Uzupis

This former Jewish neighborhood just south of the Neris River changed drastically after the devastation of World War II, and later fell into ruin. After Lithuanianian independence in 1990, Uzupis began filling with artists and thinkers, and the Lithuanian counterpart to Paris' Montmartre neighborhood was born.

To see the art spaces, cafés, and hip watering holes of this quirky corner of Vilnius, walking tours are ideal. Most cover the top sights around the Old Town and include a stroll through Uzupis. For independent travelers, it's easy to pair a visit to Uzupis with stops at nearby landmarks—including St. Anne's Church and Bernardine Church—which are located just across the river.

• Uzupis is located in Vilnius' Old Town, so it's easy to access on foot.
• Art lovers find galleries, the Uzupis Art Incubator, and plentiful street art along the Vilnia River.
• Don't miss the area's famed statues: the Angel of Užupis, in the main square, and the Uzhupis Mermaid, beneath the Uzhupis Bridge.

The best way to visit Uzupis is during a guided tour. Food and art tours are ideal for unpacking the area's culture, though private tours and bike tours can help you save time. If you want to venture out, consider a multi-day tour with a Vilnius stop. Most visit the Old Town and Uzupis along with countries like Latvia, Belarus, and Estonia.

Though there's really no bad time to visit this charming neighborhood, the most festive day to visit is April 1. Known to locals as Uzupis Day, this national holiday of the self-declared republic is a festive occasion. Just remember to bring your ID, since there may be a passport check.

Uzupis claims to be independent from Vilnius, and declared its statehood in 1997. Since the Republic of Uzupis is not actually recognized by any government, it's unclear if the nation wants to be taken seriously, but the joke lives on. Learn about the tiny nation's values from the Constitution of the Republic, displayed on Paupio Lane. It's packed with uniquely Uzupian items (including article 4: "Everyone has the right to make mistakes.").