Welcome to Bucharest, Romania’s capital city and cultural hub. Exploring a new city can sometimes feel overwhelming, but fear not––there are plenty of tours that can help you navigate the charming streets of Bucharest while immersing you in its history and culture. From walking tours to bike tours, food tours to pub crawls, we’ve compiled a list of the 11 best city tours in Bucharest to help you make the most of your visit. So, whether you’re here for the stunning architecture, the vibrant nightlife, or simply to soak up the city’s unique atmosphere, buckle up and get ready for an adventure.
The 11 Best City Tours in Bucharest
- Bucharest: Parliament Palace Skip-the-line Ticket
- Bucharest: City Highlights Guided Walking Tour
- Bucharest: Pub Crawl in the Old Town
- Bucharest: Communism and History Guided City Tours
- Bucharest: Guided Ceausescu Villa Tour
- Bohemian Bucharest: Markets & Mahallas Small Group Tour
- Bucharest: Hidden Gems 3-Hour Walking Tour
- Bucharest: 3-Hour Walking Tour
- Bucharest: 3-Hour Dark History Tour with a Local
- Bucharest: Craft Beer Tour with Street Food Tasting
- Bucharest: Street Food Tour with a Local Guide
The 11 Best City Tours in Bucharest
1. Bucharest: Parliament Palace Skip-the-line Ticket
Experience one of Bucharest’s top attractions with a visit to the Parliament Palace. This comprehensive tour allows you to explore the interiors of the second largest building in the world and the largest building in Europe. Learn about the communist regime in Romania as you admire the impressive architecture and grandeur of this monument. With a skip-the-line ticket, you’ll save time and make the most out of your visit. The tour includes an official guide, hotel pick up and drop-off, photo fees, and gratuities. Please note that this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments as there are approximately 200 steps to climb. Make sure to arrive 15 minutes before the tour starts for security check and don’t forget to bring your passport. Join us at Senatul Romaniei for an unforgettable experience.
2. Bucharest: City Highlights Guided Walking Tour
Experience the best of Bucharest with the City Highlights Guided Walking Tour. Explore the city streets with a local guide and take in the fresh air while strolling through the beautiful Cismigiu Gardens. Discover the only three caravanserais (inns) that remain in Bucharest and explore the Revolution Square and the former financial district. Visit one of the oldest and most well-preserved monasteries in Bucharest and end your tour at the iconic Palace of Parliament. This walking tour includes a knowledgeable local guide and food and drinks. Comfortable shoes are recommended, and the tour will take place rain or shine. Meet your guide right next to the I’velo Urban bike-sharing station for a memorable experience in Bucharest.
3. Bucharest: Pub Crawl in the Old Town
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Bucharest with a Pub Crawl in the Old Town. This tour takes you to 4-5 different bars and clubs, each with its own unique vibe. With an experienced local guide, you’ll gain free access to all venues and enjoy a free shot of alcohol at each location. As you hop from place to place, you’ll get city hints and recommendations, and have the opportunity to meet new people and make friends. The tour lasts for at least 4 hours and includes free photos taken by the guide as well as various promotions from the bars and clubs. Please note that this tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or people with heart problems. Bring a copy of your ID or passport, wear decent clothing, and avoid sandals or flip flops. Minimum required age is 18.
4. Bucharest: Communism and History Guided City Tours
Explore the impact of Communism on Romania with a 3-hour walking tour of Bucharest. The tour begins at the Patriarchal Cathedral where you will learn about religion during the Communist era and the events that led to the beginning of the regime. Walk through a nearby neighborhood to see the results of nationalization and get a great view of the House of People, the Parliament building, where you’ll learn about its construction and the megalomania of Romanian dictator, Nicolae Ceausescu. Discover some of the buildings that were moved to save them from destruction and learn about people’s day-to-day lives in front of an old Alimentara (grocery store). Stroll down the beautiful Calea Victoriei Boulevard to see some of the Communist symbols, including a center used by the Secret Police for torturing people before ending the tour in Revolution Square, where you’ll hear about the end of the Communist regime in 1989 and the beginning of Democracy. The tour covers around 15 landmarks, each marking a specific moment in the Communist regime’s timeline, and you’ll receive a Communist-type snack. Please note that the House of People (Parliament) will only be seen from the outside, hotel pick-up, and drop-off is not included, and the tour is not suitable for those with back problems or wheelchair users. Meet at the red brick Bell Tower of the Patriarchal Cathedral, and wear comfortable shoes for the tour, which will take place rain or shine.
5. Bucharest: Guided Ceausescu Villa Tour
Experience a guided tour of the Ceausescu Villa in Bucharest and explore the luxurious lifestyle of the dictator’s family. Your tour guide will take you through the private office and chess room of Ceausescu followed by a visit to the bedrooms and family dining room. You will also get to admire the green house with its recreated tropical climate and exotic fruits like bananas and pineapples and peacocks that decorated the garden. Lastly, see the indoor pool that is entirely decorated in blue mosaic with floral and animal themes reminiscent of Ancient Rome. Flash photography is not allowed. Meet your guide outside the main gate on the sidewalk. This tour offers tickets and a host/greeter service and is available in English.
6. Bohemian Bucharest: Markets & Mahallas Small Group Tour
Explore the diverse neighborhoods and flavors of Bucharest with the Bohemian Bucharest: Markets & Mahallas Small Group Tour. This carbon neutral tour is led by an eco-certified local English-speaking guide who will take you on a gastronomic adventure from the grand old center to the cultural mahallas. Taste traditional Romanian food such as the best local cheeses, the beloved mici street snack, and a sweet Wallachian doughnut. Browse through the biggest and liveliest market in Bucharest, the Obor Market, where you can sample local beers from craft/microbrews to everyday big name beers and even brave a shot of homemade Romanian brandy. The tour includes the ‘peasant platter’ of local cheeses and meats, as well as additional food and drink samples. You’ll also have the opportunity to buy souvenirs and do personal shopping from the market. Join this unique tour to experience the diverse architecture and rich cultural history of Bucharest, and indulge in the flavors of Romania.
7. Bucharest: Hidden Gems 3-Hour Walking Tour
Experience the hidden gems of Bucharest with a 3-hour walking tour that will take you through the historic Batistei neighborhood. Admire the charming old church, visit the oldest house in town, and learn about the intriguing secrets that lie within. Stroll along Mantuleasa street, the old stomping ground of Romania’s most brilliant writer Mircea Eliade, and explore the breathtakingly beautiful Ioanid block and Icoanei mahalla. Along the way, try a covrig, a popular Romanian street food snack. Your local English-speaking guide will provide you with fascinating stories and knowledge about the city’s history and culture. Children between 6 and 11 years old are welcome to join the tour, and children under 6 can join free of charge. The meeting point is on the stairs of the National Theater in front of the main entrance. Ask your guide for tips on where else to visit in Bucharest and where to find the best places to eat and drink in the city.
8. Bucharest: 3-Hour Walking Tour
Explore the historic city of Bucharest on foot with our 3-hour walking tour. Led by a local guide with insider knowledge, learn about the city’s important landmarks and their stories. We’ll start at Revolution Square, where you’ll discover notable landmarks such as the former Royal Palace and the Romanian Athenaeum. Next, stroll along Victory Avenue, named for the victory of the new Romanian nation in the 1877 War of Independence, and admire several important buildings including the Kretzulescu Church. Then, dive into the heart of medieval Bucharest’s Old Town, where Ottoman pashas rubbed shoulders with Transylvanian princes. Along the way, we’ll stop at one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, the stunning Carturesti Carusel, and snack on traditional covrig street food. The tour ends in front of the ruins of the Old Princely Court, the former residence of Vlad Tepes aka Dracula. Children of all ages are welcome to join the tour. Please wear comfortable shoes and meet in front of the Carol I statue at Revolution Square.
9. Bucharest: 3-Hour Dark History Tour with a Local
Explore the dark history of Bucharest with a knowledgeable local guide on the 3-Hour Dark History Tour. Discover the Memorial of the Victims of Communism and of the Resistance, where you will learn about the cruel events that occurred between 1950 and 1977. Hear about the torture methods used during the days of communism, and explore the bloody feuds between the Muslim world and the Christian rules of Romania at one of the oldest churches in the city. Stop for a drink inside a former brothel and learn about the notorious serial killer nicknamed the “Vampire of Bucharest” who terrorized the city in the 1970s. The tour ends at Bellu Cemetery, where you can admire the amazing funerary architecture and explore the site’s mysteries. The tour is not suitable for children under 16 years of age and operates with a maximum group size of 12 people. Comfortable shoes, metro tickets, and a traditional street snack are provided along with a bottle of water in the summer and coffee or hot chocolate in the winter. Please note that additional food and drinks, souvenirs and personal shopping, and gratuities for your guide are not included in the price of the tour. Meet your guide in front of KFC on Piata Romana near Boulevard General Gheorghe Magheru 28-39 010336 Bucharest.
10. Bucharest: Craft Beer Tour with Street Food Tasting
This tour is perfect for beer lovers exploring Bucharest. Experience the city’s favorite beer hangouts and real local pubs while discovering the oriental structure of the city and its 19th and 20th-century urbanist ambitions invaded by Western influences. Follow your English-speaking local host and sample 6 types of local and international craft beers, from Lager to IPA Sour Imperial Stout, and even some Barley Wine. Traditional snacks and bites are provided, and we will end the tour with another pint of craft beer. Meet your guide in front of the Romanian National Theater located in University Square.
11. Bucharest: Street Food Tour with a Local Guide
Discover the best of Bucharest’s street food scene with a local guide on this all-inclusive tour. Start your adventure with a classic Romanian breakfast of pretzels and yogurt before heading to Obor Market, one of the largest and oldest markets in Romania. Take a tram and admire the architecture and buildings of the Jewish and Armenian quarters before strolling through the market and sampling an array of local delicacies like ground meat rolls and beer.
After the market, hop on a trolleybus to University Square and learn about the historical landmarks between University Square and Cismigiu Park. End your tour at a fine dining restaurant where you can indulge in sweet Wallachian doughnuts called Papanasi. Your friendly local guide will be happy to share tips on what else to eat and see during your stay in Bucharest.
The tour includes an English-speaking guide, all food and drink mentioned in the itinerary, bottled water, and tram and trolleybus tickets. Please note that personal purchases at the market are not included, and this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments. Wear comfortable shoes and join us at the Lupa Capitolina Monument to start your foodie adventure.
Most Frequently Asked Questions About Bucharest
Bucharest is the largest city, as well as the capital of Romania. It is a beautiful city and the economic, cultural, and industrial center of the country. It’s no wonder that tourism is on the rise in Bucharest. Every year, the city attracts millions of visitors from all over the world. In the following sections, we will be addressing the most frequently asked questions about Bucharest.
What is the Best Season to Visit Bucharest?
Bucharest has a continental climate characterized by hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit Bucharest is between May and September when the weather is pleasant, and the city is alive with outdoor events and festivals.
What are the Must-See Places in Bucharest?
Bucharest has numerous tourist attractions that are worth visiting. Some of the must-see places include:
Palace of the Parliament
This is the third-largest administrative building in the world, and it is a symbol of the Romanian Communist era. It has a total of 1,100 rooms and is open for guided tours.
Old Town
This is the historic center of Bucharest, and it is home to numerous 18th and 19th-century buildings, museums, and churches. Many of these buildings have been restored to their former glory and offer a glimpse into Bucharest’s rich history and culture.
Cotroceni Palace
This is the official residence of the Romanian President, and it was built in the neo-Romanian architectural style. It also houses the National Museum of Art.
How is the Nightlife in Bucharest?
Bucharest is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, and it has numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants that cater to different tastes and budgets. Some of the most popular nightlife spots in Bucharest include:
Old Town
Old town is home to numerous bars and pubs that offer a variety of drinks, live music, and entertainment. It’s the perfect spot for a night out with friends.
Casinos
Bucharest has numerous casinos that offer a variety of games, including poker, roulette, and blackjack.
Nightclubs
Bucharest has numerous nightclubs that cater to different music tastes, including electronic, house, pop, and hip hop.
What is the Currency Used in Bucharest?
The currency used in Bucharest, as well as the rest of Romania, is the Romanian Leu (RON). It’s advisable to exchange currency before arriving in Romania or use ATMs, as some exchange bureaus have high commission fees.
Is English Spoken in Bucharest?
English is widely spoken by most young people, and most tourist destinations have English-speaking staff. However, it’s always advisable to learn a few basic Romanian words and phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
What is the Best Mode of Transport in Bucharest?
Bucharest has an efficient public transport system, and it includes buses, trolleybuses, trams, and the subway. The subway is the most convenient mode of transport for tourists as it connects the major tourist destinations and has English signs.
Is Bucharest a Safe City for Tourists?
Bucharest is generally safe for tourists, and crime rates are low. However, as with any major city, one should always be vigilant and take necessary precautions such as avoiding lonely areas at night and keeping valuables safe.
Conclusion
In summary, Bucharest is a beautiful city with lots to offer, and hopefully, these FAQs have answered some of your questions about the city. From the must-see places to the nightlife and the best transport modes, Bucharest has something for everyone. Plan your visit now and experience this amazing city for yourself.
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