum) and hip cafes. Streets like Pylimo, Pamėnkalnio, and Trakų form the border of Old Town and New Town, giving you quick access to both historic and modern attractions.
• Raugyklos / Mindaugo Street area (station vicinity): If you’re a budget traveler, look around here. There are several hostels and simple hotels between the Old Town gates and the station. You’ll be close to the market and public transport. It’s not as polished, but it’s very convenient for buses/trains and only ~10 minutes walk to the Old Town Hall.
• Žvėrynas side of New Town: On the western edge, near the river by Žvėrynas bridge. This is more residential, but you might find modern apartments here. It’s quieter and you can still walk to Gedimino Ave area in 15 minutes.

Areas to Avoid Staying In:

• Directly at the Train/Bus Station (“Stotis”): While it’s handy for early departures, the immediate station area (around Geležinkelio St.) is known as the city’s sketchiest spot. It’s improved with new security cameras and renovations, but after dark it can feel a bit unsavory (loiterers, etc.). If you stay here for budget reasons, be cautious at night, or prefer a place a couple of blocks away rather than next to the station plaza.
• Farther South in Naujininkai: If you see lodging in an area like Naujininkai (technically just beyond Naujamiestis, south of the station), you might want to skip it. It’s a residential/industrial zone with little for tourists and would be transport-dependent.
• Isolated Industrial Blocks: Naujamiestis is large. Avoid hotels or Airbnbs located in random industrial parks or far western ends of the district, as you’ll be far from restaurants and sights. Stick closer to the Old Town side for convenience.
• Unlit backstreets at night: This is general advice anywhere – in New Town, some smaller streets can be very quiet at night. While Vilnius is safe, it’s wise to stay in well-traveled areas if walking late (for example, take a route along main streets like Pylimo or Sodų instead of alleyways).

Pros:

• Vibrant nightlife and dining – You’ll have a huge choice of bars, clubs, live music venues, and late-night eateries. It’s the best area to meet locals out on the town and enjoy Vilnius’s modern culture.
• Central and well-connected – Much of Naujamiestis is just a 10-minute walk from the Old Town. Plus, being near the station and major roads means easy access to buses, trains, and ride-shares for getting around or day trips.
• Value for money – Accommodation here often costs less than in the Old Town for a similar standard. You can find stylish new hotels or apartments at better rates. Great for budget-conscious travelers who still want to be central.
• Local experience – Staying here, you’ll see everyday life: local markets (e.g. Hales Market near station), people commuting, students at cafés. There’s a contemporary, lived-in feel. Also, the mix of old industrial architecture and hip new spots is fascinating for urban explorers.

Cons:

• Less historic charm – Aside from a few streets, New Town isn’t postcard-pretty. Expect a mix of utilitarian Soviet-era buildings and modern constructions. If an “old Europe” aesthetic is a priority, this area might feel too ordinary in parts.
• Variable atmosphere – Some parts of Naujamiestis still look a bit run-down or are under construction. You might see graffiti, empty lots being developed, etc. It’s a district in transition, which can be interesting but isn’t uniformly polished.
• Noise/traffic – Main roads like Savanorių or Kalvarijų that skirt this area carry traffic, so depending on your exact location, you might have some city noise. Also, nightlife areas can be noisy on weekends.
• Safety perception – Generally safe, but as noted, the station zone at the southern tip has the city’s highest concentration of sketchy activity. Use normal city precautions (especially late at night) and you’ll be fine, but some travelers might feel less comfortable here than in touristy Old Town.

Average Prices (per night, for 2 people):

• Budget: ~€30 (≈ $33) – This can get you a double room in a hostel or a very simple hotel in the station area. There are several hostels around €15 per person, and basic hotels around €30–40.
• Mid-range: ~€60 (≈ $66) – Plenty of choices in this bracket: nice 3★ hotels, modern apartments, even some 4★ business hotels drop to this range off-season. Good value here.
• Luxury: ~€110 (≈ $121) – Naujamiestis isn’t really where the five-star palaces are, but around €100+ you can find top-rated 4★ hotels or upscale apartments. For example, well-known hotels on Gediminas Ave or boutique stays in converted lofts might be around this price. You’ll get spacious rooms and more amenities at this tier.

Šnipiškės (New City Center)

Šnipiškės is Vilnius’s modern skyline district – a striking contrast to the Old Town. Located just north of the river (directly across from Cathedral Square), it’s often called the “New City Center” or business district of Vilnius. Here you’ll find towering glass skyscrapers, contemporary shopping malls, and the city’s main financial and commercial hub. The central artery is Konstitucijos Avenue, lined with high-rise hotels like the Radisson Blu and business centers. Yet Šnipiškės has two sides: beyond the glossy offices, if you wander a few blocks inland, you’ll stumble into a neighborhood of old wooden houses with gardens, a quirky area nicknamed “Shanghai” by locals. This contrast of ultra-modern and historic makes Šnipiškės intriguing to explore. The area is very convenient – a pedestrian bridge (White Bridge) connects it to the Old Town in ~15–20 minutes on foot, and there are multiple bus/trolleybus lines. You also have big malls (Europa, CUP) and the Kalvarijų Market (a bustling local market) for shopping. Overall, Šnipiškės is a top pick if you prefer newer developments and easy access to facilities, while still being close to the tourist sights.

Best Suited For:

• Business travelers and anyone attending conferences (many international hotels and offices here)
• Travelers who like modern comforts – new high-rise hotels with AC, elevators, fitness centers, etc.
• Repeat visitors or those who don’t need a historic atmosphere at their doorstep, but want to be near Old Town (without actually staying in it)
• Drivers – if you have a car, hotels here often have parking and you avoid the Old Town’s driving restrictions
• Budget city travelers who hunt for hotel deals: on weekends or off-season, business hotels here can be very affordable

Best Areas to Stay In:

• Along the Neris River (Konstitucijos Ave): This is prime Šnipiškės. Hotels right by the river – like near the White Bridge or Green Bridge – give you quick pedestrian access to Gediminas Ave on the opposite bank. You’ll also enjoy river views and be next to the big malls and restaurants in them.
• Near Europa Square: The area around Europa Tower (the tall office tower) is a central point of the business district. Staying here puts you between the river and the interior “old Šnipiškės” streets. There are eateries, grocery stores, and it feels very safe and active in daytime.
• Kalvarijų Market vicinity: If you want a more local experience, consider lodging a bit north by Kalvarijų street. There are a couple of modern hotels and apartments around the market area. You’ll be about a 5-minute bus or 20-minute walk from Old Town, but you get to see authentic market life and have cheaper local food options.
• Wooden house quarter: There are some Airbnb apartments within the old wooden house neighborhood (“Shanghai”). This could be interesting for the novelty of staying in a historic wooden house. Just note the infrastructure is more basic (gravel lanes, etc.) – it’s a very authentic Lithuanian experience for adventurous travelers.

Areas to Avoid Staying In:

• Far North Šnipiškės: The district extends quite far. If your accommodation is up near Žalgiris Arena or beyond the Šeškinė hill, that’s really out of the central zone. It will be inconvenient for sightseeing (you’d rely on transport). Try to stay in the part of Šnipiškės closer to the river and Old Town.
• Inside “Shanghai” at night: While generally safe, the wooden house enclave has poor lighting at night and can feel deserted. If you’re not comfortable walking through semi-rural style lanes after dark, you might avoid staying deep inside that section. Stick to the edges near main streets like Kalvarijų or Žalgirio for better lighting.
• Construction zones: Šnipiškės is developing fast. There are always new buildings going up. Check recent reviews or Street View – if a hotel or apartment is right next to a big construction site, you might have noise on weekday mornings.

Pros:

• Modern amenities – You can enjoy all the conveniences of new hotels: air conditioning (which not all Old Town places have), fast Wi-Fi, elevators, soundproofing, etc. Also, large supermarkets and malls are at hand for any needs.
• Great for deals – Many 4★ business hotels in Šnipiškės offer lower rates on weekends or holidays. You might snag a fancy room here cheaper than a basic room in Old Town. Good value, especially for quality chains.
• Close to center – Despite being a “new town” area, it’s extremely close to the Old Town. A quick walk across Baltasis Tiltas (White Bridge) puts you by the Opera or Lukiškės Square. You get central convenience without the crowds.
• Unique mix of old and new – In one stay, you can see two sides of Vilnius. Enjoy the sleek city feel along Konstitucijos, then take a short walk to explore the old wooden houses for a touch of history. Also, the Kalvarijų Market gives an authentic shopping experience for local food/products.
• Transportation – Being a commercial hub, it’s well served by public transport. Plus, it’s easy to drive in/out from here. If you plan day trips out of Vilnius, staying here can save time avoiding Old Town traffic.

Cons:

• Lacks old-world charm – If you dream of opening your window to a medieval street scene, this is not the place. The ambiance here is more “generic city.” Some travelers might find it less “authentic” or too business-like.
• Evenings are quieter – After office hours, the business part of Šnipiškės can feel a bit empty. There are restaurants (mostly in malls or hotels), but for nightlife or a big variety of dining, you’ll likely head to Old Town or New Town. It doesn’t have a neighborhood buzz late at night.
• Ongoing construction – The skyline is still growing. You may encounter construction noise or detours in parts of the district. It’s a sign of progress, but not ideal for a peaceful aesthetic.
• Limited tourist sights in immediate area – Aside from the National Art Gallery and maybe the quirky market, most “sights” are across the river. You will cross to Old Town for museums, historic sites, etc. However, since it’s so close, this is a minor con.

Average Prices (per night, for 2 people):

• Budget: ~€35 (≈ $39) – There are a few older or smaller hotels in Šnipiškės where prices dip this low, and sometimes Airbnb rooms. Most of the time, budget travelers might stay just outside this area (or find a deal at a nicer place).
• Mid-range: ~€70 (≈ $77) – A typical 3–4★ hotel room in the business district often falls in this range. This could get you a standard room at Courtyard by Marriott, Holiday Inn, etc., especially if booked in advance.
• Luxury: ~€100 (≈ $110) – Top-end here means a high floor executive room in a 4★ hotel or a luxury apartment. Since there aren’t true 5★ resorts in Šnipiškės, ~€100 can fetch very nice accommodation. The Radisson Blu or similar upscale hotels usually hover around this price for standard rates.

Žvėrynas

Žvėrynas is a leafy, upscale neighborhood known as one of Vilnius’s most prestigious residential areas. The name means “Animal Farm” or “Menagerie” – historically, this area was a woodland hunting ground stocked with game. Today it’s a peaceful enclave of embassies, elegant homes (including many 19th-century wooden villas), and quiet streets lined with trees. Žvėrynas is bordered by the Neris River on three sides, creating a peninsular feel, and it’s adjacent to two huge green spaces: Vingis Park to the south (Vilnius’s largest park, great for walks, biking and summer concerts) and the Karoliniškės Reserve to the west. Staying here offers a retreat from the bustle – it truly doesn’t feel like you’re in a capital city. In the mornings you might jog in the park or grab coffee at a local bakery frequented by residents. In the evenings, you’ll hear birds chirping rather than traffic. Yet, Žvėrynas is just a short distance from downtown: cross the Green Bridge or hop on a bus, and you’re in the center in 10–20 minutes. If you’re looking for a calm, family-friendly base with a touch of local luxury, Žvėrynas is ideal.

Best Suited For:

• Families with children (lots of playgrounds, parks, safe streets, and space to run around)
• Nature lovers and runners/cyclists – immediate access to Vingis Park’s trails and the river path
• Travelers who prefer a quiet, residential vibe over nightlife – people who want rest in the evenings
• Long-term visitors or remote workers who want a home-like environment (many nice apartments here)
• High-end travelers who appreciate an exclusive area (Žvėrynas is one of the most expensive districts in Vilnius, known for wealthy residents and diplomats)

Best Areas to Stay In:

• Eastern Žvėrynas (near the Green Bridge): This puts you closest to the city center. If you stay near the river by Liubarto or A. Mickevičiaus streets, you can actually walk into downtown in 15 minutes across the bridge. Plus, there are a few cafes and stores along these streets for convenience.
• By Vingis Park (southern edge): If you love greenery, consider lodging near Vingio Park entrance (near Birutės or Latvių street). You’ll step out and be right next to the forested park. It’s about 2 km from Old Town, but there are buses and it’s a pleasant walk along the river. Great for morning exercises.
• Near Public Transport Stops: Žvėrynas has good bus connections. Staying close to a stop on Ukmergės or Sėlių street can make your commute easier. For instance, near Žvėrynas Bridge there are stops that take you to the center in minutes. Check that your accommodation isn’t too deep inside the neighborhood if you plan to use transit often.
• Embassy district streets: Streets like Vytauto or Elnių have some beautiful properties. If you find a rental here, you’ll be in the most picturesque part of Žvėrynas, surrounded by historic wooden villas and gardens.

Areas to Avoid Staying In:

• Far Western Žvėrynas: The westernmost parts of Žvėrynas start blending into more modern residential zones and the edge of the city. If you go too far west (toward the outskirts), you lose the easy connectivity. It’s not that they are bad areas, just inconvenient for a tourist. Try to stay in the eastern/central part of the district.
• Near busy roads: On the northern border of Žvėrynas, traffic on Ukmergės Street and Geležinio Vilko (bypass) can be loud. While most of Žvėrynas is quiet interior streets, a few accommodations at the very edge might face a busy road. If possible, avoid those if you’re sensitive to noise.
• No truly unsafe spots: There’s essentially nowhere “dangerous” in Žvėrynas – it’s uniformly a safe, affluent area. Just the above considerations about location convenience are relevant.

Pros:

• Green and peaceful – You’re surrounded by nature. Huge old trees line the streets, and with two parks adjacent, it’s a paradise for those who enjoy a morning walk or picnic. The air feels fresher here.
• Exclusive feel – Žvėrynas’s reputation as an elite neighborhood means it’s well-kept and quiet. It’s a glimpse into Vilnius’s high-quality residential life. You’ll see stylish homes and maybe a few embassies. It feels very safe and upscale.
• Not touristy – You won’t encounter tourist crowds here at all. After sightseeing, coming back to Žvėrynas is like returning to a calm sanctuary away from tour buses and noise. Great to unwind.
• Decent connectivity – Despite the tranquility, you’re not isolated. A short bus ride (10–15 min) or a cheap Bolt taxi ride gets you to the Old Town. Even walking is feasible if you’re up for 20–30 minutes. It offers a balance of retreat and accessibility.
• Spacious accommodations – Many lodging options here are full apartments or guesthouses, often more spacious than Old Town hotels. You might get a balcony, a garden, or extra rooms for a similar price.

Cons:

• Distance from sights – You will need to commute to do most tourist activities. There’s nothing much in Žvėrynas itself in terms of museums or famous landmarks (aside from maybe a couple of churches). If you like stepping out of your hotel into a busy scene, this will feel too remote.
• Limited restaurants/nightlife – There are only a handful of eateries within Žvėrynas. For a wide selection of restaurants, bars or any nightlife, you’ll have to go into the city center. Your evenings in Žvėrynas will be very low-key (which could be a pro for some, but a con if you want entertainment nearby).
• Scarce hotels – This area doesn’t have many hotels due to its residential nature. Most options are apartments or B&Bs. If you prefer full-service hotels (with 24h reception, etc.), you might not find many here. Planning and booking early is advisable since the few places can book out.
• Higher cost for quality – Because it’s upscale, some of the nicer apartments here can be pricey. You might pay a bit more compared to a similar place in a less posh district. Budget options are limited.
• Residential quiet – The flip side of peace is that some might find it “too quiet” or even boring. If you’re an energetic traveler who loves being in busy urban streets, Žvėrynas might not excite you beyond its parks.

Average Prices (per night, for 2 people):

• Budget: ~€60 (≈ $66) – There aren’t many low-budget stays here. Roughly €50–70 might get you a private room in a guesthouse or a smaller apartment a bit further out. True shoestring travelers often don’t stay in Žvėrynas due to the limited cheap options.
• Mid-range: ~€80 (≈ $88) – In this range you can find a comfortable modern apartment or a portion of a house. It could be a spacious one-bedroom with kitchen, etc. This is the sweet spot for value in Žvėrynas given the quality of lodging.
• Luxury: ~€140 (≈ $154) – High-end apartments or boutique guesthouses in Žvėrynas can charge this rate. For example, a large designer apartment with park views or a historic villa property would be around €130–150. You’ll get top-notch furnishings, maybe a sauna or a great view, in exchange for the higher price.

Summary of Vilnius Neighborhoods for Travelers

‍

Each of these neighborhoods in Vilnius offers a fantastic stay, so it really comes down to what kind of experience you want. Old Town puts you in the historical heart of the city, Užupis adds an artsy twist, Naujamiestis brings local nightlife and modern culture, Šnipiškės offers comfort in the new center, and Žvėrynas provides a tranquil, green escape. No matter where you choose, Vilnius’s compact size means you can easily enjoy the others by short walks or rides. Happy travels to Lithuania’s charming capital!

‍