Vilnius Named European Hospitality City 2025, Ushering in New Tourism Opportunities

Published on December 24, 2025

Vilnius, the charming capital of Lithuania, has earned the coveted title of European Hospitality City 2025. This prestigious recognition, awarded by the European Hotel Awards, is not just a milestone for the city but a celebration of its growing appeal as a top European destination for travellers. With its mix of rich history, modern amenities, and an unmatched level of hospitality, Vilnius is now poised to attract even more international visitors, boosting the city’s tourism industry.

The announcement was made at the European Hotel Awards Gala held in November 2025, where industry leaders, hospitality professionals, and tourism experts gathered to honour the city’s achievements. This recognition places Vilnius alongside Europe’s most famous capitals and highlights its success in creating a welcoming atmosphere for tourists, offering both world-class accommodations and a genuine cultural experience.

Why Vilnius Stands Out as a Top Destination

Vilnius’s selection as the European Hospitality City is a testament to the city’s ongoing transformation. Known for its medieval Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, Vilnius combines centuries of history with modern charm. However, it is the unique hospitality culture that earned the city this prestigious award. Visitors to Vilnius have long praised the city for its warmth and the authenticity of its service — attributes that stand out in a competitive European tourism market.

Vilnius’s success can be attributed to its hospitality-driven growth. Over the past decade, the city has significantly improved its tourism infrastructure, ranging from boutique hotels to vibrant cultural events and culinary experiences. Its focus on blending local heritage with innovative services has set a new benchmark in European tourism, making it a perfect blend of history, creativity, and modernity.

Boosting Tourism and Economic Growth

This recognition is expected to provide a significant boost to the tourism sector in Vilnius. As one of the few cities to receive the title of European Hospitality City, Vilnius now stands as a symbol of exceptional tourism development. The city’s hotels, restaurants, and cultural institutions are benefiting from increased visibility in international markets, attracting more tourists from around the world.

In particular, the award places Vilnius on the radar of business travellers, cultural tourists, and food enthusiasts. With more direct flights to Vilnius and growing international interest, tourism professionals believe the city is on the verge of a tourism boom that will positively impact its local economy. Hotels are already reporting higher booking rates for 2026, while the city’s restaurants and entertainment venues are also preparing for a surge in visitors.

Tourism officials in the city have already laid out ambitious plans to build on this newfound recognition. The focus will be on sustainability, creating a tourism ecosystem that not only caters to visitors but also preserves the city’s historical charm. This will involve greater integration of eco-friendly tourism practices, promoting local businesses, and making the city more accessible to both tourists and locals.

Recognizing Local Talent in the Tourism Industry

In addition to the city’s recognition, several individuals and businesses were honoured during the awards ceremony. Radisson Collection Astorija was named Hotel of the Year for its commitment to luxury and service excellence, while Donatas Šatkauskas, a renowned chef in Vilnius, was recognised as Chef of the Year. These awards highlight the city’s talented hospitality professionals who continue to raise the standard of service and creativity in Vilnius’s tourism scene.

Not to be left out, Sigita Rudzevičiėnė, the general manager of the Grand Hotel Vilnius – Curio Collection by Hilton, was honoured as Hotel Director of the Year. Her leadership has contributed to the city’s growth as a luxury destination. These recognitions reinforce the importance of skilled professionals who are committed to providing guests with the best possible experience.

A Bright Future for Vilnius Tourism

Looking forward, Vilnius plans to leverage its European Hospitality City title to attract even more international visitors. The tourism board is working closely with local businesses to promote the city’s vibrant cultural scene, its award-winning hotels, and its rich culinary offerings. The city’s Old Town, with its medieval architecture, is already a major draw for history lovers, but new experiences, from sustainable tourism tours to high-end spa experiences, will also appeal to a wide range of travellers.

For 2026, Vilnius is preparing to host several high-profile events that are expected to further establish its reputation as a top European destination. These events, combined with the city’s European Hospitality City title, are poised to elevate Vilnius’s profile in the global tourism market.

Vilnius’s recognition as the European Hospitality City 2025 is not just an honour but an opportunity for the city to solidify its place as a leading tourism destination in Europe. With a growing economy, a focus on sustainability, and a commitment to top-notch hospitality, Vilnius is ready to welcome the world. This award is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting chapter in the city’s tourism growth, and the future looks bright for both visitors and locals alike.

In the coming years, Vilnius’s reputation as a tourism hub will only continue to strengthen, making it one of Europe’s most exciting cities to visit. The award serves as a testament to the city’s outstanding commitment to hospitality, which will attract more global visitors and position it as a key player in the European tourism scene.