How to Plan Your Bucharest: The “Last Days of Communism” Tour

If you’re visiting Bucharest and are interested in learning more about the city’s communist past, the “Last Days of Communism” tour is a must-see. Offered by a third-party company, this thought-provoking and informative tour will take you on a journey through the city where you’ll learn about Romania’s communist history, visit iconic landmarks, and hear fascinating stories from your professional guide.

In this article, we’ll show you how to plan your Bucharest: The “Last Days of Communism” Tour. We’ll take you through everything from the tour’s highlights to how to book it. So, let’s get started!

Experience

The “Last Days of Communism” tour offers an immersive experience, covering the most important aspects of Romania’s communist era. The tour offers a unique perspective on the social and political climate of Romania at that time. The experience is suitable for anyone who is interested in history, culture, and politics. It is also perfect for those who have a passion for traveling and exploring new places.

Highlights

During this five-hour tour, you’ll get to visit key landmarks that have played a significant role in Romania’s communist history. Here are some of the highlights:

See the Revolution Square

You’ll begin your journey by visiting Revolution Square, where the Romanian Revolution of 1989 began. Here you’ll see the balcony where Nicolae Ceaușescu, the Romanian dictator, gave his final speech to the public.

Visit the Parliament Palace “House of People”

Next, you’ll visit the Parliament Palace, also known as the “House of People.” This colossal building is the second-largest administrative building in the world, after the Pentagon. It was built during the communist era and is a clear reflection of Ceaușescu’s extravagance and megalomania.

Learn more about the House of The Free Press Square

Your third stop will be the House of The Free Press Square, where you’ll learn about the national press of Romania and its relationship with the government during the communist era. You’ll have the opportunity to take a walk around this exemplary socialist-realist architectural ensemble.

Pass by the University Square

As you travel through Bucharest, you’ll pass by University Square, where thousands of students protested against Ceaușescu’s regime in 1990, leading to the fall of communism.

Visit Primaverii Palace – the former residence of the presidential couple

Your final stop will be at Primaverii Palace, the former residence of the presidential couple during the communist era. The palace gives an insight into the luxurious lifestyle that Ceaușescu and his wife had enjoyed while the people of Romania suffered.

Booking the Tour

If you’re interested in taking the “Last Days of Communism” tour, you can easily book it online. Simply visit the website here. The website offers all the information you’ll need to make an informed decision about the tour.

Conclusion

Visiting Bucharest and learning about its communist past is an experience that you’ll never forget. It offers a glimpse into the social, political, and economic factors that shaped Romania during the communist era. We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your Bucharest: The “Last Days of Communism” tour. Remember, this tour offers a unique and thought-provoking view of Romania’s history that you won’t get anywhere else!

An Insider’s Guide to Bucharest, Romania

Bucharest, the capital city of Romania, is a hidden gem of Eastern Europe. It has a rich history, with remarkable architecture, stunning parks, and many cultural experiences. Visitors come to learn about Romania’s history, to enjoy the excellent food and wine, and to discover the hospitality and friendliness of the Romanian people.

Local Attractions

Bucharest boasts many historical and cultural attractions. A must-see destination is the Palace of the Parliament. This impressive building is the second-largest administrative building in the world, after the Pentagon. Visitors can take guided tours of the palace to learn about the history of communism in Romania and the architectural design of the building.

Another famous landmark to visit is the Arcul de Triumf, an archway modeled after the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. It was originally built in 1922 to honor the efforts of Romanian soldiers in World War I.

For those interested in art and history, the National Museum of Art of Romania houses an extensive collection of Romanian art from the medieval period to the present. And the Romanian Athenaeum, a gorgeous building located in the city center, is home to the George Enescu Philharmonic Orchestra.

Dining Spots

Bucharest has a vibrant food scene, with many excellent restaurants serving traditional Romanian cuisine. One such restaurant is Caru’ cu Bere, which has been around since 1879. It’s the perfect spot to try traditional Romanian dishes such as Sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls) and Papanasi (a type of dessert dumpling).

If you’re looking for something more contemporary, visit Shift Pub. This restaurant has a hip, trendy atmosphere and serves delicious fusion-style dishes. Try the burgers or the tacos, which are some of the most popular items on the menu.

For something sweet, don’t miss out on the pastries at Pani Pitesti. This bakery is known for its amazing cakes, pastries, and coffee.

Cultural Experiences

Bucharest is home to many cultural experiences, from traditional dance performances to contemporary art galleries. The Romanian National Opera hosts regular performances of opera, ballet, and classical music.

If you’re interested in contemporary art, visit Galateca Gallery. It’s a vibrant space that showcases the work of Romanian and international artists. Or, head over to the Bucharest Biennial, an international contemporary art exhibition that takes place every other year.

For a more traditional cultural experience, go to a folklore show at the Perla Restaurant. You can watch traditional Romanian dances and listen to live music while enjoying a meal.

Local History

For those interested in history, Bucharest offers many opportunities to explore the city’s past. The Communist History Museum is a must-see attraction for learning about Romania’s communist era. The museum showcases artifacts and historical documents from the communist period, as well as exhibits on the revolution of 1989 that marked the end of communism in Romania.

The Cotroceni National Museum, located in the former royal palace, gives visitors a glimpse into the lives of Romania’s former aristocracy. And the Village Museum is an open-air museum that showcases traditional Romanian life with exhibits featuring authentic houses, windmills, and other structures.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those who want to explore beyond the typical tourist destinations, Bucharest offers many exciting options. Head to Fabrica Club in the Obor area for live music and a vibrant nightlife scene.

Or, take a stroll through the Carol Park. It’s a beautiful green space that offers a peaceful escape from the bustle of the city. There’s also an open-air cinema that shows movies during the summer months.

Lastly, make sure to visit the Bucharest Botanical Garden, a stunning green space that houses many exotic plants and trees. It’s an excellent spot to relax and enjoy the nature of the city.

In conclusion, Bucharest is a destination that has much to offer for travelers looking to discover Eastern Europe. It has a rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine, which makes it an ideal destination for culture vultures and foodies alike. Whether you’re interested in traditional or contemporary art, history, or exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, Bucharest has something to satisfy everyone’s craving for adventure.