Užupis
Artist republic with a witty constitution and riverside cafés.
Ideal: Ideal for art, café culture, alternative neighborhoods, and local atmosphere.
The neighborhood declared itself an independent republic on 1 April 1997; it has a president, an anthem, a twelve-person army, and a constitution mounted on mirrored plaques in dozens of languages on the riverbank wall. Among its articles are 'Every dog has the right to be a dog,' 'Everyone has the right to be happy,' and directly below that, 'Everyone has the right to be unhappy.' Before independence this was an abandoned and dangerous area; low rents drew artists in. Every 1 April visitors can get a stamp in their passport at the entrance.
Why go?
- To see Vilnius's art and alternative culture atmosphere
- To build a more local route with cafés, galleries, and street art
- To experience a neighborhood different from the classic historic center
Travel tip
Do not miss the Užupis Constitution wall and the small streets around the river.
