If you’re planning a trip to Latvia in 2025, one destination that should be at the very top of your list is Rundāle Palace. Often referred to as the “Versailles of the Baltics,” this magnificent Baroque and Rococo-style palace is not only a masterpiece of architecture but also one of the country’s most important cultural landmarks. Located just over an hour’s drive from Riga, Rundāle Palace is the perfect day trip for travelers who want to combine history, art, and natural beauty in one unforgettable experience.
Originally commissioned in the 18th century by the Duke of Courland, Rundāle Palace was designed by the renowned Italian architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli, the same genius behind Russia’s Winter Palace in St. Petersburg. Today, it stands as a fully restored monument to the grandeur of European aristocracy, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and immerse themselves in opulent halls, lavish royal apartments, and sprawling French-style gardens.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply seeking a serene getaway surrounded by timeless beauty, Rundāle Palace delivers an experience unlike any other. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about visiting Rundāle Palace in 2025 — from its fascinating history and breathtaking interiors to travel tips, seasonal highlights, and must-see attractions nearby.
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The History of Užupis
Today, Užupis stands as both a cultural landmark and a living neighborhood, where history, rebellion, and creativity coexist in every cobblestoned street and mural-covered wall.
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The Declaration of Independence
On April 1, 1997, the residents of Užupis made a bold and whimsical statement: they declared their neighborhood an independent republic. The choice of April Fool’s Day was intentional – a reminder that while the declaration was playful in spirit, it carried a serious message about freedom, creativity, and community.
The founders established their own flag, coat of arms, currency, and even a president, embracing both satire and symbolism. In a nod to inclusivity, Užupis appointed ministers for everything from foreign affairs to “things beyond our understanding.” Border “checkpoints” appeared at entrances to the district, where visitors could have their passports stamped for fun.
This act of independence wasn’t about political separation, but about reclaiming identity and imagination in a post-Soviet city still finding its way. Over time, the declaration became a cultural institution, celebrated every April 1st with parades, music, art installations, and open-air festivities that welcome locals and tourists alike.
The Declaration of Independence cemented Užupis’s reputation as Vilnius’s free-spirited heart – a place where rules are reimagined, and creativity reigns supreme.
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Geography & Location
The Republic of Užupis is a compact yet captivating district located in the eastern part of Vilnius, Lithuania’s capital. The name “Užupis” literally means “beyond the river” in Lithuanian — a reference to its position across the Vilnelė River from the city’s UNESCO-listed Old Town. This natural boundary has shaped the area’s identity for centuries, giving it a slight sense of separation from the bustling historic center while keeping it within easy walking distance.
Covering less than 1 square kilometer, Užupis is one of the smallest neighborhoods in Vilnius, yet it’s densely packed with history, art, and culture. The Vilnelė River runs along its southern and western edges, crossed by several small bridges — each with its own personality. The most famous of these is the main Užupis Bridge, where visitors are greeted by the district’s flag and whimsical signs marking the entrance to the “republic.”
To the north and east, the area is bordered by a mix of residential streets, creative studios, and green spaces, including the peaceful Bernardinai Garden just across the river. Its location places it at the crossroads of old and new Vilnius — where cobblestone streets meet modern street art, and centuries-old buildings stand beside avant-garde installations.
Geographically, Užupis benefits from a slightly elevated position in parts, offering unique viewpoints of the Old Town’s church spires and rooftops. The riverbanks add a touch of serenity, making the area a favorite for leisurely walks, outdoor cafés, and riverside art displays in warmer months.
Despite its compact size, the geography of Užupis plays a crucial role in shaping its distinct charm. The river acts as both a literal and symbolic border — a gentle reminder that visitors are stepping into a space with its own rhythm, personality, and outlook on life
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The Artistic Culture
Art is the heartbeat of Užupis — not a mere decoration, but the very foundation of its identity. Often compared to Montmartre in Paris or Christiania in Copenhagen, Užupis is a haven for painters, sculptors, poets, musicians, and free thinkers who have transformed this once-forgotten district into a living gallery.
The roots of this creative spirit date back to the 1990s, when Lithuania regained its independence and abandoned Soviet restrictions on expression. Artists, drawn by the area’s low rents and neglected buildings, moved into Užupis and began turning crumbling façades into colorful canvases. Today, the streets are filled with murals, sculptures, and quirky installations — from the iconic bronze Angel of Užupis, symbolizing artistic freedom, to whimsical works that seem to appear overnight.
Art here isn’t confined to galleries. It spills into courtyards, along the riverbanks, and onto bridges. Even the Užupis Constitution, displayed in multiple languages on a wall in Paupio Street, is considered an art piece — a playful yet profound manifesto of values such as “Everyone has the right to make mistakes” and “Everyone has the right to be happy.”
The neighborhood also hosts regular cultural events, including Užupis Day on April 1st, when the district celebrates its independence with parades, performances, and open-air exhibitions. Throughout the year, local studios and creative hubs welcome visitors, offering workshops in painting, ceramics, photography, and more.
Street musicians add another layer to the experience, their melodies weaving through cobblestone alleys and riverside walkways. Even cafés and bars double as art spaces, with rotating exhibitions and live performances that blur the lines between everyday life and creative expression.
In Užupis, art is not just something to observe — it’s an immersive experience that invites everyone to participate, contribute, and carry a piece of its playful, rebellious spirit away with them.
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The Užupis Constitution Wall
The Užupis Constitution Wall is one of the district’s most captivating and thought-provoking attractions — a testament to the neighborhood’s philosophy of freedom, individuality, and gentle humor. Located along Paupio Street, this outdoor installation presents the 41 articles of the Užupis Constitution, each engraved on mirrored plaques and translated into more than 50 languages. Visitors can stroll along the wall, reading the same words in Lithuanian, English, French, Japanese, and beyond, making the experience both global and deeply personal.
Drafted in 1998 by Romas Lileikis, the self-proclaimed president of the Republic of Užupis, and his friend Thomas Chepaitis, the constitution is a whimsical yet sincere charter for an ideal society. Its articles include both profound affirmations — such as “Everyone has the right to love and be loved” — and lighthearted declarations — like “A dog has the right to be a dog” and “Everyone has the right to be idle”.
The wall is more than a tourist spot; it is a symbolic embodiment of Užupis’ values. The mirrored plaques encourage self-reflection, quite literally, as you see your own face while reading each line. This design subtly suggests that these rights and responsibilities belong to everyone, not just the citizens of Užupis.
Visiting the wall is a different experience at different times of day. In the morning light, the mirrored panels gleam softly, blending with the pastel tones of the surrounding buildings. By sunset, they reflect golden hues, creating a warm, almost ethereal glow. The setting — a charming cobblestone street lined with cafés and small galleries — makes lingering here almost inevitable.
For many, the Užupis Constitution Wall is more than a photo opportunity. It’s a moment to pause, smile, and reconsider what it means to live freely, kindly, and with a touch of mischief — the essence of Užupis itself.
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The Angel of Užupis & Other Landmarks
At the very heart of Užupis, in its main square, stands The Angel of Užupis — a bronze sculpture that has become the district’s most iconic landmark and unofficial guardian. Created by sculptor Romas Vilčiauskas and unveiled in 2002, the statue depicts an angel blowing a trumpet, symbolizing the spread of artistic inspiration, freedom, and openness to the world. Its placement in the center of the square reflects its role as the beating heart of the republic, where locals and visitors naturally gather for festivals, live performances, or simply to meet friends.
The Angel replaced an earlier temporary sculpture known as The Egg of Užupis, which had stood in the same spot for several years. The Egg was seen as a symbol of potential and creation — fitting for a neighborhood that thrives on reinvention. Today, a replica of the Egg can still be found nearby, reminding residents of their playful past and the humble beginnings of their symbolic landmarks.
Beyond the Angel, Užupis is dotted with curious and often humorous monuments that perfectly capture the district’s spirit. One such example is the Statue of Frank Zappa, an unlikely tribute to the American musician who never visited Lithuania but whose rebellious artistic persona resonated deeply with the community in the post-Soviet era. Another is the Mermaid of Užupis, a small sculpture tucked along the Vilnelė River, said to lure visitors to the neighborhood.
Each landmark in Užupis carries a story, whether rooted in history, imagination, or both. Together, they form a living museum that doesn’t merely display art — it invites you to interact with it. Visiting the Angel and its fellow monuments isn’t just sightseeing; it’s stepping into a world where creativity is celebrated in the open air, and where every corner has a whimsical tale to tell.
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Cafés, Bars, and Local Cuisine
Užupis isn’t just a feast for the eyes — it’s also a paradise for your taste buds. This bohemian enclave thrives on creativity, and that spirit flows directly into its culinary and café scene. Whether you’re sipping coffee by the Vilnelė River or enjoying a glass of Lithuanian craft beer in a cozy bar, dining in Užupis feels like becoming part of the neighborhood’s artistic rhythm.
One of the district’s defining charms is its independent café culture. Quirky spots like Sweet Root blend traditional Lithuanian ingredients with modern presentation, while riverside cafés such as Uzupio Kavine offer outdoor seating with views of the gentle water and passing locals. You’ll often find mismatched furniture, walls covered in local art, and menus that change with the season — or the chef’s mood.
Bars in Užupis range from rustic pubs serving hearty snacks to avant-garde cocktail lounges experimenting with flavors. Many of them double as performance venues, hosting open-mic nights, jazz sessions, or poetry readings. The emphasis is on atmosphere over formality; it’s perfectly normal to strike up a conversation with the person at the next table and end up swapping travel stories late into the night.
When it comes to local cuisine, Užupis offers a creative twist on Lithuanian classics. Expect to see comforting dishes like cepelinai (potato dumplings stuffed with meat or cheese), šaltibarščiai (cold beet soup), and freshly baked rye bread — but often reimagined with modern flair. Many restaurants source ingredients from local farms, keeping the food fresh and authentic.
Eating and drinking in Užupis is more than just a meal; it’s an immersion into its communal way of life. Here, every coffee, pint, and plate becomes an invitation to linger, observe, and connect — a true taste of the neighborhood’s warm and artistic soul.
Events & Festivals in Užupis
Užupis may be small, but it throws some of the most spirited celebrations in Vilnius. The neighborhood’s events are not just spectacles — they’re participatory experiences where visitors are encouraged to join in, blurring the line between audience and performer.
The crown jewel of Užupis’ festival calendar is Užupis Independence Day, held every year on April 1st. Yes, April Fool’s Day — a perfect reflection of the district’s playful spirit. On this day, the “Republic” sets up border checkpoints where “visas” are stamped into passports, the Užupis Constitution is read aloud in multiple languages, and the streets come alive with music, art, and open-air performances. It’s part street party, part political satire, and entirely unforgettable.
Other annual events keep the district buzzing year-round. The Užupis Art Incubator regularly hosts exhibitions and pop-up markets, showcasing work from both established and emerging artists. In summer, open-air concerts fill the riverside with music, from folk traditions to experimental jazz. Winter brings cozy, candlelit gatherings in local cafés, often accompanied by poetry readings or storytelling nights.
Užupis also takes part in wider Vilnius cultural celebrations, such as Vilnius Street Music Day and Capital Days, but always with its own creative twist — whether that’s turning the riverbank into a stage or filling hidden courtyards with impromptu theater.
No matter when you visit, there’s a good chance you’ll stumble upon a small festival, a spontaneous parade, or even a community picnic. In Užupis, events aren’t just about entertainment — they’re about fostering connection, sparking conversation, and celebrating life with a touch of whimsy.
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Tips for Visiting Užupis
A trip to Užupis is best enjoyed when you approach it with curiosity and an open mind. While the neighborhood is compact, its charm lies in its hidden details — and knowing a few insider tips will help you make the most of your visit.
- Plan to explore on foot. Užupis’ narrow, cobbled streets and riverside paths are best experienced at a leisurely pace. Wear comfortable shoes, and don’t be afraid to wander into side alleys — some of the best street art and sculptures are tucked away from the main roads.
- Read the Užupis Constitution. Stop by the famous Constitution Wall to see its whimsical “laws” in over 20 languages. It’s a quick but essential introduction to the district’s philosophy.
- Visit during the day and at night. Daytime offers great photography light and a chance to visit galleries, but the district transforms in the evening with live music, glowing street lamps, and lively bars.
- Support local artists and cafés. Many shops sell handcrafted jewelry, ceramics, or paintings directly from the makers. Buying here directly supports the community’s creative economy.
- Time your visit for April 1st — if you can. Užupis Independence Day is a once-in-a-lifetime experience filled with joyful chaos. Just be prepared for crowds.
- Stay respectful. Despite its playful nature, Užupis is home to many residents and working artists. Treat it as both a living neighborhood and an open-air gallery.
By balancing exploration with appreciation for its people and spirit, you’ll leave Užupis not just with photos, but with the feeling you’ve experienced something truly unique — a community where art, humor, and humanity thrive side by side.
Final Thoughts
Užupis is more than just a quirky neighborhood in Vilnius—it’s a living work of art, a haven for free thinkers, and a testament to the power of creativity and community. Whether you’re wandering through its street art–filled alleys, sipping coffee in a riverside café, or reading the whimsical yet thought-provoking articles of its constitution, Užupis offers a travel experience unlike any other.
Its blend of bohemian spirit, artistic expression, and welcoming atmosphere makes it a must-visit for travelers seeking something beyond the usual tourist attractions. By immersing yourself in the local culture, attending a festival, or simply chatting with a resident artist, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for why Užupis proudly calls itself a “Republic of Art and Freedom.”
If Vilnius is the heart of Lithuania, then Užupis is its creative soul—small in size, but boundless in imagination. Whether you spend a few hours or an entire day here, the memories (and maybe even a spark of inspiration) will stay with you long after you’ve crossed back over the bridge into the rest of the city.
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