Bucharest, the capital city of Romania, is a bustling metropolis filled with history, culture, and beautiful architecture. With so much to see and explore, it can be overwhelming trying to navigate the city on foot or by public transportation. That’s where motorized city tours come in handy. In this post, we’ll highlight the 4 best motorized city tours in Bucharest, giving you a convenient and enjoyable way to discover the city’s hidden gems and iconic landmarks. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or are a longtime resident, these tours are sure to provide a unique and memorable experience. So buckle up, sit back, and let’s explore Bucharest in style!
The 4 Best Motorized City Tours in Bucharest
- Bucharest: Palace of Parliament Tickets and Guide
- Bucharest: Half Day Bike Tour
- Bucharest: 2-Hour City Highlights Bike Tour
- Bucharest: The “Last Days of Communism” Tour
The 4 Best Motorized City Tours in Bucharest
1. Bucharest: Palace of Parliament Tickets and Guide
Explore the grand Palace of Parliament in Bucharest with this guided tour. You’ll be met by a guide who will introduce you to the amazing building that houses some of Romania’s most impressive artistic and royal treasures. You’ll start with the Honor Hallway, featuring torsos of Romanian kings, including Vlad Dracula, and then move on to see the vast, named rooms and hallways dedicated to famous writers and poets. One of the highlights of the tour is the Pink room, where ONU meetings are held. You’ll also see the Music Hall, where world-famous musicians have performed, and take in the unforgettable view from Ceausescu’s balcony overviewing UNIRSI Boulevard. The tour finishes at the enormous ballroom, one of Europe’s largest, spanning the equivalent of four football fields. Included in the package are tickets, an informative guide, and hotel pick-up and drop-off. Please note, this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. To join the tour, simply look out for the Palace of Parliament tour sign held by our host at the meeting point. Bring your passport or ID card, and if you’re a student, your student card. The tour runs regardless of weather conditions.
2. Bucharest: Half Day Bike Tour
If you’re looking for an exciting way to explore Bucharest, hop on a bike and join us for our half day bike tour! Our tour starts in the old city, where you’ll learn about the city’s rich history and culture. We’ll take you on a ride through a former Communist neighborhood, where you can experience what life was like under the Ceaușescu regime.
One of the highlights of our tour is the opportunity to see the second-largest building in the world, the Parliament Palace. We’ll also ride along Victoria Boulevard, where you can admire the monumental buildings and see the landmarks and monuments from the time when Bucharest was known as Little Paris.
Our tour includes a bike rental, safety locker, and free maps and tips about other city attractions. We’ll even pick you up and drop you off at your hotel! Please note that this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.
To join the tour, meet us just across from “Hanu’ Berarilor” restaurant (Casa Oprea Soare) and wear comfortable shoes. Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the tour. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore Bucharest by bike – book your spot on our half day bike tour today!
3. Bucharest: 2-Hour City Highlights Bike Tour
Discover Bucharest’s top highlights on a 2-hour guided bike tour. Your knowledgeable guide will take you through the Old City Center, where you’ll see the oldest buildings in Bucharest. Continue on to Calea Victoriei, the most famous boulevard in the city, where you’ll be amazed by the stunning architecture and grandiose buildings like Military Cercle, Telephone Palace, Royal Palace, and Romanian Atheneum.
As you ride through the city, you’ll relax and cool down in the picturesque Cismigiu Gardens and near Bucharest City Hall. The tour ends with a visit to Ceausescu’s Palace, the largest parliament building in the world, and Union Boulevard, designed to be even longer and wider than Champs-Élysées in Paris.
This 2-hour bike tour includes the services of a knowledgeable, funny guide, bikes, a free map, and lockers. Please note that the tour is not recommended for those with limited mobility. The meeting point is across from the restaurant Hanu’ Berarilor (Casa Oprea Soare).
4. Bucharest: The “Last Days of Communism” Tour
The Bucharest: The “Last Days of Communism” Tour takes you on a 4-hour journey to explore the communist period of Romania. Led by an English-speaking guide, you will see the Revolution Square, the site where the dictator gave his last speech, and the Parliament Palace or “House of People,” one of the largest administrative buildings in the world. You will also visit Primaverii Palace, the former residence of the presidential couple. The itinerary includes other interesting sights around Bucharest depending on your hotel’s location. The tour price includes hotel pick-up, transport by car or minibus, and entrance fees to the Parliament Palace and Primaverii Palace. Please bring your original passport or ID card. Note that visits to the institutions are not guaranteed if they are closed for meetings and conferences. This tour is offered by a third-party company, and a minimum of 4 people is required from March to October and December 16 to January 6.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bucharest
Bucharest, also known as the Paris of the East, is a fascinating city that offers visitors a mix of history, culture, and modernity. However, before visitors head to Bucharest, they often have a few questions about the city. In this article, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Bucharest.
What is the Best Time to Visit Bucharest?
The best time to visit Bucharest is between May and September when the weather is warm and pleasant, and the city comes alive with outdoor events, festivals and concerts. The peak season for tourism in Bucharest is in July and August, so expect higher prices and more crowds during these months.
What Language is Spoken in Bucharest?
The official language of Bucharest is Romanian, a Romance language that is similar to Italian and Spanish. However, English is widely spoken in the city, and most signs are in both Romanian and English.
What is the Currency Used in Bucharest?
The currency used in Bucharest is the Romanian Leu (RON). Visitors can exchange their currency at banks and exchange offices located throughout the city. Most restaurants, hotels, and tourist attractions also accept major credit and debit cards such as Visa and Mastercard.
What Are Some Popular Tourist Attractions in Bucharest?
Bucharest has many popular tourist attractions, including:
- The Palace of the Parliament, the second-largest administrative building in the world after the Pentagon.
- The Village Museum, an open-air ethnographic museum that showcases Romanian traditional architecture and culture.
- The Old Town, the historic heart of Bucharest, where visitors can find many cafes, restaurants, and shops.
- The Romanian Athenaeum, a beautiful concert hall that hosts classical music performances and other cultural events.
What is the Public Transport Like in Bucharest?
Bucharest has an extensive public transport network that includes buses, trams, trolleybuses, and metro lines. The metro system is the fastest and most convenient way to get around the city, with four lines that cover most of the city’s important landmarks and tourist attractions.
What is the Food Like in Bucharest?
The food in Bucharest is a mix of traditional Romanian cuisine and international influences. Some popular local dishes include sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), mici (grilled skinless sausages), and mamaliga (polenta). Visitors can also find many restaurants serving international cuisine such as Italian, Chinese, and Turkish.
Is Bucharest Safe for Tourists?
Bucharest is generally a safe city for tourists, and violent crimes are rare. However, visitors should be aware of pickpocketing and other petty crimes, particularly in crowded tourist areas such as the Old Town.
What Should I Know Before Visiting Bucharest?
Before visiting Bucharest, visitors should know the following:
- The voltage in Bucharest is 220V, and the plug types are European-style two-prong plugs.
- Tipping is expected in restaurants, cafes, and bars, typically around 10% of the total bill.
- Smoking is banned in all public indoor spaces, including restaurants and bars.
- The emergency number in Bucharest and Romania is 112.
Conclusion
Bucharest is a beautiful and fascinating city that has something to offer every visitor. By answering some of the frequently asked questions about the city, we hope to help visitors plan their trip and make the most out of their time in Bucharest.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nightlife, or outdoor activities, Bucharest has it all. From the Palace of the Parliament to the Village Museum, visitors can explore the rich cultural heritage of Romania while enjoying the modern amenities of the city.
So what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Bucharest today and discover the Paris of the East!
The 4 Best Motorized City Tours in Bucharest: Frequently Asked Questions
Bucharest is the capital city of Romania located in the southeastern part of Europe. It’s a city full of history, architecture, and culture, offering a blend of traditional and modern attractions. The best way to explore the bustling city is by taking a motorized city tour. In this blog post, we’ll answer the most frequently asked questions about the 4 best motorized city tours in Bucharest.
1. What are the 4 best motorized city tours in Bucharest?
There are many motorized city tours available in Bucharest, but the four most popular are:
a. Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
This tour offers a flexible way of exploring Bucharest. You can hop on and off the bus as many times as you like at any of the 14 stops, which cover most of the city’s major attractions. It’s a great tour for first-timers who want to get an overview of Bucharest.
b. Vintage Car Tour
This tour takes you back in time, exploring Bucharest in a vintage car from the 1930s or 1960s. You’ll be able to see the city’s main landmarks, including the Palace of the Parliament, the Revolution Square, and the Romanian Athenaeum. It’s a perfect choice for those who want a unique and nostalgic experience.
c. Electric Scooter Tour
This tour offers a fun and eco-friendly way of exploring the city. You’ll ride an electric scooter to many of the city’s landmarks, including Cismigiu Gardens, the National Museum of Art, and the Triumph Arch. It’s a great option for those looking for a more adventurous way of exploring Bucharest.
d. Communist Tour
This tour takes you back to the communist era of Romania. You’ll explore the city in a classic Dacia car, visiting landmarks such as the Palace of the Parliament, the Revolution Square, and the former Communist-era neighborhoods. It’s an excellent option for history buffs who want to learn more about Romania’s communist past.
2. What is the duration of each motorized city tour?
The duration of each tour varies depending on the chosen tour. Here’s a breakdown:
– Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: 24 hours
– Vintage Car Tour: 2 hours
– Electric Scooter Tour: 2.5 hours
– Communist Tour: 3 hours
It’s worth noting that the duration may vary depending on the traffic situation in Bucharest.
3. What is included in each motorized city tour?
Each tour is unique and offers different inclusions. Here’s what you can expect from each motorized city tour:
a. Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
The tour includes an audio guide in 14 languages, free Wi-Fi on the bus, and a map of the city.
b. Vintage Car Tour
The tour includes a private guide, a vintage car ride, and a bottle of sparkling wine.
c. Electric Scooter Tour
The tour includes an electric scooter rental, a private guide, and helmets.
d. Communist Tour
The tour includes a classic Dacia car ride and a private guide.
4. What should I wear for a motorized city tour?
It’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and clothing for all tours, as there will be some walking involved. For the electric scooter tour, it’s recommended to wear closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothing, as you will be riding a scooter. Additionally, a helmet will be provided and is required to wear.
5. Can I book a private tour?
Yes, all four tours offer the option of a private tour. Private tours are great if you want a more personalized experience or have a larger group.
6. How much does each motorized city tour cost?
The prices for each motorized city tour vary depending on the chosen tour and whether it’s a group or private tour. Here’s an approximate price range:
– Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: €17 – €22 per person
– Vintage Car Tour: €90 – €100 per person
– Electric Scooter Tour: €35 – €50 per person
– Communist Tour: €55 – €80 per person
It’s worth noting that prices may vary depending on the tour operator.
7. Is it necessary to book in advance?
It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment. However, you can also book on the day of the tour, subject to availability.
Conclusion
Exploring Bucharest via a motorized city tour is a great way to see the sights and learn about the city’s history and culture. There are many options available, ranging from a nostalgic vintage car tour to a more adventurous electric scooter tour. Whatever you choose, be sure to wear comfortable clothing and shoes and book in advance to secure your spot. Don’t forget to bring your camera and capture the memories of your motorized city tour of Bucharest!
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