Užupis is a small, bohemian district just across the Vilnia river from the Old Town, famous for its artists' studios, galleries and playfully self-declared 'republic'. It has a laid-back, offbeat and residential mood while remaining an easy walk from the main sights. It suits creative travellers and those who prefer wandering over crowds.
Užupis at a glance
- Distance to the Old Town
- About 900 m as the crow flies, roughly 11 min on foot.
- From the city centre
- About 1.6 km as the crow flies.
- Nearest station
- No metro, train or tram stop within 1.5 km of the centre of the area — plan on buses, taxis or walking.
- Source
- Distances computed from OpenStreetMap coordinates (© OpenStreetMap contributors), checked 2026-09-23. Straight-line figures — walking routes are longer.
Cross one of the little bridges from the Old Town and you're in a maze of quiet lanes, courtyards, street art and riverside spots. It feels more local and low-key than the centre, with independent cafés and galleries; days are gentle and evenings stay relatively quiet compared with the tourist core.
Getting around
The Old Town is a five-to-ten-minute walk over the river, so you can sightsee on foot. Vilnius (VNO) airport is a short taxi or ride-hailing trip of roughly 15 minutes.
Before you book this area
- Vibe
- Bohemian, artsy and residential with a village-like intimacy.
- Green space
- Riverbanks and small courtyards give a calmer, leafier feel than the centre.
- Watch out for
- Steep, uneven lanes and limited accommodation choice in a small area.
Frequently asked
Is Užupis a good area to stay in Vilnius?
Užupis is a small, bohemian district with a laid-back, offbeat and residential mood, best for creative travellers and quiet wanderers who prefer wandering over crowds. Those wanting a wide choice of accommodation or lively nightlife should look elsewhere, as options are limited in this small area.
How far is Užupis from the Old Town?
Užupis sits just across the Vilnia river from the Old Town, about 900 m in a straight line, or around 11 minutes on foot. You can cross one of the little bridges and reach the main sights easily by walking.
How do you get around Užupis and what's the nearest station?
There's no metro, train or tram stop within 1.5 km of the area's centre, so you'll rely on buses, taxis or walking. The Old Town is a five-to-ten-minute walk over the river, and Vilnius (VNO) airport is a short taxi or ride-hailing trip of roughly 15 minutes.
Is Užupis central?
It's not right in the middle, sitting about 1.6 km in a straight line from the city centre, but it borders the Old Town. It feels more local and low-key than the centre while keeping the main sights within an easy walk.
Is Užupis quiet at night?
Generally yes; it's more mellow than the Old Town, with a few relaxed bars rather than heavy nightlife. Days are gentle and evenings stay relatively quiet compared with the tourist core.
Comparing areas? See the full Vilnius area guide →
Other areas near Užupis
Sources
- OpenStreetMap — area location, distances and nearest station (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL), checked 2026-09-23
- ReasonStay methodology — how areas are chosen and facts are verified
An independent guide to Užupis, Vilnius — honest orientation, no invented data.