The jury of the European Hotel Awards grants Vilnius a rare Honorary Award. This award holds a particular significance, as it is not presented every year. The jury reserves it for cities that truly embody and inspire the ideals of European hospitality – sincerity, openness, excellence, and human warmth. Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, 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.
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.
“Our hospitality ecosystem, which consists not only of top-class hotels but also every service provider in Vilnius, has experienced tremendous growth in recent years. 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.
The European Hotel Awards this year recognized laureates from 15 European countries, ranging from Italy, France, and Spain to the Baltic States and Central Europe.
Vilnius – new narrative for Europe
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 all her work in the hotels and restaurants industry.
Vilnius strengthens its profile on the European travel map
Simona-Bieliune.-Vice-Mayor-of-Vilnius
The latest recognitions further confirm Vilnius’ emergence as a hub for international hospitality professionals, with the city hosting major industry events. In addition to the European Hotel Awards, the Future Hospitality & Tourism Forum took place in Vilnius this April, while the Baltic Gastro Summit 2025 launched an annual tradition in the Lithuanian capital. The city is also preparing to welcome the General Assembly of HOTREC – an umbrella association representing the hospitality sector in Europe – next year.
With all this, Vilnius is poised to strengthen its profile on the European travel map. The city is already seeing increased interest from industry leaders, event organizers, and travellers seeking destinations that offer both authenticity and a high standard of service.
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