What Can You Do During a Trip to Bucharest?

Bucharest is one of the most vibrant cities in Romania and attracts people from all over the world with its picturesque scenery and exciting attractions. There’s so much to do in Bucharest, both during the day and at night, that it can be overwhelming for tourists. From visiting the old churches and enjoying traditional Romanian cuisine, to exploring the modern bars and nightclubs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Bucharest.

1. Piaţa Romana

The Piaţa Romana is the center of all activity in Bucharest. Many people come to this square to take in the city’s traditional architecture and soak up the lively atmosphere. It is a popular spot for jogging and for summer events, such as the ‘Night of Theatre’ which is held annually. You can also visit a restaurant, or go shopping at one of the several stores located here.

2. The Palace of Parliament

The Palace of Parliament is one of the most impressive sights in Bucharest. The building was commissioned by dictator Nicolae Ceauşescu in 1984 and it took around 20,000 workers to complete the project. This gigantic structure is the second largest building in the world after the Pentagon and contains 12 stories, 1000 rooms, 30 staircases and 8 underground levels. Visitors can take a guided tour or just admire the building from the outside.

3. Grigore Antipa Natural Science Museum

The Grigore Antipa Natural Science Museum is dedicated to preserving Romania’s natural history. There are several exhibitions including geology, paleontology, zoology and botany. Interactive displays also make it enjoyable for children. During your visit, you can learn about Romania’s unique flora and fauna, and various species of mammals, reptiles, amphibians and fish.

4. Cărtureşti Carusel Bookstore

Cărtureşti Carusel Bookstore is located inside of the City Mall at Unirii Square. This two-story bookstore is filled with books, art and music from around the world and its design resembles an old-style theater. You can grab a bite to eat at one of the many cafes located here or simply relax with a book on one of the comfortable chairs and take in the picturesque view.

5. Check Out a Beer Museum

Bucharest has its own beer museum, Berăria H, where visitors can learn about Romania’s rich beer brewing history. From their brewing process to their unique labeling techniques, everything at Berăria H has been carefully researched and recreated to be historically accurate. A visit to this museum will give you an insight into Romania’s past, as well as a few pints of delicious beer!

6. Enjoy a Night Out

Bucharest is also known for its bustling nightlife. There are several lively bars and night clubs located throughout the city, offering live music and traditional Romanian dishes like sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls) and mici (grilled sausages). The most popular nightlife spots in Bucharest are Universitate and Lipscani districts, where you can find everything from chic wine bars to lively pubs playing nonstop music.

7. Explore the Old Town

Bucharest’s Old Town, also known as Lipscani District, is one of the most beautiful parts of the city. Here you can admire traditional architecture, visit some old churches and explore several historic monuments. Wander around cobbled streets and discover unique souvenirs from local shops or visit a restaurant to sample traditional Romanian food such as sarmale and mămăliga (cornmeal mush).

From exploring some of Bucharest’s most impressive sites, to experiencing its culture and nightlife firsthand, there’s something for everyone during a trip to Bucharest. Make sure you visit some of these must-see attractions so you don’t miss out on what this captivating city has to offer! For more information on places to visit in Bucharest, Remoteless offers detailed guides on where to go and what to do in Romania’s capital city.

An Insider’s Guide to Bucharest: More Than Just the Tourist Hotspots

Bucharest, Romania’s capital city, has a hidden charm that may elude first-time visitors. Known as the “Paris of the East,” Bucharest is the perfect blend of ancient and modern architecture. While it boasts popular landmarks like the Palace of the Parliament and the Village Museum, there are many hidden gems that the locals hold dear. Here are some of the best attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, and historical stories that every tourist should know about Bucharest.

Local Attractions

While the Palace of the Parliament and the Old Town are must-visit destinations, here are some lesser-known locations worth checking out.

– The ruins of Curtea Veche: Also known as the Old Princely Court, this is the former residence of Vlad III Dracula (also known as Vlad the Impaler). It is a fascinating piece of history that most tourists skip.
– The Bucharest Botanical Garden: A haven of peace and tranquility, the Botanical Garden is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. With over 100,000 plants, it is a popular spot for locals to relax and enjoy nature.
– The Antim Monastery: A stunning architectural masterpiece that dates back to the 18th century, the Antim Monastery houses an impressive collection of old books and manuscripts.

Dining Spots

Romanian cuisine is a mix of Balkan, Hungarian, and Turkish flavors. Here are some of the best places to try traditional Romanian foods and drinks.

– Caru cu Bere: This iconic restaurant is located in the heart of the Old Town and has served local cuisine since 1879. Try their famous pork knuckle with mashed potatoes, and wash it down with a glass of their homemade beer.
– Hanu’ lui Manuc: One of the oldest inns in Bucharest, Hanu’ lui Manuc has been serving traditional Romanian dishes since 1804. Their specialty dish is lamb stew, served in a clay pot.
– La Placinte: This cozy restaurant serves traditional Moldovan cuisine, and their plinze (stuffed pastries) are a must-try.

Cultural Experiences

Bucharest has a rich history and culture that is worth exploring. Here are some of the best experiences to immerse yourself in Romania’s traditions.

– Romanian Athenaeum: Built-in 1888, the Athenaeum is an architectural masterpiece that is home to the George Enescu Philharmonic Orchestra. Attend a concert here for a memorable cultural experience.
– Martisor: Celebrated on March 1st, Martisor is a traditional holiday where people give each other small tokens of good luck for the new year. Learn about this unique holiday and its symbolism from locals.
– National Museum of Art of Romania: This museum features an impressive collection of Romanian and European art and is housed in the former Royal Palace.

Local History

Bucharest has a rich history, and understanding it can enhance your appreciation of the city. Here are three captivating stories from the city’s past.

– The Legend of the Little Paris: In the early 1900s, Bucharest was known as Little Paris because its architecture and culture were strongly influenced by France. Learn about this intriguing period in Bucharest’s history.
– Ceausescu’s last speech: Nicolae Ceausescu was Romania’s last communist dictator, and in 1989, he gave his last public speech from the balcony of the Central Committee Building. Learn about the events that followed and led to the Romanian Revolution and the fall of communism.
– The Golden Age of Bucharest: In the 1930s, Bucharest was a cultural and intellectual center that rivaled Paris. Learn about the Jazz Age, the literary scene, and the city’s bohemian spirit.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

Some unique experiences can make your trip unforgettable. Here are some ideas to spice up your visit.

– Explore the city by bike and navigate the quiet alleys and streets that tourists rarely see.
– Visit a live music venue for a night of authentic Romanian music and an unforgettable atmosphere. Try the Green Hours or Control Club for a unique musical experience.
– Visit the Palace of the Parliament at night to witness the stunning lighting spectacle and explore the maze-like hallways of Europe’s largest administrative building.

In conclusion, Bucharest offers a unique cultural experience that should not be missed. With a mix of ancient architecture, hidden gems, and a vibrant food culture, the city has something to offer every kind of traveler. By getting off the beaten path and exploring hidden corners, tourists can uncover the true essence of this fascinating city.