Užupis: Audio Tour of Vilnius' Bohemian Micronation
Description
Užupis, Vilnius' self-declared Artistic Republic, might be Europe's most charming micronation. On this walking tour, you'll explore the former neglected industrial area that transformed into a thriving bohemian neighbourhood, complete with its own constitution, president, and currency. Told as a conversation between local guide Indre and curious traveller Milda, the tour crosses bridges over the Vilnelė River, passes the bronze Angel of Užupis, and winds through galleries, cafés, and the historical Bernardine Cemetery — home to Lycka, the famous cemetery cat. Along the way, get your passport stamped at the border, discover the beer tap that flows free every April 1st, and read the constitution translated into 44 languages. The tour ends at the Fluxus Bridge, having explored not just the geography of this tiny nation but its philosophy of openness, creativity, and the right to be both happy and unhappy at the same time.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Begin your tour in front of the Orthodox Cathedral of the Theotokos, the starting point for exploring Europe's most charming micronation. Learn how the district was declared a republic on April Fool's Day 1997, becoming a symbol of creative freedom and tolerance.
Cross the bridge into Užupis, adorned with countless love locks left by newlyweds. Test your luck on the "Destiny's Swing" suspended beneath it, and spot the nearby Mermaid of Užupis watching over the river.
Get your passport stamped at Užupio 1 Postas Border Control and learn the four simple steps to become a citizen of the republic. Take this playful but genuine first step into becoming an honorary citizen of this artistic nation.
Explore the Uzupis Art Incubator, an area filled with public art created through international collaboration. Take in this hub of creativity, connecting a community of small galleries scattered throughout the district.
Take in the bronze Angel of Užupis, a sculpture that symbolizes the republic's freedom. Stand beneath this striking centerpiece, the district's most recognisable symbol of creative independence.
Pass by the Constitution of the Republic of Užupis, displayed with its 44 language translations. Read articles proclaiming everyone's right to be happy, unhappy, and everything in between.
Stroll through the historical Bernardine Cemetery, one of Vilnius's oldest burial grounds with 14,000 graves. Look out for Lycka, the famous cemetery cat who calls this peaceful spot home.
Meet the Užupio Katinas, a playful metal cat balanced on a fence outside a jewellery gallery on Polocko Street. Scratch its earringed ear for good luck, following local legend that it banishes fear from anyone who dares to touch it.
Walk through Jono Meko Skersvėjis, a tiny street that transformed from a dangerous alley to a hub of galleries and cafes. Discover how this street is dedicated to avant-garde filmmaker Jonas Mekas, an honorary citizen of the republic.
End your tour at the Fluxus Bridge, where the philosophy of openness, creativity, and freedom comes full circle. Reflect on everything you've explored across this tiny but magical artistic nation.
Highlights
What's included
Important Information
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
