How to Find Cheap Hotels in Vilnius, Lithuania

Vilnius, the capital of the Baltic state of Lithuania, is one of Europe's oldest cities. Situated on the fast-flowing Neris River, and nestled among hills covered with gorgeous pines, Vilnius epitomizes Old World charm.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Passport
• Computer with Internet access

Accommodations in Vilnius, Lithuania

1. To book accommodations, contact the Vilnius City Tourist Office & Convention Bureau at 011 ([phone] or visit their Web site (see Resources, below). Consider a mid-priced hotel room from a major chain. Most accommodations in Vilnius are relatively cheap, so a nice room with plenty of amenities will cost only $80 to $120 per night.

2. Rent a dorm room at one of the city's universities. Although relatively spartan, such a room is cheap and will only cost you $20 to $50 per night.

3. Choose one of the city's hostels, which are popular with backpackers. These are very cheap, usually costing less than $10 per night.

4. Visit one of the campgrounds south of Vilnius for the cheapest alternative accommodations in town.

Transportation in Vilnius, Lithuania

5. Fly into Vilnius International Airport. You will need to fly in on a European airline, as no American carriers have direct flights to this city.

6. Use one of the popular minivan expresses to get from the airport to your accommodations.

7. Use the city's bus system to get around. Bus schedules are readily available at most hotels within Vilnius.

Explore Vilnius

8. Visit the Gedimas Castle, which in combination with Cathedral Square symbolizes Vilnius and serves as a dramatic entrance into the government center.

9. Rent a boat and paddle around Trakai Castle. This is a popular location for weddings, and you might even catch a bouquet while still in your boat!

10. Visit the Hill of Three Crosses, which commemorates the martyrdom of several monks in the 17th century.

11. Take a stroll through Old Town of Vilnius, which for many Europeans epitomizes the Baroque style of architecture.

Tips & Warnings

• Lithuanians have a reputation for loving tourists, and you may find them unusually hospitable if you tell them stories from home or allow them to practice their English.
• Many of the more popular tourists attractions are open Sunday, but closed Monday. It's always a good idea to call ahead to find out if certain sights are open to the public that day.
• Many of the streets in the older parts of Vilnius are cobblestone. Wear comfortable shoes or you may find yourself nursing a sprained ankle.