I'm ashamed to say that I had to look up Vilnius when I learned the city (the capital of Lithuania) had won a prestigious award, but after a browse on the internet now this gorgeous, historic city which is both budget friendly, easily accessible from the UK and bristling with art, culture and instagram worthy sights to see is on my bucket list of places to visit.
Photo: Go Vilnius
Vilnius has been named the European Hospitality City 2025 by the European Hotel Awards – a prestigious annual event that recognizes excellence in the European hospitality industry. This special Honorary Award, conferred by the award’s international jury, acknowledges Vilnius for its creative energy, openness, and steady growth in the tourism and hospitality sectors. The Award is not presented every year - it's reserved for cities that truly embody and inspire the ideals of European hospitality – sincerity, openness, excellence, and human warmth.
The announcement was made during a gala event held on November 17 at the Grand Hotel in the heart of Vilnius, where industry leaders from across the continent gathered to celebrate excellence in hospitality.
“This recognition is an important sign to the international community that Vilnius is not only an authentic historical city, but also a dynamic European capital with a unique culture of hospitality,” said Vilnius Mayor Valdas Benkunskas.
According to the organizers of the awards, “beyond its architectural beauty and heritage, Vilnius represents a new narrative for Europe – a capital where tradition and innovation coexist naturally. This award, therefore, carries both a symbolic and supportive dimension: a gesture of recognition and encouragement, expressing our wish to see Vilnius and Lithuania continue to flourish as shining examples of authentic European hospitality.”
In addition to the city-wide award, 4 representatives from Vilnius hospitality sector were recognized among this year’s laureates:
- Radisson Collection Astorija was voted as the 2025 Hotel of the Year in Lithuania
- Telegrafas head chef Donatas Šatkauskas was named Chef of the Year
- Grand Hotel Vilnius – Curio Collection by Hilton general manager Sigita Rudzevičiėnė was awarded the Hotel director of the Year award.
- Lithuanian Hotels and Restaurants Association president Evalda Šiškauskienė was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award for her work in the hotels and restaurants industry.
Just a short flight from London, Vilnius is an ideal holiday escape for British travellers. Vilnius is easily accessible with direct flights from London Stansted, London City, and London Luton several times a week. Go b before everyone else does.