How to Plan Your Bohemian Bucharest Tour: Markets & Mahallas Small Group Tour

Bucharest, the Romanian capital, is a city of contrasts that has quickly become one of Europe’s most fascinating tourist destinations. It is a vibrant melting pot of cultures and traditions where ancient history meets modern-day life. One of the best ways to explore the secrets of Bucharest’s vibrant neighborhoods and flavors is by joining the “Bohemian Bucharest: Markets & Mahallas Small Group Tour.” In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of planning for the tour and what to expect.

Experience

The Bohemian Bucharest Tour is a small-group walking tour led by a local tour guide. It’s an eco-friendly excursion where you’ll explore different parts of the city, from the grand old center to the cultural mahallas (neighborhoods). You’ll also get to taste traditional Romanian cuisine, sample local beers, and brave a shot of homemade Romanian brandy.

Highlights

The tour highlights include:

• Explore the neighborhoods and flavors of Bucharest from the grand old center to the cultural mahallas.
• Taste traditional Romanian food including the best local cheeses, the beloved mici street snack, and a doughnut.
• Browse through the biggest and liveliest market in Bucharest.
• Sample local beers from craft/microbrews to everyday big-name beers and brave a shot of homemade Romanian brandy.
• Join a carbon-neutral tour organized and led by an eco-certified tour operator.

Full Description

The tour begins in University Square, the geographical and administrative heart of the city, and the scene of titanic street battles between miners and students immediately after the Romanian Revolution. Absorb all that sociopolitical history before taking a short walk to Strada Batistei, formerly known as the “St. Germain” of Bucharest and the site of the old American embassy, now an overgrown testament to different times. This area is famed for its 19th-century neo-Romanian architecture.

From there, the Bucharest walking tour continues to the Old Town (Lipscani), where you’ll discover the secrets of the area’s street food vendors – sample the mici street snack, a favorite among locals. You’ll also discover unique cafes and restaurants, and you’ll taste the most popular local beer while taking in the bohemian atmosphere of the historical center.

The tour continues with a visit to Circus Park, which is the largest and liveliest market in Bucharest. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to taste Romanian cheeses, indulge in more local street food or try a fresh beer from a microbrewery. As you wander the streets, you’ll be amazed at the bustling energy of the people and discover hidden architectural gems.

The next stop on the tour is the neighborhood of Carol, where you’ll find the Stavropoleos Monastery. The monastery was built-in 1724, an oasis in the maddening city center, featuring ornate frescoes and carvings with a peaceful courtyard that’s perfect for photos.

Finally, the tour will end in the neighborhood of Mantuleasa, where you can enjoy a traditional Romanian drink at one of the oldest and most picturesque “mahallas” – an old-fashioned, unique neighborhood with narrow streets and a unique atmosphere.

How to Book

To book your “Bohemian Bucharest: Markets & Mahallas Small Group Tour,” visit getyourguide.com through the following link: book the tour here. You’ll be directed to the website of our eco-certified tour operator partner, where you can choose your preferred date and time, and the number of participants. The tour takes approximately four hours and costs 30 euros per person. The meeting point is located in University Square.

Conclusion

With the Bohemian Bucharest Tour, you’ll discover the authentic, hidden gems of Bucharest, from lively markets to charming mahallas. Led by locals, you’ll experience the true Bucharest culture by tasting delicious local cuisine, beer, and even a shot of traditional Romanian brandy. Book your tour today and indulge in this unique and memorable experience.

The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Bucharest

As the capital and largest city of Romania, Bucharest is packed with history, culture, and unique opportunities for exploration. If you’re planning a trip to Bucharest, you may have some questions about the city. In this blog post, we’ll cover the most frequently asked questions about Bucharest and help you plan your trip with ease.

1. What is the best time to visit Bucharest?

The best time to visit Bucharest is during the months of May through September. This is when the weather is most pleasant, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. However, keep in mind that Bucharest can get quite crowded during peak travel season.

2. Do I need a visa to visit Bucharest?

Citizens of the European Union, as well as several other countries, do not need a visa to visit Romania and therefore Bucharest. However, if you’re from a country outside the EU, you’ll need to check the visa requirements before booking your trip.

3. What is the currency used in Bucharest?

The local currency in Bucharest is the Romanian leu (RON). At the time of writing, 1 USD equals approximately 4.25 RON.

4. What are the most popular tourist attractions in Bucharest?

There are many popular tourist attractions in Bucharest, including:

– Palace of the Parliament

This is the world’s second-largest administrative building, and it’s an impressive sight to behold. The sheer size and scale of the building are enough to take your breath away.

– Old Town

Bucharest’s Old Town is home to historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and charming cafes. It’s a great place to wander and explore.

– Herastrau Park

This large park is located in the north of Bucharest and has plenty of recreational activities, including boat rides on the lake and bike rentals.

– Village Museum

This outdoor museum showcases traditional Romanian village life, with over 300 historic houses, churches, and mills.

5. What is the public transportation system like in Bucharest?

Bucharest has an efficient public transportation system that includes buses, trams, trolleybuses, and a metro system. The metro system, in particular, is a great way to navigate the city quickly, safely, and affordably.

6. What is the food like in Bucharest?

Romanian cuisine is hearty and flavorful, with influences from neighboring countries like Hungary, Serbia, and Bulgaria. Popular dishes in Bucharest include sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), mici (grilled meatballs), and papanași (fried doughnuts with sour cream and jam).

7. What is the nightlife like in Bucharest?

Bucharest has a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Some of the most popular spots include Control Club, Expirat, and Club A.

8. What should I pack for a trip to Bucharest?

What you pack will depend on the time of year you visit. In general, it’s a good idea to bring comfortable walking shoes, lightweight clothing, and layers if you’re visiting during the cooler months. Don’t forget to pack any necessary travel documents and your camera to capture all the beautiful sights and experiences.

Conclusion

Bucharest is a city with much to offer, from its rich history and culture to its delicious food and vibrant nightlife scene. By knowing the answers to these frequently asked questions, you’ll be well-prepared to plan your trip and make the most of your time in this fascinating city.