Vilnius was named European Hospitality City 2025, earning a rare Honorary Award from the European Hotel Awards jury that is reserved only for cities that exemplify the core values of European hospitality: sincerity, openness, excellence, and human warmth. The distinction, not awarded annually, places Lithuania’s capital in a select category of destinations recognized for setting a continental standard.
The announcement was made during a gala held November 17 at the Grand Hotel Vilnius, where hospitality leaders from across Europe gathered to celebrate this year’s honorees. The recognition reflects not only the city’s hotel sector, but a broader hospitality ecosystem that includes restaurants, cultural institutions, service providers, and tourism professionals working collectively to elevate visitor experience.
Vilnius Mayor Valdas Benkunskas noted that the city’s hospitality industry has undergone significant growth in recent years, positioning Vilnius as both a historically rich destination and a modern European capital with a distinct service culture. The award signals to the international community that Vilnius offers more than preserved architecture and old-world charm—it delivers a contemporary, people-centered approach to hospitality.
According to European Hotel Awards organizers, Vilnius represents a new narrative for Europe, where tradition and innovation coexist seamlessly. The jury emphasized that the Honorary Award carries symbolic weight, serving both as recognition of past achievements and encouragement for continued leadership in authentic European hospitality.
In addition to the city-wide honor, four Vilnius-based hospitality leaders and institutions were recognized among this year’s individual laureates. Radisson Collection Astorija received Hotel of the Year in Lithuania. Telegrafas head chef Donatas Šatkauskas was named Chef of the Year, highlighting the city’s growing culinary reputation. Sigita Rudzevičiėnė, general manager of Grand Hotel Vilnius – Curio Collection by Hilton, earned Hotel Director of the Year, while Evalda Šiškauskienė, president of the Lithuanian Hotels and Restaurants Association, received the Lifetime Achievement Award for her long-standing contributions to the industry.
These accolades come as Vilnius continues to strengthen its position on the European travel and hospitality map. The city has recently hosted major industry gatherings, including the Future Hospitality & Tourism Forum and the inaugural Baltic Gastro Summit, which is set to become an annual event. Vilnius is also preparing to host the General Assembly of HOTREC, the umbrella organization representing Europe’s hospitality sector.
With rising international attention and continued investment in service excellence, Vilnius is increasingly attracting travelers and industry leaders seeking destinations that balance authenticity with high standards, reinforcing its growing reputation as one of Europe’s most compelling hospitality capitals.