What to Do In Bucharest: A Comprehensive Guide to Romania’s Capital City

Bucharest is Romania’s largest city and capital, with a population of over two million people. It is a city of history and culture, with a unique blend of old-world charm and modern facilities. Bucharest is known as the Little Paris of the Balkans, thanks to its elegant architecture, wide boulevards, and vibrant nightlife. It is also home to some of the country’s most renowned cultural attractions, including the National Museum of Romanian History, the Palace of Parliament, and the Romanian Athenaeum.

To get to know the city, why not start at its historical center? Here you will find the Old Town, where you can stroll along cobblestone lanes, explore the medieval churches and admire the impressive architecture dating back to the 16th century. If you’re looking for a more modern experience, take a walk along Calea Victoriei or Unirii Avenue, two of the city’s main thoroughfares. Here you’ll find a variety of shops, cafes, restaurants and clubs.

Bucharest is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a lively pub crawl or a more relaxed evening in an upscale bar or club, Bucharest has something for everyone. If you’re looking for something more unique, why not take a trip to the nearby Bran Castle (known as Dracula’s Castle) or check out some of the city’s interesting museums such as the National Museum of Romanian History.

The Best Tourist Attractions in Bucharest

There are plenty of tourist attractions in Bucharest to keep you busy during your visit. Here are some of the best:

Palace of Parliament

The Palace of Parliament is one of the most impressive buildings in Bucharest and it is also the second-largest administrative building in the world. Built in 1984 for Nicolae Ceausescu, it is now home to the Romanian Parliament. The building is an impressive example of neoclassical architecture and it has 1,100 rooms and three floors. Visitors can take a guided tour around the building’s interior and admire its opulent décor and grand halls.

Mogosoaia Palace

Located just outside Bucharest, Mogosoaia Palace is a stunning example of Renaissance architecture and it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Romania. Built in the early 1690s by Constantin Brancoveanu, the palace was originally a hunting lodge but it was later used as a summer home by subsequent rulers. Today, visitors can explore the palace’s interior and admire its stunning gardens.

The Old Town

The Old Town is one of Bucharest’s oldest neighborhoods and it is home to some of the city’s most impressive historical buildings. Here you can wander through narrow cobblestone streets, explore medieval churches and admire Baroque-style architecture. The Old Town is also home to a range of cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy traditional Romanian cuisine.

Cismigiu Garden

Cismigiu Garden is one of Bucharest’s most popular parks and it is also one of the city’s oldest. The park covers nearly 7 hectares and it was opened in 1847. Today, visitors can enjoy relaxing walks through its tranquil pathways, admire its colorful flower gardens and enjoy its picturesque lake.

Popular Tours in Bucharest

If you’re looking for an interesting way to explore Bucharest, why not take a guided tour? Here are two of the most popular tours in Bucharest:

Old Town Walking Tour

Discover Bucharest’s Old Town on a fascinating two-hour walking tour. You’ll explore narrow cobblestone streets and admire stunning Baroque-style architecture as you learn about the city’s history from your knowledgeable guide. On your tour, you’ll visit some of the city’s most iconic landmarks such as the Palace of Parliament and Stavropoleos Church and you’ll gain insight into the city’s rich culture and traditions. At the end of your tour, you’ll have visited some of Bucharest’s most important landmarks while learning about its fascinating history. Book a walking tour in Bucharest here.

Bran Castle Tour

Take a day trip from Bucharest to Bran Castle (also known as Dracula’s Castle) on this fascinating guided tour. You’ll travel through Transylvania’s stunning countryside before arriving at the castle, where you’ll have plenty of time to explore its interior and admire its impressive architecture. On your tour, you will also learn about its fascinating history as you visit nearby attractions such as Rasnov Fortress and Peles Castle. You’ll also have plenty of time to explore Bran Village before returning to Bucharest. Book a Bran Castle tour here.

Other Activities In Bucharest

In addition to visiting popular tourist attractions and taking guided tours, there are plenty of other activities in Bucharest that will help you make the most of your visit. Why not spend an evening at one of Bucharest’s many jazz clubs or explore its vibrant nightlife? Or if you’re looking for something more low-key, why not take a stroll around Herastrau Park or visit one of the city’s many art galleries?

Conclusion

Bucharest is an exciting city with a rich history and culture that offers something for everyone. From exploring its vibrant nightlife to visiting iconic landmarks such as the Palace of Parliament and Bran Castle, there are plenty of activities in Bucharest that will help you make the most of your visit. Whether you’re looking for an exciting guided tour or just want to admire some of Bucharest’s impressive architecture, there are plenty of attractions waiting to be explored in Romania’s capital city.