What is there to do in Bucharest?

If you are looking for the perfect destination to explore the culture and scenery of Romania, come to Bucharest – the capital city and largest population center of Romania. Located in Southeastern Europe on the banks of the Dâmbovița River, Bucharest is a city full of life and action. Whether you’re a visitor or just looking for something to do, Bucharest delivers a variety of activities to choose from!

There are several attractions that make Bucharest a great tourist destination for travelers around the world. Culture vultures can explore the city’s many museums, galleries, and architectural sites. Art lovers can visit the National Museum of Art and view a variety of contemporary and historic pieces from Romania and the region. There are also many theatres and opera houses in Bucharest, presenting a variety of performances from classical ballets to Broadway plays.

Bucharest is home to parks, gardens, and cultural landscapes – making the city a great spot for outdoor activities. On your to-do list could be trekking around the Carpathian Mountains, kayaking on Lake Snagov, afternoon strolls through the Herastrau or Cișmigiu Gardens, or rock-climbing in the Dimitrie Ghica Park.

Foodies will love Bucharest as it boasts a selection of international fare from Italian and Turkish restaurants to French bakeries and Hungarian street food. History buffs can tour Parliament Palace, the second largest administrative building in the world, take a ride on the Bucharest Cable Car for incredible views of the city, or visit one of the city’s five UNESCO World Heritage Sites – which includes The Patriarchal Cathedral, The Atheneum and The Covaci Church ​Among all of this, you won’t want to miss oportunity to visit “The Old Town”, one of most popular locations in all of Romania. There you can explore cobblestone streets poking with restaurants, stores and pubs near both Stavropoleos Monastery and the iconic Manuc’s Inn – both excellent examples of classic architecture.

No matter what areas you choose to explore, Bucharest offers on endless amount of activities that make it a fantastic tourist destination. A great way to explore all that Bucharest has to offer is with Visit-Bucharest.com, your hub for information about local events, food spots and attractions. With so much to do in this beautiful city, Bucharest is sure to be your next top getaway.

An Insider’s Guide to Bucharest

Bucharest is the charming capital city of Romania, often referred to as the “Paris of the East.” Bursting with history, culture, and unique experiences, it is a city full of surprises and delight for tourists. In this insider’s guide to Bucharest, we’ll explore some of the most incredible places to visit, the best restaurants to dine in, and must-try local experiences to make your stay unforgettable.

Attractions

There are plenty of attractions in Bucharest to keep you busy, but here are some of the must-visit places:

Palace of the Parliament

This colossal building is the largest administrative building in the world, constructed under former dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu’s regime. The grandeur of its architecture is awe-inspiring, and exploring the indoor parliament halls will leave you speechless.

Old Town

Old Town, or Lipscani, is Bucharest’s historic center, known for its charming winding cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and Bohemian atmosphere. You’ll love exploring the many quaint boutiques, galleries, cafes, and bars housed in old buildings.

Village Museum

Located in the outskirts of the city, this outdoor museum is a treat for history buffs. It is a collection of over 300 traditional old Romanian houses, watermills, and windmills, preserved to depict the country’s rural architecture and lifestyle.

Dining

Romania’s culinary scene is vibrant and diverse, with many delicious dishes to try. Here are some of the best dining spots to enjoy traditional and international cuisine:

Caru’ cu Bere

Established in 1879, Caru’ cu Bere is a historic beer house in Bucharest serving traditional Romanian cuisine. This charming and lively restaurant is renowned for its atmosphere, fantastic food, and locally brewed beer.

Lacrimi si Sfinti

Located in the heart of the city, this boho-chic restaurant offers a vegetarian and vegan twist on traditional Romanian dishes. Their creative approach to local cuisine has made them one of Bucharest’s most popular dining spots.

Shift Pub

If you’re looking for a more modern dining experience, Shift Pub offers an eccentric and colorful space with unique food presentation. They offer international cuisine with a touch of Romanian flavors, and their cocktails are a must-try.

Culture

Bucharest is a city steeped in rich culture and history, with many museums and exhibitions worth visiting. Here are some of the cultural experiences you shouldn’t miss:

National Museum of Art of Romania

This museum, located in the Royal Palace, exhibits valuable collections of European art, from the medieval period to the modern era. It houses works by renowned artists such as El Greco, Rembrandt, and Monet.

National Museum of Romanian History

Located in the Old Town, this museum displays a vast collection of artifacts, starting from ancient times to present-day. It is an excellent place to learn more about Romanian culture and history.

Romanian Athenaeum

This iconic concert hall, located in the center of Bucharest, is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. It is an essential part of Romania’s cultural heritage and hosts classical music concerts, recitals, and other artistic events.

Local History and Off the Beaten Path

Bucharest is a city rich in history, but its lesser-known sites offer a glimpse into Romania’s culture and heritage. Here are some off-the-beaten-path destinations to explore:

Bellu Cemetery

This cemetery is a peaceful and picturesque place where you can learn more about Romania’s notable historical figures. The well-maintained graves are beautiful, and the atmosphere is solemn and respectful.

Caldarari District

If you’re interested in folk culture, visit the Caldarari District, known for its Roma population and traditional craftspeople. Here you’ll find workshops where artisans create pottery, glassware, and other pieces by hand.

Mogoșoaia Palace

Located just outside of Bucharest, this palace is a serene retreat from the bustling city. Built in the 18th century, it is a beautiful example of traditional Romanian architecture, with a vast garden and a lake.

Conclusion

Bucharest is a city with many things to see and do, from cultural activities to dining in world-class restaurants. Whether you are interested in history, architecture, or just want to soak up the city’s Bohemian atmosphere, you’ll find something to do in Bucharest. This insider’s guide should give you a good starting point to explore this charming Romanian capital.