Staying at Centro Hostel, Vilnius — My Experience

Centro Hostel was, for me, a rather strange experience. It promised shared spaces and opportunities for conversation, but somehow it never quite hit the mark. Instead of feeling welcoming, the atmosphere often felt tense — a sentiment that many guests I spoke with also noticed, particularly in their interactions with staff.

Location & Getting There

Centro Hostel is located approximately 2.3 km from Vilnius Railway Station. While it’s a little removed from the historic centre, the main bus route is just around the corner, and the walk to Cathedral Square is only about 1.4 km — a manageable distance for most backpackers.

If you’re arriving by train or bus, head straight across the road and keep to the left; after 700–900 metres, you’ll be on track. One note: not all cafés and shops nearby offer Wi-Fi, so having data or a downloaded map is useful for navigating the final stretch.

First Impressions

The welcome I received set the tone for my stay. Staff did greet me, but the language barrier caused confusion and left me feeling more reprimanded than guided when I asked simple questions. For example, when the downstairs toilets were occupied, I wasn’t allowed to use the ones upstairs — instead of offering a solution, staff delivered the message bluntly.

On the plus side, the hostel enforces quiet hours between 10 pm and 8 am, which helps create a restful environment once you’re settled in.

Rooms

Centro offers both private rooms and dorms, accommodating up to 43 guests. I stayed in an eight-bed mixed dorm, which was more spacious than many I’ve experienced. Each guest is provided with fresh linen, a towel, and a locker, and outlets are conveniently placed.

That said, the comfort level could use improvement. The bunk beds are sturdy but squeaky, and the thin mattresses left me waking with back pain. Small upgrades like privacy curtains, individual reading lights, mirrors, and bedside shelves would go a long way in improving comfort.

Ventilation relies on small street-facing windows, though fortunately, traffic noise is minimal in this area.

Common Spaces & Extras

The kitchen is functional and well-equipped with utensils, two fridges, a microwave, and a stove. However, unlike many hostels, there’s no free tea or coffee, and a toaster would have been a welcome addition.

Bathrooms are serviceable, with two combined shower/toilet units that are generally clean, though the shower doors need repair and mould has set into the sealant. Wi-Fi is strong overall but can occasionally cut out.

Staff are meant to be available 24/7, though this isn’t always the case.

Value for Money

Dorm beds range between €15 and €30, depending on season and configuration. For Vilnius, this keeps Centro in the affordable bracket.

Accessibility

The building is only accessible by stairs, which may pose challenges for guests with mobility issues. On a positive note, staff are understanding when asked in advance — I’ve had hip surgery, and they ensured I was assigned a lower bunk, though I had to request it ahead of time.

Because reception is open 24 hours, new arrivals can show up throughout the night, which might disrupt light sleepers.

Final Thoughts

What Centro Hostel really lacks is warmth and character. The all-white interior — from ceiling to floor — feels sterile, and staff interactions often come across as more confrontational than friendly. With a few small upgrades (privacy curtains, bedside shelves, improved mattresses, and a toaster in the kitchen), this hostel could easily become a more appealing option for travellers.

Would I return? Honestly, no. Of the many hostels I’ve stayed in, this is only the second I wouldn’t revisit. Still, if you’re looking for a cheap overnight stay, Centro Hostel is functional enough.

This review is based on my personal experience; yours may differ. Always check the latest hostel description and reviews in case improvements have been made.

My Ratings

Staff: ★★★☆☆ (7/10)

Room: ★★★☆☆ (7/10)

Location: ★★★☆☆ (7/10)

Common Spaces: ★★★☆☆ (7/10)

Facilities: ★★★☆☆ (7/10)

Overall: ★★★☆☆ (7/10)