Artagonist Art Hotel

A living gallery on Pilies gatvė

Artagonist takes the 'art hotel' label literally. The 15th-century building on Pilies gatvė has been turned into a living gallery: no two rooms match, and each carries commissioned work by Lithuanian artists — murals, frescoes, sculpture, even intricate thread installations. It's the rare design hotel where the art was made for the walls rather than bought to fill them.

The location is as central as Vilnius gets: Pilies gatvė is the Old Town's main promenade, with the Cathedral, Vilnius University and the bridge into Užupis all minutes away on foot. Behind the creativity sits a well-run four-star — rooms are modern and spotless with comfortable beds and spacious bathrooms, and staff are quick with recommendations.

Good to know

Staying on the Old Town's main street means cafés, restaurants and sights begin at the doorstep, and the hotel's little flourishes — like drinking water filtered with Binchotan white charcoal in every room — make it feel considered rather than gimmicky.

The recurring gripes are specific. The motion-sensor bathroom lights divide opinion: they can flick on when someone stirs at night, or switch off mid-shower. The loft doubles under the eaves have sloped ceilings and limited headroom, so taller guests should book a standard floor. There's no hotel parking — drivers rely on paid public car parks nearby — some lower-tier rooms lack a fridge, and a busy central street inevitably brings occasional night-time noise.

• Check current rates and availability on the hotel's own site before booking.