Kempinski Hotel Cathedral Square
Vilnius, Lithuania
Kempinski Hotel Cathedral Square
Universiteto St. 14, Vilnius, Lithuania, LT 01122 Original Property Opened in 1900 Historic Hotels Worldwide member since 2016Built in the 1900s, the Kempinski Hotel Cathedral Square is rich with history. Although it was originally created as a hotel, the building has transformed over the years due to the intense changes history brought to both Vilnius and Lithuania. Kempinski Hotel Cathedral is especially proud to share with its guests a unique historical treasure-fragments of the Vilnius Defense Wall. Local nobles raised the fortifications around Vilnius in the 16th century in order to protect the city against Tatar raiders. During recent renovations of the hotel, workers located a fragment of this impressive structure within the grounds. It is on display today near the hotel’s wonderful dining establishment, Restaurant Telegrafas. Kempinski Hotel Cathedral Square is situated in a perfect location within the very heart of culturally and architecturally rich Vilnius Old Town. This neighborhood is among the most historic sections of the city, and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The hotel is a stone's throw from the Presidential Palace and Cathedral Square. Numerous governmental institutions, significant historical landmarks, and major shopping avenues all are within walking distance. Vilnius is soulful, charming, fragile, and marked by impressive Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. The city is set at the junction of three cultures – Central, Northern, and Eastern Europe, making it a true gem of the Baltic countries.
Discover
- Discover the Neoclassical-style façade of the Kempinski Hotel Cathedral Square. Study the intricately decorated façade and its balconies, as well as the neo-Baroque cupolas on the roof.
- Discover fragments of the Vilnius Defense Wall, which was created in the early 16th century to defend the Lithuanian Great Kingdom. Fragments of the wall were discovered during the restoration of this historic hotel, which can now be seen at the entrance to its signature restaurant.
- Discover the historic accommodations of the Kempinski Hotel Cathedral Square, which feature high ceilings and breathtaking views of Vilnius Old Town. The city features Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture at the junction of Central, Northern, and Eastern European cultures.
Explore
- Explore Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its historic buildings that represent some of Europe’s greatest architectural styles. See the small shops selling amber jewelry, wood carvings, and Lithuanian cheese.
- Explore the Neoclassical Vilnius Cathedral, the main Roman Catholic Cathedral of Lithuania, which is dedicated to the saints Stanislaus and Ladislaus. Explore Cathedral Square, which is situated at the crossing of the city’s main streets.
- Explore the Presidential Palace, the official workplace of the President of Lithuania that dates back to the 14th century, and wander Gediminas Avenue, the main street of the capital where most of the governmental institutions are concentrated.
Experience
- Climb to the top of the Vilnius TV Tower, the tallest structure in Lithuania that is home to the Lithuanian Radio and Television Centre. Take in breathtaking views from the observation deck and enjoy a cup of coffee in the café, which rotates every 45 minutes.
- Experience Gariūnai Market, the largest market in Lithuania, which features 10,000 vendors, and pick up a precious amber necklace. Wander Halle Market, one of the city’s oldest food markets, for the best culinary gifts, such as honeys and jams.
- Take a day trip to Lake Galvė and tour Trakai Island Castle, an island castle dating back to the 14th century that held great strategic importance and is the only island castle in Eastern Europe.
Taste
- Taste a cup of afternoon tea or glass of champagne at Le Café or Le Salon Bar and Lounge, which are located in a historic 20th-century lobby that was restored to its former glory.
- Sample the finest wines from the spectacular selection of more than 300 wine labels at Atelier Wine Boutique & Tasting Bar, located in the lobby of this historic hotel. One of the world’s best sommeliers, Martynas Pravilonis, will select the best wines for any palate.
- Enjoy an elegant meal at Restaurant Telegrafas, the signature restaurant of the Kempinski Hotel Cathedral Square. The name of this signature restaurant pays homage to the hotel’s history as the headquarters of Central Telegraph of Vilnius, and the historic defense wall can be seen at the entrance to the restaurant.