The Ultimate Guide to Bucharest: What to Do, See, and Experience

Bucharest, the capital of Romania, is one of the most dynamic cities in Eastern Europe. Nestled in the heart of the continent, it’s a bustling city full of culture, history and plenty to do. Whether you’re a history buff, night owl, or curious tourist, Bucharest has something for everyone.

A Brief History of Bucharest

The earliest known settlements in what is now Bucharest date back to the 6th century BC. The city was originally inhabited by the Dacians and Romans, and it was later conquered by the Turks in the 15th century. In 1862, Bucharest was proclaimed the capital of Romania and went through a period of rapid development. The city saw a huge increase in population, and was second only to Berlin in terms of size during World War I.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Bucharest was known as “Little Paris” due to its sophisticated architecture, vibrant cultural life and lively cafes. The city was also the birthplace of many famous Romanian artists and intellectuals. After World War II, Bucharest transitioned to a communist state under Nicolae Ceaușescu. The city was severely damaged during the 1989 Revolution, but it has since been restored to its former glory.

Today, Bucharest is one of the most vibrant cities in Europe. It is home to nearly 2 million people and is known for its stunning architecture, lively culture and delicious food.

Popular Attractions in Bucharest

Bucharest is filled with fascinating attractions that are sure to delight any traveler. Here are some of the most popular sights in the city:

Palace of Parliament

The Palace of Parliament is one of Bucharest’s most iconic landmarks. Built by former communist leader Nicolae Ceaușescu, it is the second-largest administrative building in the world and a must-see for any visitor to the city. The palace is an impressive structure, with its 12 floors and 1,100 rooms covering an area of 330,000 square meters. Inside the palace, visitors can explore its impressive interiors, which feature ornate marble staircases, crystal chandeliers and marble columns.

Old Town

Old Town is one of the most charming neighborhoods in Bucharest. It is home to narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings and bustling outdoor cafes. This area is also known for its vibrant nightlife – from hip bars to traditional pubs, there’s something for everyone here. Be sure to stop by Caru’ cu Bere, which is one of the oldest restaurants in the city and has been serving local delicacies since 1879.

Cotroceni Palace

Cotroceni Palace is a beautiful baroque-style palace located on a hill overlooking the Dâmbovița River. It was built in 1888 as the residence of King Carol I and is now home to the Romanian president. The palace is open to visitors and features stunning interiors, including intricate frescoes, ornate chandeliers and lavish furnishings.

Museum of Romanian Peasant

The Museum of Romanian Peasant is one of the best museums in the city. Located in an old manor house, it showcases traditional Romanian folk art, including costumes, furniture and pottery. The museum also features an impressive collection of peasant paintings from around Romania. It’s a great place to learn more about Romanian culture and history.

Victoriei Avenue

Victoriei Avenue is one of Bucharest’s main thoroughfares. Stretching from Piata Victoriei to Piata Romana, it is lined with grand buildings from the 19th and 20th centuries, including the National Museum of Art and the National History Museum. The avenue is also home to some of the city’s best restaurants and cafes.

Unique Experiences in Bucharest

Bucharest offers plenty of unique experiences for visitors looking for something out of the ordinary. Here are some of the most popular activities in the city:

A Visit to Herastrau Park

Herastrau Park is one of Bucharest’s largest green spaces. Located on the banks of Lake Herastrau, it features lush gardens, walking paths, playgrounds and picnic areas. The park also has an outdoor theater where visitors can watch open-air concerts and performances throughout the summer months. For a unique experience, take a romantic boat ride around Lake Herastrau at sunset.

A Food Tour of Old Town

Old Town is home to some of Bucharest’s best restaurants and cafes. There’s something for every taste here – from traditional Romanian dishes to international cuisine. For an unforgettable experience, take a food tour through Old Town and sample some of the local delicacies. With its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings and friendly locals, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time.

A Walk Along Calea Victoriei

Calea Victoriei is one of Bucharest’s main boulevards. It stretches from Piata Romana to Piata Victoriei and is lined with grand buildings from the 19th and 20th centuries. Strolling along this picturesque avenue is a great way to take in some of Bucharest’s most iconic sights – from the stunning National History Museum to the imposing Palace of Parliament.

Popular Tours in Bucharest

Bucharest offers a wide range of tours for visitors looking for an unforgettable experience. Here are two popular tours that are sure to delight any traveler:

Bucharest City Tour

The Bucharest City Tour is a great way to explore the city’s sights and attractions. This three-hour tour takes visitors on a guided journey through some of Bucharest’s most iconic landmarks – from bustling Piata Victoriei to historic Old Town – as well as some lesser-known gems such as Herastrau Park and Cotroceni Palace. Visitors will also get a chance to sample some delicious local cuisine at some of Old Town’s best restaurants and cafes. The tour finishes with a visit to one of Bucharest’s oldest churches – Stavropoleos Church – where you can admire its beautiful frescoes and intricate carvings up close. Book your Bucharest City Tour today for an unforgettable experience!

Vampire Tour

Bucharest is home to a unique legend – the story of Vlad Tepes (also known as Vlad Dracula). This two-hour tour takes visitors on a journey through some of the city’s most mysterious places – from hidden cemeteries to creepy castles – as they learn more about Vlad’s life and legacy. Visitors will get to explore some off-the-beaten-path locations as well as see some spectacular views from atop carriages that travel up Carpatilor Hill. Embark on a Vampire Tour and explore Bucharest’s dark side!

Conclusion

Bucharest is an exciting destination full of fascinating sights, unique experiences and plenty to do. From exploring historic landmarks such as the Palace of Parliament to embarking on a Vampire Tour to uncovering some hidden gems such as Herastrau Park – there’s something for everyone here! Whether you’re looking for a fun night out or an immersive cultural experience – Bucharest won’t disappoint!