From the moment we stepped foot in the self-declared Republic of Uzupis, it was impossible not to feel the distinct vibe.
We were greeted with thought-provoking public artworks, a constitution that spells out some pretty spectacular life advice and an undeniable sense of community.
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It is – without a doubt – the most intriguing neighborhood to explore in Vilnius, Lithuania.
We created this free, self-guided Uzupis walking tour to showcase the must-see sights, hidden gems and quirky corners.
Why Tour Uzupis on Foot
Brimming with galleries, locally owned specialty shops and unique public artworks, Uzupis is a haven of creativity.
We stayed here during our month-long trip to Vilnius and never tired of the district’s peculiarities and artistic flair.
Touring the professed Uzupis Republic is one of the Fun Things To Do in Vilnius and our walk provides the perfect introduction!
About Our Free, Self-Guided Uzupis Walking Tour
Our outlined walking tour of Uzupis is about 1.5 miles and will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. It is also a great accompaniment to our Vilnius Walking Tour.
For directions, we have provided a map link for each attraction. Later in the article, you will find a map marked with all locations for an overview of the complete route.
We loved exploring Uzupis on our own. It allowed us to move at our own pace and step into galleries and shops as we wished. That said, there are guided Uzupis tours, too.
To follow the lead of a local on a Uzupis Guided Tour, join a highly-rated private walk – like this one.
What You Will Need for Uzupis Walking Tours
Durable Shoes: With cobbled streets and some incline, a good pair of travel shoes is necessary. I like these versatile trainers.
Weather Gear: Bring sunscreen if it’s sunny…and a rain jacket or travel umbrella if it’s not!
Travel Camera: We use a Canon Rebel for high quality photos; it’s an affordable DSLR for budget travelers.
Wireless Connection: For navigation, you will need connectivity. If traveling from abroad, upgrade to an international phone plan, use an eSim or carry a Pocket WiFi device – like GlocalMe.
Day Pack: Carry a travel day bag that is big enough to stow a water bottle, your weather gear, camera and anything else you will want for your walk!
Quick History of Uzupis
Before setting off on your Uzupis walk, it helps to understand the backstory of the enclave. Already established in the 15th century, it is one of the oldest suburbs in Vilnius.
For centuries, the neighborhood was home to craftsmen and millworkers – and by the early 1900s, Jews made up a significant portion of Uzupis residents.
Through World War II, the Vilnius Jewish population was decimated and their homes in Uzupis were left abandoned.
During the Soviet era that followed, the area was neglected. Prostitutes and vagrants found refuge in the vacant, dilapidated houses.
In the 1980s, bohemian artists began gathering and squatting in Uzupis, bringing a new sense of community to the long-forgotten spot.
When Lithuania declared independence in 1990, the Uzupis art movement surged. After years of repression, artists could openly create without fear of censorship.
The art culture flourished, creating a tight-knit community. On April Fool’s Day 1997, local residents declared their independence as the Republic of Uzupis.
With their own president, anthem, constitution, currency and a flag, the tongue-in-cheek ‘republic’ emulates the district’s individualism.
Self-Guided Walking Tour: Uzupis, Vilnius
We created this free Uzupis Walking Tour to showcase the various sights of the area. That said, we highly encourage wandering aimlessly, too!
#1 Uzupis Bridge
MAP. Our walking tour in Uzupis begins at the namesake bridge. Before crossing over, snap the obligatory photo of the Republic of Uzupis sign that indicates you are crossing a ‘border’. (No, you don’t need a passport!)
Step onto the span and look down to the meandering Vilnia River. It surrounds the district on three sides. In fact, the word Uzupis translates to ‘beyond the river.’
The first wooden bridges connected Vilnius to Uzupis as early as the 16th century. Today, there are eight crossings.
From this bridge, you can see the Uzupis Mermaid sitting in an alcove above the water’s flow. An emblem of the district, she is said to charm visitors into staying forever!
Hanging from below is Destiny’s Swing. While the water was too cold during our autumn visit to take a ride, we heard that it’s a must during the summer months!
#2 Art Incubator and Galera
MAP. Originally serving as an informal gathering place for artists in the early 1990s, the Art Incubator and Galera has evolved into something that is truly unique.
In the late 90s, the space hosted the first exhibitions and alternative art festivals. Soon, sculptures and paintings were adorning the courtyard and alleyways.
By the early 2000s, the Art Incubator was officially established, welcoming resident artists to work within a community of creators.
We were absolutely enthralled by this creative slice of Uzupis. We recommend sticking around a bit to ponder the scene and stepping inside the spaces to see more.
#3 Tibet Square
MAP. Next up on our Self-Guided Walking Tour of Uzupis is Tibet Square – or Tibeto Skveras in Lithuanian.
With fluttering prayer flags and a mandala sculpture, it seems out of place – but of course, has an intriguing story.
The square was founded in 2010 on Lithuania’s Occupation and Genocide Day to show support for Tibet’s freedom and independence.
The Dalai Lama – who’s an honorary citizen of the Republic of Uzupis – has even visited the site and planted a tree here.
#4 Dalu Lithuanian Food Shop
MAP. One of our favorite food shops in Uzupis, Dalu is dedicated to providing some of the best Lithuanian food products in one place.
From cute, handmade Grybai Mushroom Cookies to unique condiments to award-winning Kombucha on tap, it’s a trove of delicious Vilnius Food!
#5 Angel of Uzupis
MAP. A must-see on your Uzupis Self-Guided Walking Tour, the Angel is a symbol of artistic freedom and an iconic landmark.
Standing in the main square, the trumpeting angel is dedicated to Zenonas Šteinys, an Uzupian artist credited with the district’s robust resurgence.
It was created by local sculptor Romas Vilčiauskas, who also conceived the Mermaid of Uzupis. The Vilnius Angel was unveiled on April 1, 2002 – the republic’s 5th anniversary.
#6 Uzupis Constitution
MAP. Nothing captures the spirit of this community quite like the republic’s constitution.
Written in 1998 by Romas Lileikis (the President of Uzupis) and Thomas Chepaitis (Minister of Foreign Affairs), the 38-article charter outlines the specific rights of citizens.
Not a traditional government document (and in no way enforceable), the manifesto grants ‘The right to be happy’ and ‘The right to be unhappy’ – and that ‘A dog has the right to be a dog.’
It concludes with the state’s mottos: Do not defeat. Do not fight back. Do not surrender. The declaration is displayed in more than 20 languages along Paupio Street.
#7 Uzupis Riverside
MAP. Next on our tour of the Republic of Uzupis, we are going to see it from a different angle. Following the Vilnios Takas Walking Path, we’ll stroll east along the riverside.
The route follows the curving waterway – while the landscape of Uzupis is marked by a steep cliff across the river.
At the Vilniaus Paupio-Uzupio Tiltas bridge, cross back over and take the steep stairs or sloping switchbacks to our next stop.
#8 Bernadine Cemetery
MAP. Ranking as one of the oldest burial grounds in Vilnius, Bernadine Cemetery is both eerie and delightful.
Founded in 1810 by Bernadine monks, the graveyard was – at the time – on the outskirts of town.
Time has left its mark here in a beautiful, macabre way. Sunken graves, moss-covered tombstones and deteriorated statues occupy a lush forest.
Cobbled paths wind through the gravesites, where some of Vilnius’ most renowned citizens have been laid to rest.
#9 Uzupis Cat
MAP. Of the numerous Uzupis art installations that we came across during our trip, the Cat – called Uzupio Katinas – at 4 Polocko Street was our favorite.
The loveable and stout sculpture sits on a fence – and invites you to scratch its ear. In return, the Cat of Uzupis will allegedly help you conquer your fears!
#10 Tartle Museum and Uzupis Art Galleries
MAP. Now walk north to Kriviu Street. The thoroughfare is lined with heaps of galleries, cafes and artist studios.
The Tartle Art Gallery (MAP) hosts culturally significant works and artifacts that aim to preserve the history of Lithuania. It’s open to visitors, but only with prior registration.
Detour off Kriviu onto the pedestrian Skersvejis. The cute ‘Crosswind’ laneway is dedicated to Lithuanian filmmaker Jonas Mekas and hosts a few galleries and a popular tea cafe.
The angel arch and overhead decorations (colorful hats during our visit) will catch your eye immediately, but look closely and you will find hidden artworks, too.
#11 Church of St. Bartholomew
MAP. Nearly tucked out of sight, St. Bartholomew Church is small and humble – but well worth a quick look.
Built in 1824 on the site of the former 1644 monastery, it served as a house of worship until the Soviet era, when it was used as a sculptor’s workshop.
After Lithuania’s independence, the church was returned to the Catholic community and how hosts masses in Belarusian.
#12 Local Uzupis Specialties
You have reached the end of our Republic of Uzupis Walking Tour – and it’s time to reward yourself with a snack or beverage!
Kmynine Kepykla Duona at number 4 Uzupio (MAP) is one of the best bakeries in the neighborhood. Here you can indulge in unique Lithuanian treats – like Acorn coffee and irresistible sweets.
Alternatively, pop into Spunka (MAP) for a craft beer by local brewery, Dundulis. Grab a table inside to soak up the atmosphere or head outdoors and sip under the watchful eye of the Angel!
Uzupis Self-Guided Walking Tour Map
Use this Google Map for an online version of our Uzupis map below.
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