Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, has been crowned European Hospitality City 2025 by the European Hotel Awards, a leading annual program celebrating the finest achievements in the continent’s hospitality sector.
The honour was announced on November 17 during a gala ceremony at the Grand Hotel Vilnius, where industry professionals from across Europe gathered to recognize standout contributions in service, accommodation, and culinary excellence.
“Our hospitality network—spanning world-class hotels and every service provider who helps shape the visitor experience—has grown remarkably in recent years. This title signals to the global community that Vilnius is not only a historically rich destination, but a vibrant, modern European capital with a distinctive culture of welcome,” said Vilnius Mayor Valdas Benkunskas.
A new European narrative
This year’s European Hotel Awards highlighted winners from 15 countries, from Italy, France, and Spain to the Baltic region and Central Europe. Organizers emphasized that Vilnius represents “a new narrative for Europe”—a city where tradition and innovation blend seamlessly. They described the honour as both recognition and encouragement for Vilnius and Lithuania as they continue to evolve as models of authentic European hospitality.
Local leaders recognized
Alongside the city-wide award, four standout figures from Vilnius’ hospitality scene were honoured among this year’s laureates:
- Radisson Collection Astorija – Voted Lithuania’s 2025 Hotel of the Year
- Donatas Šatkauskas, head chef at Telegrafas – Named Chef of the Year
- Sigita Rudzevičiėnė, General Manager, Grand Hotel Vilnius – Awarded Hotel Director of the Year
- Evalda Šiškauskienė, President of the Lithuanian Hotels and Restaurants Association – Received the Lifetime Achievement Award for her long-standing contributions to the industry
Vilnius rises on the European travel stage
These accolades reinforce Vilnius’ growing status as a gathering place for hospitality professionals worldwide. The city has recently hosted several major industry events, including the Future Hospitality & Tourism Forum in April and the inaugural Baltic Gastro Summit 2025, which is now set to become an annual tradition. Next year, Vilnius will also welcome the General Assembly of HOTREC, the European umbrella organization for the hospitality sector.
With global interest rising among industry leaders, event planners, and travellers seeking destinations that feel both genuine and refined, Vilnius is steadily strengthening its position on the European travel map—offering a blend of authenticity, innovation, and consistently high-quality service.
